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UNDERCOVER coka: Return To Gem 8/7/11 Sailing!

coka

By coka,
in Norwegian Cruise Line

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coka

coka

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My late father-long before he claims I "got" some smarts-which according to him was sometime after I put a Uniform on)

 

A very big thank you for your dad and to you for serving.

 

ed him some hamburg from the buffet and then set him back on the deck. I think he flew away....

 

I fed a little sparrow a fry once while in port and 1,000 showed up! When Mr. coka woke up and I told him about, he said it was good thing to have not assisted as I could have been bitten.

 

coka

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The Cruise Critic and Officer Meet and Greet

Jimswims organized quite the meet and greet for the cruise critics and the officers did not disappoint either in showing up and conversing with all in attendance. Cherry, the NCL coordinator had attendees sign in and she provided sticky tags for us to write our names upon, which was a first ever I have seen. As Jimswims mentions in his review, NCL goes above and beyond for the cruise critics. They provide juice, danishes, and on this sailing, TWELVE officers appeared. Wow, we were indeed very impressed and it was the most I have ever seen. An “At Your Service” card is given to each cruise critic that asks if one has a special request or a question in need of an answer, they are encouraged to contact by telephone one of the officers listed on the card (along with their numbers).

 

I had the most fun standing next to Dr. and Mrs. Jimswims without them having any idea it was me until introducing myself. Who were they expecting? Lady Di? It was totally worth keeping it secret for the first day to see the look on their faces. It was also wonderful to finally see them again and wonderful that they got to meet Mr. coka. We met at a meet and greet in October 2007 and this is just one example how cruise critic and NCL meet and greets can begin lifelong friendships. You also get to see really cool suites if invited as they were staying the two bedroom ones. I do admit the second bedroom for the children is absolutely perfect and definitely not as small as some have reported on the boards. So if you are cruising NCL, be sure to join or begin a roll call for your particular sailing date.

 

Our Balcony Meet and Greets

Noooooo, not that kind! While most of the sun seekers were at the pool areas and the sun areas, enjoying the sounds of Caribbean Plus or the sounds of the many DJ’s music onboard, we enjoyed the sun in the afternoons that shined onto the balcony while heading to Bermuda. This meant we would be out there early mornings on the way back to New York. The balcony was on the starboard side that faced the sea and harbors of Bermuda. Port side would face the sea from afar and the wharf. Having had a balcony on both sides on the Dawn during prior trips, the harbor side is definitely quieter for the most part while the wharf side is busier. The only exception is when work is being done on the ship. No sunning naked on either side. If you want that, go to the freestyle deck.

 

A STYLE card was written for the deck crew who maintains the ship lifeboats. Not only did they have to be hooked high above the water by a chain to the life raft as they grease the cables to prevent rusting, but they have to paint the lifeboats so they look good for the cameras while being rescued! The other painters also have a difficult job hooked up to cables as they paint the sides of Gem in the hot burning sun while having to listen to squeals of delight from the jet skiers and banana boat riders passing from below on their excursions while also having to answer lots of questions from people like us on their balconies.

 

Mr. Coka Seeks Jackpot Rewards While I Seek the Platinum Ones

The only thing Mr. coka has to say about the casino is that he didn’t like it because he lost. He never should have stated in front of the mermaid’s presence that she looked like a witch. I thought she looked beautiful, well cared for, was aging gracefully, and everything seemed in order on her tower when we visited her the first time this sailing. Somebody onboard was indeed looking after her but who was it and where were the missing charms some cruise critics reported not making it to the tower over the years? When prompted further about the casino, Mr. coka said to go in with what you want to spend and know how much you want to give them. If you win something, then good. He liked the size of the casino and there were many slots to choose from. We heard the wheel of fortune only hit small wins but Mr. coka saw a 500 and a 250 wins within a few minutes of each other. They still have all the slot and card tournaments but I notice they no longer have Monte Carlo Night which used to be fun only if you were not playing! I was all ready to play craps a few times but (are you ready for this Al) I could not remain in there because it made me think about wanting to smoke.

 

Since Mr. coka was spending his pension in the casino, sipping some wine out on the balcony would be good during his absence. A quick visit to the onboard latitudes consultant’s desk and the explanation about booking the day before, fixed the missing welcome back goodies. They get the list on Fridays for Sunday sailings. Trying to fool Sherry (whom I met on Majesty and Dawn sailings), the consultant, by walking into her office and saying the Gem sucked and demanded a full refund, she quickly figured I was joking and stated she would send up the platinum rewards stuff. She was leaving for vacation once docked in Bermuda and a Matt Rubin was joining the ship mid week.

 

The welcome back champagne in the fruit basket with the other rewards arrived later that evening. Mr. coka LOVED the fresh fruit and it saved me from about three trips. Platinum benefits also include dinner for two in Le Bistro that includes a bottle of wine from a special complimentary wine list, free laundry, and a free non transferable (sorry Mr. coka... I really wanted you to see this) Behind The Scenes Tour that I did not use because I have done it twice on Gem. Laundry day was missed. Champagne was given away to a woman who told me her husband does the exact same job as me but in another state. I figured he could really enjoy it. I would get the wine at Le Bistro dinner or at the latitudes party.

