Thoroughly enjoyed this transatlantic cruise! We travel on a budget and had a great time. Were careful not to do a lot of socializing, due to Covid, but made a few friends and enjoyed a romantic European vacation.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Very easy - only 900 passengers.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Loved the buffet. Fresh, tasty and lots of choices. A little underwhelmed by sit down restaurants.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Enjoyed karaoke, L.M. Cancio’s acoustic guitar, ping pong, fitness center. Didn’t participate in indoor quizzes and games, casino etc. to help reduce Covid exposure. It worked!
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Best musician was aforementioned L.M Cancio, who plays songs from 60’s to now on his guitar. Also New Generation reggae band were good. Wasn’t a big fan of the stage shows, so reverted to acoustic music in lounges.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
What can I say. Staff were all wonderfully cheerful and attentive. Deserved the full gratuity and more!
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Gem is a great little ship, although a little creaky in the rough seas we encountered. Always wanted to cross the Atlantic, though, so can’t complain! Every surface was constantly being cleaned.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We had a balcony near the front of the ship. Requested to be moved to mid-ship due to bad weather and Norwegian came through for us. Much less movement there. The cabin was comfortable and met our needs.
Took bus to Antibes, a historic and scenic smaller town with ramparts, a market, cute beaches and Picasso museum. Came back by train, which was quicker and more scenic. About 10 - 15 minutes walk to and from train/bus station in both Cannes and Antibes.
We didn’t go to Rome, but rented a car and stayed at an agroturismo near Montepulciano, Tuscany for three days. A wonderfully relaxing end to a lovely cruise.
Took the two hour tour that goes to Belem. Bought a delicious custard tart next to the monestary (pasteis de Belem). Walked around Alfama in the afternoon.
Walked the length of the river park (river bed made into a park) down to the City of Arts and sciences. It’s the third largest city in Spain, so maybe good to take an excursion, as confusing downtown, but the river park was fun and the Arts and Sciences spectacular!
Love Malaga! Cathedral, Alcazaba, amphitheater all close. Took bus to Pedregalejo (about two miles). Authentic fishing village with good fish restaurants.
Took shipmate tour “Pisa and Lucca on Your Own.” Good value and conscientious guide who came with us to a meeting point in each town and gave us information and advice. Fun day out!
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