Our Norwegian Escape Cruise from New York took us to Bermuda, Great Stirrup Cay and Port Canaveral. Here’s our review of the food, entertainment, port and what we paid.

At a glance

📍 Starting point: New York City
🚢 Cruise ship: Norwegian Escape
🌴 Destinations: Port Canaveral, Great Stirrup Cay & Bermuda
🗽 Extra stay: New York City
❤️ Best for: Couples, first-time cruisers, entertainment, sightseeing & anyone who considers cocktails an important part of an 🌙 Cruise length: 9 nights
💰 Cruise cost: £800 per person, including the drinks package
💳 Gratuities: Not included in the price. We asked for the gratuities to be removed on our final night, and our request was granted.
✈️ Flights: We used Mike’s staff travel for our flights. 📅 Our sailing: August 2025

From Manchester to Manhattan… and a Date with the Norwegian Escape

Every great holiday starts at an airport, usually with someone frantically checking they’ve packed their passport at least six times. Fortunately, our journey began smoothly as we flew from Manchester to Heathrow with British Airways.

It was only a short flight, but BA somehow still managed to squeeze in a meal and a couple of glasses of champagne. I don’t know if it’s just me, but being handed champagne before you’ve even left the UK makes any trip feel instantly more glamorous.

As we arrived into Terminal 5, we headed to our overnight stay at the Holiday Inn located at Terminal 4. Thankfully, Heathrow’s tube connection meant it was only a quick hop away. Before we knew it, we were tucked up in bed ready for our early flight to New York the following morning.

The next day started in the British Airways Executive Lounge, which is basically a socially acceptable place to begin drinking before breakfast. We enjoyed a few drinks and a bite to eat before heading to our flight. To make things even better, we had been fortunate enough to secure First Class seats. There is something wonderfully satisfying about turning left when boarding a plane. The extra space, attentive service and endless food and drinks made the flight fly by.

After landing at JFK, we had pre-booked transfers to take us to the Aura Hotel Times Square. The hotel is in a fantastic location right in the heart of the action. At around £140 for the night, we thought it was excellent value considering you’re staying in central Manhattan, where you can sometimes pay the price of a small car just to spend a night indoors. The rooms were clean, spacious, and comfortable, and check-in was quick and easy thanks to the friendly staff.

The following morning, after breakfast, we jumped into an Uber and headed to the cruise terminal to board the Norwegian Escape. We had booked the cruise through Cruise118 for a bargain £800 per person, including a drinks package and an inside cabin. In cruise terms, this felt like we’d found the equivalent of hidden treasure.

We arrived at the port at around 9am for our allocated embarkation time and dropped off our suitcases. Despite having a designated boarding slot, there was still a queue. Anyone who cruises regularly knows that “boarding time” really means “time to join a very organised queue.”

Passengers were given numbers and called on board in groups, with loyalty members and luxury suite guests being invited on first. We watched them glide effortlessly through while the rest of us waited patiently, reminding ourselves we’d spent considerably less money.

Once aboard, we were directed to our muster station according to our cabin number. Having cruised before, we knew the golden rule: never put anything you need immediately into your main suitcase. Luggage can take hours to arrive at your cabin, so we’d packed swimwear, toiletries and evening clothes in a small carry-on bag.

With military precision, we changed into our swimwear and headed straight for the pool deck. Within minutes we had cocktails in hand and food on our plates. This is what cruise holidays are all about.

The pool area was particularly impressive. Unlike some ships that seem to think a swimming pool should be roughly the size of a bathtub, the Norwegian Escape offered a much larger space. There was a traditional rectangular pool for swimming, but the best feature was the seating and tables built into the shallow edges. On a hot day, sitting in the water with a cold cocktail felt pretty close to perfection.

As the ship finally set sail, passengers lined the decks to watch New York disappear into the distance. Sailing down the Hudson River was one of those memorable moments that reminds you why you travel. Seeing the Manhattan skyline, the famous landmarks and the bustling waterfront from every angle was absolutely spectacular.

Our itinerary then included two days at sea. there was always something happening, from activities during the day to entertainment every evening. Of course, if all that sounded too energetic, there was always the option of finding a sun lounger and doing absolutely nothing.

Food on Norwegian Escape

You certainly won’t go hungry on Norwegian Escape. In fact, the bigger problem is working out how you’re supposed to fit breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and “I’ve only come in for one little thing” into the same day.

Norwegian operates Freestyle Dining, which we really like. There are no fixed dining times or assigned tables, so you can pretty much eat when it suits you – ideal when you’re on holiday and don’t particularly want someone telling you that dinner is at 6pm.

Garden Café is the main buffet and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There was always plenty of choice and it was particularly handy on port days when we wanted something quick rather than a long sit-down meal.

For something a little more civilised, Taste, Savor and The Manhattan Room are the main complimentary restaurants. We enjoyed being able to have a proper sit-down meal without paying anything extra – although obviously “nothing extra” is a dangerous phrase on a cruise ship when there’s a cocktail menu sitting next to you.

O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill was another favourite for casual food. Think burgers, wings, fish and chips and general comfort food. It’s also extremely useful later in the evening when several cocktails have suddenly convinced you that you haven’t eaten for at least three weeks.

There are also speciality restaurants if you fancy a change, including Cagney’s Steakhouse and a good selection of other options. These cost extra unless they’re included in your dining package.

We enjoyed the Teppanyaki the best food was amazing, show cooking was brilliant and the humour of the chef made the dinning experience one to remember.

Overall, we thought there was a really good choice of food and enough different restaurants that we didn’t feel as though we were eating in the same place every night.

Entertainment

Entertainment – This Is Where Norwegian Escape Comes Alive

We really enjoyed the entertainment on Norwegian Escape.

The Choir of Man is definitely worth booking. It’s basically an English pub, a group of very talented men, brilliant voices, dancing, live music and plenty of humour rolled into one show. Even if you’re not normally a “cruise show” person, give this one a try.

There is live music around the ship, comedy, piano music, deck parties and different bars and lounges to wander between. Mixx Bar, for example, combines cocktails with live piano, while Spice H2O changes from an adults-only daytime area into a place for drinks, music and dancing at night.

And Then There’s the Late Bar…

If you’re anything like us and don’t consider 10.30pm an acceptable time to go to bed on holiday, Norwegian Escape does have somewhere to carry on.

Skyline Bar, on Deck 7 by the casino, is one of the late-night spots and somewhere we’d definitely recommend trying. Recent Escape passengers also describe it as a popular late-night venue, with music, dancing and the party sometimes continuing into the early hours.

This is where the sensible plan of: “We’ll just have one drink before bed.” can quite easily become: “Why is it 2am and why am I dancing?”

The cocktails on Norwegian Escape were really good too, which doesn’t exactly help matters.

There are plenty of places to work your way through the cocktail menu. The Sugarcane Mojito Bar is an obvious one for mojito lovers, while The District Brew House isn’t just about beer – it also serves speciality cocktails and has live music.

Our advice would be to try a few different bars rather than finding one and staying there every night. Start somewhere quieter for a decent cocktail, find some live music, watch a show and then head towards wherever the late-night crowd has gathered.

Just remember that cruise-ship cocktails have a remarkable ability to taste like fruit juice right up until you stand up.

And if you’ve got the drinks package, apparently the words “Well, it’s included” make ordering another one completely acceptable.

At least that’s what we told ourselves.

Port Canaveral, Dolphins and the Legendary “Shit show crew”

One of the unexpected highlights of the cruise was meeting a group of Americans who proudly called themselves “Shit Show Crew”. Before your imagination runs wild, they were actually one of the friendliest groups of people we’d ever met. They meet up once a year on a cruise and, judging by the amount of laughter that followed them around the ship, they’ve clearly perfected the art of holidaying.

The group included people of all ages and backgrounds, but they all shared the same mission: have an amazing time and leave with even better stories than they arrived with. Whether we bumped into them at a bar, a restaurant or wandering around the deck looking for the next cocktail, there was always plenty of banter. By the end of the cruise, we were convinced that one day we’d have to join them again for another adventure. Although we’d probably need to start training our livers several months in advance.

Our first port of call was Port Canaveral, Florida, one of the busiest cruise ports in the world and the gateway to all things space-related. Massive cruise ships, endless sunshine and the occasional rocket launch make this a pretty unique destination. Many passengers headed straight for the famous Kennedy Space Center, eager to see rockets, space shuttles and enough NASA merchandise to bankrupt a small nation.