 

Latitudes Party

If you cruise one time with NCL you become a latitudes member so the second time and beyond you get invited to a past passenger party. The officers meet and greet you, cocktails and finger foods are served, and cool prizes are drawn from the collection of your invitation at the door. As a repeat passenger on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, and now Holland America, NCL has the best past passenger parties due to the officers and staff who show up, the raffled gifts, and the free cocktails and finger foods. Depending on the NCL ship, sometimes a bottle of champagne is given to the passenger who has cruised the most with NCL.

 

Mr. coka enjoyed speaking to the guys in white uniforms at the entrance. Dr. and Mrs. Jimswims and I enjoyed watching him try to see if he could ask to see the security room. I tried telling there is no such thing but he doubted me. He wanted me to ask and I said no way, if I have not seen a security room yet, then he has to earn his way there. Besides, isn’t that the same thing as asking to see the engine room? Has anyone dared to ask and been successful?

 

Once all inside Spinnaker’s, The Gem Orchestra played and Lanie from Next Stage sang a song for passengers to dance. Her first song was Etta James version of “At Last” so I made Mr. coka dance it with me for his first dance while making sure to be gentle with him as he is still getting used to two brand new knee replacements. Captain Roger Gustavson next took the stage and sang a song while playing guitar. Robbie, the Gem It Mermaid, definitely approves of him! She, along with other ship employees (because they told me), think he is everything a Gem Captain should be. Characteristics include having a lot of experience, knowledge, interpersonal skills, presence, care for his officers/staff/crew, finding time to interact with passengers during the week, making little mermaid’s in training very happy along with their families, and looking good in his uniform. The only thing Robbie the mermaid is still trying to figure out is if she can get away with not replying ‘Yes Captain!’ to his requests. She is not yet sure she can answer in a high squeal laughing reply ‘Roger Roger!’ while swimming away to carry them out.

 

At the party I paid more attention to the free flowing wine for Mrs. J and for me than to the prizes given away. The trick is to stand near the bar. Having made the decision to not play the “raise your hand if you have been on X amount of NCL cruises," I decided to not become the little old lady from the Sun who raised her hand for the 100th time and disappointed all those who had impressive numbers and did not win anything. I would just smile at whoever won it just like the guy on a previous Dawn sailing who did just that for me. Yes, it was Time To Pay IT Forward. Yet, on this sailing, the game was played different as the party was coming to an end. My name and another guy’s name was announced and we were awarded the champagne bottles. As of this writing, I still wonder if he too was answering NCL questions from passengers in the lounge for an hour afterward and for the rest of the week. Having never thought about it before, NCL sure gets a lot of return for a bottle of champagne and recognition. I sealed a few future bookings on the Epic, the Sun, and even the Pride of America (a ship not even yet sailed)! Okay, next time I do not want champagne or the recognition. I want a name tag!

 

Dress Up Or Not Night, Eat Now Or Not Too!

Dress up or not nights are a mixture of everything. On any night for that matter because you can dress up or not on any and still have professional pictures taken by the ship photographers. The best part is that nobody really cares if you are in a suit, in a cocktail dress, in Sunday clothes, or casual. I fooled all of them in my bright bold multi color swimsuit cover up with an added belt and jewelry. The only thing passengers took notice to outside the Grand Pacific Dining Room on this 2nd evening at sea was the 45 minute wait to get in. Much later than Mr. coka‘s normal eating hours already, I froze when a pager was offered to me. The 20 percent off drink in any bar while you wait did not entice. The first experience ever with a pager in all my NCL sailings, it felt more like a stun gun in my hand!

 

“Can’t you do something for us to eat now, like pull some strings?” Mr. coka asked. Who did think I was? No different than everyone else waiting, I replied, “I can get you a meal in no time and I can provide you with the best ambiance ever too.” Five minutes later we had full hot plates of wonderful choices from the nightly dinner buffet by ourselves Al Fresco in the Great Outdoors aft . Gem’s gentle glide through the Atlantic provided just enough breeze to make it comfortable. Out there, we talked about how very blessed and how very fortunate we were to have the health, the time, and the means to just leave home on a whim so quickly without a care…“OH my god…What did we do with Kitty?!!!” I exclaimed out loud to Mr. coka during our buffet dessert of crepes. Not only did he remember to call my family and his family, but he remembered to ask a neighbor to feed Kitty while we were gone. He even made arrangements for Kitty‘s homeless friends who sometimes stop by. After our whatever whenever wherever dinner, we planned to go to Next Stage’s 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s set in Spinnakers but there is only one thing that would make us want to miss it. That is spending the rest of the evening in the great outdoors aft under the stars meeting again and catching up with Dr. and Mrs. Jimswims until well after midnight.

 

 

Up Tomorrow: Another Day At Sea. What? We Thought We Were Arriving in Bermuda Already!

 

Coka

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jimswims

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I am loving this review. I feel like I was there, lol! This is another classic Coka story.

 

I know that Jonathon is well. however Sinan did have some new feathers on his wings.

 

It was so nice to see you and Mr. Coka dancing at the party! I am glad you wrote about it. You both looked like you were having a ball. It was so good to sit out in the Great Outdoors and catch up with you and Mr. Coka. You were correct, that is a great spot to enjoy the sea, stars, and good friends.

 

I am looking forward to reading more.

 

By the way: I think that the Pride of America is calling us for the Summer of 2013!

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DrFootball

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A very big thank you for your dad and to you for serving.

