Cabin: Way up on deck 13, in a Midship Mini-Suite. There was a surprising amount fitted into the space, including a balcony with seating and a sizeable bathroom with a double sink.
Food: Twenty-nine options. Too much to eat through in a 48-hour sailing, though we gave it a good try. The Los Lobos (high-end Mexican) and Onda (Italian) were stand-outs among the 13 specialty restaurants. There was a strong American accent to all the main eating options. The menus from the main dining rooms, Taste and Savor — beyond the spelling — pre-empted a posting out of Florida with a menu of "hush puppies" and "Cajun chicken pasta".
Entertainment: The Encore is a floating theme park. Norwegian's plan to create a multi-generational cruise fleet has led to some exceptional entertainment options at sea. You'll find your off-Broadway musicals and a copy of the Liverpool Cavern Club with a house Beatles tribute act for the generation that remembered them the first time round. On the upper decks there's a laser-tag course and the biggest race track at sea, Speedway — with up to 10 electric go-karts hurtling around to a soundtrack of recorded motor sounds.
What's new: Perhaps the most original and unexpectedly brilliant inclusion is the virtual reality arcade, Galaxy Pavilion. Not one for passengers prone to motion sickness.
However, the use of space is fantastic.
Service: The staff were faultless and relaxed at the prospect of sailing the new ship. At just under half capacity, the overnight sailing was almost a dress rehearsal.
What's great: The Observation Deck on deck 15 is a great public space for reading, relaxing and watching the world go by. The deck has been extended well over the sides of the boat to really maximise the views from the prow of the ship. The general ambiance of the area is also top-notch. Though on a very different scale, the view and fittings are comparable to the private Haven-class Lounge.
Ideal for: Groups and families, particularly ones of different generations and differing interests.
