Yesterday, New York City. Today, Reba. Sunday, the 4th of July fireworks. What a life! Oh to be the Norwegian Epic.
The big ship is here, finally. It became the largest ship ever to dock at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal yesterday, clearing the Verrazano Bridge by just 24 inches. The Queen of Country, Reba McEntire, will “christen” it and become the Epic’s godmother today, 
a ceremony you can watch at 2 p.m. EDT on the web after registering here.
Tomorrow, and you don’t have to register to see this, Macy’s will take its fireworks on board — how do they get THAT through security? — for the telecast (NBC) of its holiday fireworks at 9 p.m. EDT.
Here’s what Norwegian is saying about its new flagship…
• Its 7-day sailing across the Atlantic was smooth.
• It is the world’s largest floating entertainment venue.
• The “big top” at sea means Cirque Dreams and Dinner, by Cirque Du Soleil, an interactive dining experience.
• Innovations like curved state rooms, 60 suites and villas on two private decks, and Nickelodeon-themed entertainment with character meet and greets.
Here’s what those who nave been on the Epic are saying…
Gene Sloan, USA Today:
“Does this new open bathroom plan work? It definitely saves space and adds to the spacious feeling of the rooms, which is a plus. But personally, I’m not thrilled at all with the design. Despite the addition of a sliding curtain that creates a barrier between the bed area and the toilet and shower area of the cabins, I think it just won’t be private enough for many American vacationers — particularly those traveling with older children. I know my own pre-teen and teen girls would feel uncomfortable preparing for the evening in such an open bathroom arrangement with me in the room.
“Cirque Dreams and Dinner is the one show on the Norwegian Epic that comes with a cover charge: $15 for general seating and $20 for a few premium seats. But don’t be put off by the extra charge. This is a small price to pay for a show that is among the best if not the best we have seen at sea.”
Fran Golden, AOL Travel:
“Now I will admit I am not always a fan of cruise ship show productions. I generally find them pretty darn boring. But I was awe struck by the dinner performance of Legends in Concert in the Manhattan Room restaurant (one of the ship’s two main dining rooms). No, that’s not Tina Turner, but a really good Legends impersonator.
“There has been much discussion about the bathrooms, which feature separate, translucent toilet and bath or bath/shower, and sink. But there is a curtain you can pull to separate the compartments from the bed area, and I like the look. And the colors are nice, cream and purple. There is an elegance you may not expect from NCL.”
Cruisemates:
“Best for people who want a fun mega-ship with lots of nightlife, great entertainment, romantic staterooms and a large variety of alternative restaurants.
“Should be avoided by people who prefer quiet settings, understated decor, all-inclusive cruises where all dinners are taken at pre-set times in the dining room with the same table and waiters every night.”
Cruise Critic:
“Some of the mini-suite balconies are uncovered (a la Princess’ Grand Princess Dolphin deck staterooms) and some are covered. If you don’t like being exposed to all and sundry on your verandah, check Norwegian Epic’s deck plans before you select your stateroom.”
That’s it, we’re done.