Norwegian Gem Review
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This was my 5th cruise, 3rd on NCL. We (family of 4 adults) loved this ship! Cabin was a bit small, but the balcony made it feel bigger. The gym was fairly large, lots of cardio equipment but not as many weights. The shows were great each night, very entertaining, not too long (but could have been longer). Dining options were great. The menus at the main dining rooms were fairly diverse, but mostly seafood, less options for those that don't eat seafood. The staff were very friendly, loved engaging in conversation. Wished there had been a midnight buffet and a little more diversity with the food options. Ate at 2 specialty restaurants- Moderno and Le Bistro. Both were over the top amazing. The ship's layout was easy to learn and was incredibly clean. Can't say enough about the great staff, especially with the rain and adjustments that needed to be rain. We did one excursion through the ship, which was short but well run. Great time and would love to cruise on the NCL Gem again.
Cabin Review
Port Reviews
Grenada
Nice little terminal with some duty free shops. The information was very readily accessible and the port staff very helpful. Taxis were easy to get, coordinated through one person. We took tour number 3 but wanted to go to Seven Sisters so we were able to easily add that. Had a nice drive around St. George's, then stopped or spices, went through Grand Etang and to Annandale Falls (very touristy and crowded) and then on to Seven Sisters. Had a great guide at Seven Sisters and a fantastic day! After lunch on the boat, walked around town a little and up to Fort George. Did not go in the fort (most places had a 2USD entrance fee) but enjoyed the view from the hill.
St. Lucia
We went through a company (Spencer Ambrose Tours) and met him right at the boat. Speedboat ride and tour, then 2 of us hiked Gros Piton (very very difficult hike and would not recommend to anyone with knee / ankle / heart problems... would recommend to crazy active people) and a tour of the mud springs and volcano. Great day and a beautiful island!
Dominica
No big port shopping like some other ports,but fine by me. The Nature Island lives up to its hype! Had a great day with Bumpiing Tours exploring the island, even though a very rainy day (in the middle of the island, apparently didn't rain on the ship). Great waterfalls. Trafalgar Falls is a must, especially if it's been raining. Champagne Reef was fun to snorkel, enjoyed the unique experience of watching the bubbles.
Tortola
Nice shopping area right off the boat. Hired a taxi at the terminal and went to Long Bay Beach. Quiet beach with a beach club for food (for purchase) and restrooms (free). Gorgeous waters and very few other people.