Now, Mike had visited Kennedy Space Center several times before, and while space exploration is undoubtedly fascinating, Debbie had a very strong counterargument:

“It’s 28 degrees, there’s sunshine, and there are beaches nearby.”

Case closed.

Instead, we headed to Cocoa Beach, and honestly, it was difficult to imagine a better way to spend the morning. The beach stretches for miles, with soft sand, rolling waves and plenty of people attempting to look cool on surfboards. We took a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, enjoyed the sea air and generally embraced the fact that we were on holiday and had absolutely nowhere important to be.

One thing that struck us about Cocoa Beach was its laid-back atmosphere. Unlike some resorts where everyone seems determined to break a personal best in relaxing, everything here felt wonderfully easy-going. It was exactly what we wanted after the excitement of embarkation day.

In the afternoon, we joined a dolphin tour on the Banana River, and this turned out to be one of the highlights of the entire day. As we cruised along the calm waters, our guide pointed out some of the spectacular waterfront homes lining the riverbanks. Calling them “houses” almost feels unfair. Some were so large they looked like small luxury hotels that just happened to have private docks and yachts parked outside.

Naturally, we all spent part of the tour playing the game:

“What would we buy first if we won the lottery?”

The answer was usually one of those homes.

Thankfully, the real stars of the show soon appeared. Before long, dolphins began surfacing around the boat, much to everyone’s delight. There’s something magical about seeing them in their natural habitat, effortlessly gliding through the water while tourists scramble for their phones and cameras. We were lucky enough to see several dolphins during the trip, and they seemed completely unfazed by the excitement they were causing.

As the Florida sunshine reflected off the water and dolphins appeared alongside the boat, it felt like one of those perfect holiday moments that you wish you could bottle and bring home.

Meanwhile, thousands of people were probably standing in queues looking at rockets.

Don’t get me wrong, we’d love to visit Kennedy Space Center one day. It’s an incredible place that’s inspired generations of astronauts, engineers and dreamers alike. But on this particular day, with blue skies, warm temperatures, dolphins swimming nearby and a gentle breeze coming off the water, we had absolutely no regrets.

Kennedy Space Center can wait.

The dolphins were expecting us.

Great Stirrup Cay: Paradis, Cocktails and My DJ Dubut

The following day we arrived at Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas. We docked at around 7am and judging by the speed some people were moving, you’d think there was a sale on free gold bars ashore. The excitement was contagious as passengers eagerly made their way off the ship to experience their own slice of Bahamian paradise.

And what a paradise it was.

If someone asked you to close your eyes and picture a tropical island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay is probably exactly what you’d imagine. Crystal-clear turquoise water, powder-soft white sand, swaying palm trees and sunshine that makes you wonder why you own so many coats back home. It looked like a postcard had come to life.

One of the best things about the island was that our food and drinks package worked ashore too. This was excellent news because nobody wants to be doing holiday maths every time they fancy a cocktail. Knowing everything was included meant we could fully embrace island life. After all, it would have been rude not to sample a few cocktails for quality control purposes.

The sea was absolutely gorgeous. The water was bath-warm, clear enough to see your feet and shallow enough for a leisurely paddle. We spent plenty of time cooling off in the sea and enjoying the stunning surroundings.

The only downside was the battle for sunbeds.

It quickly became apparent that there were far fewer sunbeds than there were passengers. Some people seemed to possess Olympic-level skills when it came to securing the perfect spot. We suspect a few were already waiting with beach towels before sunrise. Finding a premium location wasn’t easy, and finding a sunbed at all could be a challenge.

Fortunately, this didn’t bother us too much. We are seasoned travellers and know that sometimes the best memories happen when your day doesn’t revolve around guarding a sunbed like it’s crown jewels. There were plenty of places to sit, eat, drink and soak up the atmosphere.

One of the liveliest spots on the island was the Bacardi Bar, where a DJ kept the party atmosphere going throughout the day. Music drifted across the beach while passengers danced, sang and generally forgot what day of the week it was. There were also games and activities taking place all day, which made the island feel more like a giant beach party than simply a place to sunbathe.

For those wanting to live their best celebrity lifestyle, there were private villas available to hire. These looked fantastic and offered a little extra luxury and exclusivity. However, since we travel quite frequently and had booked this holiday on something resembling a sensible budget, we decided to admire them from afar while clutching our included cocktails. Besides, watching other people spend money is completely free.

One thing the island could benefit from is a swimming pool. The beach and sea are beautiful, but a large pool area would provide a nice alternative for those who prefer lounging poolside. That said, with water that warm and clear, it’s difficult to complain too loudly.

We had an absolutely fantastic day and threw ourselves into the island atmosphere. We joined in with the games, enjoyed the entertainment and spent most of the day laughing.

The highlight, however, was undoubtedly when I Debbie somehow found myself behind the DJ booth.

Now, whether the island’s regular DJ was brave, distracted or simply looking for a tea break remains unclear. What we do know is that I was suddenly given access to the controls and embraced her new music career with surprising enthusiasm.

For a few glorious moments, Great Stirrup Cay had its very own Yorkshire guest DJ.

No international music contracts have been offered just yet, and the Ministry of Sound hasn’t called. However, for one afternoon in the Bahamas, I was living my best life, entertaining holidaymakers while surrounded by palm trees, turquoise seas and a cocktail in hand.

To be honest, that’s probably what paradise is all about. 🍹🏝️🎶😎

Bermuda: Rum Swizzlers, Pink Sand Expectations and Adventures

After our wonderful day in the Bahamas, the next day was a sea day. By this point we’d settled into a very demanding routine of eating, drinking, being entertained, eating again, attending a show, squeezing in another cocktail and then somehow finding room for dinner. Cruising is hard work, but somebody has to do it.

The following day we arrived at Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda, docking at around 2pm. One of the things that makes Bermuda different from many cruise destinations is that ships often stay overnight, giving visitors chance to experience the island after dark. Usually, you’re constantly aware that the ship will sail away without you if you’re not back in time. In Bermuda, for once, we could relax and enjoy the evening without repeatedly checking our watches.

The Royal Naval Dockyard itself has plenty to see, with shops, restaurants and bars set among historic limestone buildings dating back to Britain’s naval presence on the island. As we wandered around, it quickly became clear why Bermuda is such a popular destination. The island has a distinctly British feel, but with palm trees, crystal-clear waters and temperatures considerably warmer than UK.

We spent the evening enjoying a few drinks in some of the local bars and soaking up the atmosphere. We didn’t venture too far, however. Although Bermuda has an excellent ferry network, some services stop running relatively early in the evening, and neither of us fancied testing our navigation skills in the dark.

The next morning we were up bright and early and ready to explore Bermuda properly. Our first stop was the Tourist Information Centre, where we purchased a transport pass covering the island’s ferries and buses. This turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. The public transport system is easy to use and provides some stunning coastal views along the way.

One place we’d read about before arriving was the legendary Swizzle Inn, proudly known as the oldest pub in Bermuda and home of the famous Rum Swizzle. Their slogan is famously “Swizzle Inn, Swagger Out”, which should probably be considered both an invitation and a warning.

The bus journey there was an attraction in itself. As we travelled along the coastline, we passed colourful houses, turquoise coves and picture-perfect scenery around almost every corner. Bermuda isn’t a large island, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty.

By the time we arrived at the Swizzle Inn, it was already starting to fill up. The building is packed with character, covered in decades of signatures, memorabilia and stories from visitors around the world. Naturally, we ordered a Rum Swizzle. It would have been practically illegal not to.

The drink itself was delicious. Refreshing, fruity and deceptively easy to drink. In fact, it was the sort of drink that tricks you into ordering a second before you’ve fully evaluated the consequences of the first.

As luck would have it, we’d also read about Bermuda’s famous ice cream shop, and somehow, through an extraordinary coincidence that definitely wasn’t planned, it happened to be directly opposite the Swizzle Inn.

Purely for research purposes, of course, we crossed the road.

The ice cream did not disappoint. The selection of flavours was incredible, and the quality was exceptional. It was exactly what we needed after sampling Bermuda’s most famous cocktail. We are nothing if not committed to achieving a balanced diet.

From there we continued exploring the island, including a visit to the famous Horseshoe Bay. This is probably Bermuda’s most photographed beach, renowned for its pink sand and spectacular scenery. The beach itself was absolutely beautiful, with crystal-clear water and dramatic rock formations.

