Jewel Review-December 2012

[coffeecat]

Sailed on the Jewel from Dec 12-19 2010 out of NYC. Left my husband at home and went with one of my best friends. Her first cruise-definitely won’t be her last. My 7th cruise, 5th on NCL, and definitely won’t be my last either. Previously sailed on the Pearl, Sky, Gem, and Dawn. One RCI in 2007 on Mariner of the Seas which was very nice. Yes there was a minor thing here or there but these were so infrequent and inconsequential I won’t even mention them (had to throw in that previous sentence so my review will be balanced). Caveat- I am an NCL Cheerleader (gasp!) and I love NCL. Here is my review….

 

Attended the Meet and Greet arranged by Got Tequila?. It was well attended and fun to put names with faces. One person on our roll call started a “key words” list where people posted their interests and hobbies so it felt like we already knew a lot about one another-would recommend that (thanks PorkChopKid!) One of our group had a GV and we toured that afterwards…thanks Barb and Tony. It is an amazing room. Then on to the slot pull (oraginzed by Scoobygirl!) where our group put in 15$ and walked away with 50$ each. Sweet. Our group got a bridge tour later in the week but I slept through that (was having too much fun!). Did a cabin crawl later in the day which was a lot of fun…saw a huge variety of cabins. Was impressed by the handicapped cabins especially (I work in health care so, although I can not speak from personal experience, I do interact frequently with people with mobility issues). It did seem like there was plenty of floor space to navigate a wheelchair, the bed seemed lower, dressers and closets seemed accessible, bathroom was huge-no step ups, with railings and the bathroom had tilted mirror that one could see if seated in front of it.

 

Room 14508 CYV family suite- Absolutely perfect. I got the kiddie room. It was fine for an adult. I packed a carry-on and a back pack. Would have had room for a second person’s things if they packed similarly. Bed was firm but it was fine for me (not nearly as nice as the master bed!). Best butler of all my previous sailings. Erlindo really was perfect. Hopeton room steward was personable and kept our room spotless. Courtyard was chilly the first day but useable all other days. Very nice. Have always had outstanding concierges…Adrian was right up there with Anshuman. So funny and so nice. Hope to see them again. VIP party in CY was very nice.

 

Food- Cagneys for breakfast and lunch almost every day. Great! Waiter Dino was awesome. Ate at Le Bistro (delicious) and Teppanyaki (best meal on the ship). On previous sailings have only done the dining rooms about once but on this sailing we ate at both Azura and Tsar’s on 5 nights. Service was GREAT in the MDR. I admit that being in a suite does come with some great perks but when in the MDR staff has no idea what room you are in and we were consistently treated extremely well. The staff was courteous and very efficient. Food was very good as well.

 

Entertainment-Usually don’t see too many shows…in fact only saw Bollywood on the Dawn previously. However, on this trip I wanted to do more of this type of thing. Loved Incantato (?). Basically, it was a rhythmic gymnast and her husband exhibiting feats of strength and flexibility that were nearly impossible to comprehend. AMAZING. Do not miss this show. Standing ovation. Also saw Cirque Bijou. This was also unbelievable. Featured the same couple and she did a routine with the ribbon (you know, like on the Olympics) and it was so awesome! In fact she did compete in the Atlanta Olympics. I can’t believe I got to see this on a cruise ship! Those shows alone were worth the fare (okay exaggerating a little but they were awesome). Also saw some of the singers in the bars-loved RJ Red and his tribute to the Beatles! He is very talented. There was generally one or two Nick events a day for the kids but otherwise I did not see Dora or Spongepants Squarebob anywhere. Went to the art auction and saw someone bid about 15,000$ on a work but I only got the free champagne. Casino was a lot of fun, was up some then was down some...

 

Ports-Hit the spa in Port Canaveral. Some small price breaks. Didn’t think I would do the spa again on a cruise ship but with the weather it seemed like a good option. Had a great massage and a facial. Would do the massage again…the facial was fine but seemed on the pricey side. GSC-always a personal favorite. It was sunny but chilly but I was happy to be sitting on a beach even if it was in fleece pants, jacket and hat. Lots of brave people in the water who seemed like they were having fun. Just walked around in Nassau and then back on the ship.

