We just returned from two weeks aboard the Jade. We were lucky enough to sail in a Garden Villa (14500) and while sailing in the Garden Villa no doubt increased our love of this vacation, I did sail on the Jade last year for two weeks in an ocean view stateroom with just my kids and had almost as much fun. Last year it was with two daughters and we loved every minute of this itinerary. I wanted to return with just my husband and so booked for our anniversary. This year Kusadasi was replaced with an extra stop in Santorini. The Kusadasi port was missed and the replacement Santorini day was overrun with several other ships in port while we were there.

NCL does the suite life better than anyone and our two weeks onboard the Jade went way too fast. I understand the Jade is going into a pretty extensive dry dock soon and assume things such as carpeting and furnishings will be replaced. The master bed was the best sleep we’ve ever had and the pillows were the best as well. It’s been difficult adjusting to our bed back home, which prior to the cruise I thought was a great bed and pillows. We never utilized the Haven courtyard much but it appeared well stocked with juices, morning coffee, and Danish. Our room was well stocked too and our butler delivered a daily variety of savory and sweets that seemed always just what we wanted. He also kept us stocked in peanut m&m's. It was initially a little awkward with just the two of us in the GV as I think the butler and steward were accustomed to much more activity with an occupancy probably much higher than two but we got things figured out and ended up using the deck and outdoor area, hot tub for sail away, and loved coming back to the ship’s comforts and our room after long hot days in ports.

We didn’t see much of the theater showings. Saw one elements show but typically retired to the villa which felt like a ship within even the Haven area. I noticed this year that the variety of music was much better. They had several acts and a few guys singing solo with guitar in the various public areas. They were incredible and appreciated. Read more