However, we must confess we were slightly disappointed by the colour of the sand.

After seeing countless photographs online, we’d been expecting something resembling bubblegum pink, Barbie pink or perhaps even flamingo pink. In reality, the sand had a much more subtle rosy hue. Beautiful? Absolutely. Bright pink? Not quite. We suspect the photographers may have been a little enthusiastic with their camera filters.

We continued our adventure around the island, visiting various locations before heading to Hamilton, Bermuda’s colourful capital. The waterfront, pastel-coloured buildings and relaxed atmosphere made it a lovely place to spend a few hours. Everywhere felt clean, friendly and incredibly scenic.

Eventually it was time to catch the ferry back towards the Dockyard. The ferry ride itself offered fantastic views and was a wonderful way to finish our day exploring.

Before heading back onboard, we stopped for a drink aboard the pirate ship moored in the Dockyard. After a day of buses, ferries, beaches, rum and ice cream, it seemed entirely appropriate to end our Bermuda adventure.

As we sat there with our drinks reflecting on the day, it struck us just how much we’d managed to pack into our visit. Bermuda had exceeded our expectations with its stunning scenery, friendly atmosphere and easy-going charm.

The only disappointment was that we eventually had to leave and unlike the Rum Swizzles, there was no option for a refill. 

New York

And just like that, the cruise was over and we were back in New York.

Thankfully, we weren’t heading straight to the airport. We’d planned another day and night in the city, which gave us plenty of time to squeeze in a few more of the famous sights.

By this point we’d spent days eating, drinking and relaxing on a cruise ship, so naturally we thought the best way to recover was to walk approximately half of Manhattan.

Brooklyn Bridge

First on the sightseeing list was the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

Walking across the bridge is one of those things that has to be done at least once when visiting New York. The views across the East River towards the Manhattan skyline are fantastic, and there are plenty of opportunities for photos. Of course, you’re not the only person who’s had this idea.

It’s busy, there are people stopping suddenly for photographs, people trying to get the perfect Instagram shot and tourists wandering around looking in every direction except the one they’re walking in.

Basically, allow plenty of time and bring some patience!. But once you stop dodging everyone and actually look around, the views are absolutely worth it.

Times Square – Bright Lights & Complete Chaos

Next up was Times Square, possibly one of the least relaxing places on the planet.

Huge digital billboards, yellow taxis, shops, street performers and thousands of people all competing for your attention at the same time. It’s loud, bright, busy and completely over the top — which is exactly why you have to see it.

During the daytime it’s impressive, but when it gets darker and all the signs light up, it’s on another level. You can stand there doing absolutely nothing and still feel like you’re in the middle of a film set.

Just be prepared to suddenly find yourself standing next to Spider-Man, Mickey Mouse or Elmo, who may appear very friendly until you realise a photograph isn’t necessarily free!

The Empire State Building

You can’t really talk about New York sightseeing without mentioning the Empire State Building.

It’s one of those buildings you’ve seen hundreds of times in films and photographs, but there’s something different about actually standing underneath it and looking up.

If you have time, you can head up to the observation decks for panoramic views across Manhattan. On a clear day, the views are incredible and really give you an idea of just how enormous New York is.

It’s also a great opportunity to point at random buildings and confidently announce, “I think that’s Central Park,” whether you’re completely sure or not.

World Trade Center & Ground Zero

From there, we visited the World Trade Center area and Ground Zero.

This part of New York has a completely different atmosphere. The 9/11 Memorial stands where the original Twin Towers once stood, with two enormous reflecting pools surrounded by the names of those who lost their lives.

After the noise and chaos of Times Square, the atmosphere here is noticeably quieter and more reflective. No matter how many times you’ve seen the events of September 11th on television, standing in the place where it actually happened is incredibly moving.

Nearby, One World Trade Center rises above the area and is now one of the most recognisable buildings on the Manhattan skyline. The contrast between the memorial and the modern buildings surrounding it makes this an especially memorable part of a visit to New York.

Another Boat Trip… Obviously!

You would think that after spending more than a week on a cruise ship we’d have been desperate to stay on dry land. Apparently not.

We decided to finish our New York sightseeing with another boat trip, this time along the Hudson River and out towards the Statue of Liberty. And I’m glad we did.

Seeing the Manhattan skyline from the water gives you a completely different perspective of the city. As you move away from Manhattan, the skyscrapers gradually form that famous skyline you’ve seen in countless films and photographs.

Then there’s Lady Liberty herself. The Statue of Liberty is impressive from land, but seeing her from the water is something special. The boat gives you some brilliant photo opportunities, particularly when you can capture the statue with Manhattan in the background.

It was one of those moments when you put the phone down for a minute and just take it all in. Well… after taking approximately 47 photographs from slightly different angles, obviously.

Goodbye New York ❤️

🚢 Top Tips for Your Cruise

🗽 Add extra time in New York: If you can, stay at least one night before or after your cruise. There’s far too much to see to use New York simply as a place to board the ship, and arriving early also protects you from flight delays.

🚢 Explore the ship early: Norwegian Escape is huge! Have a wander when you first board and find the restaurants, bars, pools and entertainment venues. It’s much easier before you’ve sampled half the cocktail menu.

📱 Check what’s on each day: There’s loads of entertainment, particularly on sea days. Check the app or daily programme so you don’t discover the following morning that you missed something you would have loved.

🍹 Check your drinks package: Know what’s included and make the most of it. We particularly enjoyed the later bars with music — although “just one more” can very easily turn into several more!

🍽️ Don’t live at the buffet: The buffet is convenient, but try some of the other dining options too. Cruising is basically the only holiday where breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, dinner and late-night food all seem perfectly reasonable.

👙 Pack essentials in your hand luggage: Keep swimwear, sun cream, medication and anything you’ll need immediately with you, as your suitcase may take a while to reach your cabin.

☀️ Pack for different weather: This itinerary can take you from cooler New York to much warmer Bermuda and the Bahamas, so layers, swimwear, comfortable shoes, sun cream and a light waterproof are useful.

💰 Don’t book an excursion at every port: Some places are easy to explore independently. Save your excursion money for experiences that are difficult to organise yourself.

⏰ Check the all-aboard time: Always double-check when you need to be back on the ship. Watching Norwegian Escape sail into the distance without you is definitely not the holiday memory you want.

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🌎 Top Things to Do

Destination	Don’t Miss
🗽 New York	Walk Brooklyn Bridge, experience Times Square, see the Empire State Building, visit the 9/11 Memorial & World Trade Center, explore Central Park and take a boat trip to see the Statue of Liberty.
🚀 Port Canaveral	Visit Kennedy Space Center, relax at Cocoa Beach or take a Florida airboat and wildlife trip.
🏝️ Great Stirrup Cay	Enjoy a proper Caribbean beach day, swim in the clear water, snorkel, try watersports or simply find a sunbed and a cocktail. Sometimes doing very little is exactly the point!
🇧🇲 Bermuda	Visit beautiful Horseshoe Bay, explore the Royal Naval Dockyard, see Bermuda’s colourful houses, visit Hamilton or take a catamaran/snorkelling trip. Visit Swizzle Inn and Bailey’s Icecream Parlour
🚢 Norwegian Escape	Enjoy the pools and sun decks, , walk along The Waterfront, watch the shows, listen to live music, join the quizzes and make the most of the bars and restaurants.
🌊 Sea Days	Eat. Drink. Pool. Entertainment. Repeat. Possibly until the following morning in some cases! 🍹😂

⭐ Our Don’t-Miss Experiences

For sightseeing: New York 🗽 | For something different: Kennedy Space Center 🚀 | For beaches: Bermuda & Great Stirrup Cay 🏝️ | For relaxing: Sea days ☀️ | For nightlife: Norwegian Escape 🍹

Our biggest tip? Don’t try to do absolutely everything. Cruises are supposed to be holidays, not endurance events. If you come home needing a week off to recover, you may have slightly overdone the sightseeing!

The gentle lull of the sea, the promise of adventure, and the reassurance of a carefully planned itinerary. That is, until Norwegian Cruise Line looked at our perfectly chosen route and said:
“Let’s change everything.”

We booked this particular cruise for a few very specific reasons:

It was all going swimmingly… until Norwegian decided to play “Cruise Roulette” with our trip.

The original itinerary (shown in blue on the left of the image) was a well-balanced cocktail of cultures, countries, and conveniently spaced landings. Then came the updated version (highlighted in yellow), which was less cocktail and more “open bottle of sea-sickness tablets and pray for land.”

