Norwegian Jewel - The Haven
Norwegian Jewel Cruise Review to Caribbean - Western
7 Night Western Caribbean (Houston Roundtrip)
Sail date: February 21, 2015
Ship: Norwegian Jewel
Cabin type: Suite
Traveled as: Family (young children)
Reviewed: 9 years ago
Review summary
Embarkation – quick, easy, priority embarkation for Haven guests
Haven Experience – as background, we booked a two-bedroom suite last July for five of us girls. The prices dropped SIGNIFICANTLY and included all the great perks within a few weeks of sailing. Oh well! We all know how that works. For anyone who has the flexibility to wait – you cannot beat the current fares on the Haven right now.
Room Steward “Alex” – OK, not great.Our second time in a suite and both times we had “lack-luster” room stewards.Kind of strange.
Butler “Erlindo” – good
Concierge “Florentina” – good
Haven Attendant “Jon” – outstanding.Took care of the Haven from sun up to late afternoon.Always had a smile on his face and the five of us loved his “copy that” and “happy” responses to all requests.He’s a keeper!
Mini gym – recumbent bicycle and treadmill.Great for me, since I cycle each morning.Deck 15 (only accessible from the Haven I think) provided the perfect spot for my stretching and core building exercises so I never had to fight the gym crowds.
Food –
Specialty restaurants
Teppanyaki – excellent, great quality and huge quantity.Chef was very entertaining
La Cuchina – excellent salmon, pasta carbonara – friendly service
Moderno – very good food, but extremely slow service.After 1.5 hours – decided to quit
Complimentary dining
Azura – nice casual atmosphere.Fair service and fair food
Tzar’s – beautiful atmosphere.Fair service and fair food
O’Sheehans – nice casual atmosphere – good for people watching.Fair service and fair food.
Buffet – nicely laid out with a great selection that should meet anyone’s needs.Only ate there for lunch.
Entertainment
“Band on the Run” – good, not great
Comedian - OK
Russian Couple – AWESOME!
Cirque – AWESOME!
Splash Academy – We had my 8-yr old granddaughter with us. She loved Splash Academy. They put a Circus production on the last sea day. It was great!
Excursions
Cozumel – Fury Snorkel & Beach tour – GREAT!!! Snorkeling was good and the beach time with all the large water toys was great for all ages.
Banana Coast – Tranquility Bay was awesome.Quiet, serene, excellent massage ($45 for an hour).The name fits – enjoyed a beautiful day there.
Overall – a very nice cruise. I’m a freestyle fan and really enjoyed the relaxation.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Onboard Activities
Entertainment
Children's Programs
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ship tip
If you want to get away -head to the Thermal Suite. It is so relaxing and rejuvenating. Also - with full shower facilities and hair dryers, it's a great alternative when several folks need to get ready for meals.