Norwegian Gem Review

4.0 / 5.0
2,594 reviews

A Dream on the GEM

Review for the Bahamas Cruise on Norwegian Gem
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acl12345
First Time Cruiser • Age 70s

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Sail Date: Feb 2008
Cabin: Penthouse with Large Balcony

First a little background. We are a couple in our mid 50s, low maintenance and only looking for a little warmth in this cold winter. We decided to splurge on an AE cabin and it was the best decision ever made. Norwegian really knows how to make their VIPs feel like VIPs. It was the best of the 4 cruises we have taken, by far. I strongly advise anyone who can to get the upgrade to VIP. It's worth every penny. The room was good size with an eating area with table and 4 chairs, a small loveseat and 2 cushioned chairs. We had a foam egg crate put on the bed and slept well after. Good storage included a double sided closet which was handy, a mirrored makeup table and nice bathroom with separate shower/bath, sink and toilet areas. The balcony was big enough for a small table, 2 chairs and a lounger. One minor complaint is that the TV selections are limited. Maxi, our butler, was wonderful. Breakfast service was set up by him every day. He was always there with a big smile and happy attitude. Afternoon canapes were a real treat. Vip service includes breakfast and lunch at Cagney's but we only had one breakfast there as the lure of dining on the balcony in our bathrobes was too much to resist. We had lunch at Cagney's as often as possible. Good food, good service and a quiet atmosphere. Claudio, the concierge, is based in the Star Bar next to Cagney's which doubles as the VIP lounge during the day and though we didn't use his services much he was always there with a big smile and calling us by name even on the first day!! He arranged 2 cocktail parties, one with the captain and upper staff and one in the Courtyard Villas which were fun. Embarkation was a breeze. VIPs have their own room with food and beverage setup. Claudio passed out Dailies, spa service menus and other papers which were fun to read until we boarded. Did a little exploring ate at the buffet and had the lifeboat drill which was indoors and painless. The next day there was a friendly CC meet and Greet which was attended by the Captain and others. We had a minor complaint which I spoke to Prem, the hotel director, about that was addressed quickly and efficiently before we even got back to our room. Customer service was absolutely first rate. Lazy first day and the weather was warm by noon. Day 2 -Went to Cocoa Beach for sun and water. Took $15 shuttle to Ron Jons, went to the beach for a couple of hours, swam and sunned but it got too hot and crowded, went to Ron Jons for a few things and back to the ship by 2. Lazy afternoon. The first 3 nights we ate at Grand pacific where the food was good. No wait even with no reservations but we ate early. One night at Cagney's where the fee was waived. The food was excellent. Then 3 nights at Magenta-again good food. We found we had to cut back on items as our stomachs were rebelling at the richness, but the menu always had light cuisine selections which were very tasty and cut down on the calories.Day 3-Private island VIPs get priority tendering but it was still a mad dash for loungers which we didn't win. There should be more of them. After a nice snorkel with lots of fish seen we had to hit the shade due to heat, had some lunch then went over to the right side of the tendering area which was quieter. Left around 2, tenders were quick and efficient. Day 4-Nassau-Took a cab to public beach next to Atlantis for a few hours then over to Atlantis for a walkthrough. fun and relaxing. Day 5-Freeport-Cab to Our Lucaya, more swim and sun and a little shopping across the street then back to the ship for lunch at Cagney's. Day 6-at sea-The best thing about an aft balcony room is no wind and all day in the sun on the way back. 'nuf said. Did the self debark thanks again to Claudio and were off the ship at 9:45 ( I think we were the 5th people off-very easy & very nice) If you are lucky enough to have Maxi, congratulations. He is a delight. And Claudio is absolutely the tops. All in all it was a delightful trip, well worth the money and I would do it again in a heartbeat!!!!!!!!!!!

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Penthouse with Large Balcony

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