The Norwegian Jewel was perfect for a first time cruise with our children (21 and 15). We left New York on a chilly Sunday, boarded effortlessly and were eating the first of many meals within an hour. The staff is friendly, attentive and happy. The ship is beautiful and clean. Upon entering our cabin, I was concerned with the size but once the suitcases were stowed under the beds, it was okay. There were 2 twin beds we pushed together which allowed the high riser to fit. The last was the pull down from the wall which my daughter thought was cool. We camp often in a tent so it wasn't too scary to us! The bathroom is big, there is a lot of cubbies,drawers and a closet so there was lots of room for all of our stuff!

The seas were continuously rough the first full day which had my son quite sick but I heard that this was uncommon. After that it was smooth sailing :) We ate in all of the free dining areas and never got bored with the food (my son is very picky).

We saw the Cirque Show-amazing!, the Duo Elegia-wow!,Jean Pierre-hysterical and magical!, Farewell Showtime-wonderful! Our ship stopped in Port Canaveral (we went to Cocoa Beach-sunning and shopping), Great Stirrup Cay-gorgeous, lots to do or just relax, and last, Nassau-beautiful-shopping galore, many historical and interesting attractions-we walked all over..Queens Stair, Senor Frogs, Fort Fincastle, Junkanoo Beach, Straw Market to name just a few! We opted out of the shore excursions because they were pricey and we felt it would be stressful being on a time constraint (that's not relaxing).The island is beautiful! It was fun taking the tender over, getting on was a little scary but thrilling too! There were plenty of lounge chairs as we were 5th tender over. There was lots to do but we didn't snorkel because it was a little too chilly for us but many were enjoying the sand, ocean and music! The food was great and we relaxed,carefully sunned and took lots of amazing pics! Everyone was friendly and happy-great experience! Read more