This was our first cruise on Norwegian, and we were pleasantly surprised. From our check-in, to embarkation, to retuning back to New Orleans, everything was great. We travelled in what NCL calls a mini-suite, and it was a bit cramped with two adults and two teens. We managed just fine though, and felt the cost to book a cabin above this category wasn't necessary. The Jewel is very nice for its size and age, and is maintained well.

NCL waitstaff was very attentive and we never wanted for anything. We went to the first night show, and I wasn't too impressed. That opinion changed over the week, and I must say the production on day 6 was probably the best we have ever seen on a ship (aerialists, dancing and singing). The comedic magician (J.P. Parent) was great as well.

Meals in the main and secondary dining room were all very good. We ate in three of the ship's specialty restaurants. Steak place was above average. LeBistro (French) and Moderno's (Churascarrea) were excellent. Dining and food options are many and varied, and we never felt too rushed or crowded. The ships dining "status" system that shows wait times, availability for seating, etc. was very helpful. Read more