 

 

Your welcome, but it was my honor and duty to do so...Thank you so much(and to Dr. Jim as well) for great reviews. Asked in another thread: would "robbie's tower" be able to hold a Mini authentic replica Medal of a (U.S.)Navy Cross? The orig. was MY uncle's who was a Navy SeaBee(construction Battailion)Petty Officer In WWII who served along side the Marines who liberated Iwo Jima by "knocking out" enemey gun emplacments. When my cousin passed on, the orig.(which is in my safe deposit box with most of my family's orig. citations-Males on Both sides having served going back to WWI)was left to me, but I would wish to make a gift of a "mini" to Robbie On behalf of All sailors of all nations who serve the sea and it's PAX, as well as Naval officers & enlistedpersons who keep the seas safe for us travellers...:cool:

 

Bill(DrFootball)

("I love it when a Plan comes together!" Col. John "Hannibal" Smith-U.S. Army 75th Ranger Regiment)

Bill's Brainiac Random Quote Generator V0.94 final beta for Mac

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jimswims

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A very big thank you for your dad and to you for serving.

 

 

Your welcome, but it was my honor and duty to do so...Thank you so much(and to Dr. Jim as well) for great reviews. Asked in another thread: would "robbie's tower" be able to hold a Mini authentic replica Medal of a (U.S.)Navy Cross? The orig. was MY uncle's who was a Navy SeaBee(construction Battailion)Petty Officer In WWII who served along side the Marines who liberated Iwo Jima by "knocking out" enemey gun emplacments. When my cousin passed on, the orig.(which is in my safe deposit box with most of my family's orig. citations-Males on Both sides having served going back to WWI)was left to me, but I would wish to make a gift of a "mini" to Robbie On behalf of All sailors of all nations who serve the sea and it's PAX, as well as Naval officers & enlistedpersons who keep the seas safe for us travellers...:cool:

 

 

Bill(DrFootball)

("I love it when a Plan comes together!" Col. John "Hannibal" Smith-U.S. Army 75th Ranger Regiment)

Bill's Brainiac Random Quote Generator V0.94 final beta for Mac

 

Hey Dr. Football,

 

First, I still owe you an e-mail :o I will send you one today.

 

Second, I love this idea! What a special and personal way to honor and remember. If you look at my review you can see the pictures of the tower and it may give you a sense of the size. I also posted the pictures in the Gem Roll call area in the sticky note at the top about the mermaid. Coka may know the actual size.

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DrFootball

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Hey Dr. Football,

 

First, I still owe you an e-mail :o I will send you one today.

 

Second, I love this idea! What a special and personal way to honor and remember. If you look at my review you can see the pictures of the tower and it may give you a sense of the size. I also posted the pictures in the Gem Roll call area in the sticky note at the top about the mermaid. Coka may know the actual size.

 

Thx Dr. Jim,...received the E-mail and the reply is already in your inbox...

 

Yes I saw the tower! It will Def. hold a "mini" medal...

 

Please let me know who to contact on the ship to make sure "Robbie" get's it!:)

 

Bill(DrFootball)

("All gave Some, Some gave ALL" The Inscription on the back of the "Military Order of the Purple Heart")

Bill's Brainiac Random Quote Generator V0.94 final beta for Mac

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castagnola68

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I've been lurking every time I go on a cruise & thought, that The Legendary Coka is worthy of my 1st post :) I bow to you Miz Coka. Enjoying your review very much, you are a great writer. I feel like I am reading a good book!

 

I was on the Gem in June & we LOVED it....

 

-Stacey

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jimswims

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I've been lurking every time I go on a cruise & thought, that The Legendary Coka is worthy of my 1st post :) I bow to you Miz Coka. Enjoying your review very much, you are a great writer. I feel like I am reading a good book!

 

I was on the Gem in June & we LOVED it....

 

-Stacey

 

I think that you made the right choice for your first post. I believe that my own mother made her first post on a Coka review:D

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coka

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I've been lurking every time...I was on the Gem in June & we LOVED it.... -Stacey

 

Be careful...cruise critic can be just as addicting as cruising! :D

 

...I would wish to make a gift of a "mini" to Robbie On behalf of All sailors of all nations who serve the sea and it's PAX, as well as Naval officers & enlistedpersons who keep the seas safe for us travellers...Please let me know who to contact on the ship to make sure "Robbie" get's it!:)...

 

Wow, that is indeed special Dr. Football! Yes, the mini replica would indeed fit. The tower also has an opening at the top area where larger items can go too...but your descriptions seems like it would not be a problem. The original method of getting the charm on the tower is to present the charm to any officer to tell the meaning and to tell it is for the mermaid's tower in the bridge viewing room. The second method is to drop it off at reception area for the Captain's secretary. Sometimes, part of the fun is seeing how the charm can actually get there...

 

coka

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Coka

So glad to see that I am not the only one who thinks that a dinner for two at The Great Outdoors is just about the best dinner at sea. DDP and I have just about decided that we aren't sailing any ships that don't have one.

 

This is sometimes a factor in which I select too! The times I sail solo, does not seem so strange sitting out there as opposed to by myself in the dining rooms. Plus, the more I can be outside the better!

 

Thank you, Coka! You write the best reviews and really know how to enjoy a cruise.

 

You are very kind! Thank YOU! :)

 

coka

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coka

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By the way: I think that the Pride of America is calling us for the Summer of 2013!

