What exactly does the Jewel classification mean?

[Lewis/Klitschko]

And how do Jewel Class ships differ from the other ships?

[uppitycats]

And how do Jewel Class ships differ from the other ships?

 

I thought the "Jewel" simply was a name, like "Jade"??? I know it's a newer ship, better designed to accommodate the freestyle dining concept, with upgraded ameneties, but it seems like they're upgrading all the ships as they come in for servicing?

[Planer's Edge]

They are also what is known as "Panamax". Panamax is the term for ships that are built to the maximum dimensions allowed to pass through the Panama Canal.

 

PE

[Seanote]

From Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_Jewel

 

Norwegian Jewel is NCL's first of four Jewel Class ships. She was followed in 2006 by Norwegian Jade (originally the Pride of Hawaii) and Norwegian Pearl, and then in 2007 by Norwegian Gem. Each ship has unique amenities, but has a similar exterior and interior design.