 

Overall it was (yet another!) outstanding NCL cruise. My thoughts on a couple topics that have come up recently on cruise critic chats:

 

-Wasn’t bothered one bit by the tables in the atrium. By reading some of the reviews I was prepared for a frenetic, garish circus with pushy vendors wrestling my key card from my hands but this was not the case at all. There were many tables set up advertising options for activities and the folks were friendly and pleasant. Best deal of the cruise was the buy 7 bottles of wine for 20% off…about 5 reds and 5 whites and a sparkling option. The ones we got were all great.

-Photographers were around but we were not stalked nor pressured. They were all friendly.

-Bar Staff-I was not bombarded to purchase drinks however staff was present and available and promptly delivered drinks when ordered.

-Staff on the ship was AWESOME! We were wandering around the ship before sailaway and we walked from one end of the pool to the other. Here, at least 4 NCL employees greeted us and welcomed us aboard. This type of thing happened the whole cruise! Friendly staff everywhere.

-Never ever felt nickeled and dimed…whatever that means. I was able to purchase what I wanted and skipped on the stuff that I didn’t. Felt like there was a ton to do (free and for a charge) during the day.

-Tons on TV…lots of movies, Fox news, E etc…

-Officers visible everywhere - frequently saw them chatting with guests.

-The employees on this cruise (and every NCL cruise I have taken for that matter) absolutely work their TAILS off! I mean, they work so freaking hard and they do an awesome job with rare exception. They do this on little sleep and always with a smile on their face. It’s amazing. Further, the food in the MDR was great and the service was fantastic! Will definitely go the the MDR more frequently in the future as the rumors of inedible food, applebee's fare, and poor service were profoundly exaggerated.

 

 

All in all a fantastic cruise! The Jewel was outstanding. No complaints that even warrant a mention in this review except next time, I think NCL should do a little better with the weather ;).

 

Next up: The Pearl’s Western itinerary with my husband and his mom and aunt in Feb 2011…we can’t wait:D! Would be happy to answer any questions.

 

Coffeecat

[coffeecat]

Obviously, this was a Dec 12 2010 cruise not a Dec 2012 cruise! Couldn't edit the title!

 

Coffeecat

[onetime88]

Glad you enjoyed your cruise. We were on the Jewel the week before and feel the same as you. The ship and staff are great - had a wonderful time.

[coffeecat]

Glad you enjoyed your cruise. We were on the Jewel the week before and feel the same as you. The ship and staff are great - had a wonderful time.

 

I am glad you enjoyed your cruise even with the delay due to dry dock mishaps. The Jewel really was a wonderful ship.

 

Happy sailings!

[NYcruzzer]

Thank you for sharing your vacation with us. I will be on the 2/13 sailing. Did you notice any specials in the specialty restaurants ? 20% off or 2 fers ?

[mommyto2girls]

We are leaving this Sunday on the Jewel and have CYV 14008, we are excited for our firs NCL and sailing only 10 minutes from home is our favorite thing to do. You said the Courtyard was cold the first day and I am just curious is the roof retractable? I have asked this of many people and still have no definitive answer. We are huge suite lovers but are used to every other cruise line. Our 27 year old daughter will be in the 2nd bedroom so do you have any great ideas or tips we should know? Anything appreciated!!

[coffeecat]

Thank you for sharing your vacation with us. I will be on the 2/13 sailing. Did you notice any specials in the specialty restaurants ? 20% off or 2 fers ?

 

 

Let's see...they had a jazz brunch that seemed to be very popular. One of my friends went on the Dawn and loved it. They did have a restaurant deal on the ship...it was 5 restaurants (all different but I think it included Cagney's and Le Bistro...can't remember if Teppanyaki was on) and I think it was a 15% discount if you purchased it. If you are planning on doing specialties then it is a good deal. I didn't notice if there were any others. Honestly, on previous sailings I shied away from the MDRs (went about once a sailing and they were always good) but the Jewel MDR was spot on-no it's not five star but the food was hot, delicious, and abundant. Got one of their cold soups that people rave about and I just didn't like it. The waiter happily brought me a bowl of a sqaush soup that was delicious...this was the only thing I have ever not liked on all my cruises and it was no problem changing it out. If you go to Tsar's and you find a waiter you like you can just request to be seated in their area and they will accommodate you. Teppanyaki was so fun!

Have a great cruise!

[NYcruzzer]

Thanks for the quick response. I plan on eating in the MDR 5 nights and two specialty restuarants. What nights had the weakest menu choices ? I will plan accordingly. I have the 2fer in my coupon book for Italian restaurant with purchase of 2 covers in Le Bistro so I'll plan on taking advantage of that..

