This was my first cruise with NCL and the first time I’d cruised on my own following the death of my husband. We had previously been on 12 cruises. I decided to travel on my own (which I hadn’t done before) for the simple reason that I wanted to just please myself what I would do and when I would do it and being familiar with cruise conditions I felt comfortable with my decision.

At 71 years of age it was with some slight trepidation that I boarded the Norwegian Jade after a very long embarkation process….worst ever, but I immediately felt comfortable and relaxed with the ambience of the ship and friendly staff. I had time to wander round and have lunch in the buffet restaurant before my cabin was ready and I was impressed by the layout of the ship which I found was not too large with the public areas being somewhat smaller than previous cruise ships I had been on. The Jade had a good relaxed feeling which was proved to be right throughout the holiday with its informality and Free Style of cruising. I’d not been on a cruise before where I didn’t need to take formal wear. For this cruise it seemed OK to be so relaxed.

I recommend looking at Cruise Critic .co.uk and finding your cruise ship and Roll Call. This could lead you to the Meet and Mingle which I enjoyed on the first day and met about 30 people and Officers. Read more