Norwegian Jade Review
Would have rated excellent if there weren't so many kids on board!
Rating by category
Additional details
I wouldn't have been annoyed with all of the kids on board if there was an "adult only" area outside with a pool or hot tub. I just didn't realize there would be so many British and European families with young children traveling, but of course now it makes sense since it was summer...there weren't nearly as many American families (with young kids) on board as I expected. There were strollers up and down our hallway which wasn't my idea of a romantic Greek Island cruise!
This was our 5th cruise (we've cruised Norwegian before (Mediterranean), also Royal and Carnival in the Caribbean) and they've all been pretty comparable. We prefer this size ship and the variety of restaurants that Norwegian offers.
We were generally pleased with the quality of food and service in the main dining room (which is beautiful and not nearly as noisy as Alizar - when filled to capacity with screaming children!) However, we did have a few items that were not good. The appetizers seemed better than the entrees.
Cabin Review
Mid-Ship Balcony
Awesome location!! Very quiet and comfortable for 2 people. We didn't have to mess with the elevators (although they were right there) going up a couple floors to the buffet for breakfast/lunch or pool area or down a flight or 2 to the main atrium. There was no room directly across from us either. Bathroom was spacious (for a cabin!) and well-laid out.
Port Reviews
Venice
We stayed here pre and post cruise. It's so unique but it was extremely hot and VERY Crowded with tourists!
Corfu
We made this a beach day and it was great. Walked off the ship, hired a taxi to take us to Paleo beach (about 1/2 hour away). It was beautiful and the water was cool enough to be very refreshing! We rented a paddle boat and explored around the cove. There's a small café right there with wifi and friendly service. Our driver picked us up at our predetermined time and took us back to the ship. $100 was worth it to us to not have to mess around with bus schedules, etc.
Santorini
You have to tender in and we had one of the latest times (despite lining up right when they started giving out tender times). We arrived mid-afternoon and it was very hot and way too crowded to enjoy this unique island. For me, it was too rushed and stressful. The line for the cable cars was 2 hours long returning to the port! We opted to sit, enjoy some food and drink while we soaked in the views...then had to trek down all of the steps, pushing past donkeys!
Mykonos
One of my favorites! Easy to get off the ship to explore this picturesque little town on your own! So many cute shops and waterfront cafes! There are little beaches within walking distance (we brought towels and wore our swimsuits under our clothes so that we could enjoy a swim). The people are so friendly! What's not to love about Mykonos?!?