We just got back form our week long cruise on the Gem, sailing out of NY harbor on june 27th, to Port Canaveral, great Stirrup cay, and the Bahamas. We had a great time , and the cruise staff was amazing, especially, Shretta Arora, and Aaron. Our first few days, we were deciding if we like it better than the Breakaway, which was our first and only cruise experience. The ship was smaller than the breakaway, but made up for it in the phenomenal entertainment options, personable cruise staff , and zaniness of Dan Dan, the golden throated cruise director (what a voice!) We loved the poolside barbecues! We also like the way the excellent shows had no booking options, just show up and sit down! It was much better than the tedious booking you had to go through on the Breakaway, only to be dissapointed if the shows were all booked up , on that ship. Shretta was unbelieveable! So personable and warm. She seemed to know everyones name after meeting them once. We felt like she was an old friend! She obviously loves her job! give her a raise norwegian! Finally,the food was good (not great, I'll be honest) but I loved my rack of lamb in one of the complimentary dining rooms (dont remember which one) Also, the captain was hilarious, between his dry announcements, to the Q and A session we had at the Spinnaker later in the week. Great time!!!