 

I am not sure I can fly all my brothers and sisters to Hawaii...but I might be able to swing having them all meet in NYC for another Bermuda cruise...the big 5-0 for me! Although...Hawaii....5-0...I am seeing a connection already!;)

 

coka

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* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

What Pay Back Tastes Like

We woke up around 7am to see the Gem arrive in Bermuda territory and realized we were not on the Veendam and we still had another day at sea on Gem. Mr. coka concluded it all a money making scam but I knew NCL has one slip in Bermuda and the Dawn was currently in it for the day. So we went down to Grand Pacific dining room for breakfast and enjoyed talking to some passengers at the next table to us. In case you are interested in finding really good orange juice, you must stay in a suite to get it in Cagney’s where suite guests dine in quiet pampered comfort. If not, one can purchase the really good freshly squeezed OJ on some NCL ships. For the rest of us, we wander from juice machine to juice machine in search of a liquid that at least represents the color. This particular morning after breakfast I found what tasted like OJ and filled three large plastic cups and brought it to the stateroom refrigerator…where that really good champagne was chilling. Not giving that one away, it rested right next to all the chocolate milk, crystal lite concoctions, iced tea, and ship water Mr. coka was chilling. Although the separated orangey stuff and water mixed with champagne in my attempt of a mimosa on the late morning balcony tasted kind of bitter, the 100% unadulterated pure no guilt revenge of having the bottle...the bottle I won...all for myself, was ooooh sooooo sweet...

“Let Me Be Your Vacation Hero”

So what did this button slogan alongside the STYLE pins the employees wear mean? Style means service, teamwork, and yes leading to excellence. “Let Me Be Your Vacation Hero” added alongside was new since last cruising. We supposed it meant that while eating breakfast, servers at the buffet walked about to refill our coffees. Maybe it meant for us to ooooooooh and aaaaaaaaah when a warm, fresh, out of the oven apple turnover was offered to us while seated. Or, it meant hearing from passengers their surprise of cool alcohol-free drinks and cold cloths to wipe off hands while waiting to return to the ship from land. Perhaps it meant delivering a pizza to the lady permanently attached to two slots machines in the casino. For me, it meant everything that pool server Frankie Sarto did while hanging out by the Lido deck pool all afternoon.

A lot more passengers can enjoy the pool since the Gem has taken out the long whicker cushioned chairs in the shaded areas of the lido pool. They are now found way up on deck 14 forward in the Quiet Zone. Also up there, plentiful plush loungers that hold one to four persons are set up facing the forward most view of the ocean. In their former place on the lido, tables and chairs are set up for passengers to enjoy the shade while still seeing the action of those walking by and the varied poolside entertainment.

The pool areas always had a great vibe to it. The weather was mostly gorgeous all week and not a chair was to be found in this particular area on sea days (although plenty of chairs/loungers are found all along the upper decks no problem). If you smoke, most of the smokers gathered on one side of the upper deck Bali Hai Bar that overlooks the pool areas.

On this sea day Mr. coka attended a Go Smile Teeth Whitening Seminar. I reminded in his own words the big scam conspiracy and offered some Crest White Strips but he went anyways. So I set up a spot for myself on the pool bench attached to the band stage. Have towels, can park anywhere! Frankie saw me and asked if I would like for him to be on the lookout for an open chair or table. Thanking him for the thoughtfulness, my current spot on the bench was going to be okay: I could turn with the sun, dip my feet in the cold pool water (no way was I going to swim in the pool with more heads bobbing taking up space than there was open water), watch the band play their instruments, witness the outrageously funny ladies biceps competition up front, and take a shower nearby all at the same time!

The woman who won the biceps competition was an It-Great-Grandmother who told me later in the week her husband talked her into joining the biceps exercise class by the pool only for her to discover she was in the middle of young female hard rocking bod competition that she could not get out of once in the line up to dance/pose their biceps for the male passenger judges!. Mr. coka joined me in time to see it and he was loving this. Although he thought the pool area too crowded, he did admit there was a lot to look at…

As the afternoon went by, he returned to the casino and I stayed put. My brain was getting hot and Frankie Sarto walked by and asked if everything was still okay with me. For some reason I asked him if he would be my vacation hero. Without another word, he immediately took out a spray water bottle and misted me (respectfully) all over. I Loved It and he put me in a better mood than I already was! A little while later he came by and gave me a freezing cold wash cloth and misted me again. I Loved It even more! A little while later he came by again and offered me a skewer of cold fresh fruit and misted me again! I loved it all the more and yes, Frankie, yes, you ARE my vacation hero. Very cool NCL!

The Gem’s Gym Secret

Soon thereafter, Dr. and Mrs. Jimswims arrived and we checked out just how deep the pools are to ensure no injuries for “our promise.” The adult pool is deep on all ends. A good possibility. The kid’s pool, not so sure. We also discussed if the water gets changed on a daily basis and certainly hoped it did because we were not going to jump in that! Mr. coka was still in the casino, so the three of us checked out the gym workout area afterwards. The gym was well in use and I liked the entire room devoted to weights. A best kept secret is the gym changing rooms…both the male and female changing rooms have a steam shower room for free use. You need to search for it a bit, but it is there. It is nothing fancy like the windowed ones found in the pay Yin and Yang Spa, but is IS a nice option for those who know the therapeutic benefits of steam …and do not want the 119 per week or 30 dollar per day charge for the spa.

