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Gem's Rendezvous with Irene - Long Review

Alegeeter

By Alegeeter,
in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Alegeeter

Alegeeter

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A VERY long review - but I get more space since I have an extra day to talk about ;)

 

Where is the best place to go to miss an earthquake and hurricane all in one week? The Norwegian Gem.

 

I had the pleasure of spending 8 wonderful nights aboard the Norwegian Gem, which, in my opinion, was spent with the most spectacular crew of any ship I've ever been on. And that's no empty statement as the crew continuously showed how professional, caring, and in control they were.

 

If I had to complain about any person employed by NCL it would have to be those at embarkation. Embarkation was a breeze - arrived to the port at 11:45 and was on board by 12:45 with our rooms already prepared. However, the staff off the ship herding everyone around was less than pleasant. I let that slide though, after all as how else are over 3,000 people supposed to get on a ship without feeling like part of a herd.

 

Once we were on the ship, we were all in good hands. Sail away wasn't the best weather. It down poured as soon as we passed Lady Liberty (at least everyone was able to get their pictures in before then).

 

My only complaint (and it's not big enough to ruin the experience by any means) this cruise comes right now: Freestyle Dining. I went into this cruise expecting bland food in the main dining rooms. I was pleasantly surprised that the food was on average better than I expected. The problem, however, came with the waits. Night one, we waited two hours to eat, which we didn't anticipate. We (party of 4) tried making a reservation but were told only parties of 6 or more could do so. We went down to eat when we were hungry so by the time our buzzer buzzed, we were ready to eat the children in the Tree Top Club. We eventually got the system down that I (the guy) would shower and get ready, grab a buzzer with the average wait time of an hour and then go try my luck in the casino while the 3 girls took their time getting ready. So eventually we got to eat when we wanted but I still prefer having the same table with the same waiter. I hope NCL implements this option for those who like it - if their motto is Freestyle Cruising meaning I eat my way, I choose this way.

 

Sea Days 1 and 2

The first sea day was very cloudy and chilly. We laid out on the deck (very easy to find a chair but that may have been because of the weather). Around noon it started to rain so we went inside. Sinan had plenty of activities planned, more than I've seen on any cruise newsletter so we were never left without anything to do (and if nothing interested us, there was always the most friendly casino on the high seas).

 

The second sea day was beautiful. We found some comfortable chairs at the adult Quiet Zone after enjoying the reggae music by the main pool and just relaxed - typical cruising. This day was marked by no schedule at all, just laid back and when I wanted to do something else I looked at my Freestyle Daily and picked a new place to go. After some bingo, trivia, more casino we were off to dinner and The Second City. I'd say the show was funny, most of their stuff generated laughter but a lot fell flat. I enjoyed the sketches poking fun at the Gem and cruising more than the improv. The Second City cast (as well as funny comedian Jeff Harms) became mini celebrities on the ship as they were part of many activities and helped Sinan out when he had to rearrange and create an entire new sea day's worth of activities.

 

Bermuda Day 1

Bought our transportation passes (3 day pass even though it turns out we wouldn't need the third day) and headed to Horseshoe Bay Beach. Wow, this has to be the most beautiful beach I have ever been to. The cleanest sand I have ever seen, and, even with the sun beaming down so much your face burned immediately upon laying on your towel and looking up, the sand remained a cool temperature easy to walk on. The water was a perfect blue color and cool temperature, and the waves were a perfectly fun size.

 

Upon our arrival back from the beach, we heard that Captain Gustavsen had made an announcement that afternoon that we would leave Bermuda Thursday at 6pm, a day early, to speed back to New York in order to make it back to the port before it was closed due to Hurricane Irene. At that time, she was scheduled to hit Sunday mid afternoon so the plan was to dock in New York Saturday night and spend the last night in Manhattan before getting off early Sunday. Although upset to be missing a day in Bermuda, a majority of the ship seemed to understand. Everyone was given the option to cancel or reschedule any shore excursions made for Thursday. We also learned that the Celebrity Summit and Veendam would be leaving early as well.

 

Bermuda Day 2

Because of the change in itinerary, we decided to visit the Crystal Caves on Day 2, which was enough to do and still get back after some shopping before the ship left at 6. We, unfortunately, didn't make it to St. Georges but I guess that is a good excuse to go back :)

 

Sea Days 3, 4, and 5... yes, 5.

