I'll admit it - I've cruised lots, 21 cruises now, many for 4 to 6 weeks at a time. I often cruise as a dance host, doing world cruises and exotic locations. I've sailed on everything from Carnival to Silver Sea. But my girlfriend had never taken a cruise, so I booked a week out of NYC on the Gem for us. Easy travel without too much time or money, and we used to opportunity to do a Broadway show and dinner the night before.
We got to the ship by subway and walking. That was an adventure, but it worked, and cost us $5.
Embarkation was an easy walk on, and our cabin was ready at our 2 pm arrival. The inside cabin was small but nice, and the bed comfortable, with elegant sheets and pillows. I found the bath clean and bright, a good shower with a sliding glass door - better than a plastic curtain.