We chose this cruise because of the itenarary. Neither my friend nor I had visited New York before so we had 2 nights there pre cruise. Having been on the Spirit round the Mediterranean last year our expectations were high. The Gem was a lovely ship. The cabins were roomy. We found the service was much slower in the main restaurants, there seemed to be lots of waiting staff so perhaps the problem was in the kitchen. We went for dinner one night at 7pm and had to leave without a dessert or coffee to be in time for the show at 9pm. The staff in the bars were very pleasant and helpful but also a bit thin on the ground. Last year in the pool area it was no problem to order a drink, however on this cruise we had to go looking for a waiter or queue at the bar ourselves. Saying this the quality and choice of food available was excellent. Entertainment was geared more to American taste however that was to be expected as Brits were in the minority. The ports of call were great, especially Great Stirrup Quay, perhaps too many sea days for us although no shortage of beds on the sun decks. Hope that NCL don't let their service slip especially when they bring in the all inclusive deal for all passengers.