From Adventure to Adrift

Our cruise turned into “Castaway Edition” when Maputo, Fort Dauphin, and Richard’s Bay vanished from the itinerary—replaced by surprise sea days and shruggy emails from Norwegian.

We’d booked tours, packed outfits, and researched mosquito strategies. Instead, we rebooked excursions on the fly, cursed the app, and Googled “What to do in Antsiranana” over breakfast.

By day four at sea, we’d named the waves and befriended the towel animals. Compensation? None. Just a robotic “thanks for understanding.”

Still, we adapted, laughed, and leaned into the chaos. Lesson learned? Pack a sense of humor—and don’t get too attached to the itinerary.

2 nights stay in Mauritius prior to the cruise

Before embarking on our cruise, we decided to treat ourselves to a few days at Ambre Mauritius, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort nestled along the stunning east coast of the island.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and a refreshing welcome drink—setting the tone for a truly relaxing stay. Our room was spacious and modern, complete with a private balcony offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean .

The resort boasts a 700-meter stretch of pristine white sandy beach, perfect for morning strolls or simply lounging with a cocktail in hand . We took full advantage of the complimentary water sports, trying our hand at paddleboarding and snorkeling in the crystal-clear lagoon .

Dining at Ambre was a delight. With three restaurants and two bars, we indulged in a variety of cuisines, from local Mauritian dishes to international favorites . The staff went above and beyond to ensure our dining experiences were memorable—special thanks to the beach bar team for keeping our drinks topped up!

Please click on the following link for further details Mauritius

The Norwegian Dawn

On January 5th, we boarded our home for the next chunk of our journey: the Norwegian Dawn. A floating city of food, entertainment and brilliant company. The food? Plentiful. The entertainment? Surprisingly decent. We paid for the more at sea package which included 3 specialist restaurants, 150 minutes on board WI-FI and drinks package which was definitely worth it. Our cabin was cosy, the crew fabulous, and the ship itself a grand old dame.

Ship Specifications

• Gross Tonnage: 92,250 GT
• Length: 294 meters (965 feet)
• Beam (Width): 38 meters (125 feet)
• Cruising Speed: 25 knots
• Passenger Capacity: 2,340 (double occupancy); up to 2,800 maximum
• Crew Members: 1,032
• Decks: 15 total (11 passenger decks)
• Cabins: 1,170 staterooms, including 364 with balconies and 354 interior rooms

Eating Our Way Around the Norwegian Dawn: A Cruise Ship Foodie’s Paradise

Let’s be honest, one of the main reasons we cruise is the food — and Norwegian Dawn does not disappoint. Whether you’re a midnight muncher, a meat lover, or a salad saint (for a day or two), this ship caters to every craving.

Main Dining Rooms: Venetian & Aqua

If you like the idea of being handed a menu with more options than your local bistro — and none of the bill panic at the end — Venetian and Aqua are your go-to spots.

What to Expect:

• White tablecloths (you will drop something on them)
• Three-course meals that change daily
• Waiters who remember your name and your penchant for “just one more bread roll”
• Elegant dishes like seared salmon, prime rib, pasta primavera, and sinfully good chocolate lava cake

Tip: Venetian is the larger of the two, with more panoramic views. Aqua is slightly smaller and often quieter — perfect for a romantic(ish) dinner when you’ve been together long enough to eat in silence.

Aqua dinning room

Garden Café: The Buffet That Could Feed a Small Country

Otherwise known as: “I’m just going to look”… five plates later…

This is the land of endless breakfast sausages, late lunch salvation, and dinner options that somehow convince you to try pizza and curry and roast beef in the same meal.

Highlights:

• Huge salad bar (for the illusion of health)
• Live cooking stations (omelettes, stir-fries, pasta cooked right in front of you)
• Theme nights (Tex-Mex Tuesdays, Asian Fridays)
• Views of the ocean to distract you from the guilt of three desserts

Warning: Buffets during peak times can resemble polite food-based warfare. Go early, be swift, and grab that seat by the window.

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O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill: 24/7 Magic

Where time stops and the comfort food never ends

If you’ve ever thought “I could murder a burger at 2am,” welcome to paradise. This Irish-American pub is open around the clock.

Menu Must-Haves:

• Loaded nachos that could double as a meal (or a pillow)
• Buffalo wings — dangerously addictive
• Shepherd’s pie that would make your nan proud
• Ice cream brownie sundaes — because calories don’t count at sea

Top Tip: Sit at the bar and you’ll make at least three friends before your Guinness arrives.

Bamboo – A Taste of Asia (Specialty)

Sushi at sea? Yes, and it’s sensational.

Bamboo serves up everything from Thai noodles to fresh sashimi. It’s intimate, aromatic, and perfect for a change of pace.

Our Picks:

• Spicy tuna roll (Mike had four)
• Pad Thai with prawns
• Miso soup and crisp spring rolls
• Tempura that’s light, not oil-logged

Note: This is included with the dining package, or you can pay à la carte — either way, it’s worth it.

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Cagney’s Steakhouse (Specialty)

Bring your appetite. And stretchy trousers.

This is Norwegian’s signature steakhouse and it lives up to the hype. A beautiful setting, sizzling steaks, and a wine list that might make you weep — with joy or sticker shock depending on your drink of choice.

Standouts:

• Prime ribeye — melt-in-your-mouth good
• Truffle fries — because you’re worth it
• Crab cakes to start (and never share)
• Cheesecake to end. Or start. Or both.

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La Cucina (Specialty – Italian)

Because carbs are life

This rustic trattoria-style restaurant offers hearty Italian dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Think garlic, olive oil, wine, repeat.

Favourites:

• Chicken parmigiana the size of your face
• Freshly baked focaccia with olive tapenade
• Lasagna layered to perfection
• Tiramisu that you will consider smuggling back to your cabin

Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian Steakhouse)

A meat-lover’s paradise, where the skewers keep coming until you beg for mercy (or switch the card to red):

Popular Dishes:

• Picanha – The star of the show: Brazilian-style top sirloin, juicy and carved right at your table. Basically the Beyoncé of the meat rotation.
• Garlic Beef – Beef with enough garlic to ward off vampires and mildly offend your fellow diners.
• Lamb Chops – Tender, flavorful, and likely to make you question why you ever eat lamb any other way.
• Chicken Wrapped in Bacon – Because wrapping anything in bacon makes it fancier.
• Brazilian Sausage (Linguiça) – Spicy, smoky, and oddly addictive.
• Massive Salad Bar – With everything from imported cheeses and charcuterie to couscous and fancy pickles. Technically a “salad bar,” but no one’s there for lettuce.

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Los Lobos (Upscale Mexican Restaurant)

Authentic Mexican with a modern twist — and margaritas that may or may not have caused spontaneous salsa dancing.

Popular Dishes:

• Guacamole Made Tableside – Because nothing says “I’m on holiday” like someone hand-smashing your avocado with flair.
• Tacos al Pastor – Pork marinated in chilies and pineapple, served with a side of “I could eat six of these.”
• Queso Fundido – Melted cheese with chorizo. It’s like a hug in a skillet.
• Carne Asada – Grilled steak, perfectly seasoned and usually followed by someone saying “this might be better than the steakhouse.”
• Lobster Tacos – Fancy tacos for people who want seafood and street food at the same time.
• Churros with Dulce de Leche – Crispy, sugary, and the official dessert of “I shouldn’t, but I will.”

While we only visited the buffet a couple of times (quick bites, not really our style), the Norwegian Dawn truly shines with its specialty dining. We indulged at Cagney’s Steakhouse, Moderno Churrascaria, and Los Lobos—all exceptional, with top-tier food and service that made every meal feel special.

We also enjoyed several lovely meals in the Venetian and Aqua main dining rooms, where the service was consistently great and the food never missed the mark.

In short, we can’t fault the food on the Norwegian Dawn—it was a delicious cruise from start to finish (and yes, our jeans are still recovering).

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Wine, Cocktails and Caffeine Fixes

• The Cellars – Wine Bar: For when you want to swirl and sniff without pretending to know what you’re doing.
• Atrium Café: Great for speciality coffees and people-watching.
• Mojito Bar & Sugarcane: The best spot to test your tolerance for rum or just enjoy a pre-dinner drink with new cruise friends. 

