Norwegian Cruise Line Returns to Australian Waters After Three years

By Cruising With Honey - 12:09

Norwegian Cruise Line Marks Return to Australian Waters After Three years

She's Here! The beautiful Norwegian Spirit - the ship that I only just disembarked from a few days ago is here in Sydney!

And tonight, I will be back on board for a special event to welcome her to our shores. Make sure you keep an eye out for my livestream on my Facebook page and watch the historic moment the Spirit sails underneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Facts and Figures

A smaller ship at 2,032 guest capacity (double occupancy), Norwegian Spirit is packed full of features and quite unlike any other ship sailing in the region. Completely redesigned in 2020 from bow-to-stern with the adult cruiser in mind, the ship boasts brand-new features like the Thermal Suite in the sought-after Mandara Spa, including a spa, sauna, shower experience and heated-tile loungers gazing over ocean views; the opulent adults-only Spice H20 pool retreat, and the finest contemporary Italian fare at the striking Onda by Scarpetta.

No one does entertainment like NCL and Norwegian Spirit is no exception, from Broadway-style pop-country spectacular, Blazing Boots to the magic, acrobatics and dance of Elements.

With half the ship’s 912 crew members dedicated to delivering exceptional quality food and beverage, guests will enjoy a complete destination immersion experience with dishes tailored to the destinations visited, such as roasted rack of lamb and grilled barramundi. Supporting local growers and suppliers, guests can also expect to enjoy a vast variety of quality, locally sourced produce, including all barramundi, lamb, eggs, milk, yoghurt and fresh fruit and vegetables, such as berries, pineapples, bananas, lettuce and capsicum. The well-stocked local wine selection includes Australian and New Zealand favourites like Wynn’s Coonawarra and Wolf Blass from the Barossa Valley, 19 Crimes from South Eastern Australia, Matua Marlborough from New Zealand and Georg Jensen Hallmark Cuvee from Tasmania. Meanwhile local favourites such as Vegemite, Weet Bix, Milo, Four’n Twenty sausage rolls and Fountain mint sauce will ensure Australian and New Zealand cruisers feel at home while sailing on Norwegian Spirit.

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All Good Things Must Come To An End - Sea you later Norwegian Spirit

By Cruising With Honey - 02:47

All good things must come to an end

Day 7 aboard Norwegian Spirit

The final day aboard is always a little melancholic. Over the last week, I had seen parts of the world that my eyes never dreamed of witnessing, made friends for life and discovered a new ship that will own a piece of my heart. Both French Polynesia and Norwegian Spirit have woven their magic and it was soon time to say goodbye.

Shiny, sunny day

I really didn’t have much time to plop myself by the pools and enjoy the atmosphere, and with the sun shining in all its glory. I headed to Spice H20. Located at the aft of the ship, this adults only area had three things I loved. An uninterrupted wake view, a good-sized pool and at that quintessential cruise vibe. Nearly every lounger was taken, but I found a spot, grabbed a cocktail and sun baked (with sunscreen of course).

Watch my Deck 10 and Deck 12 tour

After a while, I wandered over to the main pool deck where a chirpy crew member was teaching a modern line dance class. It was so much fun! Naturally I joined in trying with my unco body to keep up. This is what no other holiday or resort can offer; strangers discarding their inhibitions, laughing, dancing, and thoroughly enjoying the moment, immersing themselves in that cruising state of mind.

Suite life

One of the many perks I’m lucky to get when invited on ships is that I get to inspect other category cabins. And today, I got to view a beautiful suite on Deck 10. Now as mentioned earlier, the Norwegian Spirit has had a $100 million (US) plus refit. The ship has had a complete refurbishment from top to tail, including the cabins. While I’ve never stayed in suite (the highest category I’ve cruised in has been a mini suite on Coral Princess which was wonderful) I aspire to one day sail in a suite.

