This was just our second cruise. The first being on the Carnival Triumph. NCL GEM was far superior. We are just an average Joe and Jane and not used to or comfortable in "fancy" settings or formal dining situations. The NCL GEM appears to be just that in its appearance and service BUT is surprisingly user friendly. We loved the freestyle dining experience because we were NOT looking for gourmet food or fancy dress up restaurants. All of those things are available but for us the variety of options open to us for free as part of the cruise was excellent. The entertainment was great.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
This is not a comment on the overall quality of the food for the gourmet lovers. I will leave that to others who know about such things, but for us "fussy eaters" who like plain food, the GEM also offered a great selection of simple fare in a number of different locations. We did not take advantage of any of the specialty restaurants because that is not our style but we were NEVER at loss of good free food options.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
This is not Carnegie Hall, the Opera or Broadway but at times the entertainers almost made you think it was!!! The singers and dancers in particular were very entertaining and special kudos to Jeremy Hardin, Jasmin Richardson, Cari Jones, Chris Faye and crew singer Ruby. Well Done.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
I can not believe how 1080 crew can remain so positive and friendly.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Staff was constantly cleaning and keeping the ship in a great state of orderliness. Eating areas were cleared almost as soon as a person stood to leave, making it ready for the next guests.
I suspect that the area will continue to improve as renovations become further along. A nice day at the beach. Great but simple barbecue food type options. It would be nice if the beach area with clear sand could be extended to the left and right. At the moment there is one really nice area but the deck chairs are packed in like sardines.
We did get off in Nassau but found the area in the immediate vicinity of the terminal to be rather run down and unattractive. To be fair that left us unimpressed so we did not stay on shore very long. Many passengers who booked tours, rented etc. seemed plaesed. Guess it just wasn't for us.
We've been to the Space Center, and theme parks on previous "road trips" so instead just rented a car for the day and explored the immediate vicinity around Port Canaveral, Cocoa Beach etc. Very inexpensive and a number of companies pick you up with their free shuttle at the cruise terminal.
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