Norwegian Breakaway Reviews: 0 Jetsetters Rated It 0/5 — But This Cruise Ship Might Not Be for Everyone

Norwegian Breakaway: A Comprehensive Review

The Norwegian Breakaway is a cruise ship designed to provide a luxurious and exciting experience at sea. With its innovative features, high-tech amenities, and diverse onboard offerings, this ship has quickly become a staple in Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or world-class dining, the Norwegian Breakaway promises to meet every passenger's needs. Let's take a deep dive into what makes this cruise ship stand out.

Detailed Specs & Features

The Norwegian Breakaway is no ordinary cruise ship. Built by the renowned Papenburg shipyard in Germany, it entered service in April 2013, following its christening on May 8, 2013. The ship spans an impressive 1,068 feet in length, with a beam of 169 feet, making it one of the larger ships in its class. It carries a gross tonnage of 145,655 GT, which gives it ample space for passengers and crew alike. The Breakaway-class design ensures that the ship provides a unique blend of spaciousness and maneuverability, making it perfect for both long-haul voyages and shorter getaways.

When it comes to passenger capacity, the Norwegian Breakaway accommodates up to 3,963 passengers at double occupancy, with a maximum capacity of 4,028. It offers a variety of cabin types, from inside cabins to spacious balcony suites, totaling 2,014 cabins. For those seeking a more personalized experience, the ship features 42 suites, ensuring that every guest can enjoy a premium level of comfort. The ship's crew capacity is equally impressive, with space for 1,657 crew members, maintaining a ratio of 2.53:1 between passengers and crew, ensuring attentive service throughout the voyage.

The Norwegian Breakaway doesn't just cater to comfort but also to performance. Powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system, the ship boasts a maximum speed of 22.5 knots, with a cruising range of 3,965 nautical miles. The ship's fuel capacity is an impressive 80,000 gallons, using both HFO and MGO fuels. With stabilizers and bow thrusters, it ensures smooth sailing even in less-than-ideal conditions. In terms of safety and regulation, the Norwegian Breakaway meets all necessary standards, from SOLAS compliance to advanced fire safety systems.

User Experience & Performance (Based on Specs)

Design & Build

On paper, the Norwegian Breakaway is a marvel of design and engineering. With a sleek steel hull and modern amenities, this ship is built for luxury and performance. It's 18 total decks provide passengers with a variety of spaces, from expansive public areas to cozy cabins. One feature that stands out is the indoor promenade, which creates a vibrant, bustling environment. The high ceilings and spacious decks give it an airy, open feel, something many guests appreciate during their time aboard. With a maximum air draft of 200 feet, the ship's stature is matched only by its elegance.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Norwegian Breakaway doesn't disappoint. The maximum speed of 22.5 knots ensures that the ship can travel quickly and efficiently, making it suitable for both leisurely cruises and faster crossings. The service speed of 21.5 knots provides an ideal balance between performance and fuel efficiency, allowing for an exceptional cruising experience. The diesel-electric propulsion system is both efficient and powerful, ensuring smooth sailing across various sea conditions. This combination of speed and stability makes it an ideal option for travelers who value both comfort and time efficiency.

Dining, Recreation, & Wellness

When it comes to dining, the Norwegian Breakaway truly shines. With a total of 27 dining venues, including buffet restaurants and specialty options like those curated by celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian, there's something for every palate. Add to this a variety of bars, lounges, and cafés, and it's easy to see why the ship is a food lover's paradise. For those looking for relaxation or a wellness retreat, the Breakaway offers spa facilities such as massages, a thermal suite, and beauty salons, providing the ultimate pampering experience at sea.

As for recreation, this ship offers four swimming pools and nine jacuzzis to help guests unwind. Active guests can make use of the sports courts, running tracks, mini-golf, and the water park. However, one feature missing is a rock climbing wall, which some other ships in its class offer. Still, for most, the variety of activities available will more than make up for this small omission.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Large variety of dining options, including celebrity chef partnerships
Impressive onboard facilities like a spa, fitness center, and wellness options
Spacious with 27 decks offering ample passenger space

Cons

Missing a rock climbing wall, unlike some other ships of its size
High pricing for certain specialty dining and beverage packages

Price & Value for Money

The Norwegian Breakaway is priced competitively for its class, with prices starting at $599 per person. When compared to similar ships in its category, it offers a good balance of luxury and cost. While some of the onboard dining options and extra services like beverages and gratuities are not included, the ship's extensive amenities and entertainment offerings make up for this. For those looking for a well-rounded, exciting cruise experience, the Norwegian Breakaway presents great value, particularly for those seeking a more personalized and premium cruising experience.

Quick Take

The Norwegian Breakaway offers a stellar combination of luxury, performance, and diverse activities. With its spacious design, incredible dining options, and impressive facilities, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a high-end cruising experience. Just keep in mind the extra charges for certain services and the absence of a rock-climbing wall if those are deal-breakers for you.

Closing Recommendation

If you're seeking a large, well-equipped cruise ship with a focus on comfort, dining, and onboard activities, the Norwegian Breakaway is a solid choice. Its impressive array of features makes it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.