Okay, now to the part you're all itching to read (or maybe it's just me itching as I have started to peel and am very uncomfortable). Friday started out as a typical sea day - it was cloudy but that didn't stop me from burning (how is it that I managed to prevent a tan completely the first 4 days but the one day it was cloudy EVEN WITH SUNSCREEN I burn to a crisp?).

 

Around noon Captain Gustavsen announced that Hurricane Irene was changing paths a bit and speeds and going to have a direct hit on New York. He was waiting to hear from the New York Port Authority and US Coast Guard to make a final decision about our ship's path. He told us that the Veendam, which had past us, was going to get Saturday early but because the Carnival Glory was in our "parking spot" we would be unable to do that. He told us we had slowed down (after spending the previous night full speed ahead, we already around the Virginia/Maryland border) so that we would be a distance where we could alter our course appropriate to the information the Captain would soon receive. Our two options: be given clearance to get back early or be forced to circle the Atlantic for 3 days arriving back Monday morning.

 

Two hours later, the Captain came on saying that the New York ports were closing Saturday afternoon and we would have to spend Saturday and Sunday at a safe distance from the storm on the sea. Captain Gustavsen apologized but explained all the reasons for it. He asked that all passengers refrain from pestering the front desk staff about the inconvenience as they had no more information than we did. He asked that he be the whipping post for all complaints and made himself and his immediate staff available for questions. I specifically saw the Captain walking around the atrium many times throughout the next few days. Additionally, Sinan hosted a Q&A session on the Saturday sea day, which was both fun and informative. The Captain also requested that we write him letters if we couldn't address him in person and he would do what he could to respond. From what I heard around the ship, he did. Lastly, all passengers (or cabins?) were given a complimentary 10 minute phone call or 10 minutes of internet use to notify home and/or rearrange travel plans. All emergency contacts were also notified by NCL.

 

After the immediate chaos, things calmed down and everything went back to the norm - vacation. The only thing that changed was we were now on an 8 night cruise and not a 7. People seemed to enjoy themselves and no one seemed too upset that we now had 5 sea days and 2 port days. Nor did people seem too upset to learn that at last minute, the Celebrity ship stayed in Bermuda the third day also getting back late. There was an understanding that the Captain was acting with the information he had and was doing his best to accommodate everyone (even trying to include those on the next sailing. Irene just didn't want to cooperate).

 

As I said, Sinan and his staff was fantastic and didn't miss a beat. All of the following 3 sea days was packed with activities for everyone. You would never have known that one sea day wasn't meant to happen. Comedian Jeff Harms, The Second City troupe, Man from Mars (cirque-like magic show), and the Gem Dancers all participated in providing endless evening entertainment. I do think towards the end, the acts got old but they did try to put new spins on them all.

 

Now, I said the only difference on this trip was that it was an 8 night cruise and not a 7. I lied. I should also mention the motion and the waves that lasted all day Saturday into Sunday. After being on many cruises, I can say I never felt scared or in danger but I can say it was the most uncomfortable night I spent on the water. I myself didn't get seasick (thanks to ginger ale and proper nourishment) but unfortunately I can't say the same for many others on the ship. Every public restroom I walked past had last night's dinner somewhere in there. Bags were provided in every elevator bank for those who needed to use one. People slept in the atrium that night for more air and space (I am also guessing those were the ones in very forward or aft rooms too). It was impossible to walk straight even with the most effort. The ship made noises I had never knew a ship could make. Waves were reaching the drenching my 9th floor balcony. Captain Gustavsen made an announcement explaining to us that the clangs and rumbles had to do with the waves and the swells hitting the ship at the same time. He explained that waves come in sevens and the seventh wave is always the biggest. He also reassured everyone numerous times explaining that the Gem was made to withstand even harsher seas and we were in no danger at all. (good thing because I surely don't see how any lifeboat would do you well in these seas). For a visual, I felt I spent the night on the top row of the pirate ship ride at the local carnival.

 

We made it through the night and by early afternoon Sunday things calmed down significantly and we all enjoyed our last night of the cruise.

 

A few final thoughts:

-The Casino staff - I love playing blackjack and gambling in the casino but there is something about gambling on a cruise ship that makes it like an entirely new activity. You get to know the dealers, the supervisors, and all the table players. They're all your friends and family for the week, you learn a lot about each other, and you look forward to the hours you will spend. This couldn't be more true on this ship. I always enjoy getting to know casino staff but this staff in particular is in another league. They were outstanding in every way: so kind, patient, friendly, caring, knowledgeable, sharing, and fun. You chose to sit at certain tables based on who was there at that time. You joked around and talked about home life. I never had a more pleasant time losing money. I also applaud them for working three full sea days in a row and never missing a beat. Money well spent in my opinion. I did manage to wrack up my 1500 points, which, thanks to the extra day I was able to enjoy fully. I also have to mention a certain bar waiter, Rohit, who everyone just loved. He was the sweetest, most genuine and hardworking bar waiter I have ever met on any ship. People called for him specifically, got to know him and he never disappointed. I wish there was more I could do except write a STYLE card for him and mention him in my online survey. This man needs to be recognized for outstanding work. If you are on the Gem soon, please find Rohit and just get to know him. You won't be disappointed.

