Norwegian Jewel Review

Princess price for slightly better than Carnival experience

Review for the Western Caribbean Cruise on Norwegian Jewel
User Avatar
piazzapick
2-5 Cruises • Age 40s

Rating by category

Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service
Cabin

Additional details

Sail Date: Dec 2013

We just got back from a week on the Norwegian Jewel. Basically we were spoiled by Princess. NCL charges Princess prices for slightly above Carnival experiences. The food was average at best in both the restaurants and buffet. The steaks were embarrassing. I had one good dish in the restaurant - it was the braised lamb shank. The highlight of the buffet day in and day out was the Asian/Indian bar. That was good. The service in the restaurants was terrible. We were invisible most times. I know it is a cruise, but you nickel and dime the cruiser to death. The drink prices are too expensive. There 8 restaurants that you have to pay extra for. BOOOOO Two would be good 8 is too much, but people are paying for it and they won't say no to more money. I am already paying top dollar to go on the cruise and you want me to pay for better food? Princess had two pay places and there were more and better food options - and desert options throughout the ship.

The "do it yourself" disembarkation process was super easy. That was the best in our four cruises. The spa was nice and the unlimited use was a highlight, but that cost us $300 ($149pp). It was free on Princess. The entertainment was good. The show band was outstanding. We also enjoyed the dance lessons. Daniko was a great teacher.

We also needed more time in each port. By the time you got off the boat you had to worry about getting back on in time. This was the bumpiest ride of our four cruises. My wife and I both lost a night each to sickness. Bottom line we will probably not cruise with NCL again in favor of Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland, and Celebrity. Especially if the prices are similar.

Cabin Review

Cabin was the usual small inside stateroom. 11th deck forward. Very quiet. Not near an elevator. Easy to get to the gym, spa, buffet, and one of the lounges.

previous reviewnext review

Find a Norwegian Jewel Cruise from $249

Any Month

Get special cruise deals, expert advice, insider tips and more.By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

© 1995—2024, The Independent Traveler, Inc.