Wondering what it’s like to travel on a Norwegian cruise line? This is a complete review of the Norwegian Epic Mediterranean Cruise, which takes you to six destinations around the Mediterranean.
In this review, you’ll learn about the suites, decks, restaurants, entertainment venues, and activities for both children and adults. Find the best tips to plan the perfect getaway to Europe on a Norwegian Epic Cruise.
This guide is ideal for families who want to go on an epic sea adventure in Europe. Read on to discover helpful tips to plan your Norwegian Epic Mediterranean getaway.
Our First Time Aboard Norwegian Epic Mediterranean Cruise
It took a long time to convince my husband to try a new way of travelling, but I think he’s finally hooked. We have done our research, read blogs, Norwegian Epic reviews and got some advice from expert cruisers. We finally decided that the Norwegian Epic cruise was the best cruise for us. When choosing a cruise we first looked at where we wanted to go.
An NLC Mediterranean cruise was always on my bucket list, and with some amazing ports of call – we knew we had to book the Norwegian Epic Mediterranean Cruise, one of the best Mediterranean cruise lines.
There are so many great Norwegian European cruises to choose from. We had many misconceptions about cruising, and we were completely surprised. Check out my Instagram story highlights from my trip.
We booked our Norwegian Mediterranean Cruise with Air Canada Vacations as they offer so many advantages. Air Canada Vacations guarantees the lowest airfare, reliable travel, flexible payment options, and other great features.
You can also book hotel nights before or after your cruise with Air Canada Vacations and tailor your vacation with hundreds of worldwide cruise itineraries. We arrived in Barcelona a day before our cruise and stayed at the Hotel HCC Regente.
CLICK HERE: Read more about our stay at Hotel HCC Regente
Air Canada Vacations Cruise Promise
- Lowest Airfare or you fly free – If you find a flight with Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge at a lower price, we’ll pay for your flight!
- Guaranteed return flight – If the ship is late, we’ll book you on the next available flight home.
- Never miss your cruise – In the event that a delayed flight causes you to miss your cruise, you will be rebooked on the next available flight to catch up with it.
- Flexible payment features – No deposit required for flights + All flights are 100% refundable up to 30 days prior to travel + One name change is permitted up to 30 days prior to travel
History Of NCL Epic
The Norwegian Epic was built in 2010 and was the 3rd-largest cruise ship in the world when it was built! With 4200 passengers and 1750 crew, it’s also the equivalent of a 16-story high building and has its own towering water slides on the top deck! The ship was refurbished in 2015.
We thought a cruise ship on the Western Mediterranean would leave us claustrophobic, with nowhere to go. This could not be further from the truth. There is so much to see and do on the ship that you may not even get a chance to see everything!
Checking in with Norwegian Epic
We arrived at the Barcelona cruise port to check-in for our cruise. Check-in on the NCL Epic is similar to an airline check-in apart from getting your photo taken. We were issued a room key card which was also used for all purchases on board the cruise ship and was our ID card.
We had a misconception that it would take hours to check-in on a cruise ship. There were lineups but they moved quickly.
Norwegian Epic Rooms
When booking a room on your Norwegian Epic cruise of course you have many choices. I always pictured cruise staterooms to be extremely small. We were lucky to stay in a mid-ship balcony stateroom that features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a private balcony.
This room can accommodate up to three people with two lower beds that convert into a queen-sized bed, and a sitting area that converts to additional bedding to accommodate one more passenger. We were so surprised how spacious our room was.
It had a closet and several compartments for storage. Our room had a unique bathroom layout where every area is separate, including the shower and vanity sink. It’s a great layout, as my husband and I didn’t have to battle it out in the bathroom for space.
Our room was also equipped with a small coffee maker, great for that quick cup of java when you first wake up and a mini-bar fridge. (Careful, the items in the mini-bar fridge are usually not included in your cruise rate and are usually an additional charge).
No need to pack the basics as the shower is equipped with a wall dispenser with body wash and moisturizing shampoo as well as a hairdryer, leaving more space in your luggage for souvenirs. We were located on deck 14 mid-ship, the perfect location as we were one floor below the Garden Cafe.
If you are looking to add a bit of luxury on your cruise, you can always opt for the luxurious Haven Suites. They have penthouse suites with balconies, the deluxe owner’s Haven Suite with a separate bedroom, living room and dining room, or the two-bedroom family villa with balcony.
If you book a Haven Suite you get to use the Concierge Lounge and private restaurant and bar as well as butler and concierge services……sweet!!