 

Lastly, I want to talk a bit more about Sinan the Cruise Director and Captain Gustavsen again.

 

Sinan was hands down the best CD I have ever cruised with. He is funny, smart, knowledgeable, and someone who just engages you constantly. He never had that fake air about him that I see many other CDs have. He is real. I am so glad NCL was able to get him from RCCL. This is the first time I can say this as I never really judge a cruise bu its CD, but I would definitely book a cruise again knowing that he was on it.

 

Captain Gustavsen matches Captain Rune Loekling of RCCL fame as best Captain I have sailed with. Not only did he do his job by doing what's best for his ship, but he did so in the most professional and caring way. He didn't just tell us fact but he gave reasons and explanations. He made us knowledgeable passengers, knowing that details would make us feel at ease. He was present, available, and calming. He so much as joined the Lido band in song on the final sea day to much applause by the passengers to show that this week was about fun and relaxation. I have nothing but respect for this man and thank him time and time again for his hard work this week.

 

So as you can see, except the minor issues with the dining organization, I have nothing but the BEST things to say about this ship and cruise and for those reasons would sail with NCL again without thought. I was very very impressed by this cruise experience and I did doubt it to begin with.

 

Please ask me any questions you may have. I will be happy and even look forward to answering them.

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www3traveler Holiday Sharing Rare

www3traveler

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A VERY long review - but I get more space since I have an extra day to talk about ;)

 

Where is the best place to go to miss an earthquake and hurricane all in one week? The Norwegian Gem.

 

I had the pleasure of spending 8 wonderful nights aboard the Norwegian Gem, which, in my opinion, was spent with the most spectacular crew of any ship I've ever been on. And that's no empty statement as the crew continuously showed how professional, caring, and in control they were.

 

If I had to complain about any person employed by NCL it would have to be those at embarkation. Embarkation was a breeze - arrived to the port at 11:45 and was on board by 12:45 with our rooms already prepared. However, the staff off the ship herding everyone around was less than pleasant. I let that slide though, after all as how else are over 3,000 people supposed to get on a ship without feeling like part of a herd.

 

Once we were on the ship, we were all in good hands. Sail away wasn't the best weather. It down poured as soon as we passed Lady Liberty (at least everyone was able to get their pictures in before then).

 

My only complaint (and it's not big enough to ruin the experience by any means) this cruise comes right now: Freestyle Dining. I went into this cruise expecting bland food in the main dining rooms. I was pleasantly surprised that the food was on average better than I expected. The problem, however, came with the waits. Night one, we waited two hours to eat, which we didn't anticipate. We (party of 4) tried making a reservation but were told only parties of 6 or more could do so. We went down to eat when we were hungry so by the time our buzzer buzzed, we were ready to eat the children in the Tree Top Club. We eventually got the system down that I (the guy) would shower and get ready, grab a buzzer with the average wait time of an hour and then go try my luck in the casino while the 3 girls took their time getting ready. So eventually we got to eat when we wanted but I still prefer having the same table with the same waiter. I hope NCL implements this option for those who like it - if their motto is Freestyle Cruising meaning I eat my way, I choose this way.

 

Sea Days 1 and 2

The first sea day was very cloudy and chilly. We laid out on the deck (very easy to find a chair but that may have been because of the weather). Around noon it started to rain so we went inside. Sinan had plenty of activities planned, more than I've seen on any cruise newsletter so we were never left without anything to do (and if nothing interested us, there was always the most friendly casino on the high seas).

 

The second sea day was beautiful. We found some comfortable chairs at the adult Quiet Zone after enjoying the reggae music by the main pool and just relaxed - typical cruising. This day was marked by no schedule at all, just laid back and when I wanted to do something else I looked at my Freestyle Daily and picked a new place to go. After some bingo, trivia, more casino we were off to dinner and The Second City. I'd say the show was funny, most of their stuff generated laughter but a lot fell flat. I enjoyed the sketches poking fun at the Gem and cruising more than the improv. The Second City cast (as well as funny comedian Jeff Harms) became mini celebrities on the ship as they were part of many activities and helped Sinan out when he had to rearrange and create an entire new sea day's worth of activities.