The suites on Norwegian have butler service! A dedicated butler ensures you have all the creature comforts you need while aboard. How fancy is that? As I stepped into the stateroom, my first impression was that it was so light and spacious. A separate lounge area with a large modern flat screen, plus a kitchen nook of sorts, complete with an automatic coffee machine.

Moving on to the balcony, the area included two chairs and table, and a sneaky little window on the end which looked into the bathroom. The bedroom was large and had copious storage, lots of mirrors and a queen bed. It was all very impressive.

But the pièce de resistance was the bathroom. If I had this cabin, I would guarantee I’d spend the majority of the time indulging in the large spa bath. The shower was another showstopper featuring an almost floor length window. Imagine showering with those incredible sea views! The suite provided a sanctuary of comfort, style and luxury.

Watch my suite tour here

That’s entertainment

A couple of days earlier, the media group I was onboard with was invited to meet the entertainment team and get a back stage tour. I’m always impressed not only the level of talent of cruise ship entertainers but also their enthusiasm and energy.

However, I felt a little guilty I hadn’t yet caught a show, so tonight I sat in the massive theatre and watched one of the shows, Blazing Boots. Picture a little bit of country, a little bit of cheeky choreography and extravagant costumes. It was a hoot very well executed.

Was it really that time to put my bag out?

Reality finally hit when I zipped up my bags and rolled them begrudgingly outside my stateroom door. I was going to miss the smiley steward who meticulously cleaned my cabin, the sneaky 3am chicken wings at the 24 hour eatery and the sound of the ocean as I sat on my balcony.

I’d like to think that each voyage I take I learn a little more about myself. So, what lessons will I take away from this adventure? Well, firstly and most importantly for me, I learned that despite having taken 11 cruises in 2022, I’m happy to say that I’ll never take any moment for granted. I’m beyond privileged that I can have these experience and I’m grateful for each cruise.

I also learned that I could face my fears of swimming with stingrays and sharks. That was a big accomplishment.

But what I learned the most about myself is that the wanderlust to travel, see the world, meet people from other cultures and discover new ships and crew, is stronger than ever. This might be the last day of this cruise, but I’m now even more determined to show people the many gifts cruising brings.

As I lay my head down to sleep on this last night, I reaffirmed the promise I made to myself seven years ago; to continue to Cruise Through This Thing Called Life.

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Samoan Sojourn - Last Port Call Aboard Norwegian Spirit Adventure

By Cruising With Honey - 21:08

Samoa - Day 6

Dulcet harmonies carried across from Apia, as I stood transfixed in the warm night on the open deck. The notes carried by the light breeze filled my ears with a peaceful melody, and I strained to recognise the music emanating from the Cathedral. In that Samoan sunset, watching the vast sky turn deeper shades of denim, I smiled and was filled with such joy.

Listen here

The last port stop

Day 6 and the last post stop for me on this cruise. Well, there was one more port stop, Lautauka Fiji on Day 8 but I’d be disembarking there and flying home to Sydney. The cruise would be continuing on to Sydney where the Norwegian Spirit is due to arrive on 21 December.

Apia was a was walk-off port and I headed off for stroll. My shore excursion wasn’t until the afternoon, and I was keen to explore.

I didn’t get far. Only to the end of the terminal (which was beautifully decorated with local flowers) where smiley Samoans greeted me with a hearty, friendly “Talofa!” The day was so hot and sticky and it was quite a walk into town, so my solo adventure was short-lived.

Exploring Samoa

A few hours later, I hopped on the air-conditioned bus and headed off on the tour of the capital Apia.

First stop was the local markets where I was itching to buy some local fruits and veggies, but what could I do with the produce? Sigh, I'll just have to eat with my eyes.

Second stop was the homestead – and now museum - of famous Scottish novelist Robert Louis Stevenson – of Treasure Island and Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde acclaim. The relationship between the Samaon people and this Scottish writer is fascinating.

The third stop was to visit the home of Samoan legend Aggie Grey Her family welcomed us into their home and offered an array of traditional Samoan food – including some of the luscious fruit I’d seen earlier at the markets.

