Norwegian Jade Review
4.0 / 5.0
Amazing mid East venues, on an elderly ship that still comes through
Review for the Eastern Mediterranean Cruise on Norwegian Jade
ofbp Walt
10+ Cruises • Age 70s
Rating by category
Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
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Additional details
Sail Date: Apr 2023
Cabin: Mid-Ship Mini-Suite with Balcony
First, consider the main venues- Old City Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth- excursions into areas that were significant parts of our spiritual growth. Then the experience of the culture of Turkey albeit in two days. (we were shut out during a previous cruise). AND then the experience of Cyprus and two Greek Islands, for history, and simple beauty.
So MUCH time was spent off the boat; this was not a party cruise. of seven ports, we we took tours on six (self medicated on Mykonos). 11 hour days, 6:30 AM start times, NOT FOR the faint of heart. Especially considering the multitude of hills and inclines that made up the local topology. But all worth it, immersing ourselves as best we could in these 'foreign' cultures. Tour guides especially sensitive to what we needed to feel like we tasted a good sampling of the cultures (except for rest periods...)
The Jade was almost 18 years old, but renovated enough to feel contemporary. only 2000 passengers was a welcome change from trips with 4000+ folk. Some well presented shows and local musicians kept things interesting, and the food sampling was decent for the shared venues (except the beef cuts). Specialty restaurants provided a nice upgrade. As usual, the staff members worked their butts off, while maintaining a great attitude.
Cabin Review
Mid-Ship Mini-Suite with Balcony
Obviously an older cabin, but comfortable, decent balcony.
BUT- Bathroom had bathtub/shower, with a 2 foot high side to climb over,
not enough handrails, and very narrow standing area (obviously a bathtub
Insert), which got slippery when soap washed down. WE FELT VERY UNCOMFORTABLE getting in and out as seniors with somewhat limited mobility, and wondered how many folk actually got injured over time
Port Reviews
Jerusalem (Ashdod)
Obviously the opportunity to visit the site of Christ's crucifixion (and later in the day, his birthplace) was an important part of our faith experience
Istanbul
To be immersed in this culture so different from ours was a growth experience- the viewing of the mosques, the bazaar, the Bosphorus boat ride, the sights and sounds of the diverse populace was so thrilling
Mykonos
As a contrast to the onslaught of experiences of the previous week, just to be able to sit in a sea side cafe and sample the food, the beer, the scenery was a welcome change of pace
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