Norwegian Jewel Review
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Have just returned to Australia after cruising to the Mexican Riviera on the Norwegan Jewel. Being "foreigners'' we had not known where to stay precruise but are glad we decided on the Doubletree Hilton at San Pedro beside the boat harbour. This wonderful hotel provided a sanctuary for weary travellers before and after our cruise. Great room - yummy biscuits - a free shuttle to town anytime (and to the boat on cruise departure day) + free carparking if you need it - free baggage storage and pickup after the cruise. Highly recommended by me and my fellow travellers.
Now to the cruise. WOW - loved this. When we arrived at the pier there she was the Norwegian Jewel which I had only ever seen in pictures before. I have to say she was a beautiful lady and I was impressed by her clean sleek appearance. Embarkation was quite orderly and within acceptable time limits - got on the ship and of course what do you do straightaway! EAT and DRINK of course. The cabins were not available until 1pmish which was not outrageously long considering that they feed you and also have to set up for this new intake of passengers and get everyones luggage delivered. We had only got on at 11.30ish.
Have not been on a cruise for many years but it seems to me that these cruises are so abundant in food and alcohol and soft drinks that it is hard to comprehend.
Cabin Review
Aft-Facing Mini-Suite with Balcony
This cabin was at the back of the ship right underneath the Great Outdoors. After we had booked I read reviews that said that you could hear them cleaning upstairs. Well after 7 days aboard I have to say I had only one night where I woke up and heard what I thought was someone running down the corridor outside. The balcony was quite large by my standards and adequate enough to seat 3 people. There was nothing that made me regret booking this cabin. I shared with my daughter and son in law and if there is one tiny comment it is that the bed I had was very hard as it was a fold down couch - to a younger person this would not have presented a problem. The steward (Bryan) was such a lovely soft gentle man who did everything in his power to please us that I did not want to complain to him. They put a foam topper on it every night but it was still hard. No doubt he would have tried to do something else had I said but I did not want him to be troubled as they work so hard those people. The bed linen was really in need of renewal as it looked a little worn but it was perfectly hygienic. We did not use a laundry on the ship as there was an offer for whatever you could get in the laundry bag for $19.95 US - quite generous - it came back next night all folded - very good.