[coffeecat]

We are leaving this Sunday on the Jewel and have CYV 14008, we are excited for our firs NCL and sailing only 10 minutes from home is our favorite thing to do. You said the Courtyard was cold the first day and I am just curious is the roof retractable? I have asked this of many people and still have no definitive answer. We are huge suite lovers but are used to every other cruise line. Our 27 year old daughter will be in the 2nd bedroom so do you have any great ideas or tips we should know? Anything appreciated!!

 

You are going to have the best time! This was my 5th cruise in a suite and NCL just gets better and better every time we sail.

 

You are also sooo lucky to be in 14008 as your room steward should be Joseph (unless NCL has shaken things up since our sailing). My husband and I first sailed on NCL in April 2009 and Joseph was our room steward in the A4 on the Pearl. Among so many wonderful employees, Joseph has got to be one of my all time favorites - so friendly and helpful and very hard working. He will take such good care of you. You should read Roveer's GV review as his family also had Joseph. He's a star. It was such a treat seeing him again. Don't worry if you have Hopeton-he was terrific as well.

 

Now to answer your questions...the roof does definitely retract but they are kept closed when sailing (at least based on my three sailings on ships with CYs). It was really cold outside so the CY was chilly the first day...don't worry though because the hot tub is always HOT:D. All other days it was nice. The roof was opened half way in Nassau and it was very pleasant. I guess it is neither heated nor air conditioned but it was pleasant in Port Canaveral and I don't think it got over 50.

 

For the second bedroom...your daughter should ask Joseph/room steward for some extra padding for the pull out bed...the bed that drops down from the wall may be softer but I didn't try it. It's pretty firm but fine for me. My husband has a bad back and is about 6'5" and I don't think he would have done too well on the bed. There is a small TV in the room. No ipod docking station so she could bring that. The room is right off the entrance way and has it's own key card enterance so if she is out late you won't be bothered at all. I thought that there was plenty of room...it doesn't appear that way initially but once I got everything unpacked I was just fine (again only did a roll-on and large back-pack) but there was space for twice that much. If there aren't enough hangers your room steward can bring you more. I was able to request an iron and ironing board as well....had previously always paid to have stuff pressed until I read this was a possibility on cruise critic so if she has nice stuff to iron this will be a cheap (free) do-it yourself option. I turned on the shower in the "kiddie" room and the pressure wasn't great (although I may not have been doing it right) so I ended up showering in the master bath which is unbelievable...you may want to offer that to your daughter because it is like showering in an awesome rainforest with an ocean view. Let's see what else, the butler will make the best hot chocolate in the world too. I did see some get together's listed for "20-40 somethings" if she is traveling without peers.

 

People in the CY were generally very friendly with one exception (not NCL's fault) and based on previous travels and this one...there will be a lot of time where you will be the only ones out there. Butler will deliever breakfast and lunch to the courtyard as well (from Cagney's lunch menu) and it's just really nice to sit up there and relax. You can even order it for a predetermined time for the next morning. You can also write in stuff from the cagney's breakfast menu to be delivered to the room (ie you aren't just limited to what is on the hanging card).

 

You will also love Adrian the concierge. He is a riot. Had a mix up with the spa charging me regular fee for the facial (it was supposed to be discounted as we were in port) and I passed him on the way to the spa to get it corrected. He snatched the recipt out of my hand, was on the phone and two seconds later it was all straightened out. I told him I was on my way to get it adjusted (would not have been a big deal at all) and he said, "Well, why would you want to? It's done. You're on vacation" or something to that effect. He was just such a trip-and very accommodating with anything we requested. NCL does suites so well (caveat, I have no comparison...only what I have read on CC). Also, ask Adrian if there are any must-dos for your trip. He told us not to miss the gymnast couple and the Cirque and he was right on...he will make sure you know the right times/days. Those shows honestly made our trip perfect. Crab cakes in Cagney's for lunch are outstanding...best dish on the ship...esp if you like avocado.

 

The thing about NCL suites is it just removes any and all hassle from your vacation. I work a lot and long hours too and they just go out of their way to make everything easy. You have stuff taken care of that you didn't even know you needed taken care of if that makes sense.

