We Tried The Haven on NCL Bliss — Bliss or Miss?😮 #thehaven #CruiseLife
We didn’t know what to expect when we placed a bid to upgrade our cruise, but when we got the news that we’d been selected for a Haven suite, our excitement grew fast. From the moment we arrived at the port, it felt different. The check-in process was smooth, the staff guided us with ease, and we quickly saw how the Haven experience stood apart from the rest of the ship.
Once inside, we discovered calm spaces, attentive service, and thoughtful details that made everything more comfortable. From the private lounge to the restaurant and our suite’s large balcony, it all felt personal and peaceful. The staff remembered our preferences, and every part of the stay reflected attention to detail that made the upgrade worthwhile.
Key Takeaways
- The upgrade process offered a smooth start to an exclusive cruise experience
- The private Haven areas provided comfort and quiet away from the crowds
- Exceptional service and personal attention made the experience memorable
Booking the Haven Suite Experience
Getting the Upgrade Email
When the email offering us an upgrade to a Haven Suite arrived, we debated for a while before deciding to take a chance. It was our first time cruising with Norwegian, so everything felt new and exciting. We carefully considered our budget and how much extra we were willing to spend, then placed bids on four different cabins in the Haven area to keep our options open.
| Step | What We Did | Why We Did It |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reviewed the upgrade email | To see what cabins were available |
| 2 | Chose four Haven categories | To have multiple chances to be selected |
| 3 | Set a single bid amount for all | To stay within our comfort zone |
A few days before sailing, we noticed the word “haven” popping up everywhere. It felt like a small hint of what was to come.
Deciding How Much to Bid
Our plan was simple: bid an amount we’d be happy paying no matter which room was chosen. We looked at the list of available rooms and found the sweet spot between comfort and value. That strategy helped us feel calm about the process—no matter what, we’d end up with something we could afford and enjoy.
We didn’t try to outguess the system or stress over numbers. Instead, we based our decision on what seemed fair to us. The more we talked about it, the more real it felt that we might actually stay in the Haven.
Winning the Bid and Preparing to Sail
The day before we left, we got the email saying our bid had been accepted for the Haven Courtyard Penthouse with a large balcony. We immediately printed our new boarding passes and luggage tags—excitement levels went way up.
That night, we watched several YouTube videos of the Haven experience to get a feel for what was ahead. Ironically, one of the creators we watched ended up being on the same cruise. By the next morning, we were packed, smiling, and ready to see what this special upgrade was all about.
Arrival and Embarkation Process
Port Arrival and Parking
We drove to the port with a mix of excitement and nerves. The staff directed us to an off-site lot about two miles away, which we hadn’t expected. A shuttle quickly arrived, and we loaded our bags without any problems.
Once at the terminal, a porter took our luggage and pointed us toward the priority line for Haven guests. That perk alone saved us from the long general boarding line, which stretched far behind us.
Haven Guest Check-In
After clearing security, an attendant met us and guided us straight to the Haven check-in area. We handed over our passports, received our key cards in neat, wallet-style holders, and were invited to relax in the lounge.
A small table offered finger foods like fruits, sandwiches, cookies, and drinks, including champagne and wine. Before we could enjoy them, a butler arrived to escort us directly to the ship. The check-in felt fast, calm, and well-organized.
First Glimpse and Welcome Comforts
As soon as we stepped on board, we checked in at the muster station. A staff member then led us to the private elevator reserved for Haven guests. Riding up to deck 17 felt exclusive and smooth.
Inside the Haven, we received a quick tour of the luxury lounge, restaurant, and courtyard areas before finding our suite. The cabin greeted us with a dark blue color scheme, a large bed, and thoughtful extras like an espresso machine and bottled water.
To capture the details clearly, here’s what we first noticed:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Bed | Large and very comfortable |
| Bathroom | Spacious with upgraded products |
| Balcony | Wide with great views |
| Welcome items | Espresso machine and bottled water |
That warm start made us feel that every detail had been planned to make our arrival smooth and welcoming.
Exploring the Haven Accommodations
Touring Our Suite and Its Details
When we stepped into our Haven suite, we felt immediately at home. The dark blue design gave the room a calm look, and the bed was the largest we had ever seen on a ship. It felt soft and luxurious. The closet held plenty of space for our clothes, and the bathroom stood out with premium toiletries and a spacious layout.