As we were ahead of schedule, we had just enough time to make a quick pitstop at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. Now I’ve seen a lot of churches and holy places in Europe this year, but this was something totally unique. The Roman Catholic place of worship intertwined the Catholic faith with the local culture to create a place that reflected both so artistically. I wish I could have attended a service there, could you just imagine the music?

Fire dancing

As I was getting ready for dinner, I heard a beat, rhythmic and calling me to step out on to my stateroom balcony. The Norwegian Spirit had not left as yet, and as I looked out at the terminal, I saw a fire dancer twirling his flaming sticks in time to a drummer. It was mesmerising and I thought at that moment where else in the world could you witness this while on a cruise ship!

Thinking about my day on this tiny group of islands in the south pacific, the smiles and warmth of the Samoans kept circling in my mind’s eye. I now get why people around the world are drawn to the Samoan spirit. It’s kind of like being drawn into the softest embrace where all your troubles cease to exist. I suppose that's why they call her, the Cradle of Polynesia. Faafetai Sa’moa!

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Norwegian

5 Things You Must Eat On a Sea Day - Norwegian Spirit

By Cruising With Honey - 15:33

5 Things You Must Eat On a Sea Day - Norwegian Spirit

A Spirited Foodie Adventure

Cruisers are split down the middle when it comes to whether they prefer a ‘sea day’ or a ‘port day’.

For me, I love both, however there’s something about a sea day that allows me to take a deep breath and fully unwind.

And for the next two days, that exactly what I planned to do.

It’s had been a busy and exhilarating four days and now I had two delicious sea days aboard until the next stop in Samoa. My plans were to eat, do some activities, watch a show and then eat some more. My other plans were to set aside some time for filming.

You can watch my Deck 7 tour

Over the next few days, I discovered what the best things to eat (and drink) aboard Norwegian Spirit, and thought I’d put together a list for you all. So, here it is - the 5 Things You Must Eat On a Sea Day aboard the Norwegian Spirit.

1. Icy treats and creamy sweets

The sea was a little choppy in the morning and as I made my way to breakfast, I saw a crew member with a tray of brightly coloured… somethings. He was offering these to guests, and I immediately wanted one, whatever it was. Imagine my delight when I found out that it was a tray of ice blocks. What a brilliant idea! Not only are these refreshing when sunning one self on the Lido deck, but a clever way to combat any queasy feelings due to the rocking. An icy treat is very clever indeed to help combat seasickness while keeping hydrated.

Every cruiseline immediately needs to follow suit and offer ice blocks (popsicles in American English).

Eat all the ice-cream

Ice cream is synonymous with holidays, and the ice cream options onboard Norwegian Spirit were lickety-licious. On some cruiselines, ice cream is something you might have to pay for, but not on the Spirit. Head to the Garden Café (the buffet) on Deck 12 and you’ll find TWO ice-cream stations.

One has the traditional trio of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry, but the other has four more glamorous flavours – that change daily – such as rum & raisin, pistachio, raspberry sherbet and butter pecan.

2. Teppan-YUMI

Dinner and a show all rolled into one super fun experience? Yes please! If you want a joyous, interactive dining experience that will not only have you in stiches but fill your belly at the same time, then the Teppanyaki onboard Norwegian Spirit is must.

Here you will be entertained by your chef who will do all sorts of knife tricks, sing songs, crack jokes (and eggs) and cook you a flavour meal. As it is one of the specialty restaurants on board, there is a surcharge ($49 pp) but it’s well worth the cost.

Watch here

3. Eat around the clock

When you’re travelling, especially if its in another time zone, your body clock needs time to adjust. This can mean that you might feel hungry at unusual times. Well, aboard Norwegian there is no need to fret – or feel guilty if you get a hankering for chicken wings at 3:19am.

Having cruised quite a bit this year, a 24-hour eatery is pretty rare to find. There are some cruiselines that might have a late-night dining option or room service (which often comes with a surcharge) but aboard the Spirit, The Local is open 24 hours a day and is FREE! And the food is amazing.

