Articles

Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Newest Luxury Ship - “Jewel”
by Roy Witman © 2008

During a trip to Bremerhaven, Germany, in early June, I had the privilege of being one of the first to get a look at what would be christened the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) “Jewel.” This refined sister to the “Dawn” offers some truly spectacular advances over those that have come before. Her size and her complements were simply awesome.

As I strolled throughout the NCL “Jewel,” I was impressed by some of the subtle changes the designers made. For instance, the sports deck has been moved in order to buffer the noise from other areas of the ship. Three bars now comprise “Bar Central” with interconnecting martini and cocktail, champagne and wine, and whiskey and beer pubs. Each has its own theme and distinct personality, but offers easy access to the beverages of your choice.

Appropriately decked out in warm jewel tones, the Norwegian Cruise “Jewel” is unmistakably luxurious without feeling stuffy. The Atrium is vibrant and inviting and boasts a white grand piano as its centerpiece. The Internet café provides a quiet, state-of-the-art facility that allows business travelers to stay in contact or lets you check on family or pets back home. The Sapphire Pool and other public areas are also designed to accommodate an exciting adventure at sea for you and your family.

The 10 restaurants of the NCL “Jewel” each offer unique appeal in both décor and cuisine. From Asian to Italian to the popular landlubber's favorite, Cagney's Steakhouse, you'll find the food to be top notch. Buffets have also been redesigned with themed islands offering huge selections with shorter lines.

With increasing attention to family, Norwegian Cruise Line has included several family-friendly amenities onboard the “Jewel.” Interconnecting suites (in most categories) make family travel more comfortable. Plus the Splashdown Kid's Club, Sapphire Kid's Pool and Underground Teen Club offer activities kids will love and parents will approve of.

While the ship itself is truly amazing, the ports of call are not to be overlooked. The Norwegian Cruise “Jewel” will take you to some exceptional destinations you'll want to return to frequently.

European itineraries include historic journeys to the white cliffs of Dover (Outside the US and Canada); the lush, green hills of Ireland; snowcapped, Scandinavian landscapes; basking in the French Riviera or the architecture and ancient wonders of the Greek Isles or Italy.

But the NCL “Jewel” also ventures to exotic destinations including the Caribbean. Departing from her homeport of Miami, Florida, the “Jewel” will whisk you away to such popular, sunny ports as Great Stirrup Cay, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, San Juan, Antigua, St. Thomas and more.

Rather stay close to home? Itineraries along the Canadian and New England coast offer vibrant landscapes, breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks and more.

Truly an exceptional vessel, Norwegian Cruise Line has outdone themselves with “Jewel.” It delivers affordable luxury and intriguing ports while never losing sight of the needs of couples and families.

Read more about Norwegian Cruise Line.
Read more about NCL Freestyle Cruising.
Read more about Caribbean Cruises.

*We can't publicly discount NCL Cruises on our web site. Please call (800.803.7245) for the best price.