Today, I’m sharing insights from a recent sailing aboard the Norwegian Getaway and a stop at Taino Bay, cruise port in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. I’ll be adding my personal photos and first-hand tips, so you can see what these experiences are really like beyond the brochure. Let’s dive in!
The Norwegian Getaway is one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most traveler-friendly ships, offering a perfect balance of relaxation, entertainment, and flexibility. Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned traveler, this ship delivers an effortless vacation experience designed around your pace.
Ship Facts & Figures
- Launch Year: 2014
- Refit Year: 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 145655
- Length: 1068ft
- Currency: USD
- Capacity: 3903 (Double Occupancy)
- Crew Count: 1646
- Deck Count: 14
- Cabin Count: 2008
- Wheelchair Cabin Count: 42
Stateroom Options
The Norwegian Getaway has a room for every travel style. From the VIP feel of The Haven to comfy Balcony and Oceanview rooms, or even simple Inside and Solo cabins, there’s something for everyone. No matter which one you choose, you’ll have a cozy, stylish place to unwind after a fun day at sea.
Why Travelers Love the Norwegian Getaway
The Getaway was built for Freestyle Cruising, no strict schedules, no assigned seating, no dress codes. This makes it ideal for travelers who want vacation their way, from dining to entertainment to downtime.
Dining & Culinary Highlights
With more than 20 dining venues, guests can choose from:
- Complimentary main dining rooms
- Specialty restaurants
- Teppanyaki, steakhouse options, seafood, and international flavors
- Casual grab-and-go bites
You can eat somewhere new every night of your cruise.
The Getaway is known for its energetic nightlife and live entertainment. Highlights include:
- Broadway-style productions
- Live music across multiple venues
- Comedy and lounge shows
- Pool decks, hot tubs, and sun spaces
Whether you’re a night owl or a relaxed traveler, there’s something for you.
Advisor Insight
As someone who has sailed this ship, I love how approachable and flexible it feels. It has enough variety to keep things exciting, but it never feels overwhelming, making it an excellent choice for couples, families, and first-time cruisers.
Who This Ship Is Perfect For
- First-time cruisers
- Couples and friends traveling together
- Families with teens
- Travelers who want flexibility without sacrificing entertainment
Taino Bay: Puerto Plata’s Modern Cruise Escape A Resort-Style Welcome to the Dominican Republic
Taino Bay in Puerto Plata is one of the Caribbean’s newest and most impressive cruise ports. Designed to look and feel like a tropical resort, Taino Bay offers a relaxing paradise that blends culture, comfort, and convenience.
What to Expect at Taino Bay
Once you step off the ship, you enter a lush, beautifully designed port area featuring:
- A huge pool surrounded by palm trees
- Swim-up bars & lounge chairs
- A lazy-river-style lagoon
- Local shops and artisan markets
- Restaurants and bars with Dominican flavors
- A clean, safe, walkable layout
- You can spend the entire day here without ever leaving port and still have a great time
Who Will Love Taino Bay
- Travelers who want a relaxing day without long excursions
- Families and couples seeking a resort-like vibe
- First-time cruise travelers wanting an easy port day
- Visitors who want modern amenities with cultural touches
Excursions from Taino Bay
If you choose to explore beyond the port, popular options include:
- Playa Dorada Beach
- City tours of Puerto Plata
- Rum, chocolate, and coffee experiences
- Waterfalls and eco-adventures
- Cable car to Mount Isabel de Torres
Taino Bay gives you access to everything: relaxation or adventure
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic: Culture, Color, Warmth & Caribbean Charm
Located on the Dominican Republic’s lush northern coast, Puerto Plata is a welcoming mix of history, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a beach.
During our stop at Puerto Plata, we joined the “Discover Puerto Plata” historic tour through NCL, and it ended up being one of the highlights of the trip. The tour took us into the heart of the city, with visits to the Macorix rum factory and a local cigar factory where we learned about the craftsmanship behind each product. We also explored the 16th-century Fort San Felipe, toured the Amber Museum, and stepped inside the Luperón House Museum, which offered a fascinating look into the personal and professional life of Dominican national hero General Gregorio Luperón. And of course, we couldn’t leave without stopping by the famous Pink Alley and the colorful Umbrella Street; they were just as fun and picturesque as everyone says!
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