We had been on the NCL Gem 3 years before during a Canada/New England cruise. It was fun to see the updates to the ship (a little disappointed to see the bowling alley gone). We were said to see some of our favorite cruise staff had left the ship but everyone we came across, staff and cruisers were as nice as could be. We stayed busy but got our relaxation in as well. The Gem is a nice size ship and easy to get around. The tours we took did not disappoint
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We arrived at our scheduled time at the pier, although many people did show up early. Still when called to the line, it took about 5-10 minutes to get through. Everyone was friendkly and up beat. We felt welcome. My only two complaints are that when you first arrive at the pier there is not a lot of space and things are a little crazy. The other is my hubands card did not work to actually get on the ship because his picture was not displaying. We had to go to guest services right away.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
In an effort to not stuff ourselves and put on 5-10lbs during the cruise, we only ate at the buffet twice for breakfast. Food was good but I would not say it was outstanding. The food at the main dining room which is where we ate most of our breakfasts and lunch was good and it was much quieter. Portion sizes seemed small but it turned out they were perfect. We also had dinner in La Cucina, Le Bistro and Cagneys. The service and food at all three were outstanding.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
There were plenty of things to do. we went to the pool only once while we were in port and it was much quieter. We did several tastings at Maltings bar Tequila, martini, scotch& whiskey. We met some fun people and the staff was very knowledgable. We actually did learn alot!
Entertainment
4 out of 5
The crew productions were really fun and it was nice to have two different show times. I missed the country show wqhich my husband said was outstanding.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our room steward greeted us every morning with a smile and hello, alsways did a good job tidying up our room and was just a really nice guy. Our servers in the dining room were really spot on as well
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
We were right under the grand buffet so it was a little loud early in the morning when they were preparing for breakfast, we could hear the carts rolling across the floor.
We did a walking tour as we had never been to Peurto Vallarta before. Our tour guide Santa wasvery knowledgeable and kept us engaged and made sure all of our questions were answered. the tour was 4 hours long but it flew by. We went to the malecon, a historic church, a famous restaurant and the beach. If you have never been to Peurto Vallarta before, like us, I recommend this tour.
We wanted to see Cabo by sea first and then have some time to walk around on our own. We did an hour sailing tour which gave us an excellant vantage point to see the town all spread out. While on the pacific side we did get to see some whales. Back in port, we walked around town and had Lobster Tacos at Cabo Wabo. Great staff, really yummy food and very good margaritas
smooth as silk and we did the cruise line shuttle to the airport. We always pack only what we can carry off the ship so we never have to leave our suitcases out the night before or wait for it at the pier.
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