This was my husband and my first cruise. It took us a day or two to get the hang of how things worked, but now we are hooked. I spent a little more money than I thought I would on extras like photos, excursions and the internet package, however I would have enjoyed the cruise just as much without these additions. The ship has a lot of activities that are suitable for every age group and dynamic. When it is time to leave, you feel as if you are leaving family. I can't wait to book my next cruise! Next time, we will bring our kids.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Check-in was quick and orderly. The shore staff and ship crew were very courteous. The cabins were ready fairly quickly after we boarded.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The food and drinks were amazing. The specialty restaurants were delicious and well worth the extra cost.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
There were a lot of activities, almost too much. We enjoyed the pool, the art auctions, and many of the onboard seminars. I had an amazing experience at the spa and won at the Casino!
Entertainment
5 out of 5
We did not catch all of the shows, but the ones we did were amazing. The final show, which finished with the crew, was the best of all. It made you feel as if you were leaving your family, which is what the crew had become.
Children's Programs
We did not bring our children on the trip.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
All of the staff were courteous, lively, extremely talented and looked genuinely happy to be of service.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The ship was beautiful and the common areas well-maintained.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabin was spacious and beautiful. I loved the balcony. The bed and the couch were comfortable and the room was cleaned at least three times a day.
Ship tip
Be prepared to spend some extra money on photos, liquor and souvenirs.
At first, Nassau was a little overwhelming with all of the sales pitches. However, once we got to our island excursion, we were able to relax. We had a dolphin encounter, which was amazing. We couldn't take pictures however and the cost of the picture package was rather pricey (you were unable to purchase a single picture), so we have nothing to commemorate the event. Once we returned to Nassau in the afternoon, it was calmer and we were able to visit many of the shops and have a delicious lunch at Sharkees before returning to the ship.
The Disembarkation process was very orderly. We were able to have a delicious breakfast while we waited for our tag color to be called. Going through customs was even painless. All of the staff were courteous and helpful.
we are going on the Gem in December and I can't wait! it will be our fifth cruise with NCL. by far the best out there in terms of lines. what was your favorite thing about the ship? what kind of stateroom did you have?
You are smart to start with just yourselves to get a good feeling. The family cruise should be another 'first'. Interesting what the third cruise will be - family? a two-of-you cruise? Hummm!
We did the Gem last year and that was like our 6th cruise and first Norwegian. We used to be strictly Carnival Cruisers but after the bad experience on the Glory, we decided to venture out and try Norwegian. Best vacation decision we've ever made! So January next year, we're going on the Escape! So excited!
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