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I Took The Most Controversial Norwegian Cruise in the Caribbean

Griff & Alyssa
Griff & Alyssa
πŸ…Authority
πŸ‘οΈ 93K viewsπŸ“… 3 years ago⏱️ 23:25

Key Moments

Editorial Summary

The creator documents a four-day cruise aboard the Norwegian Joy, evaluating the experience against critical reviews found on Cruise Critic. The journey begins with a chaotic embarkation process in Miami, characterized by overcrowding, lack of seating, and poor communication from the cruise line. The creator notes several unexpected policy changes, such as a new fee for bringing personal bottles of wine on board. While the ship features impressive amenities like the observation lounge and various bars, the creator highlights significant issues with long lines for activities and dining, as well as a lack of free entertainment options. The cabin experience is described as cramped with a controversial design element near the door. During a visit to the private island, Great Stirrup Cay, the creator praises the scenery but criticizes the lengthy tender boat wait times. Dining receives high marks, particularly the specialty French restaurant, Le Bistro, which serves as a highlight of the trip. However, the cruise concludes on a disappointing note when a scheduled production show is canceled due to a technical malfunction and subsequent talent injury. Ultimately, the creator concludes that the cruise line often overpromises a luxury experience while underdelivering on service and convenience.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.

How This Review Compares

This review's score for Norwegian Joy
Seriously Soggy
All-time creator consensus for Norwegian Joy
A Nibble

This review is more critical than the all-time creator consensus.

What This Creator Said
Creator Warns AgainstFull Ship ReviewπŸ…Authority Creator
❀️ Best for CoupleCaribbean · 4 nightsFrom MiamiOccasional Cruiser

Source: Our analysis of the creator's lived experience, based on what they said in this video.

Creator's Key Takeaways

no jewelry on their Norwegian Joy

there was Zero communication from Norwegian Cruise Line to why we were unable to board the cruise

they will charge you 15 per bottle if you do not have the beverage package

it feels ridiculous cold is tiny little cups

Creator's Tips & Advice

βœ“Expect long lines and wait times for everything
βœ“Bring your own wine at your own risk due to new corkage fees
βœ“Do not expect medical grade fridges for breast milk storage
βœ“Book specialty dining if you want a good meal experience
βœ“Be prepared to pay extra for most onboard activities

πŸ†•New to Cruising? This Creator Addresses:

Overcrowding β€” Avoid peak times, stick to observation lounge for quiet space
Hidden costs β€” Budget for extra charges on activities, drinks, and even bringing your own wine
Room size β€” Book a balcony or suite if possible, interior cabins are extremely small

Questions This Creator Answers

QIs the Norwegian Joy worth the controversial reputation?
QWhat is the embarkation process like?
QAre the Cruise Critic reviews accurate?
QWhat are the hidden costs on Norwegian Cruise Line?
QIs the ship suitable for new parents needing relaxation?

Topics Covered

Embarkation5 Sad BaconValue Pricing4 Sad BaconService Crew2Β½ Sad BaconSafety Medical5 Sad BaconCabin Interior4 Sad BaconCrowd Capacity4Β½ Sad BaconEntertainment Shows3 Sad BaconWater Park3Β½ Sad Bacon

Port Highlights

Great Stirrup Cay2Β½ Happy Bacon
Top: Tender boat
Miami
How to read the Trip Bacon Score
Happy Bacon β€” creators loved this aspect
Sad Bacon β€” creators took issue with this
Meh β€” no strong opinion either way

Scale: 0–5 strips in half-step increments. 0 = β€œmeh”, 5 = β€œbacon bliss”. Aggregated from creator-review sentiment, weighted by channel expertise.

About our Bacon Score methodology

Video content sourced from the creator's original upload. Watch on YouTube