Embarkation process at Los Angeles (San Pedro) port was average - long lines, too hot in the building, slow service with a quiet-talker behind the desk... but it's all okay because we're getting ready to board a cruise ship for a magnificent 7-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera!

The Norwegian Jewel (although a little dated) was clean and comfortable, and the staff was friendly and attentive. Our cabin was ready shortly after embarkation, and was nice, clean and comfy with a large inviting balcony. The rooms are a little snug, but there is plenty of room for 2 people to move around and live comfortably for 7 days (granted, sometimes we had to do some pretty fancy dance moves to maneuver around each other in certain areas of the room). But, again, we're on a cruise ship for a 7-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera - can't be that bad! The bathroom is roomy enough to do what one needs to do in there (i.e., take a shower, brush your teeth, etc.), but I wouldn't want to try to do any of that with more than 1 person in there at a time!

My best friend and I went on this cruise, and I don't need to elaborate on the amount of "stuff" two women can manage to fit into their suitcases and ultimately try to fit into the cabin. Although we each brought enough clothes for a 14-day cruise, everything fit in the available closet, drawers and shelves, with some room to spare. By utilizing tips I've read on the Cruise Critic, we were able to maximize the small cabin/bathroom space. Three must-haves would be: Read more