Norwegian Epic vs RCI Navigator of the Seas

[DXBCat]

Trying to choose between these 2 cruises. I like the casual approach for Norwegian Epic and facilities for kids but the route of Barcelona, Rome etc is all places I have visited before. However it will just be 10 year old daughter and I on her first cruise so that may be an advantage. I fancied the RCI Navigator of the Seas as includes Seville,Lisbon etc. However, i am worried it may be a bit stuffy for DD.
Other option could be Norwegian Star which routes Venice, Kotor, Dubrovnik and Corfu which could be ineresting for me and relaxed for DD.
Does anyone have any feedback on any of these options please? I'm going round in circles and want to book something up!

I've been on the Epic and loved it, and NCL is my favourite line. We love the choice of restaurants and entertainment, and the included drinks package is a bonus!

However, I've also been on Royal Caribbean (although not the Navigator), and didn't find it at all stuffy. The dress code in the evening was a bit more restrictive than NCL, but cropped trousers and a 'pretty' tshirt or plain blouse covered most evenings. Formal night is more dressy, but a simple dress is adequate, and you can always eat in the buffet that evening if you don't want to dress up. I'm not really a dressy person, and I found it to be fine.

Both lines have great kids clubs if your DD is into those (mine never were!), so I'd go for the cruise that has the best itinerary. You'll have a wonderful time whichever you choose.

We booked up for the Epic in the end as got a good deal including 2 nights hotel in Barcelona. Looking forward to it!

Haven't done the Norwegian Epic, but have done Royal Caribbean (not the Navigator). It definitely wasn't "stuffy".

My complaint about RC is that the food is very American.

Ah, sounds great DXB, very exciting! You’ll have a wonderful time.

We did Epic last summer and LOVED it. DS was 16 and is quite a shy thing, he was quite reluctant to go but we said he should at least try the teens club he really enjoyed it and went everyday and had a really fab time.

OP where did you find the deal for a hotel in Barcelona too? DH and I are looking at doing the cruise you mentioned in May (we're fairly last minute) but we're total novices and I'm finding it all quite tricky!

Good question. I know this is an old thread now but I'd love to know that too, @DXBCat .

Iglu cruise and cruise 1st both do cruise and stay deals. Can work out cheaper to DIY though if you’re willing to do Ryanair flights

Hi there. DXBCat here. I changed my user name. We got the package with hotel nights from travel agent didn't book it separately.