 

Bermuda Day 1

Bought our transportation passes (3 day pass even though it turns out we wouldn't need the third day) and headed to Horseshoe Bay Beach. Wow, this has to be the most beautiful beach I have ever been to. The cleanest sand I have ever seen, and, even with the sun beaming down so much your face burned immediately upon laying on your towel and looking up, the sand remained a cool temperature easy to walk on. The water was a perfect blue color and cool temperature, and the waves were a perfectly fun size.

 

Upon our arrival back from the beach, we heard that Captain Gustavsen had made an announcement that afternoon that we would leave Bermuda Thursday at 6pm, a day early, to speed back to New York in order to make it back to the port before it was closed due to Hurricane Irene. At that time, she was scheduled to hit Sunday mid afternoon so the plan was to dock in New York Saturday night and spend the last night in Manhattan before getting off early Sunday. Although upset to be missing a day in Bermuda, a majority of the ship seemed to understand. Everyone was given the option to cancel or reschedule any shore excursions made for Thursday. We also learned that the Celebrity Summit and Veendam would be leaving early as well.

 

Bermuda Day 2

Because of the change in itinerary, we decided to visit the Crystal Caves on Day 2, which was enough to do and still get back after some shopping before the ship left at 6. We, unfortunately, didn't make it to St. Georges but I guess that is a good excuse to go back :)

 

Sea Days 3, 4, and 5... yes, 5.

Okay, now to the part you're all itching to read (or maybe it's just me itching as I have started to peel and am very uncomfortable). Friday started out as a typical sea day - it was cloudy but that didn't stop me from burning (how is it that I managed to prevent a tan completely the first 4 days but the one day it was cloudy EVEN WITH SUNSCREEN I burn to a crisp?).

 

Around noon Captain Gustavsen announced that Hurricane Irene was changing paths a bit and speeds and going to have a direct hit on New York. He was waiting to hear from the New York Port Authority and US Coast Guard to make a final decision about our ship's path. He told us that the Veendam, which had past us, was going to get Saturday early but because the Carnival Glory was in our "parking spot" we would be unable to do that. He told us we had slowed down (after spending the previous night full speed ahead, we already around the Virginia/Maryland border) so that we would be a distance where we could alter our course appropriate to the information the Captain would soon receive. Our two options: be given clearance to get back early or be forced to circle the Atlantic for 3 days arriving back Monday morning.

 

Two hours later, the Captain came on saying that the New York ports were closing Saturday afternoon and we would have to spend Saturday and Sunday at a safe distance from the storm on the sea. Captain Gustavsen apologized but explained all the reasons for it. He asked that all passengers refrain from pestering the front desk staff about the inconvenience as they had no more information than we did. He asked that he be the whipping post for all complaints and made himself and his immediate staff available for questions. I specifically saw the Captain walking around the atrium many times throughout the next few days. Additionally, Sinan hosted a Q&A session on the Saturday sea day, which was both fun and informative. The Captain also requested that we write him letters if we couldn't address him in person and he would do what he could to respond. From what I heard around the ship, he did. Lastly, all passengers (or cabins?) were given a complimentary 10 minute phone call or 10 minutes of internet use to notify home and/or rearrange travel plans. All emergency contacts were also notified by NCL.

 

After the immediate chaos, things calmed down and everything went back to the norm - vacation. The only thing that changed was we were now on an 8 night cruise and not a 7. People seemed to enjoy themselves and no one seemed too upset that we now had 5 sea days and 2 port days. Nor did people seem too upset to learn that at last minute, the Celebrity ship stayed in Bermuda the third day also getting back late. There was an understanding that the Captain was acting with the information he had and was doing his best to accommodate everyone (even trying to include those on the next sailing. Irene just didn't want to cooperate).

 

As I said, Sinan and his staff was fantastic and didn't miss a beat. All of the following 3 sea days was packed with activities for everyone. You would never have known that one sea day wasn't meant to happen. Comedian Jeff Harms, The Second City troupe, Man from Mars (cirque-like magic show), and the Gem Dancers all participated in providing endless evening entertainment. I do think towards the end, the acts got old but they did try to put new spins on them all.

