Norwegian Gem Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Background to review:
Experienced cruiser who usually books a suite for the extra room and amenities. We always choose to eat in the Specialty Restaurants because my wife is gluten free. On this cruise, we booked a Penthouse Suite on deck 10 aft, Room 10664.
Not everything on this trip was great. There were some negatives that affected only us but a couple of issues that affected the entire cruise ship. Still, it was a good cruise that could have been great.
Cabin Review
Penthouse with Large Balcony
Penthouse Suite, Aft: Sufficient storage, nice bathroom, quiet with a great view. My wife loved this room in Hawaii so we chose it for this trip. My only issue was the Thermal Spa was in the front of the ship so I had a long walk every day. Positive, it kept my weight gain down to a minimum. Choose deck 10 because it has cabins above and below which makes it very quiet.
Port Reviews
Halifax
Our least favorite port on this trip. We rented a car from Hertz (very convenient to the ship and within walking distance). We drove to Peggy Cove. The drive through Halifax was painful with all the road construction going on. Coming back we took the major highway (15 miles longer but no construction). Peggy Cove lighthouse was worth the trip. On the way back we stopped at the Citadel and admission was free due to Canada celebration for all of 2017. I would not have paid $12 to visit this site!!
Saint John (New Brunswick)
We did not book any excursion here. The town is conveniently located within an easy walk from the ship and we really enjoyed just walking around and shopping.
Portland (Maine)
Great town to visit. My wife’s sister lives in Portland and took us to Kennebunkport. A little longer ride but worth the trip. Enjoyed a great lobster roll at this stop since NCL had done away with being able to order any lobster in the Specialty Restaurants.