Nightlife on the Norwegian Dawn: Where Sea Legs Learn to Dance (Alone)

After a long day of sightseeing (or strategically avoiding yet another buffet), the Bliss Ultra Lounge is where the Norwegian Dawn gets its groove on. It’s all neon lights, DJ beats, and a dance floor that gently sways with the sea — or maybe that’s just the mojitos.

Although it’s a great venue with a stylish vibe, comfy booths, and a solid cocktail menu, we couldn’t help but notice… it wasn’t exactly buzzing. In fact, most nights it felt more like a private party we didn’t plan. You’ll have plenty of space to dance — because odds are, you’ll be the only one doing it.

Great for pretending you’re in an exclusive club. Less great if you were hoping for a full dance floor and a conga line of new friends.

Reunion Island

We made a brief stop in Reunion. No excursions booked. We optimistically hopped on a free shuttle. Turns out, this was the highlight. Not much else to see, unless you count the hunt for a decent coffee. We were back on board quicker than you can say “Next port, please!”

Madagascar Mayhem – Tuk-Tuks and Lemurs

Antananarivo: Tuk-Tuk Treats and Beach Bliss

We zipped around town in a tuk-tuk (hang on to your hat—and dignity), then made our way to Remena Beach, which was heaven on earth with zero amenities. The sand? Dreamy. The sea? Bathwater warm. The food? Cooked on an open fire and cost less than your average Pret sandwich.

Seafood platter for Mike, steak for me, wine and beer for both of us—£14 total. You read that right. Fourteen. Pounds. The lack of changing rooms? Let’s call it “rustic charm.”

Please click on the following link for further details Madagascar

Nosy Be: Lemurs and Leaks

Our Viator-booked excursion to Lokobe National Park was a jungle adventure. First, a mini bus ride. Then, into “boats” that felt more like bathtubs with attitude. We rowed, we bailed out water, we laughed nervously. It was all worth it.

At the park, lemurs literally came to us and nibbled from our hands. A David Attenborough moment, minus the soothing narration. Lunch followed—seafood, rice, potatoes, fruit—and it was incredible. An unforgettable day, wet socks and all.

Please click on the following link for further details Madagascar

Port Elizabeth – Birthday Bash on a Budget

My birthday (age redacted) was spent in Port Elizabeth, where we’d made some lovely cruise friends. We dined and drank ourselves merry at Barney’s Steakhouse—steaks, wine, cider, beer, and yes, even shots. Total bill? £25 per couple. We’re still not over it.

The next day’s safari at Kragga Park was lovely… until we saw the cheetahs behind fences. It slightly dampened the “wild” part of the wildlife, but hey—lions and zebras still roamed freely, so the Instagram quota was fulfilled.

Please click on the following link for further information Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

Mossel Bay – Seals, Surprises, and Beach Beers

We’d planned a Seal Island trip, but the original boat had a mechanical mishap. No worries—we found a friendly local with a functioning boat and a “why not?” attitude. £35 per couple and we were seal-spotting like pros.

Back on land, we celebrated with beachside drinks in the sun. 

Please click on following link for further details Mossel Bay

Cape Town – The Grand Finale

We finally reached Cape Town — and what better way to celebrate than with… another boat ride? A 90-minute cruise gave us epic views of Table Mountain (and a light soaking from the ocean).

We followed it up with a city tour, including the iconic Table Mountain cable car — where the scenery was stunning and the altitude mildly concerning.

Next stop: Aquila Game Reserve, where we spotted lions, elephants, and a giraffe that looked personally offended by our presence.

But the true stars of the show? The penguins at Boulders Bay. Tiny, tuxedoed, and full of attitude — we could’ve watched them waddle for hours.

We wrapped things up with a drive along the breathtaking Chapman’s Peak and a wander around the V&A Waterfront and had a cocktail admiring the view.

Please click on the following link for further information regarding Cape Town

Cruise Summary: Ports, Penguins & People Who Made It All Worth It

Our African cruise aboard the Norwegian Dawn didn’t exactly go as planned — in fact, the itinerary went through more changes than a West End costume department. Ports vanished, sea days multiplied, and compensation was… theoretical.

But despite the “Surprise! You’re at sea again!” moments, the trip was filled with incredible highlights:

• Wading with lemurs in Madagascar
• Spotting wildlife at Aquila Game Reserve
• Marveling at Table Mountain (from every possible angle — boat, cable car, and cocktail bar)
• Being utterly charmed by the penguins at Boulders Beach

From beaches to buffets, safari drives to seal sightings, the destinations delivered.

But the true magic of the cruise? The people we met along the way.
We shared meals, mishaps, taxis, tuk-tuks, and toasts — and somewhere between the dodgy Wi-Fi and overcooked buffets, we found genuine friendship. The laughter, shared adventures, and collective head-shaking at Norwegian’s scheduling skills turned a bumpy ride into a brilliant one.

So yes, the itinerary was a bit of a wild card…
But thanks to our fellow cruisers, it was one of the best hands we’ve ever been dealt.

 

Accommodation in Mauritius

Ambre Hotel – Adults Only

Let me begin by saying: if we could have packed Ambre Hotel into our suitcase and taken it with us, we would have. Two nights here simply weren’t enough — and yes, we’re still mourning the lost opportunity to extend our stay in paradise.

Location, Location, Tropical Location

Ambre Adults Only Resort is located on the east coast of Mauritius, in the Belle Mare region — and “belle” really is the right word. The resort hugs a stunning, crescent-shaped white sand beach that seems to stretch for miles, kissed by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

You know those photoshopped travel brochures? This wasn’t one of them. The water was genuinely that blue. The sand? Like walking on sifted flour. And the breeze? Just the right amount to make your sundowner taste better.

The Beach: Where Stress Goes to Die

The water is shallow and calm — perfect for swimming, floating, or simply wading out like a character in a dreamy film montage. You’ll find plenty of space, and the hotel staff are never far off with another cold drink or cheeky smile.

If your version of exercise includes lifting a cocktail glass repeatedly, you’re in the right place.

Cocktails

Now let’s talk about one of the highlights — the all-inclusive bar. We tested it thoroughly (for research purposes, of course), and we’re pleased to report it’s brilliant.

You name it, they pour it:

• Tropical rum punches served in a coconut
• Classic mojitos with fresh mint and attitude
• Local beer that’s as refreshing as a dip in the pool
• A daily cocktail special that became our new favourite… daily

The bar by the beach was our evening ritual: toes in the sand, drink in hand, and no idea what day it was. Just how we like it.

Dining: More Than Just a Pretty Buffet

Ambre offers multiple dining experiences, and we tried our best to sample them all in our limited time (a noble effort, we must say).

Indigo Buffet Restaurant

This is the main hub — and it’s not your average buffet. Think show cooking stations, freshly grilled fish, gorgeous curries, and salads that actually make you excited. Breakfast was an international affair: fresh fruit, pastries, omelettes cooked to order, and a coffee machine that understood us better than most people do.

Dolce Vita

A romantic à la carte Italian restaurant where the pasta was as fresh as the sea breeze. We recommend the seafood linguine — even me (Debbie), who usually avoids anything that swam, cleaned my plate.

La Plage

Beachfront dining in the most literal sense. Tables in the sand, candles flickering, waves gently lapping nearby. It’s like being in a luxury holiday ad, only you don’t have to pretend you’re enjoying it for the camera.

Tip: Book a table here at sunset. You’ll thank us later.

Rooms: Spacious, Serene, and Stylish

Our room was bright and airy with beach-chic décor, a massive bed, and a balcony that gave us front-row seats to sunrise each morning. We spent more time out there than we expected, wine in hand, listening to the gentle rustle of palm trees.

The shower was walk-in and powerful enough to remove both sunscreen and guilt from overindulging at dinner.

Travel Tips

💰 1. Currency & Money Matters

• The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR).
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but it’s wise to carry some cash for local markets, taxis, and smaller eateries.
• ATMs are widely available, especially in tourist areas.
• Avoid exchanging money at the airport for the best rates—use banks or authorized exchange bureaus instead.

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🛡️ 2. Safety First

• Mauritius is generally safe and welcoming, with a low crime rate.
• Take standard precautions: don’t flash valuables, lock your belongings, and use hotel safes.
• Avoid walking alone on quiet beaches at night, just as you would anywhere else.
• Tap water is technically safe in many areas, but bottled water is recommended, especially for sensitive stomachs.