 

I would be very interested in reading a review from you when you get back as it sounds like you have done suites on a lot of other cruise lines. It would be interesting to read your comparisons. I have poked around at other lines but honestly, I can't imagine having more fun, eating better food, or being treated better on any other line so I will likely not venture from NCL any time soon.

 

Any other questions? If I think of anything else I will post it.

 

Have a wonderful time on the ship. It was just awesome. Jewel is one of my favorites now (but they all are my favorites!). Also, I am sure you know about the priority embarkation...when you get to the port just find an NCL rep and tell them you are in a suite and they will lead the way. If you find yourself waiting in line you are not in the right place :).

 

Coffeecat

[mommyto2girls]

You are going to have the best time! This was my 5th cruise in a suite and NCL just gets better and better every time we sail.

 

You are also sooo lucky to be in 14008 as your room steward should be Joseph (unless NCL has shaken things up since our sailing). My husband and I first sailed on NCL in April 2009 and Joseph was our room steward in the A4 on the Pearl. Among so many wonderful employees, Joseph has got to be one of my all time favorites - so friendly and helpful and very hard working. He will take such good care of you. You should read Roveer's GV review as his family also had Joseph. He's a star. It was such a treat seeing him again. Don't worry if you have Hopeton-he was terrific as well.

 

Now to answer your questions...the roof does definitely retract but they are kept closed when sailing (at least based on my three sailings on ships with CYs). It was really cold outside so the CY was chilly the first day...don't worry though because the hot tub is always HOT:D. All other days it was nice. The roof was opened half way in Nassau and it was very pleasant. I guess it is neither heated nor air conditioned but it was pleasant in Port Canaveral and I don't think it got over 50.

 

For the second bedroom...your daughter should ask Joseph/room steward for some extra padding for the pull out bed...the bed that drops down from the wall may be softer but I didn't try it. It's pretty firm but fine for me. My husband has a bad back and is about 6'5" and I don't think he would have done too well on the bed. There is a small TV in the room. No ipod docking station so she could bring that. The room is right off the entrance way and has it's own key card enterance so if she is out late you won't be bothered at all. I thought that there was plenty of room...it doesn't appear that way initially but once I got everything unpacked I was just fine (again only did a roll-on and large back-pack) but there was space for twice that much. If there aren't enough hangers your room steward can bring you more. I was able to request an iron and ironing board as well....had previously always paid to have stuff pressed until I read this was a possibility on cruise critic so if she has nice stuff to iron this will be a cheap (free) do-it yourself option. I turned on the shower in the "kiddie" room and the pressure wasn't great (although I may not have been doing it right) so I ended up showering in the master bath which is unbelievable...you may want to offer that to your daughter because it is like showering in an awesome rainforest with an ocean view. Let's see what else, the butler will make the best hot chocolate in the world too. I did see some get together's listed for "20-40 somethings" if she is traveling without peers.

 

People in the CY were generally very friendly with one exception (not NCL's fault) and based on previous travels and this one...there will be a lot of time where you will be the only ones out there. Butler will deliever breakfast and lunch to the courtyard as well (from Cagney's lunch menu) and it's just really nice to sit up there and relax. You can even order it for a predetermined time for the next morning. You can also write in stuff from the cagney's breakfast menu to be delivered to the room (ie you aren't just limited to what is on the hanging card).

 

You will also love Adrian the concierge. He is a riot. Had a mix up with the spa charging me regular fee for the facial (it was supposed to be discounted as we were in port) and I passed him on the way to the spa to get it corrected. He snatched the recipt out of my hand, was on the phone and two seconds later it was all straightened out. I told him I was on my way to get it adjusted (would not have been a big deal at all) and he said, "Well, why would you want to? It's done. You're on vacation" or something to that effect. He was just such a trip-and very accommodating with anything we requested. NCL does suites so well (caveat, I have no comparison...only what I have read on CC). Also, ask Adrian if there are any must-dos for your trip. He told us not to miss the gymnast couple and the Cirque and he was right on...he will make sure you know the right times/days. Those shows honestly made our trip perfect. Crab cakes in Cagney's for lunch are outstanding...best dish on the ship...esp if you like avocado.

 

The thing about NCL suites is it just removes any and all hassle from your vacation. I work a lot and long hours too and they just go out of their way to make everything easy. You have stuff taken care of that you didn't even know you needed taken care of if that makes sense.