Hey NCL, Let Me Be Your Work Hero

After the hours of surprise pampering by Frankie at the lido pool, I headed back to work, er, back to my workout routine that is. Although the gym onboard is a great set-up, I have a hard time exercising indoors since I do that at home during long winter months. The entire outer decks early morning before everyone gets up, the pool before everyone gets up, the art decorated stairwells all the way up and down, or sunsets on the promenade in the late afternoons, or dancing the nights away at deck parties or lounge parties, are so much better for visuals while doing cardio exercises with much better sounds about you than the humming of the gym workout machines. Although, there were some hard body male visuals in the weight room...

Therefore, while power walking the promenade on this particular late afternoon, some passengers who had played shuffleboard, who had rested in the really cool whicker loungers, who had gathered out there to swear up a storm about cheating family members, had all left empty glasses, straws, bottles, tea bags, empty cigarette packs blowing around the promenade and near all along the starboard and port side areas. This could have been reported too but I very easily added it to my workout. Besides, the Gem is not a trashy ship. Bending down, picking up, and carrying the weight of each stack of empty drink glasses, along with their remnants, helped me sweat out the earlier mimosa. No style card for me though as I only put them all in one area on each side. Had I found who all did this, was throwing them overboard an option too?

OMG, What DID Get Thrown Overboard!

While showering after the extra workout, Mr. coka had quietly returned to the cabin and went out to the balcony as I exited the bathroom. He did not hear me come out and he stayed out there gazing out to the vast Atlantic waters as I secretly observed him. He was so quiet. He was so deep in thought. Ah, he is having a 'me moment' out there. Balcony moments of solitude are peaceful and the mesmerizing swishes of wake connect one with their inner self. Suddenly and unexpectedly, Mr. coka FLINGS something overboard!!! More stunned than the pager incident, I wondered what the hell was that?! A message in a bottle? Possible. A fishing line? More possible. A tiny little liquor bottle snuck from the top shelf?

Oh my goodness, I am going to have to divorce him now. Hmmm, this could make the Florida retirement condo all the more possible, as I tend to find positive in any situation.

Not knowing I was observing the entire time, he comes back into the cabin to only see my stance that only wives know how to hold. “And just WHAT was the object you threw overboard…I can not believe that you think it is okay to throw something overboard” I stated in a hypocritical undertone. “What WAS it?” Finally, after waiting patiently for me to finish, he answered, “My Casino At Seas Card!…”

We laughed all the way to the Magenta dining room. We laughed through all the time waiting to place our order which was first to request salt, pepper, utensils, and stemware. We continued laughing when we found the veggie portions on Mr. coka’s plate. We laughed all the way through Jeff Harm’s comedy show and through the hypnotist Tim Triplett’s show (A must see…he is a trip…do NOT miss this), and the perfect couple game show which capped off our evening of humor. Still laughing getting ready for bed, we reminisced just how good the hypnotist was and how he made the hypnotized carry out hilarious actions. We wondered if it was ever difficult for him to get a date. Was it just us, or would you not want to date a guy who can instantly make someone scratch their butt by dragging it across the dance floor really fast in a reverse table position?

Up Next: Musings on Bermuda

Coka

　

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jimswims

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I am not sure I can fly all my brothers and sisters to Hawaii...but I might be able to swing having them all meet in NYC for another Bermuda cruise...the big 5-0 for me! Although...Hawaii....5-0...I am seeing a connection already!;)

 

coka

 

Maybe we will be able to be on the new ship for the big 5-0! Decisions, decisions :D

 

DW actually thought that she was turning 50 in 2013. Our good friend was over for dinner and we had to really do the math with her to convince her that she had until 2016! This also happened when she she was a few years early for her 30th and her 40th.

 

I am loving the review. By the way, you did get a part of the review wrong. I did fill out a STYLE card for you. Your job title was Keeper/Dr. Do-a-lot of the Promenade Deck.

 

Keep it coming!

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coka

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Thoughts On Planning For Bermuda

Arriving to the wharf by ship is not as exciting as arriving into St. George or into Hamilton by ship. My understanding is the Gem reverses docking positions so that both sides get maintained. Therefore, one not knows for sure what side will face the wharf or the harbor. I have yet to find cruisers who are a “one visit and done with” the island. The best place for information on what to do in Bermuda is the Cruise Critic Bermuda Port of Call boards. There you can find all sorts of answers that best meet your particular interests. Whether by ship excursion or on your own, an island tour is a must do for first time visitors, especially if the trip is a once in a lifetime or if you want an idea of where to spend more time next visit (or the next day).

Make sure you do first the things on your list that are most important so you do not end up disappointed. For example, on one visit I really wanted to go to snorkel park and saved it for the last day because it was close to the ship. The last day the park was closed for a private party (The singer Pink reserved it). During another visit, we really wanted to see St. George’s and decided we would do it the second day. The second day the ferry was not running due to mechanical situation. One never knows with the weather, so do a ten day outlook prior to leaving for your trip. Lastly, just because everyone says Bermuda is so friendly and there is nothing to be afraid of, just remember there is a reason why the prison beyond the wharf has few vacancies. Even so, Bermuda is still the friendliest, the prettiest, the safest, the calmest, most historically fascinating, and the most culturally rich island of all I have visited throughout the cruising years.

