Epic, the Epic. Part 1
Epic. n. A long poem, typically one derived from ancient oral tradition, narrating the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures or the history of a nation.
Epic. adj. Heroic or grand in scale or character.
Epic. The ginormous cruise ship where I spent two days in July.
Tuesday, 22 June, 1930 hrs. From the window of the chartered bus I see a building twenty stories high that calls to mind the megamalls of Manila, only bigger. It looms over the arrival center where the buses stop to disgorge their passengers—hundreds of travel agents and media from England and all over, including a dozen Filipino journalists.
It takes a few seconds to register the fact that the megamall is on the water, which makes sense because it is a ship.
This is the Norwegian Epic, the newest vessel of the 44-year-old Norwegian Cruise Lines, and it is about to embark on its maiden voyage. . .in the open sea off the coast of England. Basic facts:
Naturally the Titanic comes up in conversation. This is our cue to examine the long, snaking queue at Check-in for anyone with a resemblance to DiCaprio circa 1997. There are no Leos exactly, but plenty of Kate Winslet types in summer outfits and cocktail dresses.
As far as I know these waters are iceberg-free.
2030. Finally checked in. I drag my suitcases up the gangplank and onto the boat, which is fully carpeted so my wheelies require more effort. Later I realize that this is a good thing. On a cruise of this nature you will need all the exercise you can get. There are more than 20 restaurants on board, and on this maiden voyage,
Everything Is Free.
Walking the long, long, long hallways may be the only thing that will keep you from being rolled down the gangplank at the end of the voyage.
Have I mentioned the Open Bar? Emerging from the elevator I sense the merriment in the air, the high spirits that can only come from mass consumption of spirits. As I trudge trudge trudge towards Stateroom 13261 I pass several ladies dressed for a night out. It’s like Spring Break, with slightly older revelers and more clothes.
This is not my stateroom exactly, but they all look alike and this is a better photo.
2050. My stateroom has curved walls and ceilings, separate shower, WC, and sink, a comfortable couch, closet, dressing table, and big bed. This is called a New Wave Balcony stateroom. For a moment I hesitate to draw the curtains lest I uncover A Flock of Seagulls waiting to burst into song.
No, it’s just the balcony. And the sea. And a big Ikea beckoning to us because the ship hasn’t sailed yet.
After unpacking I make the mistake of testing the mattress and instantly fall asleep.
Part II will appear next Sunday. For more information on the Norwegian Epic, including itineraries and prices, visit www.epic.ncl.com.
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