Bermuda Sept 18
Norwegian Gem Cruise Review to Bermuda
7 Night Bermuda (New York Roundtrip)
Sail date: September 18, 2011
Ship: Norwegian Gem
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple
Reviewed: 13 years ago
Review summary
We cruised on September 18 and were the first cruise to actually go to Bermuda after the 2 prior were diverted to Florida and the Bahamas. Ship boarding was easy and orderly. Parking on the pier was expensive but convenient. Our stateroom was smaller than I expected but comfortable due to the balcony. The condition was not what we expected with dusty surfaces and lint on the carpet. The ship overall was fine with nice decor and well planned public spaces. No overcrowding. We liked the food in both the dining room and buffet. The dining room service was not consistent. While all the servers were friendly and eager to help, they could use a refresher in serving protocol. Seems like a small thing but you noticed when plates were handed over the table and glasses refilled from one spot. We did not use the pay restaurants more on principal than cost. The shows were top notch! The music and activities around the ship were also great. Sinan Ulucay, the cruise director was great! The drink prices have done up since the last time we cruised a year ago. Everything is extra. We had a modest bar tab. The casino was fun with several of our travel companions winning at slots. The trip down to Bermuda was rough due to the passing hurricane the week before. For first cruisers I would recommend cruising out of Miami first to test your sea legs. For the first time we booked excursions off the ship. We used BJ's booking service and saved 10% or more. A good test as we were in Bermuda 3 days and had no concerns about returning late. Overall a good trip, our fifth on NCL. The cruise industry is adapting to the new realities of the current economy. The initial price is attractive but expect to pay extra for just about everything like soft drinks (drink iced tea or bring individual flavor packets). It is still a great vacation bargain if you shop price and time. We have cruised where we spent very little over the fare and fees and still had a great relaxing vacation.Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Entertainment
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ports of call
Pros: Great entertainment, beautiful ship, good buffet, fitness facilities good, friendly helpful staff.
Cons: Lack of attention to details with stateroom, everything is extra, dining room service spotty.
Recommends Norwegian Gem? Yes!
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