Just returned from the 7/16 Jewel cruise. I went with my 4 adult children (a 60th birthday present). We were all first-timers. Also with us was my sister and brother-in-law who are cruise veterans. We relied on their experience to make our trip more informed.

Since this is my first cruise, I really didn't know what to expect outside the fact was there was going to be food everywhere, anytime. It is very intersting reading all the previous reviews. Two separate groups, same cruise, same relative accommodations, with one giving 5 stars and the best food and time ever, and the next review from a group having the worst food, service, etc. and vowing never to return. I think it's fair to say the harshest critics seem to be those more experienced cruisers who have been on many of the higher-end lines. Comparing NCL with some of these lines may not be fair.

Embarkation was easier than I thought, on the ship at 12, rooms ready at 2, so we have a leisurely lunch in an empty Tzars. Read more