The Gem in Bermuda: Ghost Ship Days and Gyrating Nights!

The casino and duty free shops onboard are closed while the Gem is in Bermuda. Restaurants, bars, the spa, the java café, onboard staff activities, music, pool games, the library, game rooms, Wii on the big screen, movies on the big screen, and sport tournaments are all open for business. Take note the wine, martini, and other drink tastings (NCL-U) are held only on the days at sea. We used most of the time enjoying the pool of which we finally swam in. Mr. coka used the hot tubs. We enjoyed choice seating for lunch buffet dining, me getting stuck once again on the water slide, and we both like talking to other passengers onboard who also did not have must do plans while in port. One couple told me they were enjoying freestyling on the Gem and loved the décor of the ship. The Mrs. of the two saw the mermaid in the bridge viewing room and thought Robbie (the mermaid’s nickname to us cruise critics) was a rare piece of artwork from a foreign land for it to have been on such a display. My sister will like hearing that!

While true your options of night time activities on Bermuda island are minimized when in port, your options of night time activities on the Gem are maximized. Seriously! Something is going on every fifteen minutes. A FULL schedule with that time frame is CD Sinan’s goal. We loved it…Having so many options that passengers from ages 2 to 92 can enjoy. In the past, an only option after 11pm was dancing late every night in the club and perhaps a late night comedy show one or two times. A perfect example of the noticeable change is Thursday night in Bermuda. Between 11pm and onward, your options are the following: Bandaoke with Next Stage in Spinnakers, Karoke in Bliss, Music with Michael in the Star Bar, The Pool Deck Party at the Lido pool, Liar’s Club game show in Spinnaker’s, music with the Gem Orchestra in Magnum’s, and a midnight movie beginning in the atrium, Late Night Dance Party in Bliss, and another Late Night Dance Party with Next Stage in Spinnaker’s!

As much as I love the full schedule and as much as I love to hear Next Stage play, a concern is that Next Stage is scheduled too much. More evident as the week progressed as they played at the pool, at the parties, and were sometimes scheduled in two different locations on the same day. Next Stage is one rocking band and we loved hearing them every time…yet talent like that needs preservation! Most know it is not a good idea to have to perform so much so often. Additionally, it is not easy to set up and tear down the band’s equipment. My sister, the creator of Robbie, also a lead vocalist in a band, confirms this. Knowing that, this hardest working band on the high seas always gave it 200% and more each time they played. But how long can this last? If I was truly an Undercover Boss, I would change this one component. This band needs to be cherished!

Gem’s Happy Family Deck Party Versus Hamilton Harbor Nights

The first time going to Hamilton Harbor Night the only thing that interested me was a sleek black ship docked right on Front Street. Everything else on Front Street seemed lame and we left after one hour to await the long ferry ride back to the wharf. The second time going to Hamilton Harbor Night I was on that sleek black ship and spent a lot of time on Front Street and found more interesting things going on than last. The Bermudians puts on a good street party for all ages to enjoy.

So a very big kudo’s to Cruise Director Sinan or to whoever thought up the Happy Family Deck Party on the Gem. From 8:30-10pm, the deck party seemed like a lot of fun and a MUCH better option than dragging the family, especially those with little ones, to wait in long lines for the Hamilton ferry. I am forty eight and I wanted to hula hoop! I wanted a twisty balloon to wear on my head! I wanted my face painted! I wanted to swim in the pool under the stars! I wanted marshmallow treats and Belgian waffles with sweet whipped cream and berries! We also wanted to get a good seat for Next Stage’s Rock Night afterwards so I was glad to see it all to let you know Happy Family Deck Party IS a lot of FUN!

Do Not Do Attempt This At Home or Alone

I am a professional pool jumper. Trained by my wicked older siblings at a very young age while growing up, this craft began with back yards and progressed to hotels and to country clubs as our skills developed over time. I now hit the cruise ship scene. My first time was alone on the Pearl a few years ago. That guy never sent me the video clip taking the plunge so I could share it. Should you want to partake in such an adventure, you need a man, a plan, and a tan. The man was Dr. Jimswims. The plan was to jump into the pool fully clothed at some time throughout the week, preferably on the return trip to NYC so our stay in the brig would be a short one and we would not have to fly home from Bermuda. The validity to having a tan is only known when you realize your summer dress goes upward from the wind and water pressure as you are going down.

Upon completion of our jump on the Gem, I learned some new things; adjusting wet granny panties is a lot more challenging than a wet thong that usually stays in place; If it is your birthday night, or close to it, and your husband is going to do his first pool jump with some crazy lady, do not think for one minute they are leaving you behind!; Be sure to complete your jump before 11pm or else you will get caught up in all the roped netting that semi closes off access to the pool; Figure out what you are going to say to reception when your wet salty room key does not open the stateroom door; Figure out ahead of time what you are going to tell loved ones back in the stateroom when you show up soaking wet; Finally and most importantly, do it sober. Rumor had it a guy who did not, did his jump two nights before from the Bali Hai Bar one deck above! :eek:

Am I The Only Who Loved Snorkel Beach?

A lot of people dislike snorkel beach. So what if it is man-made and the frozen virgin drinks are better on the Gem. A five dollar entrance fee for the day, we enjoyed the close proximity to the ship. No line to get a chair or umbrella (twenty dollars total for both) for mr. coka. No problem lying on a spot of sand in the sun for me. Have towels, can park anywhere. We talked briefly to a couple who rented a cabana for the day, and they were loving it.