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🗣️ 3. Language & Communication

• English is the official language, and French is widely spoken.
• You’ll also hear Mauritian Creole in daily conversation.
• Most tourist-facing staff speak good English, so communication is rarely an issue.

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🚗 4. Getting Around

• Taxis are plentiful but can be pricey—always agree on a fare beforehand, as meters are not commonly used.
• Renting a car is a great way to explore—remember, they drive on the left!
• Alternatively, book tours or private drivers for comfort and local insights.

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🌴 5. Climate & Clothing

• Mauritius is warm year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen.
• Bring a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings or overly enthusiastic air conditioning.
• When visiting temples, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

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🦟 6. Health & Bugs

• No vaccines are required, but it’s wise to be up to date on routine travel immunizations.
• Mosquito repellent is a must—especially inland or during evening hours.
• Pharmacies are well-stocked, and pharmacists speak English and are very helpful.

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💸 7. Tipping Etiquette

• Tipping isn’t required, but it’s a lovely gesture for good service—around 10% in restaurants is appreciated.
• Small tips for hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers are also welcome.

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🙏 8. Local Etiquette & Culture

• Mauritius is a diverse and multicultural island—home to Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Creole communities.
• Be respectful at religious sites: remove shoes and avoid beachwear or revealing clothing.
• A friendly “hello” and smile go a long way—Mauritians are known for their warmth.

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📱 9. SIM Cards & Internet

• Local SIM cards are affordable and available at the airport or in town. Providers include Emtel, MyT, and MTML.
• Most hotels and resorts offer free Wi-Fi, though the signal may vary depending on location.

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🌺 10. Enjoy the Island Vibe

You’re in paradise. Act accordingly 😎

Things to do

1. Relax on the Beaches

• 
  

  Belle Mare, Flic en Flac, Le Morne, and Trou aux Biches are some of the most stunning beaches.

  
  


• 
  

  Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or sipping cocktails while pretending you’re not checking emails (we won’t tell).

  
  

🛥️ 2. Catamaran Cruises & Island Hopping

• 
  

  Take a catamaran to Île aux Cerfs, a picture-perfect island with white sand beaches and turquoise water.

  
  


• 
  

  Many tours include snorkeling, BBQ lunch, and sometimes a few rum punches (because, island life).

  
  

🏞️ 3. Black River Gorges National Park

• 
  

  A nature lover’s paradise. Go hiking, spot rare birds like the pink pigeon, and enjoy epic views from Alexandra Falls Viewpoint.

  
  


• 
  

  Pack water and snacks. Or a picnic if you want to feel extra wholesome.

  
  

🌋 4. Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth & Waterfall

• 
  

  A bizarre but beautiful natural phenomenon—layers of sand in seven different colors!

  
  


• 
  

  Combine with a visit to Chamarel Waterfall, one of the tallest in Mauritius.

  
  

🌺 5. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

• 
  

  Home to giant water lilies, rare plants, and an Instagram-worthy stroll through tropical bliss.

  
  


• 
  

  Bonus: You’ll feel very cultured.

  
  

🐬 6. Swim with Dolphins (Ethically)

• 
  

  Go early morning on a guided tour off the west coast (Tamarin Bay).

  
  


• 
  

  Choose ethical operators that follow proper wildlife guidelines (dolphins deserve space too!).

  
  

🐢 7. Visit La Vanille Nature Park

• 
  

  See giant tortoises, crocodiles, lemurs, and more.

  
  


• 
  

  Great for animal lovers or anyone who wants to feel like they’re in a mini Jurassic Park (without the running).

  
  

🏯 8. Explore Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)

• 
  

  A sacred Hindu lake with a giant statue of Lord Shiva and beautiful temples.

  
  


• 
  

  Serene and spiritual—even the monkeys seem to meditate here (when they’re not stealing fruit).

  
  

🐠 9. Snorkeling and Diving

• 
  

  Top spots include Blue Bay Marine Park, Coin de Mire, and Île aux Cerfs.

  
  


• 
  

  Expect coral reefs, tropical fish, and clear water so beautiful you’ll forget how to speak.

  
  

🛍️ 10. Shop at Port Louis Central Market

• 
  

  The capital’s bustling market is a great place to buy spices, souvenirs, textiles, and weirdly addictive Mauritian snacks.

  
  


• 
  

  Haggle a little—but nicely.

  
  

🧘 11. Spa Day or Couples Massage

• 
  

  Many resorts offer luxury spa treatments. Do it. You deserve it. You’re on holiday.

  
  

🍛 12. Try the Local Food

• 
  

  Sample dholl puri, rougaille, gateaux piments, and fresh seafood.

  
  


• 
  

  Visit a beachside stall or local restaurant for the real deal (and pack stretchy clothes).

  
  

⛳ 13. Tee Off on a Scenic Golf Course

• 
  

  If you’re into golf, Mauritius has some world-class courses—like Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, which is basically golfing in paradise.

  
  

🧭 14. Drive the Coastal Roads

• 
  

  Rent a car and take a scenic drive around the island—you’ll find hidden coves, charming villages, and plenty of viewpoints for those “we should frame this” photos.

  
  

Things run on island time—so take a deep breath, slow down, and relax.

Don’t over-plan; leave room for spontaneous beach days, scenic drives, and sunset cocktails.

Weather

Temp – Celsius Rain – mm	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
High Temp	28	28	28	27	26	24	23	23	23	25	27	28
Low Temp	24	24	23	22	21	20	18	18	20	20	21	23
Rainfall	228	228	178	178	101	76	76	76	50	50	50	152
Number of days	9	10	9	9	8	7	6	6	4	3	3	7

Travelling to Ras Al Khaimah

Airport lounge

The plan was simple: start the holiday in style at the Premium Plaza Lounge in Heathrow Terminal 5, for the bargain price of just £75 for two. Thanks to British Airways running check-in with military precision, we sailed through security so quickly we barely had time to mentally prepare ourselves for the “luxury” ahead.

To be fair, the staff at the lounge were absolutely lovely. The ladies on reception welcomed us warmly, escorted us to a reserved table like VIPs, and throughout our stay the waitresses tirelessly checked if we needed another drink. Honestly, the staff deserved to be working somewhere far fancier.

Sadly, the lounge itself looked less “exclusive airport retreat” and more “motorway service station that had once watched an episode of Grand Designs.” It was one long room with a partial runway view — although we spent most of the time admiring it through our winter coats because the place was absolutely freezing. Nothing says premium relaxation quite like sipping wine while dressed for an Arctic expedition.

Now, onto the food. The selection was what can only be described as “minimalist.” Guests could choose from:

• one meat dish,
• one vegetarian dish,
• pasta,
• potatoes,
• a basic salad,
• one lonely cheese,
• crackers,
• and chocolate brownies doing their best to carry the entire dessert section.

The drinks selection was equally underwhelming. No sparkling wine, no cider, no Baileys, and — perhaps most traumatically — no hot chocolate included. Apparently these luxuries required an additional payment. At this point we half expected to be charged extra for napkins and central heating.

Having travelled extensively and visited many airport lounges over the years, we can confidently say this was the least impressive lounge we’ve experienced. It wasn’t terrible… it just felt like someone had taken the word “premium” and interpreted it very loosely.

That said, the staff genuinely worked incredibly hard and could not have been more helpful throughout. They were the shining stars in what was otherwise a rather chilly, beige experience. A real shame we couldn’t access the BA lounges instead — we spent most of the visit peering longingly in their direction like airport lounge orphans.

Flight

We flew to Dubai with British Airways on one of the three daily flights they operate from Heathrow. Wanting sunshine without the sensation of slowly roasting like a rotisserie chicken, we wisely chose to visit in January — arguably the perfect time to go. The temperatures are lovely and warm without feeling like someone is aiming a giant hairdryer directly at your face, which is more the experience during Dubai’s summer months.

As we were travelling on BA staff travel, the flights were delightfully cheap for us (one of the few occasions in life where you feel like you’ve beaten the system). However, for mere mortals paying full price, economy return flights are typically around £730 including a generous 23kg luggage allowance — plenty of room for holiday outfits you’ll never actually wear.

Our flight departed Heathrow at the very civilised hour of 21:35 and arrived in Dubai at 08:30 local time the following morning. The flight time is around seven hours, which in long-haul terms is practically just a quick hop. Dubai is also four hours ahead of the UK, meaning by the time you arrive your body clock has absolutely no idea what’s going on.