 

I would be very interested in reading a review from you when you get back as it sounds like you have done suites on a lot of other cruise lines. It would be interesting to read your comparisons. I have poked around at other lines but honestly, I can't imagine having more fun, eating better food, or being treated better on any other line so I will likely not venture from NCL any time soon.

 

Any other questions? If I think of anything else I will post it.

 

Have a wonderful time on the ship. It was just awesome. Jewel is one of my favorites now (but they all are my favorites!). Also, I am sure you know about the priority embarkation...when you get to the port just find an NCL rep and tell them you are in a suite and they will lead the way. If you find yourself waiting in line you are not in the right place :).

 

Coffeecat

 

You have inspired me to start packing! I had the flu last week and no energy but you have given me a reason to get motivated. We love the suite life on HAL because of the perks, Carnival has no suite life..just a big room. Rccl did not thrill me and Disney is amazing. So this is a big test for us. We are also on the 10 day Caribbean so we are hoping that that Courtyard will be a sanctuary. We have about 50 people coming to our M&G a lot in their 20's so my daughter will be happy. I will ask for the extra padding for the bed thanks for the heads up on that. Can we priority disembark in the ports as well? We are looking forward to Cagney's and the idea of freestyle. Also any clue what the cost of a manicure is on board, daughter has no time to get nails done before we leave..lol Thanks in advance for all your help and info.

[coffeecat]

Thanks for the quick response. I plan on eating in the MDR 5 nights and two specialty restuarants. What nights had the weakest menu choices ? I will plan accordingly. I have the 2fer in my coupon book for Italian restaurant with purchase of 2 covers in Le Bistro so I'll plan on taking advantage of that..

 

Honestly, I thought there were tons of choices-really. They have the much maligned "always available" side of the menu on the right side and on the left the options rotate. They have a vegie pasta/cheese tortellini dish that was really good. The last night they had this Yorkshire pudding and roast beef that was outstanding (I didn't even know what Yorkshire pudding is but it is puff pastry). I think lobster night was on Tuesday but we went to Le Bistro that night but people in le bistro were offered the lobster from the MDR and I saw it and it looked yummy. I can't honestly say that there was a weak night as I thought there was always a ton of things I wanted to try. I will say that their apps are delicious (got the tuna tartare based on someone else's review and this was awesome and also this spinach puff pastry thing that was wonderful...pretty sure that was the first night). A good rule of thumb (based on my limited previous MDR experiences and this sailing is that asking the waiters what is best that evening never seems to fail as they seem to know what is going over well that particular evening. (I am not picky and really like a range of food but I also very much appreciate fine dining). I got the lobster in Le Bistro and it was delicious but this would be your best bet for a delicious filet if you aren't planning on doing Cagney's...lamb there is also great (previous ships but have found NCL Le bistro to be very consistent between various vessels).

 

Service in MDR was great...the specialties service was also great...it was just quieter.

[Shelli]

Thanks for the quick response. I plan on eating in the MDR 5 nights and two specialty restuarants. What nights had the weakest menu choices ? I will plan accordingly. I have the 2fer in my coupon book for Italian restaurant with purchase of 2 covers in Le Bistro so I'll plan on taking advantage of that..

 

Somebody posted this a few months back, and I believe it was accurate for my Jewel cruise in November:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showpost.php?p=25130199&postcount=86

 

BTW, there were no specials (2fers) offered on my cruise; it varies by cruise, so I'm thinking it has something to do with how well the restaurants are selling. The only specialty restaurant we went to was the Tex-Mex, which was great. The rest of the nights we ate at Tsar's-- loved it, loved the food there, loved our waitress (we requested the same one each night).

[DMH15]

Honestly, I thought there were tons of choices-really. They have the much maligned "always available" side of the menu on the right side and on the left the options rotate. They have a vegie pasta/cheese tortellini dish that was really good. The last night they had this Yorkshire pudding and roast beef that was outstanding (I didn't even know what Yorkshire pudding is but it is puff pastry). I think lobster night was on Tuesday but we went to Le Bistro that night but people in le bistro were offered the lobster from the MDR and I saw it and it looked yummy. I can't honestly say that there was a weak night as I thought there was always a ton of things I wanted to try. I will say that their apps are delicious (got the tuna tartare based on someone else's review and this was awesome and also this spinach puff pastry thing that was wonderful...pretty sure that was the first night). A good rule of thumb (based on my limited previous MDR experiences and this sailing is that asking the waiters what is best that evening never seems to fail as they seem to know what is going over well that particular evening. (I am not picky and really like a range of food but I also very much appreciate fine dining). I got the lobster in Le Bistro and it was delicious but this would be your best bet for a delicious filet if you aren't planning on doing Cagney's...lamb there is also great (previous ships but have found NCL Le bistro to be very consistent between various vessels).

