Three generations of my family went on this cruise, and everyone found something to enjoy or a way to relax. The staff was excellent, in the dining room, cabins and the shops. The food was unexpectedly good as the quality of cruise food generally has changed dramatically since we first started cruising 20 years ago. There was very little repetition in the entrees and the chef was very creative. The chocolate and flan/crème brulee desserts were excellent. The quality of the hand dipped ice cream was a bit below par. I have been on more than 6 cruises, 2 of which have been on Norwegian -- Gem and Dawn. The Gem is generally a well maintained, older ship which does show its age in a few areas. Oddly, the rest rooms near the bar lounges are very small, and could use upgrades.

The mini-suites were very comfortable and well appointed. There was more than enough storage for our things. In one of the three suites we occupied, the bathroom fixture above the commode suddenly fell off the wall and shattered while someone was in there. Fortunately, he was standing and the fixture did not fall on him. It may be worthwhile to check these fixtures as they likely loosen over time. The cabin steward did clean the glass right away.

The Kennedy Space Center excursion was a bit rushed, so arriving in Cape Canaveral sooner would have helped, considering the steep price of the tickets. I rented a cabana on the private island, which was well worth the price; the private shower was a pleasant surprise becuase it is not mentioned in the description of the cabana on the excursion site. Read more