Norwegian Gem Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We were going to take a 6 night repositioning cruise with Celebrity, but for about $300 more, this cruise with a similar itinerary had two more nights and included extras including the beverage package which persuaded us to change plans.
We did not have great weather for our three sea days, probably only one was warm enough to enjoy the poolside area without warm clothes. October weather. Could have been worse as we sailed after the hurricanes came through.
The Unlimited Beverage Package and Specialty Dining Package being included for just the 18% service fee were enjoyed by us quite a lot. Enough to make an offer like this a deciding factor should we compare comparably priced cruises in the future. Not that we spent the week hammered, but the convenience and lack of hassle added to our enjoyment.
Cabin Review
Balcony
Small but adequate. Enough storage space for the two of us. Ditto for the balcony. Bathroom more spacious than on other ships.
Port Reviews
New York (Manhattan)
Getting to the cruise terminal was easy. Embarkation was quick.
St. Kitts (Port Zante)
We took a cab to Shipwreck Beach ($16 each way for two of us). A very small beach at a bar with run down chairs and canopies, but no charge for the chairs and drinks were cheap. Very much enjoyed this!
St. Maarten
Went to Orient Beach and got sunburned. Like I planned.
St. Thomas
Spouse went scuba diving while I had a decompression day. There is a small bar at the near end of the pier called Virgin's Haven. $2 Carib beer and free wifi. Great stop. Did all of our airplane checkins for a fraction of the ship's internet cost.
San Juan
I simply do not like the port of San Juan. Disorganized. Once we cleared customs it was no time at all to get a cab and get to the airport. Cost $24 including $3 for bags.