by Gary Stevens, Vice President,
Leisure Sales & Marketing Leaders In Travel
from the Inagural Sailing of the Norwegian Epic, July 2010

What's EPIC about Norwegian Cruise Line's newest, grandest cruise ship to hit the cruise-waves? Everything! I recently returned from a 2-night New York inaugural sailing and couldn't wait to tell you just how cool this ship really is. First of all it is NCL's newest, largest ship at 4,200 passengers and 150,000 tons. 19 soaring decks high, it is also the tallest ship in the world and as we glided along the Hudson underneath the Verazzano Bridge, breathes were held followed by rousing applause, in awe of passing under with just a couple of feet to spare. You could practically touch the bottom deck of the bridge.

The innovations of Norwegian Epic run the gamut with a whole new style of staterooms and a resort-like, ultra-lounge vibe throughout the ship. But none more so than what you'll find in the entertainment and guest experience - the "hallmark" of the ship. Epic aims to please and delivers the goods, from activities including bowling, rock-climbing, shooting pool, a full-size basketball court, bungee trampoline, and a FANTASTIC "Aqua Park" with 3 AWESOME water slides - the best I have ever seen at sea - both kids and adults will love.

Let's talk food. With over 20 restaurant options, you can experience a different dining option every night and still not cover them all. Yes there are two main dining rooms, but you won't recognize them as such. Their dramatic design and delectable dishes are inspired by the world's leading culinary capitals. There's an upscale steakhouse as well as a traditional Brazilian -inspired Churrascaria (a first at sea and a personal favorite of the venues I sampled). There's also a French Restaurant, authentic Teppanyaki, casual Italian, tempting Chinese, sensational sushi, freshly prepared pasta dishes and for Villa guests, an intimate and upscale dining experience - Epic Club and Courtyard Grill.

As for onboard entertainment and nightlife, the bar has surely risen with the quality and abundance of what you will find on Epic. A superb line-up of entertainment brands including Cirque Dreams and Dinner, Legends In Concert, Howl at the Moon, Second City Comedy Troupe and Blue Man Group are headliners and kids go wild over Nickelodeon Slime Time Live and the Nickelodeon character breakfasts. You'll find bars and lounges aplenty, with Bliss Ultralounge featuring the hottest DJ spins, Fat Cats for a night of jazz and blues and Spice H2O, and adults-only Ibiza inspired beach club at the back of the ship. Check out the very popular Ice Bar, a must-do inspired by the ice hotels of Scandinavia. Best place to do vodka shots.

Unique staterooms, suites and villas offer something special for everyone. Epic provides a new generation of accommodations featuring amenities and modern styling with three "private-access" stateroom complexes. The Studios, although compact in size, transform standard staterooms into cool, urban spaces with exclusive access to The Living Room - a shared private lounge. The Spa Suites and Spa Balconies offer a complete spa vacation at sea. The Villas, are not only luxurious, but also part of the largest suite complex at sea. And every oceanview stateroom is a balcony stateroom.

Relaxing or adventurous. All dressed up or resort casual. Norwegian Epic promises a fun-filled vacation you'll be talking about for time to come.

CLICK HERE FOR EVERYTHING FROM DECK PLANS TO DETAILS OF THE EXCITING NORWEGIAN EPIC

Watch Gary Stevens' interview with Simon Murray, Entertainment Director, Norwegian Epic

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