Just back from the Gem. This was the second year in a row my wife, two kids (10 and 12), and I sailed with this ship during spring break. This is our third cruise with Norwegian, and 16th overall. We drove from mid-Michigan, and parked at the pier.
Last year we had a Courtyard Villa, after on an upsell from an AB penthouse. We didn't get the upsell call this year. We were in penthouse #11512, an AB, which was identical to last years CV. I think the location is perfect. the 11th floor is all suites and mini suites on the outside, and it was very quiet. We did here some pounding from the treadmills in the gym above, but never at night; and we could hear it only in our living-room area.
We missed the courtyard pool area, but ended up utilizing more of the ships venues as a result. In the end, I am glad I didn't spend the extra $ on the CV.
Great suite. Quiet location, but some noise from the gym above.