We embarked from New York for this cruise. Living on Long Island, being able to take a limo to the ship instead of flying someplace just makes it all worthwhile. We exited the limo at the pier and our bags were "swept away" by a porter. Good deal! The embarkation process left something to be desired. Why so many people seem to have problems going through security never ceases to amaze me. Once through the half hour crawl to the metal detector things picked up. The folks at the NCL check in were courteous and capable. Inside of 15 minutes we were on our way up the gangway. I would agree some of the decor was a bit much on the Gem but it didn't deter from the overall experience which in my estimation was great. We had a balcony cabin on deck 10. The cabin was what you would expect. There was enough storage and the coffee maker was a plus. We ate in the "Tex Mex" and "Asian Fusion" restaurants and both were enjoyable. We had lunch in the Grand Pacific one day but they seemed disorganized. We also tried the "Blue Lagoon" but found the food service slow and the food not up to par. Cold grilled cheese and greasy wings, ugh. We tried the "Bistro" on one evening but were seated at a table that was almost in the kitchen. Before we even got our menus the noise was enough to give you a headache. We walked out and ate somewhere else. We had our diners in the Magenta most nights. The service and food were all one could ask for. If something works, "quit while your ahead" as the saying goes. Not that I don't like variety but we had done most of the speciality restaurants on the Dawn and had the notes. The staff on the Gem was one of the best I have ever encountered. Always helpful and smiling. The room was always made up and clean. I still think my cruise on the HAL Noordam was my best but the Gem was a close second. I would go again in a heartbeat. We had a total of 15 in our party and no one had any complaints. The Magenta staff even put a table for 15 together for us on the last evening. Cappuccinos on the aft deck in the evening will always be a fond memory!