My wife and I along with 2 couples had a great time on the May 20th – 27th sailing of the Norwegian Gem.

Embarkation was a breeze. We arrived at terminal at 10:45 after parking car on roof (yes the 25% coupon still works). We waited on line to check in for no more than 10-15 minutes and received boarding # 12. Boarding started at 11:15. We boarded at 11:30 and headed straight to Grand Pacific Dining room for lunch (not crowded). Following lunch, we went directly to our adjoining Mid-Ship Mini-Suite staterooms on Deck 11. The Gem’s Mini-Suites are spacious with plenty of room for storage, large balcony and a very nice bathroom. We were in stateroom 11080 and had read reviews that stated there would be a great deal of noise from the buffet above. I am pleased to say that was not the case. Our Room Steward Edwin was great yet unassuming. Very friendly and took care of any requests. He also made great towel animals.

Our muster station was at O’Sheehan’s. We arrived for the drill early (3:00 instead of 3:30) and checked in with a person who appeared to have no idea what he was doing. Sure enough we received a message the next day stating we did not attend the drill and would have to attend another drill. I went to the front desk and explained the situation and we were excused from attending a second time. Read more