Cruise - NCL Jade

davet82

I'm thinking of booking a cruise on the NCL Jade for next year, I'm wondering if anybody has been on this ship and what it is like ? I've been on cruise critic but its mostly american reviews, I would like a review from an Irish prespective

jhegarty

We did a 9 night on her two years ago. It's a great ship , would go again in a minute.

The best thing about NCL is that there is no formal dining. You can dress casually , and have a table just for your group. You don't have to dress up and share a table with strangers like most cruise lines.

Any specific questions ?

davet82

Thanks for the reply

I got a great deal on the cruise and flights but many of the negative reviews on cruise critic were about the hidden extras and being very expensive.

Did you feel you got value for money?

I am booking a 9 night too; a ballpark figure of what you spent would be great.

Alcohol prices, rip off?

Are the excursions worth paying for or best going it ‘alone’?

Surcharges?

I don’t mind splashing the cash but I hate being ripped off and I’d like to make sure I have enough money with me and not be caught short. Its my first time to do a cruise so not sure what to expect but the informal dining sounds more relaxed which is what I’d prefer.

Any other tips greatly appreciated

Thanks again

jhegarty

I got a great deal on the cruise and flights but many of the negative reviews on cruise critic were about the hidden extras and being very expensive.

Some people are never happy. Some of the cruise critic review make the best ships in the world sound like prison camps.

Best thing is to exclude the worst and best reviews. Then read what's left.

Did you feel you got value for money?

Compared to a hotel it's great value.

For 60 to 80 Euro per person , per night you will get a balcony cabin , all your meals , entertainment and transported around the med.

I am booking a 9 night too; a ballpark figure of what you spent would be great.

We paid about €700 per person for the cruise. But it's cheaper this year. You can get some dates in December to February for about €550 pp in a balcony.



Alcohol prices, rip off?

If you are used to American prices , then yes. If you are used to Irish prices then no. About the same as back home.


Are the excursions worth paying for or best going it ‘alone’?


In Europe go it alone. Just make sure you are back in time , they won't wait for you !

Surcharges?


Your standard tipping is $12 per day per person covers your room steward and waiters. This is the only extra money that obligatory.


I don’t mind splashing the cash but I hate being ripped off and I’d like to make sure I have enough money with me and not be caught short. Its my first time to do a cruise so not sure what to expect but the informal dining sounds more relaxed which is what I’d prefer.

Any other tips greatly appreciated

Thanks again

Join your roll call on Cruise Critic. Most people on there will have many cruises done , and be very helpful in your planning.

davet82

Big thanks for taking the time out to answer my questions; it’s been a great help. I’ve booked my cruise and looking forward to it now

Thanks again