Just returned from a 9-day cruise on the Norwegian Gem from NYC. Had a great time, but in many respects, NCL didn't compare favorably to our most recent experiences on Celebrity and Holland America.

Embarkation in NYC was easy. Friendly service. I don't understand some comments I read about the Manhattan port suffering damage from Hurricane Sandy. Red Hook had damage, but the West Side of Manhattan was unscathed. Was told by senior people responsible for the port that the only water damage was to the lowest levels that people don't ever see and it didn't affect anything.

Cabins - smaller than Celebrity and HAL and comparable to what we experienced with RCCL. We had connecting mini-suites with our kids and the space was more than ample. Plenty of room to unpack into and to store luggage under the bed. Couch would fold out into a bed for those who need a third in the room. Read more