We also found small touches that made us smile—a handy espresso machine and two bottles of water, perfect for unwinding after exploring.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Bed | Extra-large and very comfortable |
| Closet Space | Ample room for clothes and luggage |
| Bathroom | Large with upgraded products |
| Extras | Espresso machine, bottled water |
Balcony Standouts
Our balcony stretched wide and offered lots of room to relax. We often stepped outside to feel the breeze or enjoy breakfast served by our butler. The view from there was peaceful, and the privacy made it feel like our own quiet escape.
Best moments on the balcony:
- Morning coffee before exploring the ship
- Breakfast with calm ocean views
- Quiet time away from crowds
Comforts Inside the Room
Our butler surprised us with treats throughout the stay—mostly chocolates, sometimes sandwiches. One day we received a BLT we both loved, and the next day he brought another without us even asking. That kind of attention made us feel truly cared for.
We kept finding thoughtful details, like USB ports near the seating area and soft lighting that added to the relaxed mood. Every staff member we met seemed to know our preferences, from the waiter remembering our usual order to the hostess greeting us by name. Those small touches made our room feel warm and personal.
Dining in the Haven Restaurant
Our First Meal in the Haven
We climbed the beautiful wooden staircase to the Haven restaurant on deck 18. The hostess greeted us with a smile, took our room number, and sat us right away. The table wasn’t by the window, but it was spacious and comfortable. The service felt fast and personal, as if the staff had been waiting just for us.
What We Ate
We each found something that sounded great on the menu.
- Starters: I ordered the lobster bisque while Tony went with a fresh salad.
- Main Dishes: My salmon was cooked perfectly, and Tony’s burger was juicy and flavorful.
We skipped dessert because we were too full, but every bite we had showed care in preparation.
| Course | My Meal | Tony’s Meal |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | Lobster Bisque | Fresh Salad |
| Main | Salmon | Burger |
Personalized Service and Relaxing Setting
From the moment we walked in, the staff treated us like regulars. They remembered what we liked to drink and made sure we felt valued. The space itself was calm and elegant, with soft lighting and quiet surroundings. Eating there never felt rushed—it felt like our own private dining room at sea.
Exclusive Haven Facilities and Lounges
Indoor Retreat and Courtyard Area
We took the private elevator up to the indoor space overlooking the courtyard. The calm design, soft colors, and beautiful artwork made it feel peaceful. The pool had a Baja shelf, and the retractable roof kept the temperature comfortable no matter the weather.
Seating was abundant, with padded chairs, fresh towels, and plenty of room to stretch out. It was never busy, which made it easy to unwind without noise or crowds.
Sun Deck and Spa Tubs
Through a nearby door, we stepped out to the open-air deck set aside for guests staying in the Haven. This area only allowed those 16 years or older, giving it a more relaxed atmosphere.
We found daybeds, loungers, and two hot tubs, along with a small shower for a quick rinse. There was even a separate smoking corner near the ship’s front. It felt private without being restrictive.
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Loungers | Cushioned, first come first served |
| Hot Tubs | Two, open-air with ocean views |
| Smoking Area | Sectioned at the front of deck |
| Age Limit | 16 and up |
Horizon Lounge Amenities
When we reached the Horizon Lounge, we instantly liked it. Large windows stretched from floor to ceiling, offering a full view of the horizon. Seating areas felt like small living rooms, each with USB ports for charging devices.
A mini buffet offered snacks, cookies, and make-your-own trail mix. There was also a coffee machine that made cappuccinos, lattes, or whatever we wanted. Waiters remembered our preferences quickly and greeted us like old friends, which added a personal touch to every visit.
Service and Personalized Attention
Concierge and Butler Experience
From the moment we checked in, the staff made us feel like everything was tailored just for us. The concierge guided us through every step, from boarding to finding our seats at shows. Our butler, Ahmed, surprised us with his attentiveness. He noticed what we enjoyed and quietly adjusted his service.
A few examples:
- Breakfast on the balcony set up perfectly before we even stepped outside.
