Gem questions

We're going on the Gem late Oct. We haven't been on NCL for 10yrs. (Star) and loved the Specialty Restaurants. Back then some of them were free or very minimal charge. We never go in the Specialty ones on other cruises we've been on, but plan to this year.

My questions is, do reservations need to be made way ahead for them on the Gem? Is one harder to get in then the other and which ones? What's your favorite?

We're going on the Gem late Oct. We haven't been on NCL for 10yrs. (Star) and loved the Specialty Restaurants. Back then some of them were free or very minimal charge. We never go in the Specialty ones on other cruises we've been on, but plan to this year.

 

My questions is, do reservations need to be made way ahead for them on the Gem? Is one harder to get in then the other and which ones? What's your favorite?

We were on the Gem last year. The only specialty restaurant that was consistently filled to capacity was Teppenyaki. Personally, if you have a Benihana (or similar) restaurant that you frequent at home, I'd pass. Cagney's is excellent and Moderno is tops as well. The Asian was also very good, but next time we'll only order one entrée to split and several appetizers. Save room for the Crème Brule... and if it's not on your menu, ask the server to get one from LeBistro, or better yet... the Asian version. Most of the specialties will have times available for same day reservations... some you'll even be able to walk right in. Check out the video monitors throughout the ship with dining time updates.

For really special dining, try to score a seat at the Chef's Table. It's pricey, but IMHO worth every cent... fabulous experience.

We were on the Gem a few weeks ago and the previous poster is correct, the only restaurant that was consistently filled was Teppanyaki...it only has two tables. The others were fairly easy to get into. My favorite of the specialities remains Moderno but Cagneys was good too.

Thanks! I'm glad to know that I don't have to plan my meals ahead. We like to check out the MDR menu that day and if there's nothing that great we could go to one of the Specialty ones.

We have been on Gem several times and last 9 nighter in April we got reservations at Tappenyaki (for 6 people) and Cagney's quite easily once onboard. We do not book the restaurants before the cruise.

Have fun. Love the Gem!

Thanks! I'm glad to know that I don't have to plan my meals ahead. We like to check out the MDR menu that day and if there's nothing that great we could go to one of the Specialty ones.

That is the way to cruise and be relaxed. You will be just fine.

If you would like special different dining experience, sign up at the Guest Services Desk for an opportunity to dine with one of the Officers. There is no charge for this dinner. The last time I did an Officers' Dinner, my table was hosted by the ship's Safety Officer. Very interesting evening. Dress code is: resort casual.

The Gem is a wonderful ship with a wonderful staff. Please enjoy.

If you would like special different dining experience, sign up at the Guest Services Desk for an opportunity to dine with one of the Officers. There is no charge for this dinner. The last time I did an Officers' Dinner, my table was hosted by the ship's Safety Officer. Very interesting evening. Dress code is: resort casual.

 

The Gem is a wonderful ship with a wonderful staff. Please enjoy.

Wow! I never heard of that before! Once you sign up do they notify you about the time and can it be at any of the restaurants? It sounds like it would be something different and interesting. My dh and I usually dine alone, but we would gladly be open to do this!

I'm glad I asked the question! Great info from everyone!

Wow! I never heard of that before! Once you sign up do they notify you about the time and can it be at any of the restaurants? It sounds like it would be something different and interesting. My dh and I usually dine alone, but we would gladly be open to do this!

 

I'm glad I asked the question! Great info from everyone!

Yes, you will get a note in your cabin if you selected with the date, time, where to meet and which Officer will be hosting. Usually everyone gathers in one place and you will be escorted to dinner. It is a wonderful evening. I sign up for it every cruise and have never been disappointed (20 Norwegian cruises and counting). Some people are disappointed because they think this means dinner with the Captain and that is not what it means. I have had anyone from the Hotel Director to the Internet Manager.

We have signed up three times and were selected twice. Nice time, free wine! and good conversation. I had hoped for the F&B manager but once we were hosted by the Chief Engineer (or someone similar?) and once with the Sanitation Officer - learned all about their processes:eek:

This does sound like an interesting evening! It would break up our 11 day cruise evenings. I always find it interesting to talk and listen to how the ship works from any of the employees.