We left the real World behind...

Norwegian Gem Cruise Review to Caribbean - Bahamas

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)
Reviews: 2
Helpful Votes: 55

Overall rating:

5 out of 5
Norwegian Gem

7 Night Bahamas & Florida (New York Roundtrip)

Sail date: April 29, 2017

Ship: Norwegian Gem

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 11088

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 7 years ago

Review summary

As first time cruisers, we were a bit anxious as we first lined up for the security checkpoint (this took far longer than usual according to other passengers but was simple enough for us); this anxiety (and that of the rest of our crazy lives) went away the moment we stepped onto the ship.  Traveling was completely mindless - every last aspect of our trip was care free, smooth sailing and a total blast. The ship was super clean and our accommodations were exceptional (Mid-Ship Mini-Suite 11088). The staff on the ship were exceptional; it's as if they live in an endless paradise with constant smiles on their faces (though clearly they are just really good at what they do).  Food was not stellar at the standard buffet's or at O'Sheans; however, the two complimentary main dining rooms were fantastic and our three 'premium' dining meals at Cagney's, Le Bistro and Monderno were mind-blowing - we dine out at high-end restaurants at home quite often and these all had magical bites in each meal.  

 

Some tips!  

PRO's -- The on-board band, Hot Wire, is a BLAST and are wonderful people. The main bar (Deck 7 as soon as you board) has a bartender named Antoan who is about the best bartender I've ever met (and I know dozens of great bartenders).  When you find a service person you like, drop them a $20 early in your cruise and they will give you endless attention for the rest of your stay!  Champagne is expensive, Prosecco is complimentary.  Steer clear of the internet promotion/purchase and enjoy a stress-free week with no connection to the outside World!  Continental Breakfast Room-Service is FREE!

 

CON's -- The Spa is nice and all but they add huge service fee's above & beyond the price of the services you receive. Not a big deal if you know; a really big deal if you don't!  Some well liquor seems a bit 'watered down' - if you aren't enjoying the buzz like you'd like, order top shelf, beer or wine/Prosecco.  

 

 

 

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5
Two complimentary premium restaurants - buffets are passable - O'Sheeans is bad, really bad.

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Children's Programs

N/A to us just yet.

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
Super clean, GREAT shower, surprisingly roomy with TON's of storage!!!

Ship tip

Magenta & Grand Pacific (complimentary) serve 3-4 star quality food on your complimentary dining package. EXCEPTIONAL!!!

Ports of call

New York, New York

3 out of 5

Port Canaveral, Florida

2 out of 5
Seems like there's not a whole lot to do unless you purchase an excursion.

Great Stirrup Cay (Cruise Line Private Island), Bahamas

3 out of 5
Snorkel and sandbar excursion was excellent and a great deal! Buffet is far better than on ship. Find a lounge in the shade - the sun is HOT!

Nassau, Bahamas

1 out of 5
Go to Atlantis, Skip Downtown.
Was this review helpful? 52

7 Comments

CruiselineSarah    7 years ago

Glad to hear you had such a wonderful first cruise! Welcome to the world of cruising. :) 

esm54687    7 years ago

- "top shelf".... no - here are the UBP T&Cs: Norwegian's Ultimate Beverage Package includes a variety of spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass and bottled or draft beer up to and including $15 USD and unlimited fountain soda and juices at all bars, lounges, restaurants and the Great Stirrup Cay. A 20% discount will be applied to all bottles of wine purchased on board. The Ultimate Beverage Package does not include room service, package sales, ship specific promotions or beer buckets, designated Super Premium brands (subject to change), bottled wine, mini bar purchases, bottled water, fresh squeezed juices, select Lavazza coffee beverages, energy drinks, vending machines, wine stations or spirits, cocktails, draft or bottled beer and glasses of wine over $15 USD. One beverage per person per transaction. Package can be used in all restaurants, lounges, bars and Great Stirrup Cay. Any items over $15 USD will receive a $15 USD discount and the guest will be charged the difference to their account. Ultimate Beverage Package is not available for purchase on charters, sailings that are two (2) days or less, the Pride of America or Harvest Caye. An 18% gratuity and beverage service charge will be added to all package purchases; your check may reflect applicable VAT and/or taxes for certain ports or itineraries. Packages must be purchased by all qualifying individuals residing in the stateroom or additional staterooms under the same method of payment for the entire length of the cruise. Packages may not be shared and are non-transferable and non-refundable. You must be at least 21 years of age to purchase any alcoholic package and to consume alcohol. See the terms of our guest alcohol policy. Other terms and conditions may apply. Guests purchasing this package on board during the dates of March 1st through April 15th will only be able to purchase on embarkation day. Please note that rates are subject to change at any time at the discretion of Norwegian Cruise Line. *Effective for Norwegian Sky sailings booked on or after 4/22/15: FREE Ultimate Beverage Package for sailings on or after 1/1/16. See full Terms & Conditions.

Shan2893    7 years ago

We have the unlimited drinks package. Does that include top shelf??

Vugrad68    7 years ago

esm54687    7 years ago

Good luck on your bid!! Yes, Gem has White Night

annrock13    7 years ago

Glad to hear that your first time was a great experience. The Gem will be my 3rd cruise & my boyfriend 2nd. Last evening I put a bid in to upgrade to the mini suite from 10th deck balcony, it's a wait & see now. Can you tell me if the Gem has a white night, don't want to go unprepared.

esm54687    7 years ago

Glad you had a great time!!

Other reviews of this sailing