Music plays at the bar area in Snorkel Park and is not too loud in the beach areas. The accessible restrooms are nearby no matter where you end up in the park. I read a review where there was glass and trash on the beach but we did not see any so I am guessing it does get cleaned…and it was not done by me. We brought our own snorkel masks and one set of fins. The water was very refreshing and we found lots of fish to see. They must like the color purple because they swam around me and many wanted to look into my eyes through the mask which caused a few squealing sounds from me. As we did many years ago, Mr. coka held my hand and safely led me around the reefs to point out things I would not notice without glasses. What is not to love about THAT? Less afraid since mr. coka has more meat on his bones, I figured any man eating fish out there would want a bite out of him first, leaving me plenty of time to escape to shore. Mr. coka thought the park was lame overall (he used to deep dive and snorkel many years ago) and added he was holding my hand so he could give me up first to Jaws!

 

Up Next: All Other Things Gem As we never ventured past the wharf this trip

coka

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jimswims

jimswims

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Thanks for posting about Snorkel Park. We have been there a few times but did not

make it this year. The Cabana's are new as they were not there in 2009. Any idea how many or rental fees?

 

That pool plunge was priceless! Skill, determination, part crazy, but all fun!

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coka

coka

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…There were five cabanas available but I did not ask the price. We did not do a whole lot of anything while docked at the wharf as done on previous visits. The standard walking around the shops, the docks, and resting for brief moments on the shaded bench areas, was enough for Mr. coka. He had no reason to be mildly miffed at me not telling about the free shuttle that rides around the wharf and stops at different areas. If rode around without walking, we never would have been offered an excursion at a discount (I think it was snuba for about 20 dollars less than the ship price), never would have seen the glass blowing factory, and never would have kissed for good luck under the stone moon gate nearby.

The Blue Lagoon, Le Bistro, and Cagney‘s

Since Lu or my wicked sisters were not making me stay out until 5am every night on this sailing (they really do), I had forgotten about the Blue Lagoon as the week progressed. Adjacent to the Mexican Restaurant and the Tequila Bar which has margarita madness every day for $4.95 from 4:30pm until 6:00pm (I talked to some gals by the pool who said the tequila bar was packed each time and they enjoyed the specials), the Blue Lagoon serves what is called comfort food and is always open. Due to its location on Deck 8 where passenger cabins are, these areas are easy to miss unless you notice people up there from Deck 7 reception area.

You can always find pizza, burgers, hotdogs, and fries at the buffets and outdoor pool bar areas, but the Blue Lagoon sit down restaurant serves more than that off the menu. Warm spinach artichoke dip with chips, regular or spicy chicken wings with six to ten piece servings, Paninis, won ton soup, vegetable lasagna that Mr. coka enjoyed, fish and chips, and yummy chocolate brownie or cheesecake desserts, and more. We ate there two times afterwards. Eating there in the light, we both enjoyed the window seating to observe passengers below. We saw Jimswims and family returning from some fabulous adventure and we certainly looked forward to hearing about it later! He had more cool adventures in Bermuda so be sure to read his engaging and comprehensive review here: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1464609

 

Regarding Cagney’s and Le Bistro, I agree with what Jimswims wrote in his review as there was a very noticeable difference in quality and servings since our last sailings on other NCL ships. One example was the Cagney’s garlic mashed potatoes, which used to be served as a side in a hot iron pan/plate, was now a tablespoon dropping on the entrée plate. Had I taken Lu, my assistant, who came with me on the Gem christening, she would have had to ask for more which is not a big deal. She still talks about those garlic mashed potatoes! The Gem is her ship. The service was still excellent though and Jombie, our server at Cagney’s was wonderful.

Le Bistro’s escargot and bread was still a hit with me, as was the special request vanilla ice cream with the fondue chocolate poured on top. The chocolate melts and creates a sort of polar bar. Very yummy. A tip about eating in Le Bistro…the picture window shades get drawn because the setting sun causes quite the glare inside. Once open, you do get a beautiful view of the plain yellow port building. On this sailing, Le Bistro was only open 8-10:30 the first three nights. Anybody know why?

The only other perspective gained on this sailing was the worth or value of the specialty restaurant charges when paying for more than one, not so much for two, but especially when paying for a group or for a family. I get it now when cruise critics ask about which one restaurant onboard they should choose…or which restaurant provides the best whatever…or which ones are must dos. I had never really thought about it when sailing solo in the past as paying for one was always a good bargain! On this sailing, if I had to pick my favorite overall, I would have to say the buffet.

So Glad We Made It…To The Chocolate Buffet That Is!

By Friday evening’s dinner we decided to hold the pager in our hands while we waited out the whatever amount of minutes to get into the Magenta dining room. We decided to listen to one of the lounge singers Carrie, in Magnums, until the pager buzzed us. She sang variety of vocals and allowed requests. There are other lounge acts such as Peter on the Piano, Music with Michael, and others throughout the week playing in the lounge areas, atrium, or the smaller bars. Mr. coka wanted to hear his favorite song that is our theme song. His turn now to remind me. Ah yes, as he filled me in, Shania Twain’s Looks Like We Made It. Carrie took the request and sang it for us. Mr. coka was happy and we sang quietly along through the lyrics: “They said, I bet they’ll never make it…But just look at us holding on…

We’re still together still going strong…We beat the odds together…I’m glad we didn’t listen…Look at what we would be missing.”

