May

This is the second time on this ship. Liked it the first time, loved it the second time. First time we hit a children's vacation week so this was a little tough to take but it had nothing to do with the ship. We were on a Crown and Anchor cruise this time and it was delightful. There were many free activities and lectures and all were good. Food and service is fabulous on this ship. Liked the Windjammer Cafe and the dining room. We did My Time Dining both times and liked this. We had a lovely balcony room. This ship sort of sticks to the 2 shows a night theme and you have to plan your dining accordingly. We missed a few shows because of longer than anticipated dining. Shows were enjoyable. Do not miss ice skating show. It is great. Would go on this ship again in a heartbeat. There is nothing not to like on this ship

We were on this ship 2 years ago and it is not my favorite NCL but decided to give it another try as it fits with school vacation schedule and it is out of NYC. It was better than it was 2 yrs ago. I personally do not like the layout or decor of this ship. I find it very unattractive. Furniture in Spinnaker Lounge and Atrium is uncomfortable and colors are unpleasant. Atrium does not work at all. They have Wii there, show movies there, have seminars there , have internet there, coffee bar...etc. It holds maybe 100- 125 people. Very hard to watch a movie with all the other stuff that is happening there and people walking by and noise from restaurants up above. Plus not enough seating for seminars etc. Tried to go to Future Cruise presentation and could not find a seat. People were sitting on the stairs. They need to rethink this area and what happens here. Had inside room which I usually never have. Layout was good. Room was noisy. Think we were near the back service corridor or something. AC/heating did not work consistently. Toilet broke last day and was never fixed. Had to use public restrooms. Food inconsistent. Long wait for food in MDR and Magenta. Waitstaff was apologizing. Food sometimes warm, sometimes hot. Like the Garden Buffet here. Ate there a few nights when MDR menu did not appeal. Entertainment good. Casino good. Bar prices higher than other cruise lines. Ncl needs to bring back some niceties.....they are going too bare bones. Went on Holland American cruise to Panama Canal in January. Had balcony room. Price comparable to NCL. Food, service etc far superior to NCL Gem. Will cruise NCL again but wouldn't be my first choice an d it used to be.