NCL's newest ship

The inaugural sailing of NCL's newest ship, The Gem, was just that!!

We've just returned from the inaugural sailing of NCL's newest ship, The Gem-and what a gem she is! She sailed from Boston for 2 nights, departing during the snowstorm on Thursday the 13th.

We've never seen a pool deck covered with snow before, and it was so much fun watching crew members who'd never seen snow making snowballs and snow angels!

NCL has pioneered the "freestyle" cruising concept no fixed dining times; no fixed restaurant; no formal nights; they're motto is, "you're free to whatever". From the moment you board you're officially off the clock. In fact, the clocks onboard have signs under them that say "for crew use only".

The ship is ultra contemporary and ultra chic. Upon entering the lobby you'll see a giant LED screen where the Nintendo wii games being played by passengers are displayed. There are 11 bars and lounges to explore including the trendy Ultra Bliss lounge with it's deep couches and four poster beds for lounging, and a four lane mood-lit bowling alley, as well as our favorite pre dinner gathering spot - Shakers martini and cocktail bar with it's large screen behind the bar depicting James Bond inspired silhouettes.

Entertainment ranges from Broadway type shows, trivia contests, and the Second City comedy troupe. NCL is very family friendly offering a top notch kid's program for ages 2-17 and over 200 connecting staterooms as well. Accommodations onboard run from the usual inside, ocean view and balcony cabins, to numerous types of suites including the courtyard villas. These 2 bedroom suites connect to a private courtyard area with it's own pool, hot tub, gym equipment, steam room, Balinese style lounges, and private sundeck. These sell out very quickly so advance planning is highly recommended.

There are 12 restaurants onboard, some of which charge a surcharge. Those that do charge extra are the French Le Bistro, Cagney's Steakhouse, The Orchid Garden and Teppenyaki Room, and Sushi restaurant. Those included in your cruise cost are La Cucina (Italian), Tequila Latin/Tapas (which we ate at one night -it was fabulous), Blue Lagoon (open 24 hours), The Grand Pacific and Magenta dining rooms for a more traditional type of cruise dining experience, the Garden Caf for buffet service, and Topsiders Grill.

Add in the pools, waterslide, volleyball/basketball court, golf driving nets, casino, spa, exciting ports of call, and you've the combination for a great vacation. And for those of you that think cruising isn't for you, why not give the NCL freestyle concept a try?

The Cruise Store is open Monday Friday 9am-5pm, and Saturdays 9am-1pm. Contact one of our cruise and vacation specialists at 413-525-9001, email us at Anderson@cruisestore.com, or visit us at www.cruisestore.com. Bon Voyage!