Menu items include nachos, Reuben sandwiches, chicken wings, pretzel balls, cakes and more. The bonus is that you can also order drinks and cocktails from the adjoining bar. The service is impeccable, and nobody makes you feel guilty for indulging in a slice of carrot cake in the early hours of the morning while most of the ship is asleep.

4. Sail & Sustain Mixology

My new friend Nenad - F&B Manager

There’s one thing that I really detest and that is wastage. So, imagine my surprise when I found out that NCL Sail and Sustain incorporates Sail and Sustain cocktails.

One thing I’d like to address is that I received many comments on my Facebook page of my drinks in what appeared to be plastic cups. And so, I investigated as it seemed that indeed if these were plastic than it was contrary to NCLs commitment to “to driving a positive impact on society and the environment through our global sustainability program, Sail & Sustain. Reducing single-use plastic is a key component of our environmental management efforts.”

The answer was forthcoming and immediately set the record straight.

“We have further introduced disposable PLA cups in those areas on board, where reusable resources such as glass cannot be utilized for safety reasons (e.g. pool decks). PLA is a bio-based plastic made from renewable raw materials like corn-based resin and is 100% compostable.”

Phew, I can continue to drink my extra-sweet mojito by the pool without any guilt.

Anyway, back to the Sail and Sustain Mixology class. NCL has this fabulous initiative whereby they have invented new cocktails using the ‘wastage’ on board.

For example, the coffee grounds to make coffee-infused drinks. Croissants that don’t quite meet the standard are soaked in liqueurs overnight to extract their flavour and then used to make a delicious Mai-Tai. How about using over ripe fruit for zingy fruity concoctions? I was highly impressed, and while not all the cocktails were to my liking, the concept got a huge tick of approval from me.

Learn more here

And here

5. Wake View from Windows

Main Dining Rooms (MDR) board cruise ships can range from the elaborate to the bland, and generally locate at the aft of a ship. They’re always complimentary and there is a set menu with daily specials.

Norwegian Spirt has TWO MDRs aboard, Windows and Taste. While I honestly tried to get to Taste, I just kept being drawn to Windows. It’s large and light and has the best wake view! On top of that, the variety of dishes would suit the fussiest of eaters and the service is fast and friendly.

My biggest tips? If you fancy something from the Entrée (or as it is known in US English ‘Appetizer’) you can always as your waiter to have it in the Main (or Entrée as it is known in US English) size.

My other tip is to feel free to mix and match. One night I ordered four Appetizers as my COMPLETE meal as nothing tickled my fancy from the Entrees.

My third tip is ALWAYS ask your waiter what they recommend. Trust me on this one.

Watch here

Do not miss having at least one breakfast, one lunch and one dinner in Windows.

Food Figures at a Glance

I know cruisers love this stuff, so here are some fun food facts:

• Approximately 412,000 meals will be served during Norwegian Spirit’s maiden Australasia season

• 484 crew members working in Food & Beverage

• Produce sourced locally exclusively for the Australasia season include:

o Barramundi due to its quality

o All lamb and goat meat on board originates from Australia

o All fresh fruits and vegetables

o Milk and dairy products

o All eggs

• Vegemite, Milo Choco milk mix, Weet Bix, granola, Four’NTwenty sausage rolls, Fountain mint sauce, and HP sauce are offered on board during the Australasia season

• Local wine and sparkling wine are part of the menu offering, including:

o Black Label Cabernet, Riesling and Reframed Rose from Wynn’s vinery Coonawarra

o Shiraz Wolf Blass Bilyara from Barossa Valley wine region

o Pinot Noir from Matua Marlborough NZ.

o Brut Cuvee Georg Jensen Heemskerk sparkling wine from Tasmania.

o Blend 19 Crimes is additionally offered across the entire NCL fleet as part of our standard wine programming.

