The Norwegian Gem

May 2010

The Norwegian Gem is very similar to the AidaLuna I was on in December 2009, both having come out of the same shipyard. But in many ways we noticed more of the "American" influence.... very colorful, very "theatrical", and very LOUD! There was always a constant noise of voices or music that at times was quite disturbing. And the shows in the (closed) theater was also so loud that we almost didn't enjoy attending it. Even in the main restaurants there was a constant volumn of voices and hectic. But the ship was completely booked so this was no real wonder.

But we found our own little quiet corners to relax in. On three nights we went to one of the more relaxing restaurants to enjoy our meal in a less hectic seeming atmosphere.

On the last day of the trip we found out there was a place to see the bridge of the ship, which reminded me more of a airport control tower then a ship's bridge! AND, I met the captain!

And here are the pictures of the bridge. Sorry, but sometimes I couldn't influence where the sun was shining....

The MSC Magnifica in the background

The Aegian Sea through out stateroom window

on the last day we had "rough" waters (as seen from our cabin window). Really, these were the highest waves we had the whole trip!

Not only the captain, but we met other interesting people on board. Some were performers, others part of the crew. We also had nice chats with some of the other passengers, but no new friendships developed.

This young man is from India and was Kornelia's dance partner at one of the "pool parties"

with Captain Nemo

Entertainment

I must admit that the shows on the AIDA in December were much better and seemed more professional. The American influence couldn't be ignored on the NCL, unfortunately.... too many loud games (Bingo, Trivia) and at the theater musical performances the volume was also much too loud.

But we there was one young man who made up for it. Randon from the Philippines performed ballads by Simon & Garfunkel, Gordon Lightfoot, and his best were songs by Neil Diamond.... he even sounded like Neil! Kornelia made sure we didn't miss too many of his performances which were in the one or the other bar area.