Shortly after take-off the cabin crew appeared with snacks and drinks, including alcohol, soft drinks and hot drinks — and, refreshingly, they didn’t guard the drinks trolley like it contained the Crown Jewels. There was no awkward “one drink per customer” policy here. If you fancied another drink, they happily obliged, which certainly helps make seven hours in a flying metal tube feel more glamorous.

Before landing we were served breakfast, which was exactly what you’d expect from economy class dining at 35,000 feet: scrambled eggs of mysterious texture, sausage, mushrooms, beans, a bread roll, yoghurt, muffin, cheese, biscuits, water and orange juice. Was it gourmet? Absolutely not. Did we eat every last crumb because it was breakfast and we were trapped on a plane with no other options? Also absolutely.

Customs

Passing through customs in Dubai was incredibly quick and easy. Despite the plane being completely full, the queue moved so fast we barely had chance to look tired and jet-lagged. Dubai Airport clearly has the process down to a fine art — unlike some airports where you begin questioning whether you’ll ever see daylight again.

Baggage

When we arrived at baggage reclaim, the cases were already coming through. One of ours appeared almost immediately, giving us false hope that the second would follow shortly after.

It didn’t.

Slowly the crowd disappeared until only a small group of us remained staring hopefully at the carousel as if our luggage might magically appear out of sympathy. Eventually an airport staff member scanned our baggage ticket and informed us that our missing case was still enjoying life in London and had not made it onto the plane.

We were sent to complete a lost luggage form where, interestingly, there were four women reporting missing cases while all the men in the travel parties had received theirs without issue. Typical. Clearly the universe decided men only need one pair of shorts and a phone charger.

Transport from Dubai Airport to Ras Al Khaimah

We had booked our transfers through Booking.com at a cost of £104 return. The journey to Ras Al Khaimah takes around an hour depending on traffic.

Our driver, Ahmad Bilal, was waiting for us with a sign displaying our names. Unfortunately, due to the luggage drama we were delayed leaving the airport and Ahmad sent several messages saying he may have to leave as he had already waited longer than expected. Thankfully he stayed, and eventually we were on our way.

Just as we thought the chaos was over, we discovered the roads near our hotel were closed due to a triathlon. Apparently while we were battling missing luggage, other people were voluntarily running and cycling for fun.

The driver could go no further, so we grabbed our cases and walked the remaining short distance to the hotel — our own unexpected final event of the triathlon.

Accommodation – Rixos Bab Al Bahr

Check in

We arrived at the hotel at around 11am, fully expecting the usual “your room will be ready at 3pm” speech along with several hours of wandering around looking dishevelled and sleep deprived. However, to our surprise, the reception staff were more than happy to check us in early.

Check-in was quick, easy and refreshingly painless. We were handed a leaflet explaining the hotel layout and the various services available — essentially a survival guide for finding pools, bars and restaurants without getting hopelessly lost.

Our check-in agent strongly advised us to book the specialist restaurants immediately to avoid disappointment, which sounded slightly dramatic at the time but turned out to be very sensible advice. As it was Debbie’s birthday, our restaurant for the first evening had already been pre-booked via email before travel — because nothing says romance like organising dinner reservations months in advance.

Finally, our cases (or more accurately Mike’s collection of luggage) were whisked away to the room by the concierge while we attempted to look relaxed and sophisticated despite having survived a night flight, missing luggage drama and an unexpected triathlon obstacle course.

Rooms

We had booked a premium room at a cost of £210 per night, which thankfully felt more “premium” than our Heathrow lounge experience. The room itself was huge, with a king-sized bed, desk and seating area — plenty of space to spread out all the holiday clothes we probably didn’t need to bring.

The bathroom was equally spacious and included a large walk-in shower, along with two sinks and mirrors which is a relationship-saving feature when two people are trying to get ready at the same time. Even better, the toilet was in a separate room, allowing one person to maintain at least a tiny bit of dignity while the other attempted to apply makeup or shave in peace.

Some parts of the room were starting to show their age a little. The wallpaper had several square patch repairs which looked like the room had survived a minor DIY emergency, and the desk had water stains that suggested previous guests may have either enjoyed a lot of coffee or attempted small-scale scientific experiments.

Our balcony overlooked the service road, so sadly we weren’t treated to sweeping sea views or dramatic sunsets — unless you particularly enjoy watching delivery vans. However, the balcony itself was extremely spacious and included a seating area and sun loungers, making it a pleasant spot to relax. If you prefer your holidays with an actual scenic view, sea-view rooms are available at an additional cost.

Pool scene

The hotel has four outdoor pools, three mainly aimed at families and children, and one peaceful adults-only pool for those wanting a break from inflatable toys and constant splashing.

The lifeguards took the adults-only rule very seriously and were quick to politely escort out any families attempting to sneak children into the area. It was like watching airport security, but for peace and quiet.

The family pools were much livelier, with one featuring several water slides. Naturally, despite being fully grown adults, we felt obliged to test them out ourselves. Purely for research purposes of course — although maintaining dignity while flying down a water slide at speed proved slightly challenging.

At weekends the adults-only pool suddenly came to life with dancers performing around the pool area alongside a DJ, creating much more of a holiday atmosphere. Unfortunately, this only seemed to happen at weekends, which was a little disappointing during the rest of the week when the vibe returned to what can only be described as “luxury meditation retreat.”

The music was definitely better when the dancers were there, but during the week even with the DJ present the playlists were extremely subdued. Rather than lively poolside tunes, the music sounded more like something you would hear while having hot stones placed on your back in a spa.

We completely appreciate that hotels need to cater for all tastes, but after chatting to several guests of different nationalities around the pool, there seemed to be a general international agreement that the music could have done with being a little more upbeat. Nothing too wild — just something slightly more energetic than “relaxing whale noises at sunset.”

Pool side drinks

The cocktails at the adults-only pool bar were genuinely excellent and quickly became one of our favourite parts of the holiday. Our personal favourites were the Pina Coladas, Strawberry Daiquiris and Whiskey Sours — mainly because they tasted dangerously good and made it seem perfectly reasonable to order “just one more.”

The drinks were served in plastic glasses, which is understandable around a pool unless the hotel wants guests diving for broken glass alongside inflatable flamingos. To be fair, the glasses still looked quite stylish and far nicer than the usual flimsy plastic cups you often get at all-inclusive resorts.

The pool bar staff were absolutely fantastic and seemed to work non-stop all day in the heat. Special mention has to go to Panjit, who somehow developed a sixth sense for empty glasses. More than once he appeared at our sun loungers with fresh drinks before we had even realised we needed them. Honestly, if he’d offered life advice as well, we probably would have taken it.

Being British, we naturally stood patiently waiting our turn at the bar like polite queue-loving citizens. Unfortunately, not all guests shared this approach. There were quite a few complaints around the pool about the rudeness of some people who seemed to treat ordering cocktails as if they were competing in an Olympic event. Thankfully, the staff remained calm, professional and impressively patient throughout.

Dining

Buffet restaurant

There was so much choice at this restaurant that attempting to describe it all would require its own separate website and possibly a small map. The restaurant featured numerous food stations serving a huge variety of dishes, meaning every lap around the buffet revealed something else you suddenly “needed” to try despite already balancing three full plates.

Each evening also featured themed nights with food from different countries around the world. One night you could be enjoying Italian dishes, the next sampling Asian cuisine, followed by desserts that somehow convinced you there was always room for more.

As the hotel catered for guests from many different nationalities, the food selection reflected this brilliantly.

Breakfast

If you’re from the UK and panic at the thought of going too long without a full English breakfast, fear not — you could sort of recreate one here. There were always hash browns, chicken sausages, beans, toast, boiled eggs, scrambled eggs and freshly fried eggs from the outdoor cooking station. It may not have been exactly like your local greasy spoon café back home, but it was close enough to keep British tourists emotionally stable.

There was also the usual selection of cereals, pastries, breads, fruit, meats and salads for those wanting to pretend they were being healthy before immediately returning for pastries.

The outdoor cooking station also served excellent freshly made omelettes, cooked exactly how you liked them. And for anyone wanting to start the day with a bit more excitement, there was even curry available for breakfast — because apparently some people wake up and think, “You know what would really help me relax by the pool today? A spicy curry at 8am.” Even though we did do this some mornings.

Lunch

At certain times during lunch the buffet restaurant could become a little hectic, with people wandering around clutching plates while trying to decide if they really needed another dessert (they did). Despite this, there was always somewhere to sit and eat.