 

Service in MDR was great...the specialties service was also great...it was just quieter.

 

Sorry, yorkshire pudding is not puff pastry. Yorkshire pudding traditionally is made with the pan drippings from beef (prime rib). Puff pastry is made from folds of pastry with butter in between. You keep folding and buttering. The little pockets expand in the oven. Both are wonderful, but not the same. "Laminated dough" was was very favorite pastry class in culinary school... Darn, now I want some of that!!!!

[coffeecat]

You have inspired me to start packing! I had the flu last week and no energy but you have given me a reason to get motivated. We love the suite life on HAL because of the perks, Carnival has no suite life..just a big room. Rccl did not thrill me and Disney is amazing. So this is a big test for us. We are also on the 10 day Caribbean so we are hoping that that Courtyard will be a sanctuary. We have about 50 people coming to our M&G a lot in their 20's so my daughter will be happy. I will ask for the extra padding for the bed thanks for the heads up on that. Can we priority disembark in the ports as well? We are looking forward to Cagney's and the idea of freestyle. Also any clue what the cost of a manicure is on board, daughter has no time to get nails done before we leave..lol Thanks in advance for all your help and info.

 

I am glad that you are feeling better. I got sick the week before our trip too so it's best that you got it out of the way now! The 10 day will be far nicer than the ports that we did...I can't take off more than a week from work but would love to do that itinerary at some point. You should have good weather too as you are going farther south.

 

As for the ports, every NCL ship I have been on has had priority disembarkation at the ports (whether they be tender or walk-off). I am sure Adrian will do this for you all. You should get a letter in your suite the night before telling you where and when to meet and then you just go there. They have always taken us down back stairwells and right to the front of the line...easy as pie and no waiting. Definitely take advantage of priority disembarkation back in NYC too...we were off the ship and through customs in about 15 minutes (plus another 10 or so waiting in the theater). This, along with Cagney's for breakfast and lunch, is a great perk. The room also has plenty of elemis shampoo, conditioner, and lotion, and wash as well as bar soap so no need to bring that. The hair dryers are awesome so I wouldn't bring one unless you must have your own. My friend has long thick hair and she loved it.

 

I can't remember specifically about the manicure. I think a polish change was about 20 bucks and the pedicures ranged from 60-75$ I think. I am guessing it's about 50-60$ ...on the high end for a french manicure. When you catch up with Adrian the first day just tell him that she would like to book a spa appointment and he will do it for you (do this esp if you want it at a specific time especially on a sea day as they fill up fast and if they are full even Adrian can't get you in). Massages were good. Facials were pricey and I don't think they were worth it...I enjoyed it though.

 

Have a great time on your cruise! I think you will love it...just don't go in expecting HAL or Disney...freestyle is different but hands down I thought it was better than my RCI cruise in terms of dining flexibility (food almost as good as RCI MDR but this was a few years back).

 

Let me know if you have more questions! Have fun packing!

 

Coffeecat

[coffeecat]

Sorry, yorkshire pudding is not puff pastry. Yorkshire pudding traditionally is made with the pan drippings from beef (prime rib). Puff pastry is made from folds of pastry with butter in between. You keep folding and buttering. The little pockets expand in the oven. Both are wonderful, but not the same. "Laminated dough" was was very favorite pastry class in culinary school... Darn, now I want some of that!!!!

 

Busted by Donna! Hahaha. I knew someone would correct me if I was wrong on this. Whatever it was (fairly sure it was Yorkshire pudding on the menu), it was delicious and different!

 

Thanks Donna!

[NYcruzzer]

Thanks for the info. On past sailings I ate almost all meals in the specialty restaurants. On this trip I rather save the $$$ and use the money saved to purchase 2 weekly spa passes. Any comments on the spa area ? I have been on the Dawn & Gem's spa. This is my first time on the Jewel.

[coffeecat]

Thanks for the info. On past sailings I ate almost all meals in the specialty restaurants. On this trip I rather save the $$$ and use the money saved to purchase 2 weekly spa passes. Any comments on the spa area ? I have been on the Dawn & Gem's spa. This is my first time on the Jewel.

