Norwegian Gem Review

Great experience but freestyle is not for me

Review for the Eastern Caribbean Cruise on Norwegian Gem
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Glo1127
2-5 Cruises • Age 50s

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Additional details

Sail Date: Aug 2016
Cabin: Balcony

This is my third cruise in fifteen years. Overall, it was good and I might do it again. The ship is well kept. The entertainment was good quality (but not great) and diverse for all age groups. The freestyle dining was a downer for me. The food was great, the Grand Pacific dining room was beautiful too. However, you are no longer seated by reservation, so you don't get the same wait staff each time. You can wear what you wish within limits (no torn jeans, bare feet, and shirts are required), which I understand. However, it was uncomfortable to watch people walk in wearing cargo shorts and tank tops while most others were dressed. They should require business casual in the main dining room! Also, gratuity was added to the bill and shared equally among food service and housekeeping. I think that's a big mistake. Life is about the relationships we make with each other, and I want to reward great service with a great tip. Automatic gratuity doesn't incentivize people to go over and above. Most of their staff were excellent, and many still tried to get to know me personally- It just didn't feel right.

Embarking took about 90 minutes in Manhattan- which was frustrating. Disembarking was disorganized and dangerous at some ports. Disembarking back in Manhattan was really easy. My family was through customs and walking to the car in maybe 5 minutes.

We are vegetarians and there were options at every meal. However, they could offer more options, as I felt limited at times. I took the unlimited beverage package and that was great. Some drinks cost $15 or more, and that adds up. The drinks seemed weak, but their bar staff was hard working and attentive to all.

Cabin Review

Balcony

Cabin BC

Small, but typical. Everything was clean and worked well.

7 Helpful Votes
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