Our third cruise with NCL. (3/18-3/27) My wife and I sailed on the Breakaway last year, the Jewel two years ago. We both agree that we prefer the smaller ships (Gem, Jewel) over the crowded Breakaway.
Dining: Ate at two pay restaurants, Cagneys was excellent, Moderno was good. Other nights we ate at one of the two main dining rooms. We like to eat early thus leaving the evening for other activities. We found that when you arrive at opening, 5 or 5:30, there never was a line and service was prompt. We had breakfast ate the buffet each morning, sometimes a bit crowded but a typical buffet. Outdoor seating was nice. Selection was good. Afternoon snack/lunch was either the buffet or poolside barbeque. O'Sheehans also excellent for quick lunch/snack.
Entertainment: Do not miss a show, all were excellent. Seating readily available, plenty of room.
Jewel class ships, (Gem) holding 2300 passengers opposed to Breakaway class holding over 4,000 passengers no comparison. Vastly more enjoyable experience on the smaller ship.