- Personal touches like remembering our favorite snacks or noticing when we didn’t care for something.
Having that level of care made our stay feel easy and relaxed.
Daily Surprises and Custom Touches
Every day brought something new waiting in our suite. Sometimes it was chocolates, sometimes small sandwiches. When we enjoyed a BLT one day, more appeared the next. It felt like they were paying attention, not just following a schedule.
| Day | Treat | Our Reaction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mixed chocolates | Nice but a bit too sweet |
| 2 | Mini sandwiches | Tasty |
| 3 | BLT | Loved it — repeated next day |
| 4 | BLT again | Perfect choice |
Little gestures like these showed real thought and care.
Staff Connections and Recognition
By the second day, the lounge waiter already knew our usual orders. That simple gesture made us feel at home. The staff greeted us by name, smiled often, and treated us like familiar guests rather than just passengers.
The concierge team also impressed us. They made sure we had priority seating at shows and even escorted us directly to reserved spots. That personal touch saved time and added comfort to every event we attended.
Comparing the Haven to the Rest of the Ship
Peace and Setting
Inside the Haven, everything felt calm and quiet. The lounges stayed peaceful, even during busy times. Soft lighting, comfortable chairs, and fewer people made it easy to relax.
Outside the Haven, the mood changed. The open decks were crowded and noisy, and finding a quiet seat was tough.
| Area | Noise Level | Comfort | Availability of Seating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haven Lounge | Low | Very high | Always available |
| Main Decks | High | Moderate | Limited |
Experiences and Places
We had access to private lounges, a pool with a retractable roof, and an outdoor deck just for Haven guests over sixteen. No crowds, no hassle.
Dining in the Haven restaurant was a treat. The service felt personal, and the food was excellent without long waits.
When we wandered into the larger ship, the difference was clear. It felt busy and less personal, with lots of scheduled activities that didn’t really suit our pace.
Haven highlights:
- Private restaurant and lounges
- Attentive staff who remembered our preferences
- Large, comfortable cabin with balcony
General ship areas:
- Many group activities
- Self-serve buffets
- Limited quiet spaces
Moving Through Shared Spaces
Our special check‑in and private elevators made boarding and getting around easy. Staff guided us through every step, while the regular lines looked long and crowded.
When we left the Haven to explore, we realized how much smoother our side of the ship ran. The Haven felt organized and peaceful; the rest of the ship felt like a busy city at sea.
Final Thoughts on the Haven Stay
From the start, we felt a mix of excitement and nervousness about our first upgrade. The moment our offer for the Courtyard Penthouse was accepted, we felt both lucky and eager. Printing new luggage tags and watching videos made the countdown to sailing even more exciting.
At the port, Haven guests had a separate check-in that made boarding fast and stress-free. The staff guided us through each step, and before we knew it, we were stepping into a private lounge with snacks, drinks, and a quiet atmosphere. Though we were quickly escorted to the ship, we noticed how organized and welcoming the process was.
Our cabin felt spacious and comfortable, with a dark blue design, lots of closet space, and a large bathroom stocked with upgraded products. The balcony quickly became our favorite spot to relax, especially with morning coffee from the espresso machine.
The Haven Restaurant stood out for both food and service. The lobster bisque and salmon were excellent, and the staff immediately learned our preferences. This same attention carried through everywhere. Our butler, Ahmed, even noticed the foods we liked best and made sure they appeared again later.
The indoor lounge and outdoor deck became our go-to spaces to unwind. The retractable roof kept things comfortable, and the quiet setting provided a nice contrast to the busy areas elsewhere on the ship.
We especially appreciated how the team remembered us. Ryan, one of the bar waiters, even knew our usual orders after only one visit. Service like that made us feel known rather than just another guest.
When it came to entertainment, the Haven concierge handled everything. If we wanted to see a show, we simply met in the lounge, and the staff escorted us straight to reserved seats.
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Cabin Comfort | Spacious room, large bed, balcony with great views |
| Dining | Personalized service and well-prepared meals |
| Staff | Attentive, friendly, and quick to recognize our preferences |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, private areas perfect for relaxing |
We spent much of our time returning to the Haven because it offered the calm, space, and service we looked forward to each day.