We were really surprised to hear that they offer studios for solo travelers as well as their own lounge. This is great for solo travelers, no more single supplementary charges.
NCL Epic Deck Plans
The Norwegian Epic has 19 decks…….pretty much the size of a building! The rooms are located on decks 8 – 17. There was so much to explore on this ship and we definitely got our workout in everyday exploring. It’s important to know what is located on each deck as you can decide how close you want your stateroom to be to all the action or how far away.
Also, because there is so much to explore you don’t want to miss anything…….trust me, if you don’t know about it you probably won’t find it on your NLC Mediterranean cruise.
Norweigan Cruiseline Freestyle Dining
My husband and I always heard stories of friends who have been on other cruises and they had set times for dinner every night in the same restaurant. We did not like the idea of a set time to eat dinner. We wanted to have the option to eat when and where we wanted.
Norwegian Cruise lines offer freestyle dining. There are no fixed dining times or pre-assigned seating giving us the freedom on our vacation to try different places to eat on board and experience all of the dining options.
Norwegian Epic Restaurants
The food! We really had no idea what we were missing. We always thought that cruise ship dining was all about the long lineups and mediocre food. NCL is known for amazing dining and has over 20 different dining options on board but we had no idea that NCL Epic would be a foodie heaven.
All the restaurants were amazing, yes even the buffet! The cruise fare includes two main dining rooms where you can order from a menu (they change nightly), a self-serve buffet that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, a variety of casual cafes, grills and on-the-go choices.
In addition to all of the complimentary dining options available, Norwegian Epic also offers dining at specialty restaurants. For a cover charge, you can experience a world of different cuisines and atmosphere – from the finest French Bistro at sea to casual authentic Italian dishes served in a Trattoria-style setting to the first at sea Brazilian Churrasqueira.
We tried to enjoy as many of the restaurants as possible.
Garden Café Deck 15
The Garden Cafe is a buffet restaurant, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with wonderful views. They have different themes every night so you are never eating the same meal again unless you want to. We loved the freshly prepared made-to-order omelets in the morning.
Great Outdoors Deck 15
The Great Outdoors is located just outside of the Garden Cafe but located outdoors to enjoy the fresh ocean air and a view of the Aqua Park This is a buffet that is open during breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Taste Deck 5
One of the twin inclusive al-a-carte restaurants we dined at was Taste restaurant that serves contemporary cuisine, with menus changing daily. This was a great restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The Manhattan Room Deck 6
We enjoyed dinner at another inclusive restaurant, the Manhattan Room. The ambiance is like we were in a private New York City supper club with panoramic ocean views from the two-story, floor-to-ceiling windows. There was also nightly entertainment.
O’Sheehans Deck 6
O’Sheehans is open 24 hours a day! They have some great Irish pub classics as well as popular draft beers. We enjoyed some of the popular comfort food menu items such as Prime Rib and All-You-Can-Eat Ribs. You can also enjoy a game of pool, or relax while taking in a sports game.
La Cucina Deck 14
At La Cucina, we enjoyed fine Italian dining with spectacular ocean views. They offered some great Italian classics such as pasta carbonara and lobster fettuccine. This was one of the specialty dining à la carte restaurants with a cover charge.
We were looking forward to a steak dinner at the popular Cagney’s Steak House. This restaurant has a selection of premium choice cuts of Angus beef perfectly prepared and we also wanted to try their famous Parmesan truffle fries. This was definitely one of our favorite restaurants on the ship.
Moderno Churrascaria Deck 7
We loved the unique experience at the authentic Brazilian steakhouse. We started with the large impressive salad bar. Honestly, I was pretty full after the salad bar so I would highly recommend pacing yourself, as you need to save room for the skewers of slow-roasted meats carved tableside by the Pasadores and of course the side dishes.
Atrium Café & Bar Deck 5
The Atrium was our go-to for pre-dinner cocktails and people watching. It is a grand space that offers three-deck vertical views and a two-story tv screen.
Norwegian Epic Award-Winning Entertainment
Norwegian Cruise lines are known for their award-winning entertainment. We were expecting the usual cheesy entertainment you would get while staying at an all-inclusive resort – but boy, were we wrong! You can’t miss the entertainment, it will blow you away.
Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical (Complimentary)
This international hit sensation is based on the smash-hit movie. PRISCILLA is the heart-warming, uplifting adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship and end up finding more than they could have ever dreamed of.
With a dazzling array of outrageous Tony and Oscar Award-winning costumes and a hit parade of dance-floor favorites.
