How did you like the Norway?
 

I'll be cruising in late August and one of our options is the Norway. What is this ship like? I'm familiar with her history as the France, but would like to know how she compares to other cruise ships. Although I appreciate her historical significance, I would not choose her only for that reason. I'd appreciate any comments.<BR><BR>Thanks!

Have you sailed on any other ships? I've sailed on her 3 times (as well as about 50 other cruises on a variety of cruiselines); we enjoyed her since she's a true ocean liner but if you are looking for glitz/glitter/neon and things like rock-climbing walls, skating etc than this is NOT a ship for you to consider. You'll have all the typical "cruise ship" activities, average food, and several sea days (which we enjoy, though for others spending more time in ports is important); your cabin can be anything from a small 80 sq ft "closet" to a large suite with private balcony. Sometimes they run "suite specials" with really good rates. You'll be sailing during a prime time of the hurricane season, so even if you have some rough waters the ship will sail so smoothly that you'll hardly notice. There's an excellent spa facility on one of the lowest decks, too.

It is a good first cruise, but if you have been on other ships, you will not be impressed. I would even select a carnival ship with the same itinerary over the Norway.

An agent in our office has sailed on over 30 cruises and loves the Norway- She is not too impressed with the mega liners, so it is really what you prefer. I prefer the newer ships, so I would be miserable. <BR><BR>They have great prices, though!<BR><BR>Don't get a balcony suite as they are over the basketball courts and my clients HATED it! Took pictures of it specifically to show me the location.<BR><BR>Good luck deciding, but, uh, talk to a travel agent that has been on it for the best opinion.

It's a good ship, but the last time I sailed it a guy actually threw up on me in the hot tub. I complained to the steward but all they did was get me some towels and offer to buy me a drink. Amazingly, I don't think they turned the hot tub off because I saw people in it later that night.<BR><BR>Only Carnival for me now.

Wow, you mean that they left the vomit in the hot tub? YUUUUUCK.<BR><BR>

Uhm, well, most everything about the Norway that has been mentioned is quite true. However, I don't get the "Not cruising-camping out comment.<BR><BR>Also, Ginger says that all the balconies overlook the basketball court. That is not, most definitely not, true. Only 4 or maybe 6 of the balconies face the stern of the ship above the courts. The rest are forward and and on the higher decks. So talking to a travel agent may not help. They don't all really know what they are talking about. <BR><BR>Sorry I cannot compare to other ships because glitz and neon do not appeal to me. Only do the Norway and the QE2, as they are actual liners. I did take the Regal Empress recently, but would not recommend her. An old liner with a horrendous crowd. <BR><BR>Enjoy whatever you do.<BR><BR>

Hi Bobb,<BR><BR>Are you really comparing the QE2 to the Norway and find them equal? I presume you are a historical buff. I toured the Norway a couple of years ago and found NCL has stripped it of everything of value. <BR><BR>I could see you sailing the Norway to save money but I do not see it being cost-effective. In other words you can not possibly get your money's worth.<BR><BR>My opinion here entirely.<BR><BR>Paul

Paul<BR><BR>I don't think Bobb was implying the QE2 and Norway were equal, only that they're both ocean liners. The differences between the 2 ships (quality, food , service, etc...) aren't even close. I disagree with your assessment that traveling on the Norway isn't "cost-effective". Yes, much of her original treasures are gone, but the ship itself is still interesting and has much to offer to those who appreciate the way ships were built in the past. Walking the various decks, especially the enclosed promenade is still refreshing and different. Although she's not what many cruisers like today, she still has plenty to offer. I sailed her in 1999 and found the cabin tiny, but the bathroom was huge! Just one of the little things that made the cruise special. Plus 7 days for only under $1400 for two with air, I still think that's a bargain. Sorry, we see this differently.<BR><BR>Regards...Bob

Thanks to everyone for their responses. No disrespect to the Norway (I still think of her as the France), but we've decided to go with either Carnival or RCI. I am ship buff, but my travelling companions are not - they prefer a newer vessel. Speaking for them, I'd have to agree with Paul that they would probably feel like they did not get their money's worth if they cruised on the Norway. I'll guess I'll have to suck it up and take a cruise on her by myself sometime. Thanks!

Hi Cruznut,<BR><BR>I agree that an ocean liner is quite different than the ships that are sailing these days. I sailed the Norway when it was the SS. France in 1968 and I was curious what it looked like now and that is why I did board her to look around. I wasnted to see the dining room and that beautiful staircase. Also th hugh North Cape Lounge. The Club International was just about the same as it was years ago along with the Saga Theatre. I took look at the two Owners Suites and they lookd like a Carnival stateroom.<BR><BR>It was thrilling ot see the name S.S. France still outlined on the front of the ship even albeit painted over.<BR><BR>Would I sail her. No. It just was not the same. <BR><BR>I would rather sail the Regal Empress even though I would not consider it an ocean liner. It is in the same class as the old Dolphin and Regency ships. It is not so overwhemingly filled with junk.<BR><BR>I believe what the real reason for me is that I would not feel safe. sailing the Norway.<BR><BR>Just my opinion.<BR><BR>Paul

Paul,<BR><BR>why would you not feel safe sailing the Norway?<BR><BR>Thanks

Norway = old ship, old cabins, old concept, old crew, old passengers, old ideas.<BR>Nothing works, everything stinks. <BR>What`s the big deal?

So Mark, How was your August cruise? Did you sail the Norway?

Hi Joe,<BR><BR>Not just the Norway. I wouldn't feel safe on any Norwegian ship. Too many incidences.<BR><BR>Paul

The Norway is a HORRIBLE ship.....

Thanks for your detailed and insightful review of the Norway Janie. Do you think people find any value in posts like that?<BR>Anyway, heres a serious question for those who have sailed her. Many posts say shes "a true ocean liner". I'm not sure what that means. I've sailed on most of the newest ships out there and years ago sailed on several old ships like the old Dolphin (later Premier) ships. There was a world of difference between these and I can see many changes, but again, what do you mean when you say it was a true ocean liner? Thanks!