• Average number of items consumed aboard Norwegian Spirit each cruise:

o 26,000 eggs

o 5500 bottles of champagne

o 600-1000 loaves of bread

o 10,000 cups at Starbucks coffee bar and 15,000 cups of filter coffee

o 5000 kg chicken

o 3200 kg fish

o 500 kg lamb

o 5500 kg beef

o 7000 kg fruit

o 1200 kg lettuces

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Norwegian

Created By The Gods. Norwegian Spirit arrives in Bora Bora

By Cruising With Honey - 17:58

Norwegian Spirit - Day 3 in Bora Bora

When a place literally translates into, "created by the gods" then you just know you’ve discovered a little secret paradise.

After the spectacular day in Moorea yesterday, I was hoping Bora Bora would be just as wonderful - but I didn’t want to be greedy, if you know what I mean. So, my mindset was that whatever today had in store was a bonus.

Don’t forget your reef shoes!

The shore excursion for the morning was all about spending a day on a private beach, so jumping aboard yet another boat, we jetted off across the lagoon. This was all part of the adventure, the journey and not just the destination, and as the wind whipped tendrils of hair around my face, I lost myself in the myriad of colours filling my eyes.

We passed tourists on jet skis laughing and enjoying the thrill, other smaller vessels setting off for snorkelling adventures and then those iconic over-water bungalows that jutted out from the blue water with a regal air. One day, I promised myself, I’ll stay in one of those luxury hotels.

Soon in enough, I clambered out, barefoot in the shin-deep water and ‘OUCH OUCH OUCH!” I had made the rookie error of forgetting my reef shoes, and the millions of pieces of billion-year-old coral dug into my soles. I ouchied my way to the sand trying to avoid any cuts and scrapes.

The smiley tattooed-up Polynesian tour guide, who I found out later lives on this island/beach, instructed us where we were to enjoy the day and then disappeared into the greenery, promising to round us up by blowing his conch (I did find him later cutting up some fruit for us to enjoy on our return trip). So sweet!

Despite the pain I’d have to face hopping and skipping over the coral and shells, the pull of the water was too great, and I dove into the crystal-clear healing ocean where I stayed for what seemed like an eternity. The tall volcanic-style green mountains created a backdrop
of lush beauty as I floated in complete and utter satisfaction.

Before leaving, I wandered around the beach and discovered a swing set up among the trees. Naturally, I had an impromptu photo shoot!

Did I just dream it or were those crabs real?

The weather was turning, and a light rain set in. As I sat on the bus for my second shore excursion of the day ready to tour the island (I did spend a few hours back aboard the Norwegian Spirit after the beach), fatigue enveloped me. I fought it hard, and somehow stayed awake to have ONE sip of a very spicy Bloody Mary at the famous pub Bloody Marys.

But the slow rattle of the bus and the soothing voice of the tour guide sent me swiftly into la la land.

Abruptly, the bus came to a halt. I was in a deep reverie, and it wasn’t until much later when I recounted this strange dream to one of my lovely travelling buddies that she confirmed that this bizarre encounter was not a dream, but that it actually happened!

Let me paint you a picture. In what I thought was a dream but in fact was real, the bus came to a stop and pulled over to the side of the road. The rain was pelting and coming into the bus in slated drops. The tour guide asked as all to take the bunches of flowers that adorned the windows around the bus and to throw them out the window. It was a weird request, but I thought it might be a tradition or to honour someone who’d passed, but I was very wrong on both counts.

As the passengers started throwing this bright hibiscus flowers out of one side of the bus, there was some kind of … movement in the scrub on the side of the road. Remember, I thought I was dreaming. A few moments later, alien like crusty arms started emerging from the ground, then a hard shell. Taking tentative side-ways steps, these crabs headed towards the strewn flowers and started pulling them back into their hideaway holes. More and more appeared, some fighting for the floral treats in a peculiar crustacean tug-of-war. Now, imagine me watching this all while still believing it was all dream, looking on with a goofy smile on my face, thinking at any moment I’d wake up. Somehow, I sat back down in my seat, totally oblivious to the reality.

