Wonderful Norwegian Cruise Lines !
I spotted that NCL were offering one of their infamous taster cruises in August – and I decided to book it for the family – my husband and I, and our two little boys.
I have to say that we were extremely impressed from the outset. Our ship “Norwegian Jewel” was docked in Dover, and this newish Terminal is modern and comfortable. From the parking to embarkation - everything went very smoothly, and soon we were onboard enjoying our lunch in the impressive Tsar’s Palace Restaurant – this is the main restaurant that is also Norwegian Jewel's formal evening restaurant...but dining on NCL is unlike the conventional cruise lines and there are lots of choices for your evening meal – in venue and style ! There are 12 dining choices - including a French Bistro, an Italian, Sushi Bar, and Mexican. Each dining venue takes table reservations – like a normal restaurant would - meaning you can eat what you fancy, at a time that suits you. However, if you prefer to eat in the main formal restaurant, as you might have been expecting on a more traditional ship – you can simply choose to do this too. It really is all about flexibility and choice. They even have large TV screens located around the ship showing the available seating in the various restaurants ….so you can always see where they have a table. But I have to say, that we never once had a problem in eating anywhere other than where we fancied. The standard of the food, and service was excellent. Our most enjoyable evening was spent in Mama’s Italian Kitchen - the food was wonderful and the service amazing…and the ambiance? Well…it was just like your favourite little local Italian restaurant…. We ordered some wine to accompany our meal (prices onboard are all in dollars and we felt were very reasonable) my husband likes red, and I prefer white….not a problem either….They will store your wine safely, so that you can have it brought out to you the next evening (or at lunchtime) …absolutely wherever you are dining within the ship! You just produce your ticket…..
I was also impressed with the public areas, and facilities on board. There are plenty of lovely lounges, and areas to while away your days at sea…This ship certainly has a wow factor and beautiful atrium, and decks. Plenty of room too around the pool area - even on a sunny day at sea.
The children’s clubs are excellent, but they do limit the number of children on board, so if you are a family you will need to book early, to firstly obtain a cabin that sleeps you all, and also to book before NCL are up to their bookable limits in each child age group.
The evening entertainment was amazing. One evening there was a musical type show with dancing and on another a very entertaining magician. There was also an acrobatic show where they swung above our heads on cloth vines & ropes – quite a sight.
Don’t forget all of this is included in the cost of your cruise. Not to also mention the different destinations and ports that your ship will call at. There will be organised trips, or you can please yourself and disembark and have a potter round & then get back on board in time for your lunch !
If you want value for money, and luxurious surroundings, top entertainment, delicious food and wonderful Spa facilities – its for you – everything we experienced was fantastic ! I give this holiday a 5 star Lucy Rating !
If you would like to chat with me more about this ship, or indeed any cruise - just give me a call. Perhaps you have never cruised before and would like some help in which ship I might recommend that you start off with or where you should travel to. Or perhaps you have a question about Norwegian Cruise Lines, or the Jewel itself, please feel free to email me, I will be more than happy to assist you....