Burn the Floor (Complimentary)
Burn the Floor sizzles onboard Norwegian Epic! An international championship cast shows off their best ballroom dance moves with plenty of European flair. From Grand Viennese waltzes to the sensual Tango and provocative Rumba, experience all their passion as they heat up the stage.
The dancers were so amazing and really make this one of the best Norwegian Epic activities.
Cirque Dreams Epicurean (additional fee)
We did not see the Cirque Dreams Epicurean show and now I’m kicking myself. I have heard so many wonderful things about it and will definitely opt to see this show next time. This dinner theater takes places in the SpiegelTent, a custom-designed venue that resembles a circus tent.
A three-course dinner is served prior to the main show. The NCL website describes the show as “An Avant-garde world of awe-inspiring feats and colorful eccentricities awaits your discovery in this captivating show.”
Norwegian Epic Activities
We thought a full day at sea meant we were going to be so bored… what can we possibly do? Boy, was I wrong.
Norwegian Epic has enough onboard activities to fill every minute of your cruise. The best thing is that you can do as little or as much as you want. Every night at turndown service, a newsletter is delivered to the room with a timetable of activities for the next day……for every hour of the day!! There is an Aqua Park with a 200-foot slide, the only bowl slide at sea.
There is also Spice H20, an adults-only beach club at the back of the ship. If you are really looking for some pampering then you can even book a session at the Mandara Spa. There really is something for everyone.
Aqua Park
Suit up and splash down at the first ever Aqua Park. There are two pools, five hot tubs, a kid’s pool, three multi-story water slides including the 200-foot Epic Plunge.
Bliss Ultra Lounge – Bowling Alley
During the day, all ages are welcome to bowl. At night, guests 18 and older enjoy funky lighting that illuminates the neon-colored bowling balls and decor to create an atmosphere that is full of energy.
Pulse Fitness Centre
Enjoy working out on vacation? Visit the Pulse fitness center with great workout equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights or even yoga, pilates and spinning. We walked through and couldn’t believe how many people were in the fitness center…….love the dedication.
The Epic Casino
Try your luck at the largest, elegant, full-action casino that offers high-roller ambiance. They offer poker, blackjack, roulette, craps and hundreds of slot machines.
Sports Complex
The Sports Complex has two decks to play on with a full-sized basketball court, rock climbing wall, the first-ever rappelling wall at sea and a 24-foot enclosed climbing cage.
Spice H20
Soak up the sun by day around the pool and enjoy the outdoor buffet at the adults-only Ibiza-inspired beach club at the back of the ship. The entertainment is non-stop, as the pool floor rises to become a dance floor at night.
Norwegian Epic Mediterranean Cruise Itinerary
Let’s not forget about the Norwegian Epic itinerary! Where else can you enjoy 6 dream destinations in one week without having to pack and unpack? It was refreshing to visit a new destination every morning, without having to pack up all of our belongings!
It was wonderful to leave and explore for the day and be able to return to the ship and relax in our state-room. The Norwegian Epic itinerary had all the stops we were looking for on a Western Mediterranean cruise that included some dream destinations. This is the ultimate Norwegian Epic Mediterranean cruise itinerary to see some of the top destinations in Europe.
Norwegian Epic Ports:
- Barcelona
- Naples
- Civitavecchia (Rome)
- Livorno (Tuscany)
- Cannes
- Palma de Mallorca
- Barcelona
Day One: Barcelona, Spain
We embarked on the Mediterranean Cruise from Barcelona. As soon as we got on board we set off exploring the cruise ship. If you are starting or ending your cruise in Barcelona, make sure to check out the top sightseeing tours in Barcelona or our list of best day trips from Barcelona.
Day Two: At Sea
Catching sunlight and lazing on the NCL deck is one of the most fun things to do during this cruise!
Day Three: Naples, Italy
On day three, we docked in Naples and took a shore excursion out to Sorrento and Positano. It has always been a dream to visit this stunning coast – and it was beautiful! I would highly recommend stopping in Positano on your day trip as this is probably one of the best Amalfi towns to visit.
Day Four: Civitavecchia, Italy
Day four, we docked in Rome. We took a guided excursion in Roma visiting landmarks, having lunch and trying the famous cacio e pepe pasta and touring the Coliseum. Although you may be limited on time, here are some great places to eat while in Rome.
(You might also like this 4 day Rome itinerary if you have a chance to stay longer.)
Day Five: Livorno, Italy
From Livorno we traveled through the very scenic Tuscany region for our tour to our dream destination Cinque Terre (five villages). Our first stop to Vernazza was so colorful and cozy. Then to Riomaggiore which was so spectacular and so memorable. The Cinque Terre beaches are so beautiful. This is definitely a dream destination.