Pandemic sadness

Now you all know I like to keep it light and positive, but for the parts of the Bora Bora Island tour I was awake for, was rather sad. Many of the swish, luxury hotels were abandoned, run-down shells. Many completely vacant, some almost demolished. One very famous hotel resort had been purchased by a wealthy developer just before the pandemic hit with the goal of completely refurbishing, but now lay dormant and overgrown by vegetation. I don’t know the exact percentages of hotels and resorts that went under, but it was a large portion of properties. I truly hope that with travel resuming and tourists returning, that Bora Bora will rebuild and shine once more.

Chinese food hit the spot

It had been a big day, and I just couldn’t shake the sleepiness, so after yet another nap, dinner time was a late affair. If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you’ll know I love Asian food, so tonight I was looking forward to dining at Silk.

Described as an Asian Fusion restaurant and located on Deck 8, (Aft) Silk - a complimentary eatery – was set in the same space as two other speciality restaurants, Sushi Bar (a la carte) and Teppanyaki ($49pp). I actually thought this was a great idea, creating its own Asian food precinct on the ship.

The food was good, but not my favourite and probably geared towards an American palate (quite sweet and salty), but the service was impeccable and their signature cocktails potent and interesting.

Time to slow down

For the third time that day, fatigue took hold, and my eyelids were heavy. It had been a very busy four days and I was longing to having two whole days at sea and appreciate all the Norwegian Spirit had to offer at a much slower pace. As I drifted into a lovely slumber, I wasn’t sure if I’d dream about flower-munching crabs, but I knew that nothing my brain could conjure up during the night would be any where near as bizarre or surreal.

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Norwegian Spirit - First Stop Moorea

By Cruising With Honey - 20:35

Norwegian Spirit - Day 2

Mo'orea

As the stingray circled around my body, playfully lapping its wings to gently brush against me, the surrealness of this moment was otherworldly.

The joy radiated from my core, a glow that I imagined could be seen like those illuminating rainbows that streak across a grey sky, and the pot of gold was my swimming costume-clad body immersed in the crystal waters.

I was in awe, marvelling at this experience. Was I really here in the stunning lagoon of Moorea? As a black-tipped reef shark languidly swam by, welcoming me to his underwater world, I felt connected to the world in a way that I’d never felt before. I was completely, intoxicatingly under a spell.

Sea Blooz

Nothing can quite prepare you for the colours of the water in French Polynesia. Blue is such an incomplete, inadequate description. It was if every shade of turquoise, green and cobalt in a Pantone colour swatch had swirled and intertwined to create a magical mosaic. And, just for fun, the creator decided to add another exquisite touch – transforming this palette crystal clear.

It was early morning and the Norwegian Spirit had anchored off Moorea, ready to transport passengers to their shore excursions. I had chosen the ‘swim with stingray and beach lunch’ and clambered aboard the tender, ready for the day. I’d been up early, admiring the island from my stateroom balcony and I was itching to get closer.

Soon, I was aboard another vessel, making our way from the port to places unknown. As the boat glided further from land, I was transfixed by the sheer beauty. The crew onboard sang in perfect Polynesian harmony, as the tour leader gave a running commentary. We sailed into bays and past over-water bungalows, something I’d only seen in brochures and postcards. Again, it was hard to believe I was here, but I continued to remind myself to stay in the moment and take it all in.

Stingrays and sharks

We arrived at the ‘spot’ and given a thorough safety briefing (I know people associate stingrays with the tragic death of Steve Irwin, but I had no fear). The water was refreshing, enveloping me and receiving my intrusion. The sea is my happy place, where I feel most at peace and at-one with nature and I was mindful that I was a visitor. Carefully I swam, immersed in this paradise.

