Tell me about NCL

[mskitty]

Hi all

We (I) have seen what appears to be a good deal on the Norwegian Gem for summer 2022. It looks like our kind of ship (not too big, plenty of deck space to sit and watch the sea go by, lots for the kids to do)

What else do I need to know? How formal is it for example?

[mickeyspal]

Its 8 years since we went with them so it may have changed but we had a great time, it's not at all formal, smart casual at best but some people didnt even do that and stayed really casual.
One thing though, if you arent a smoker , the casino was a smoking area and you had to walk through to get from the theatres to the dining room, so unless that's changed then it's a bit unpleasant. They have some great offers on sometimes. If you want a bit more formal then try celebrity cruises, or very formal try cunard , although neither of those are great for kids

[mskitty]

Thank you so much. Definitely prefer the less formal cruises although still like an excuse to put on my best dress it's good to know that shirt and tie wouldn't be expected every night.

[mskitty]

How does it work with gratuities? I know you can pre pay...does that then mean you don't get charged them on top of your bar bill?

[gismo1554]

Originally Posted by mskitty

How does it work with gratuities? I know you can pre pay...does that then mean you don't get charged them on top of your bar bill?

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Gratuities on most cruise lines refers to your room host and servers in restaurants not bar staff. These get added on in addition charged at a set %. I haven't sailed NCL to know for sure but I assume it would be the same

[KarenG]

Originally Posted by mskitty

How does it work with gratuities? I know you can pre pay...does that then mean you don't get charged them on top of your bar bill?

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Gratuities for bar bills are included if you get the free drinks package (which seems to come almost as standard now).

We have done a few NCL cruises now and absolutely love the relaxed vibe. The staff are always fabulous too

[mskitty]

Thanks for the advice all. We've taken the plunge and booked! So excited. We have the longest countdown but so excited.

[mskitty]

Just to add we've decided on a 10 night cruise on the Escape instead of 7 nights on the Gem as we wanted to be away for longer. It takes us totally out of our comfort zone being on such a monster of a ship but it looks amazing.

[Willeve]

We went on the Norwegian Jade a few years ago, loved it. There was another buffet(smaller) at the back of the ship with just outdoor seating, our fave place. The bathroom(standard cabin) was the most impressive bathroom we’ve had in our(limited)cruise experience, really good use of space. Would happily cruise with them again.

[christybell]

Originally Posted by mskitty

Just to add we've decided on a 10 night cruise on the Escape instead of 7 nights on the Gem as we wanted to be away for longer. It takes us totally out of our comfort zone being on such a monster of a ship but it looks amazing.

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Great choice! Been on Escape twice and love her (and the laid back NCL)