Norwegian Gem was built in 2007 and underwent refurbishing projects in 2015. It has a length of 965 feet and a gross tonnage of 93,530. Norwegian Gem cruises from New York year-round and the passengers are mostly from Canada and United States with a mix of couples, singles and families with kids. The ship has 12 passenger decks and carries 2,394 passengers and 1,070 crew.

[fa type=”bed”] Accommodation

There are 1,197 staterooms on board Norwegian Gem in a wide range of categories. At the top of the ship, The Haven features well-appointed accommodation with 24-hour butler service, concierge and a private sundeck. The largest accommodation on board is The Haven’s three-bedroom Garden Villa which measures 4,252 square feet wit a large balcony. All cabins have ample storage space and various amenities (salon-style hairdryer, mirrored vanity table, mini-fridge, television and toiletries by Elemis).

[fa type=”cutlery”] Food

Magenta and Grand Pacific are the main dining rooms on Norwegian Gem and offer freestyle dining (no set time or table). Other complimentary venues include the Orchid Garden Restaurant for Asian Fusion cuisine, O’Sheehan’s for American classics and comfort foods 24 hours a day, and the Garden Cafe which has made-to-order stations, a salad bar, dessert bar and more. Specialty restaurants include: Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse), Teppanyaki and Sushi (Japanese); Cagney’s Steakhouse; Le Bistro (French); and La Cucina (Italian).

[fa type=”ticket”] Activities

The Mandara Spa has a thermal suite, a full-service beauty salon and a wide range of spa treatments. The Body Waves Fitness Centre has a fully equipped gym and daily aerobics and fitness classes. There are two pools, six hot tubs, a jogging track, rock-climbing wall, golf-driving range and a combined sports court.

[fa type=”group”] Families

The Splash Academy splits children into groups for age-appropriate activities. Kids can watch movies at the cinema, have a dance party at the interactive dance mat along and enjoy an open space for active games. The kids’ pool is just right for pint-size splashing, playing and paddling. Teenagers have their own club called Entourage, with video games, jukebox, fooseball table and air hockey. At night the club turns into a teen disco. There is also a video arcade and internet cafe on board.

Verdict

– Cruise Passenger

We were treated royally by the staff of the Epic from the time we embarked until we disembarked on our 10 day cruise to the Eastern Caribbean. NCL clearly aims to please all guests and created a relaxed friendly, fun atmosphere. Through the NCL website we were able to choose a time to check in. You can choose an early time, but keep in mind boarding will begin around 11:45 and your room will be ready at approx. 1 pm. You may have lunch on the 12th deck Garden Café Buffet or in the ssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssGrand Pacific dining room when you board the ship. The buffet may be crowded on the first day, so the dining room is a wise choice for those who do not do well with crowds. -tombaud

– Cruise Critic

– Berlitz