About ready to bet that we were not ever going to make it…that is, ever make it to dinner, and suggest to Mr. coka that he fling the pager overboard too, his eyes became enlarged as he watched four young hotties walked through the lounge. “Oh my god, look at what I am missing…look at those mounds!” It took some focusing to realize he was talking about the mounds of chocolate goodies on each of the gal’s plates they were carrying. “I am totally cool with just having THAT for dinner” he added. “The chocolate?” I inquired for further clarification. Yes, so we returned the pager to the Magenta and informed the hostess of the change in our plans. While waiting for the elevator up, we informed the large group waiting outside the restaurant in the stairwell that we were choosing an immediate chocoholic buzz on our brains instead of waiting for the pager to give us a buzz in our hands. We were going to get all sugared up, dance it all off at the white hot party afterwards, and who wanted to come with us? About one third of them followed.

The Chocolate Buffet was fun! We too filled our plates with chocolate goodies and chocolate cakes, and other sugary convections. The coffee, this time was the one from the two spouted machine that made the cappucinos for free, complimented our cocoa meal very well. My favorite item was a chocolate dropping with coconut on top. Mr. coka's was the black forest cake. By the time Dr. and Mrs. Jimswims joined us, we were all abuzz enjoying our other tablemate’s tales of adventure riding all over the island on a scooter rental. One was a motor cycle rider so he is experienced enough to have done it in my opinion. Jimswims talked about the glass beach his family walked to just beyond the wharf and we put that on our future visit list.

How To Burn Off All Those Calories You Eat For A Fee Or For Free!

If your vacation budget affords it, the spa always has treatment to assist you in burning calories, reducing cellulite, and giving secrets to a flatter tummy and how to increase your metabolism. Seaweed wraps, ionithermie, and other interesting treatments can be found there. In the gym, yoga, body sculpting boot camp, pilates, all have a fee for participation. If your vacation budget does not afford it, then there are other scheduled activities for free that include stretch and relax, body pumping, circuit training, legs/bums/tums class, walk a mile with a group, and fab abs class as some examples. Of course the already mentioned sports programs are available too for free such as tennis, shuffleboard (played it in the past and your arms do feel it afterwards), and soccer during certain times of the week as other examples. There is more…just refer to your Freestyle Daily.

My preferred method to burn off calories other than power walking the promenade is dancing. I am so thankful for Dr. and Mrs. Jimswims for being my dance partners throughout the week as Mr. coka‘s knees are still healing. We danced anywhere whether a dance floor was available or not! During the rock night under the stars with Next Stage, we danced in the rain. OH My god, not only do I love walking in the rain, or getting caught in the rain, I discovered dancing in the rain is soooooo awesome as well!! The cleansing, the cooling, the refreshment, and the spirituality were all present, and done with good friends. During the Caribbean Deck Party, we danced at our table to The Caribbean Plus group dancing and the DJ afterwards provided hot pulsating sounds to burn baby burn! We very easily could have jumped again in the pool that night too and we cared not that we were the oldest ones out there by the end. During the White Hot Party we danced way in the back of Spinnaker’s Lounge beneath the air conditioner what seemed like forever which was a very good amount of time! Other times we could be found on the dance floor with everyone else. For me, the Gem did NOT disappoint in this area of entertainment at all. By week’s end, I left with three less pounds around my mid section! If I could only stay on her for four more consecutive weeks, I could be back to my Almost It Girl self.

For those who know how to ballroom dance, the Gem orchestra plays sets in Spinnakers and elsewhere. We watched the dancers and listened to the orchestra there a few times. The Gem even has family disco dance time where DJ’s spun music! Of all my cruises, including the Epic, there were more DJ’s onboard: DJ Delite, DJ Dee Dubs, DJ Anil, A Celebrity DJ (?), DJ Joboy, and DJ Mop Top. I am EXTREMELY happy to report the Gem certainly remains the Most Dancing Ship Amongst the Fleet…in MY eyes at least! If less food portions mean more entertainment like this, then I am all IN!

Passengers in Particular Onboard or Particular Product Onboard?

However, if more entertainment means also taking a short cut on toilet paper, then I am out! I went into a public bathroom after one dinner only two hours after it had been last cleaned (I checked the back of the door). Sections of toilet paper was ripped…in little pieces…on the floor of all four stalls.. After picking it up, I concluded this was NO reflection on the hard working bathroom cleaners who pick up after us 24/7 while we are enjoying vacation. Can you imagine cleaning the bathroom only to come back to see it messed up only two hours later (I checked the back of the door and it had been only two hours)? We passengers either need to be more thoughtful in our habits or the NCL Toilet Paper Purchaser needs to reconsider the options out there. Difficult to decide as the TP did not rip in the staterooms as they were in more freestyle flowing holders…!

* * * * * * * * * *

Up Next: Because there are some serious safety and travel issues going on out there, I am going to have to finish this review up next week. I feel bad continuing to post for the moment as many are trying to figure out what to do. Irene is on her way to us. I wish everyone to be safe, to exercise caution, and to remember in the grand scheme of mother nature’s wrath and the destruction she can sometimes cause, how we spend a vacation and what we are using for toilet paper are the least of our concerns.

coka

　

　

　

　

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