A group of us made reservations several months ahead when our agent notified us of a good deal on one of the initial cruises resuming after COVID. As the time grew closer, COVID reared its ugly head and changed some of the earlier policies concerning flights requirements and mask wearing on board. Several of us canceled, but we were glad we went. Our included flights kept changing and our group had hoped to be traveling on the same flights, but we were assigned to many different flights, which also led to many delays and missed connections. We would make our own flight arrangements on future trips. NCL gave us great service on board, especially since the ship was only 50% full. We never were crowded or had wait lines! The Jade was nicely furnished and in good repair. This was our first time in a balcony room which we enjoyed immensely, especially enjoying our morning coffee and complimentary continental breakfast in the morning sun. We had plenty of room to unpack and the bathroom was very nice. We also enjoyed the full breakfast menu several times in the Grand Pacific (although the only access via steps was a little difficult for me). The buffet was OK, but we prefered dining in the Alazar or the speciality restaurants. We ate at Cagney's (filet mignon did not quite melt in our mouths, but good) and Le Bistro (happy with the seafood). The entertainment was good, especially the singing and dancing troupe. The magician put me to sleep.

Cons: Much of the entertainment in the bar venues was too loud to make conversation with friends. I missed the several floor atrium featured in many ships; Jade just had a 2-floored atrium and it didn't feel like much of gathering place. The air-conditioning was SO cold throughout the ship; everyone was wearing jackets most of the time.

The weather was perfect in the high 70s and we enjoyed two beach visits and two excursions. Mostly we enjoyed leisurely exploring the ports with relaxation on board. Will not forget the blue Aegean!