The restaurant also had an adults-only section along with a lovely outdoor seating area, which quickly became our favourite spot. There was something very relaxing about sitting outside in the sunshine, eating far too much food while pretending calories don’t count on holiday.

As previously mentioned, the choice and quality of food was so good it’s difficult to fully do the restaurant justice. However, one area consistently defeated all our good intentions — the Indian food station. Both at lunch and dinner we would arrive determined to “try different things today,” only to somehow end up back at the Indian section loading our plates like it was our final meal.

To be fair, the food was absolutely delicious, so we felt no guilt whatsoever sitting outside, taking our time, admiring the view and eating enough curry to potentially concern our digestive systems later in the day.

All of the team in the restaurant worked tirelessly to ensure it was kept clean and tidy. They also watched out for when your drink was almost empty and cam to offer a generous top-up. One of the waiters in particular paid a lot of attention to ensuring guests had everything they needed – his name was Javaan.

Evening meal

We only went into the buffet restaurant on an evening once as we wanted to try all of the specialist restaurants. Again there was so much choice it was difficult to know what to choose.

Turkish Restaurant

This was our favourite of the speciality restaurants. We had booked this prior to arriving at the hotel due to it being Debbie’s birthday and we were not disappointed.

The Mezeen was absolutely the best. This consisted of hummus, busda badem (overnight soaked almonds), kopoglu (deep fried eggplants, yoghurt and tomato sauce), atom (roasted eggplants, dry red chilli and yoghurt), yaprak sarma (stuffed grape leaves, cherry and olive oil) and muhammara (roasted bell peppers, walnuts, bread crumbs, pomegranate molasses, virgin oil). We could have just eaten this as it was so nice. We then had slow-cooked Tandoori Kabab and the Hunkar Begendi (mashed eggplant bechamel, sauteed lamb) for our main courses – again this was delicious. Our mains were followed by baklava with ice cream and kazandibi (caramelised rolled pudding with Turkish ice cream).

Steak House Restaurant

At the restaurant we had the goulash soup and dynamite shrimp (spring onion and sriracha sauce). For mains we had beef tenderloin with creamy spinach mushrooms and jacket potato, and parmesan cheese with au jus and beef asado with the same sides. For desert we had passion fruit cheesecake and brownie.

There were so many amazing dining experiences at the Rixos Bab Al Bahr that it is hard to put in words what makes each place special as each restaurant provide a different experience. There were live musicians playing music every night in and outside of the restaurants which made for a fitting accompaniment to the tasty food.

Asian restaurant – Aja

The menu at the Aja restaurant is inspired by the flavours of China, Japan and Thailand. This restaurant around the corner and away from the main stage for the entertainment and therefore the dining experience was not quite the same as the other restaurants. Having said that the food is fantastic and the service was very attentive.

Toast n Burger

This is a lovely little place hidden away from the other facilities, overlooking the sea. The restaurant is open during the day and serves burgers, fries, hot dogs, chicken and onion rings. You can bring your own drinks from the beach bar or pool bar but they also serve alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks. Please be aware though that although the restaurant is practically on the beach and you are sitting outside you will still need to wear a top, both males and females. The only downside to this restaurant is that sometimes the service was extremely slow. We had to ask many times if they would come and take our orders.

Jeep Safari and Evening Meal in the Desert

We booked this excursion through Viator https://www.viator.com/tours/Ras-Al-Khaimah/RAK-Desert-Safari-and-BBQ-Dinner-with-pick-up/d25313-105187P1 at a cost of £76 for two people.

We were picked up from the front entrance of our hotel at 3.30pm in a modern comfy mini bus. There were two other pick ups from other hotels (a couple and a lady and her 7 year old daughter).

Camel ride

When we arrived at our destination we were given a drink of tea and some dates whilst we waited for others to arrive. Following this we were taken for an extremely short camel ride, with a photographer taking professional photos of the experience. They did not appear to be too happy when we took our own photos and the man handling the camel told us not to do so.

Sand boarding

After this we were given the opportunity to try out sand boarding which unfortunately proved to be a complete waste of time as when you stood on the boards they barely moved at all and remained stuck in the sane. However it was quite funny trying it out because it was so bad. At least we burned some calories climbing the rather steep hill.

Jeep safari

We were then taken back to a jeep for the jeep safari. This was great fun but not as hair-raising as some of the other jeep safaris we have been on. There were stops along the way to allow people to take photos of the scenery. The sunset was spectacular and well worth stopping for.

Camp

Following the jeep safari we were taking back to the camp. The camp is really well set up for the whole experience. There is also overnight accommodation if you wish to spend the night in the desert.

Food and drink

When we arrived back at camp we were able to sit where we wanted to to watch the show and have dinner. Here they sold both alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks which were reasonably priced.

We were pleasantly surprised at the meal as the food was of a decent quality compared to which you usually enjoy as part of this type of experience. We had previously tried out a similar experience in Egypt and the food there was very poor. Here you could choose from a wide range of salads, vegetables, potatoes and rice, chicken nuggets and sauces. There was also a BBQ area with freshly grilled chicken, meats and skewers – these were delicious.

Evening show

Once most people had eaten their meal the show began with a female dancer who was then followed by a traditional male dancer. Both incorporated a light show in to their acts which added to the entertainment as it was getting dark by this point. However the highlight of the show was the fire act involving swirling burning ropes around. This made for a spectacular show, especially when he ran up to the top of the hill and spun the burning ropes around in circles – we have never previously witnessed such a spectacle.

Summary of jeep safari

All of the staff and fellow guests were friendly and welcoming including the people on our minibus and driver. Although there were some things that could be improved – the sand boarding and not being able to take photos of the camel ride) the experience was really enjoyable – good food and excellent entertainment, and hence well worth the money.

Water sports

The hotel does offer some water sports activities which are chargeable (paragliding and jet skis). They also offer paddle boarding free of charge. We booked the paddle boarding at the activity centre and were told to be there at 8.30 the following morning. The paddle boarding was not as easy as it looked and Debbie managed to fall into the sea several times. In the end we decided to kneel on the board rather than stand up as this seemed to be the easier option.

Summary of Ras al Khaimah

We have been to Dubai before, staying in the centre, and therefore we wanted to try somewhere different. There isn’t loads to do outside of the hotel although you can visit the local shopping malls and the desert experience was enjoyable. If you wish to visit Dubai it costs approximately £50 each way in a taxi which isn’t too bad if you can team up with other people to fill a car. The hotel itself has a chilled out feel to it which is very pleasant but we would have enjoyed a bit more entertainment around the pool.

We have travelled to many all-inclusive hotels throughout the world and we can honestly say that the Rixos Bab al Bahr has the best dining experiences we have enjoyed. The added bonus for the is the stage surrounded by water and musicians playing instruments while you are dining. The music is low-key which greatly enhances the eating experience.

The staff at the Rixos were amazing and they worked tirelessly to ensure we had an amazing holiday.

The Rixos Bab Al Bahr is a luxury hotel but there are areas that need a bit of TLC. In the room there were places where the wallpaper had been ripped and also there were patches where they had tried to repair damage. At the back of the hotel there are grounds that are overgrowing and full of weeds that could do with a bit of attention.

Things to do

• Try the world’s longest zip line Jabel Jais (we did not do it and regret this!).
• Visit Dubai centre and go up the Burj Khalifa.
• Visit one of the shopping malls.
• Do the Jeep Safari.
• Visit Suwaidi Pearl Farm.
• Visit Ghost village.
• Take a boat ride to see Dubai from the water.

Top Tips

• When packing split your clothes between 2 suitcases.
• Carry some beach clothes in your hand luggage if you are arriving prior to check in time.
• Book a la carte restaurants as soon as you check in.
• Book excursions before you travel as this can work out cheaper.
• Be aware of the culture in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.
• Dress appropriately in public places (ladies need to cover legs and shoulders). This is not required within the hotels.
• Check out government travel advice prior to travel https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates
• Check out other places we have stayed in the United Arab Emirates. Please click on following link Dubai
• Check out the weather below before travel as in the summer months it can get extremely hot and unbearable.

Weather

Temp – Celsius Rain – mm	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
High Temp	23	24	27	32	37	38	40	41	38	35	31	26
Low Temp	14	15	17	20	24	26	29	30	27	23	19	16
Rainfall	10	40	10	10	0	0	0	0	0	10	10	20
Number of days	6	4	6	2	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	4