Norwegian Gem is the latest NCL ship to offer Freestyle Cruising – a shorthand way to describe the line’s own-brand casual cruising.
There are no dress codes – jeans are even allowed in the dining rooms – or fixed times to eat. Instead, the ship has 10 restaurants and passengers simply book which they fancy that evening for a time that suits.
Key features of the ship are the 10-pin bowling alleys and glitzy Bliss Ultra Lounge, which has beds where couples and groups of friends can relax and watch the dance action.
Suitability
This is perfect for young families or groups of friends who want a holiday free from any hint of formality. The on-board atmosphere is very American and the service errs towards casual, in keeping with the Freestyle image.
There is a Kids’ Crew club for children aged two to 12, split into three groups. Junior sailors are aged two to five, First Mates and six to nine and Navigators are 10-12 years old.
There is also a Teens’ Crew club for the 13-17s, that lays on parties, discos, movies and games.
Hints & Tips
The popular restaurants fill up fast so passengers who want to dine in them need to forget being casual and plan ahead.
A fixed per person service charge is added to cruise accounts each day. This replaces the previous optional tipping system and cannot be changed. The service charge can be prepaid ahead of the cruise.
A fixed 18% service charge appears on the bill for all spa treatments. This goes to the therapist, but there is space to leave an additional tip if required.
Ship Info
Year Entered Service: 2007
Onboard Currency: USD
Nationality of Crew: Officers and crew are international.
Print Friendly
Email this Page