 

Now, I said the only difference on this trip was that it was an 8 night cruise and not a 7. I lied. I should also mention the motion and the waves that lasted all day Saturday into Sunday. After being on many cruises, I can say I never felt scared or in danger but I can say it was the most uncomfortable night I spent on the water. I myself didn't get seasick (thanks to ginger ale and proper nourishment) but unfortunately I can't say the same for many others on the ship. Every public restroom I walked past had last night's dinner somewhere in there. Bags were provided in every elevator bank for those who needed to use one. People slept in the atrium that night for more air and space (I am also guessing those were the ones in very forward or aft rooms too). It was impossible to walk straight even with the most effort. The ship made noises I had never knew a ship could make. Waves were reaching the drenching my 9th floor balcony. Captain Gustavsen made an announcement explaining to us that the clangs and rumbles had to do with the waves and the swells hitting the ship at the same time. He explained that waves come in sevens and the seventh wave is always the biggest. He also reassured everyone numerous times explaining that the Gem was made to withstand even harsher seas and we were in no danger at all. (good thing because I surely don't see how any lifeboat would do you well in these seas). For a visual, I felt I spent the night on the top row of the pirate ship ride at the local carnival.

 

We made it through the night and by early afternoon Sunday things calmed down significantly and we all enjoyed our last night of the cruise.

 

A few final thoughts:

-The Casino staff - I love playing blackjack and gambling in the casino but there is something about gambling on a cruise ship that makes it like an entirely new activity. You get to know the dealers, the supervisors, and all the table players. They're all your friends and family for the week, you learn a lot about each other, and you look forward to the hours you will spend. This couldn't be more true on this ship. I always enjoy getting to know casino staff but this staff in particular is in another league. They were outstanding in every way: so kind, patient, friendly, caring, knowledgeable, sharing, and fun. You chose to sit at certain tables based on who was there at that time. You joked around and talked about home life. I never had a more pleasant time losing money. I also applaud them for working three full sea days in a row and never missing a beat. Money well spent in my opinion. I did manage to wrack up my 1500 points, which, thanks to the extra day I was able to enjoy fully. I also have to mention a certain bar waiter, Rohit, who everyone just loved. He was the sweetest, most genuine and hardworking bar waiter I have ever met on any ship. People called for him specifically, got to know him and he never disappointed. I wish there was more I could do except write a STYLE card for him and mention him in my online survey. This man needs to be recognized for outstanding work. If you are on the Gem soon, please find Rohit and just get to know him. You won't be disappointed.

 

Lastly, I want to talk a bit more about Sinan the Cruise Director and Captain Gustavsen again.

 

Sinan was hands down the best CD I have ever cruised with. He is funny, smart, knowledgeable, and someone who just engages you constantly. He never had that fake air about him that I see many other CDs have. He is real. I am so glad NCL was able to get him from RCCL. This is the first time I can say this as I never really judge a cruise bu its CD, but I would definitely book a cruise again knowing that he was on it.

 

Captain Gustavsen matches Captain Rune Loekling of RCCL fame as best Captain I have sailed with. Not only did he do his job by doing what's best for his ship, but he did so in the most professional and caring way. He didn't just tell us fact but he gave reasons and explanations. He made us knowledgeable passengers, knowing that details would make us feel at ease. He was present, available, and calming. He so much as joined the Lido band in song on the final sea day to much applause by the passengers to show that this week was about fun and relaxation. I have nothing but respect for this man and thank him time and time again for his hard work this week.

 

So as you can see, except the minor issues with the dining organization, I have nothing but the BEST things to say about this ship and cruise and for those reasons would sail with NCL again without thought. I was very very impressed by this cruise experience and I did doubt it to begin with.

 

Please ask me any questions you may have. I will be happy and even look forward to answering them.

A voice from the West Coast. I have several friends on The Gem as Staff Officers and was praying for you every day. I have sailed with Captain Gustavsen on The Gem (over Super Bowl weekend) this past February. I am glad that you made it home safely. Speaking of home safely, did your home sustain any damage? Mandy

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mccoy132

mccoy132

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Thanks Alegeeter for posting a detailed review of the cruise, especially related to Irene's effects on the cruise. I was on the Gem twice, most recently a couple of weeks ago so I was thinking about what was going on to everyone on the ship. It was good to get a report from an eyewitness. It looks like everyone made the best of a difficult situation.

 

I know what you mean about Captain Gustavsen and Sinan. They were both very accessible during our recent cruise. They were both at the regularly scheduled Q&A discussing the operations of a cruise ship and gave good understandable (to laymen) answers to questions from the passengers. The Captain also sang and played the bass guitar at the reception for Latitudes members. That was the first time I saw the Captain sing.