As if on cue, alien-like flying creatures appeared, effortlessly moving toward our tour guide. They knew him, and knew he had some tasty fish for them. I was told to stand still and not be afraid, and to touch the animals on the top of their body. The poisonous barb is not at the end of their tails as I assumed but at the base, so unless you grab a ray and try to hold it, you’re not going to be harmed.

Suddenly a stingray approached, majestically circling. The tour guide was all smiles, saying, “Look, he’s massaging you!” In awe, I reached out and touched the fish, his skin slimy and soft. It’s a moment that I will never, ever forget.

WATCH MY SWIM WITH STINGRAYS HERE

Beach-scapade

The day was still young, and our next stop was at a sandy private beach. It was glorious! Again, the Polynesian hospitality made all feel welcome with song, a ceviche cooking demonstration, and a tasty barbecue. I spent most of the day swimming and marvelling at this paradise.

Back on board

There’s nothing like getting back on board a ship after a long day of sand and sun and just relax in your cabin. Shower and a nap and, what was that unusual feeling? Dare I say, hunger? I hadn’t even explored the main dining rooms – there are two aboard Spirit, Windows and Taste. So, with hop and skip I made my way down to Windows, Deck 6 Aft.

Wow! Huge, bright and, at it was obvious within a second why the dining room is called Windows. The back wall featured expansive arched windows, providing diners with the most incredible wake views. Yup, this would do just fine.

The service was impeccable, and the food great. A wide selection that was so good that my dining companions and I couldn’t decide on what desserts to order so we ordered all five! Trust me, the sugar-free carrot cake was scrumptious.

How can I be hungry again?

The evening zoomed by, filled with cocktails and laughs and before l knew it, the midnight hour had come. It must have been a combination of the long day on shore, drinks and the sway, and somehow, I drifted off to sleep without even remembering closing my eyes.

With a start I woke up. It was 2:11am. I’d left the balcony door open and the ocean was roaring. For the second time that day, that unusual pang of hunger struck once more. Hmmmm, should I head down to the 24-hour eatery, The Local for a snack? My stomach growled in agreement.

Sheepishly, I walked down the two flights to Deck 7. A friendly smile welcomed me, seating me in a booth. “Chicken wings and Reuben sandwich please.” Minutes later, my food was set before me, and with a slight feeling of guilt, tucked in.

And with every bite, the guilt dissipated. Where else in the world can you sit at 2:23 am eating wings with an ocean view, served by wonderful crew who pass you a wet-wipe to clean your sticky fingers?

"Enjoy it now Honey," I reminded myself "it’s the cruising way of life!"

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Norwegian Cruise Line Returns to Australian Waters After Three years

Norwegian Cruise Line Marks Return to Australian Waters After Three years

Read more below

Facts and Figures

All Good Things Must Come To An End - Sea you later Norwegian Spirit

All good things must come to an end

Day 7 aboard Norwegian Spirit

Shiny, sunny day

Suite life

That’s entertainment

Was it really that time to put my bag out?

Samoan Sojourn - Last Port Call Aboard Norwegian Spirit Adventure

Samoa - Day 6

The last port stop

Exploring Samoa

Fire dancing

5 Things You Must Eat On a Sea Day - Norwegian Spirit

5 Things You Must Eat On a Sea Day - Norwegian Spirit

A Spirited Foodie Adventure

1. Icy treats and creamy sweets

2. Teppan-YUMI

3. Eat around the clock

4. Sail & Sustain Mixology

My new friend Nenad - F&B Manager

5. Wake View from Windows

Food Figures at a Glance

Created By The Gods. Norwegian Spirit arrives in Bora Bora

Norwegian Spirit - Day 3 in Bora Bora

Don’t forget your reef shoes!

Did I just dream it or were those crabs real?

Pandemic sadness

Chinese food hit the spot

Time to slow down

Norwegian Spirit - First Stop Moorea

Norwegian Spirit - Day 2

Mo'orea

Sea Blooz

Stingrays and sharks

Back on board

How can I be hungry again?

Countries I've Cruised

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