Cruise liner a jewel, indeed

Well, after a couple of hours on board, I was hooked. This recently refurbished ship offered a wealth of attractions not least 16 restaurants (about half complimentary, the others falling into the specialty dining category), 15 bars and nightclubs and a 700-seat (approx) theatre known for its top quality shows such as Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots, and most recently the Australian hit musical, Velvet.

The popularity of holiday cruising has gone global in recent years but some folk still wonder if it’s for them. So, for those wanting a taste of shipboard life before getting their feet wet, HELEN PERRY provides a glimpse of two different cruise liners. In part one, this month, she shares her view of the Norwegian Jewel when it docked in Auckland recently.

Cruising, as many know, has become a must-have luxury holiday where new destinations, partying, relaxation, good food and entertainment are all laid on without any of the usual hassles associated with moving from one place to another.

So, what makes modern day cruising so popular? After many years of the jet-set preferring to fly from one destination to another, a new age of luxury cruising dawned. Now it is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry.

the Hawaiian Islands, Asia, and of course the Pacific are often filled within a couple of weeks of release dates. Then there are those massive 100-day cruises which take passengers from one side of the world to the other – ardent supporters return year after year.

Importantly, more and more ships are visiting New Zealand with 'around the coastline cruises' filled not only with visiting tourists but locals too. Last year more than 125 luxury cruise liners docked in Auckland. More than a few circumvented New Zealand and traversed Australian waters. Seasoned ‘seafarers’ will claim no other mode of travel is more suited to adventure of the less strenuous kind, or more richly endowed with romance, excitement and fascination – to them cruising is the very essence of a perfect, stressfree holiday

Now, I too have succumbed to the temptation of a luxury holiday in a foodies’ paradise, where the list of benefits are as long as my arm.

Booked on my first cruise later this year – Rome return, taking in the Greek Islands – I am excited but, because I am very much a landlubber, I’m a little apprehensive, too. Therefore, the chance to look over the Norwegian Jewel, and dine on board, was most welcome – a taste of things to come, perhaps.

Well, after a couple of hours on board, I was hooked. This recently refurbished ship offered a wealth of attractions not least 16 restaurants (about half complimentary, the others falling into the specialty dining category), 15 bars and nightclubs and a 700-seat (approx) theatre known for its top quality shows such as Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots, and most recently the Australian hit musical, Velvet.

Touring the facilities, several groups were reluctant to leave the Mandara Spa while more than a few had their eye on the casino. As a grandmother, I took note of amusements for children – a video arcade, games room and swimming pools to die for. All offered plenty to keep youngsters occupied.

In addition, the jogging track, basketball and tennis court plus fitness centre provide opportunities to stay in shape if the wealth of dining options threaten to increase the waistline.

stations where a hive of lunchtime activity, I caught sight of generous, casual meals I know two young boys would happily tuck into.

On the other hand, more mature guests might find themselves heading for specialty restaurants such as the Teppanyaki Room (one of the most popular options) La Cucina, for a taste of Italy or, perhaps, Le Bistro French Restaurant – the boullaibaisse sounded delicious.

But, of course, there were many more cafés and dining gems such as the Brazilian steakhouse or the buffet where talk of the seafood

selection had me salivating.

However, it was the accommodation that actually surprised me.

I expected to be wowed by The Haven suites – luxurious accommodation with a 24-hour butler and concierge service plus access to private sun deck, pool and Jacuzzi plus its own bar and restaurant. Guests in this area could also avail themselves of everything else on board. Naturally I was envious.

But those seeking less palatial surrounds would surely be impressed by the range of stateroom options. Even the most cost-effective were attractively furnished, entirely comfortable and put paid to my vision of cramped quarters sporting four bunks! I loved that a family of four or six could each have separate rooms.

But enough of my enthusing; the motive behind this visit was to allay my own worries about adapting to life shipboard life – all I can say is: definitely no worries now.

The space, the size, the facilities were so reassuring. Indeed, it made me eager to shout “Weigh anchor. Greece, here I come!”