"Carpe Diem" Denise: Yes, I was on the NCL Epic that week in February

On board the NCL Epic with engine failure

As a frequent cruiser with NCL, I enjoy the opportunity to sail on different ships. And the Epic was on my list to experience the once largest of the NCL fleet. With a guest capacity of 4100 built in 2010, I wonder why I waited so long. But I ended up with a longer than anticipated cruise, as it turned out. However, not all was lost - sunshine and open sea saved the day(s).

What started out as a great experience with two bright and sunny days at sea came to an abrupt change on day two. While cruising on day two, the ship came to a complete stop for around 5 hours. Everyone on board were in good spirits with the whole experience. The captain announced our emergency stop at San Juan for engine repairs overnight, and that our ports of call were cancelled. Even though disheartened, we made the best of the situation. It was a long journey at half-speed or less from our point at sea to the port of San Juan. Docking at the port provided another obstacle as the Epic crashed into the port. Reported on national media sites, here is a link to view the damage
article/video-norwegian-epic-strikes-pier-at-port-of-san-juan.

As it turned out, Puerto Rico was a great alternative port of call. Even though still recovering from hurricane damage, a visit to the forts were within walking distance of the port.

A great link for information on the forts of Puerto Rico: https://www.nps.gov/saju/index.htm