Norwegian Gem Review
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We chose this cruise because of past experience on the Breakaway. The Gem is a smaller and older vessel, but we did not feel rushed or had to stand in long lines for the buffet, main dining rooms, bars, etc. We traveled with with kids ranging from 9-21, between 2 families (we had rooms 9132&9134, Sil had 9028&9030), we were 9 all together. The older teenagers and 21 yr old had a good time at Bliss and the late nite parties. We partook in the various trivias, sudoku, etc. to pass the time on the boat besides drinking a lot with our UBP. We did the UDP and chose to eat at Cagney's (get the filet mignon and truffle fries), Teppanyaki (typical Benihana's food and show) and Le Bistro (hubby had the veal and wasn't impressed, go for the scallops and escargot, my son had the goat cheese salad and was ok, the seafood dish was good as well). For the dining package, if you chose it, children under 12 are free as long as they order from the kids menu. I had trouble booking our dinner reservations online because we had an odd number for 2 families. Once onboard I had to go back to the reservation desk during their business hours to make any reservation changes or any reservations to the main dining rooms and speciality restaurants. Also, depending on who you used to book your cruise (NCL, Costco Travel, etc.) you may be eligible for additional onboard credit. We received an extra $25 for the the main passenger in each room. Make note to also check your account regularly onboard. They are having issues with their financial systems and purchases I made were not taken out of the onboard non-refundable credit. Took me to complain a few times until they got my account straightened out.
Embarkation waiting area - we had a 9:30-10am check in and did not board until maybe after 12pm. Be prepared to wait. A table with water and juice was setup nearby the boarding area.
The dining reservation desk person didn't have a phone to call the boat so don't waste your time there. She couldn't tell me what times and seating were available or make any changes.
Cabin Review
Balcony
We had interconnecting cabins and had to wait for tour cabin attendant to get the supervisor to unlock the interconnecting doors. Rooms are small compared to the Breakaway. 2 adults in 1 room and 3 kids in the other. The room for the kids, there is a pull down bed, but we didn't use it because it made the room more cramped and you couldn't use the balcony. There is a small convertible sofa which will only fit a child less than 9 years old. My youngest slept in it and he just fit it. Our rooms are closer to the buffet area and the grand pacific dining room. Basically anything towards the back of the boat, but also still close enough to go to O'Sheehans and the atrium/guest services area.