Stayed at the San Pedro Best Western the night before. Free shuttle to port, reasonable rates, nice hotel. Arrived in the evening so cant say much about SP. Embarkation was quick, they do a "scheduled time" for your arrival now so that seemed to help. Was able to get onboard, get to our cabin to drop off carry ons and go grab a bite. There was a big BBQ on the Lido, very nice. Did the sailaway party, Live music with a reggae band "Essence" they were awesome !(more later)
Had the package for specialty restaurants, we did the Tapenyaki, Cagney's Steakhouse, Moderno Brazilian Steakhouse and the Italian La Cucina, all were good. Steaks at Cagney's were outstanding as well as dinner and a show at the Tapenyaki. Also ate a Tsar's and Chin Chin - enjoyed Chin Chin, just make sure you order individually as the portions are definitely single size. Over all did not have a bad meal. Did Breakfast most mornings in the Garden cafe, not a fan of buffets, but the fresh omelettes good to order or eggs any way you like were a great alternative, and some sausage and you are good to go1
This was our second trip on the Jewel, this first 10 years ago on it's inaugural season out of Miami the ship was showing it's age a bit but, was clean and well maintained. Cabin steward was awesome. Shows were good, comedian was hysterical, and overall the entertainment was really good. Essence the Reggae Band played alot at the pool and in the Fyzz Lounge, they were exceptional, dont miss them. There was another band that played the claasic and top 40 rock that was also very good, they did a lot of the music after the shows in the Spinnaker Lounge to start the dancing off before the DJ took over also a lot of fun.
NCL average size, clean well kept, no additional noise, was a good location