 

Thanks again.

Peter

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McDebbie

McDebbie

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Nice review, glad you had a great time despite everything. One question, were most of the passengers from the local area or where there lots of travel rearrangements that had to be made and did NCL assist with those?

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Alegeeter

Alegeeter

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@ww3traveler - no damage done to my home in New York, thank you for asking. I live in Downtown Brooklyn and when we got home you never would have guessed a storm passed through. From what I heard from neighbors, we didn't get hit very hard at all. I actually live in Boston now (family I cruised with still lives in NY) and it seems that we got hit harder here. Many people still without power. I am fortunate though and my apartment didn't lose it at all (says the clock that isn't blinking 12:00 repeatedly).

 

@janetz - The caves were beautifully stunning. It is a fairly long bus ride to and from the caves for only about a half hour spent inside them. With only two days in Bermuda, I'm not sure I would opt to do it again as it took a lot of time to access (about an hour each way). But again, I didn't get to do all I wanted so I definitely want a return visit in the future.

 

@McDebbie - From what I gathered around the ship, a majority were from the tristate area. There was a large group from Maryland as part of a group cruise through Aflac (salespeople who earned enough commission to go on the cruise). There was obviously a large number who flew in across the country (and world). I don't think NCL would have helped with travel arrangements unless you booked travel through them but as I said everyone got some free phone/internet time. I'm not sure what happened to those who needed more time to call loved ones or make other plans.

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jimswims

jimswims

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Thank you for the review and account of your experience on the Gem. I agree with your assessment of Sinan and the Captain. We were on the Gem 8/7 so our cruise was only 7 days! I am glad you enjoyed yourself and that all was well when you arrived home to MA.

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cv322

cv322

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We were worried about you all week! :eek: !

 

Thanks for the fabulous review & I'm so happy you had a great time. We're on the Gem this Sunday...and now the chat is all about Katia, darn it.

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JessLCH

JessLCH

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Did you get charged the $12 service charge for the extra day?

 

Good question! We were on this cruise also. Just checked my statement and no, they did not charge the service charge for the extra day--- only 7 days worth of service charges on my bill.

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Turtles06 Great Review Rare

Turtles06

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Thanks for the great review. Glad you were all safe and sound and made the best of the changing situation.

 

We'll be on this cruise in late Oct. I was disappointed to read on another thread that Sinan will be on vacation then. He was the Ass't CD last Oct. when we were on the Jewel; I thought he was great and I was really looking forward to a cruise with him as the CD (your review confirms my thoughts about him in that capacity). Oh well, I guess we'll just have to take yet another cruise! :)

 

P.S. We've never had any problems being able to eat in the MDRs on NCL ships within a reasonable time after we show up. I hope this was just something aberrational on your cruise (and sorry you had that experience).

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spacewoman

spacewoman

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We had Sinan on the Jewel last September. I'm glad he got a promotion!!

 

Wow - waves up to the 9th deck - whew! Been on a few rocky cruises but don't remember waves that high. That said - we took a pounding up here in Orange County, upstate and Vermont worse. I cannot imagine in my worst nightmare being on a cruise ship exposed to 80 mile an hour winds and the like:eek: Be happy you all were away from this mess.

 

Glad you had such a wonderful time. Make sure you write a letter to NCL about the employees who took such wonderful care of you. I was told several years ago by one of our CCL bartenders that letters from passengers are a big plus when it comes to promotion time. I'd assume this to be the case with NCL as well. I made sure I wrote about all the fine people who took care of us last year.

 

Welcome Home!

 

Kathy

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dalgirl

dalgirl

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Thank you for the detailed account - our thoughts were with all the ships at sea. The GEM is a wonderful ship with a wonderful crew - you were in good hands.

 

Our first cruise with NCL was on the Dawn and we tangled with a tropical storm that opened drawers in the cabins, tossed the ship high and low, and made walking in the corridors a new challenge - PA "codes" were constantly being called for injuries, etc. - very tense moments. The cabin came on the PA and did a wonderful job of explaining what was going on, telling us the sad news that we would miss a port, but that all excursions and port charges would be returned and that we would have extra time in the BVI. He eased our fears with his confidence and calming words. He ended his first announcement by offering free Mimosas in the bar:) We were out of the storms effects when he promised and it was smooth sailing from there. We have been NCL fans since then. Cruising with no emergencies can make you forget the diligence and seriousness that these fine officers and crew bring to their jobs every day. Glad your trip ended safely and happily.

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