We are frequent cruisers (more than 50), so many of our cruises are last minute and just getaway vacations. This was the case on the Jewel. That said, it was our first cruise on this ship and we were pleasantly surprised. Many reviews question the food and/or service, but we found both to be more than satisfying. We had most of our meals in Tsar's Palace (one of the main complimentary dining rooms). With only one exception (the first night), we found the food to be very nice. Certainly not gourmet, but well prepared. We found comfort food and interesting new choices. We also took a galley tour and head chef, Patrick, was very gracious and explained the entire food prep process. He was kind enough to come to our table the last night to give me a recipe for napoleons, that I had inquired about. We also dined in two specialty dining rooms, Le Bistro, which is a favorite of ours, and La Cucina, their Italian restaurant. Le Bistro continues to shine; their four mushroom soup is exquisite. Salmon in that restaurant is exceptional. We have dined in this restaurant on many ships and have never been disappointed. La Cucina was also very good, but I find Italian food more comfort than gourmet. I still love it, but it's generally not awe inspiring. The buffet was actually very nice on this ship. Lots of different stations, always a bar-b-que and outdoor grill and an aft outside area. The selections were very good and soft serve ice cream machines were available in several spots - important for those with kids.

Service was very good in all the dining venues. The staff on board seemed to be very friendly and accommodating, something that is hit or miss on most cruises. It may be because the Captain was the most friendly and communicative captain we have ever sailed with. Captain Pelle seemed to be everywhere and willing to engage with passengers at every opportunity. As most do, he was at the welcome show, the farewell show and at some "meet and greets". But, he was also at the dance party and danced with several passengers. He appeared on the dock at Victoria to provide pictures; he was friendly, funny and available. We had a medical emergency on our sail from Skagway to Victoria that required a detour to Prince Rupert to evacuate a passenger. The captain and staff communicated with us through the entire ordeal. The detour changed our arrival in Victoria from 2:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The original schedule provided the Victoria stop was 2:30 - 9:30 p.m. Obviously most shore excursions were cancelled and we wondered if we would have ANY time in Victoria (a favorite stop). The Captain arranged an extension for our time there and we left at 12:30 a.m. That allowed those who had not been to Victoria to see the city at night and experience the beautiful sights in town. Some small shops remained open and, of course, the pubs were available.

The production company aboard this cruise was exceptionally talented. The shows were heavily infused with "Cirque" type performances. You expect good singers and dancers, but many did double duty as flyers, acrobats and bungee artists. Jocko and Marie were special performers who did strength moves, gymnastic balance and flyer acts that truly amazed. Some of the production singers and dancers did separate shows and they were all fantastic. The Cruise Director, Richard Matic was very good! We have sailed with him before and he has grown into his role very well. He also seemed to be everywhere. Read more