 

Sounds like a great plan! I did a tour of the Gem spa and was only in the Jewel spa for the treatments. They did offer use of the spa for 10$ on the day I got the massage/facial. It didn't look too crowded. I used the locker room/bathroom...the showers in there looked really nice, space was very clean.

 

We will be in AD and AE suites on the Pearl and I think we will get spa passes for the week then. People seem to love them.

 

Have a great cruise!

[mommyto2girls]

Thanks so much for all the great info and the inspiration! I will post a suite comparison when we get back.

 

Andrea

[Dr. Jack Daniels]

Obviously, this was a Dec 12 2010 cruise not a Dec 2012 cruise! Couldn't edit the title!

 

Coffeecat

 

Darn! I was hoping you could tell me who was going to win the Super Bowl next Feb so I could make a big bet.:D

 

Great review!

[coffeecat]

Darn! I was hoping you could tell me who was going to win the Super Bowl next Feb so I could make a big bet.:D

 

Great review!

 

Ha! That was very funny. I must have had too much egg nog over Christmas but more likely just a blonde moment. Thanks too-also enjoyed your pearl review from a while back...am thinking we will check out the spa pass in Feb.

 

Coffeecat

[njhorseman]

We were on the same cruise as Coffeecat, and although we only had a balcony cabin, we were fortunate enough to be given VIP status by hotel director Brian Walters, who knew us from a cruise last year on the Norwegian Majesty.

 

In my opinon, having been a suite passenger on NCL, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Carnival, there is simply no better "perk" we have encountered than breakfast and lunch in Cagney's on an NCL ship!

 

Combining that with some of the benefits we get as Platinum Latitudes members...two free dinners for two including wine in LeBistro, and free laundry on "stuff everything you can in the bag" day (OK...we have this oddball laundry thing;) ) and we feel we get a luxury cruise at rock bottom mass market prices.

[coffeecat]

We were on the same cruise as Coffeecat, and although we only had a balcony cabin, we were fortunate enough to be given VIP status by hotel director Brian Walters, who knew us from a cruise last year on the Norwegian Majesty.

 

In my opinon, having been a suite passenger on NCL, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Carnival, there is simply no better "perk" we have encountered than breakfast and lunch in Cagney's on an NCL ship!

 

Combining that with some of the benefits we get as Platinum Latitudes members...two free dinners for two including wine in LeBistro, and free laundry on "stuff everything you can in the bag" day (OK...we have this oddball laundry thing;) ) and we feel we get a luxury cruise at rock bottom mass market prices.

 

Hello Horseman,

You confirmed my suspicions about other mass market lines which is why I will continue to wave my pom-poms and write reviews two years in advance on NCL;). Glad you got the VIP treatment...Cagney's was outstanding this trip but it always is. Still have 11 more cruises before we are platinum so we will have to get the VIP treatment by booking suites until then :).

 

Happy New Year to you and your wife.

 

Coffeecat

[jaja]

We were on the Jewel 12/6 (was to be 12/5 sailing!)...and also agree the staff was great! And being in our 1st suite..not sure what to expect...AND totally agree Adrian probably has spoiled us to what a concierge should be !!

[coffeecat]

We were on the Jewel 12/6 (was to be 12/5 sailing!)...and also agree the staff was great! And being in our 1st suite..not sure what to expect...AND totally agree Adrian probably has spoiled us to what a concierge should be !!

 

There will be no going back-just warning you! Glad you enjoyed the cruise. All of our concierges have been great...some more visible than others but all have been very helpful. Adrian just has a lot of spunk with a great personality. Loved talking to him-always had us smiling. Anshuman was also one of my favs...he was a little more subdued but equally as helpful and we interacted with him a lot more (he was always stopping by our cabin checking in etc). He was outstanding as well. Anyone know if he is still with NCL? Would love to see either one of them again.

 

Glad you had a great time even with the late start!

Coffeecat

[DMH15]

Busted by Donna! Hahaha. I knew someone would correct me if I was wrong on this. Whatever it was (fairly sure it was Yorkshire pudding on the menu), it was delicious and different!

 

Thanks Donna!

 

Coffeecat, I was so nervous thinking you might not appreciate me making my comments, but thanks for being so nice. I love both of them! Can you imagine the fun I had in culinary school? It was the best! Did you try NCL's pretzel rolls too? Love those as well!