Day Six: Cannes, France
We strolled through the playground of the rich and famous, Cannes then onto a short train ride to visit one of our favorite cities in Europe, Monte Carlo. This city is incredibly scenic and easy to get around, with one city bus circling the entire center core.
Check out our luxury getaway to the Fairmont Monte Carlo Hotel
Day Seven: Palma de Mallorca, Spain
One short bus ride from this port and we were walking to the historic old town. This city, more than any other port of call on our 7 day Mediterranean cruise, was such a pleasant surprise because we didn’t know much about it.
As the name implies, the entire area is gifted with majestic palm trees and the most charming narrow streets lined with amazing cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is also one of the best destinations for winter sun in Europe.
Day Eight: Barcelona
Finally, we got off at the Norwegian Epic Barcelona dock. I can’t believe we waited this long to experience our first-time cruise. It really is a wonderful way to travel and see so many different destinations as well as enjoying all the wonderful amenities available on the ship. This is one of our favorite Norweigan cruises!
Some of these amenities you won’t even be able to find at a resort, making this a truly epic cruise. The gourmet dining really was a highlight for us. It didn’t matter where you dined, the food was amazing and the service outstanding!
Throughout our cruise, we were so surprised at the level of service from all the staff. Everyone was so friendly and always smiling. We are most definitely cruising with Norwegian Cruise lines again and can’t wait to bring our daughters with us.
Booking The Norwegian Epic Cruise
Norwegian Cruise has some great deals available, depending on when you book.
The best time to go on the Norwegian Epic cruise is between April to June, and September to October. This is when the weather is best and the sun is out! Traveling during winter will still be fun, as there are plenty of indoor activities to see, both on the boat and at each docking point, but nothing beats some vitamin D.
Remember to have your ID with you for booking in, and don’t miss the departure time!
Call 1 866 529-2079 or your local travel professional and one of Air Canada Vacations specialized cruise agents can help answer all your questions and help choose the right cruise package for you.
A Norwegian Western Mediterranean cruise is well worth it!
Final Thoughts On Our Norwegian Mediterranean Cruise
The Norwegian Epic Mediterranean cruise was such a memorable getaway that we will always remember and recommend highly to friends and family. A big thank you to Air Canada Vacations and the Norwegian Cruise Lines for a memorable trip and the best Mediterranean cruise we’ve experienced so far.
Krisilee Murphy
Monday 20th of January 2020
I have been reading so many blogs to prepare for our upcoming trip on the NCL Epic and this is hands down the most informative. Great blog with a complete look at the trip. Thank you for all of the tips!
dianashealthyliving
Sunday 26th of January 2020
Thank you so much. Are you planning a NCL cruise?
Alisa
Tuesday 10th of September 2019
Very detailed post and very informative! The Norwegian cruise line is definitely one of the best and needs to be talked about more.
dianashealthyliving
Monday 16th of September 2019
We love cruising with NCL
Carmine Morena
Thursday 31st of January 2019
Been on 11 cruises with Norwegian...but have the memories of being on the Epic to be nothing but epic!!!!!! IF I HAD NEVER GOTTEN OFF THE SHIP, I WOULD STILL BE CONTENT!!!!! Combination of the live shows, Pricilla Queen performance ( ultimate by far) and people that l had met will last a lifetime!! Enjoyed it so much that when l returned home l booked it again 6 months later for a transatlantic crossing!!!!! And can you believe l went solo each time!!! Definitely going to do it again
dianashealthyliving
Friday 1st of February 2019
Wow how amazing!! we loved it so much.....we went on another cruise a month later. We are looking to book another cruise with Norwegian. We had such a wonderful experience.
Holly
Tuesday 1st of January 2019
Thanks for sharing!! Looks like an amazing trip! Any chance if you know what time they closed the slides? This is such a busy itinerary....and we have 2 teen boys. Was hoping that the slides would still be open for when we return from ports at 6 and 7. Any idea?? Thanks!
dianashealthyliving
Saturday 5th of January 2019
It was a busy itinerary but so much to see. I believe the slides are open 10am - 6pm
Jill
Monday 26th of November 2018
Wonderful article! I was wondering though as I have a Mediterranean cruise booked with Norwegian for summer and don’t see any excursions exclusively for positano and Sorrento - do you know the exact name of the excursion you booked?
dianashealthyliving
Friday 30th of November 2018
I will find it for you