There are simply too many places to mention when it comes to the Big Apple but highlights have to be: the Statue of liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, the Natural History Museum and the Met art museum- not to mention all the cool sights of downtown Brooklyn, swanky Manhattan and the classic skyline from Rhode Island. New York is a bucket-list destination that just cannot be missed.
Things to do in New York:
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is an essential part of any trip to New York, providing fascinating insights into the history of this vibrant city. Given to the US from France in 1886, Lady Liberty is situated on Liberty Island, a short and scenic ferry ride from Battery Park, New York.
Central Park
Located in Manhattan, New York, Central Park is a classic part of the city’s history after first being approved in 1853. There’s no shortage of sightseeing and events to do all the family will love, from Central Park Zoo to the Alice in Wonderland sculpture.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center has a plethora of attractions and events to discover that will suit all ages. Explore NBC Studios where entertainment and news come together and soak up the fantastic performances of The Music Hall featuring The Radio City Rockettes.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
As the third most visited art museum in the world, the Met is a must for lovers of art, history and culture. Featuring works from early Europe, ancient Egypt and modern art, this museum also contains vast collections of clothing and weaponry.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a quintessential landmark of New York City and provides an immersive insight into the history of this stunning building. Visitors can marvel at the views from the observation deck, before enjoying exhibits, shopping and dining.
Times Square
Renovated in 2016, what began as a small square in the 1880s has flourished into an iconic tourist destination filled with fantastic eateries, dazzling musical theatre and designer shopping, not to mention the famous advertising board.
Brooklyn Bridge
As the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge is a fantastic feat of the hard-work carried out in the late 1880s. A walk along this bridge takes approximately 25 minutes and is particularly stunning at sunset and sunrise.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
After first opening its doors in 1879, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral sees over five million visitors each year. The classic Gothic architecture is truly magnificent and features an organ with 9,000 pipes, over 4,000 stained-glass panels and beautiful sculptures.
Fifth Avenue
Located in Manhattan, Fifth Avenue boasts Museum Mile where visitors find the African Art Museum, Guggenheim Museum, the Met and more, while other landmarks include the Empire State building, the Rockefeller Observation Deck and Flatiron Building.
National September 11 Memorial and Museum
Located at the World Trade Centre site, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum commemorates the lives lost during the terrorist attacks in 1993 and 2001. The memorial consists of two reflecting pools, while the museum offers tours, exhibitions and multimedia displays.
New York Public Library
With nearly 6 million items (including books, e-books, audiobooks, music and films), the New York Public Library has no shortage of fascinating materials to discover. The main branch itself in Manhattan is a stunning New York landmark and a perfect photo opportunity.
Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes are an area of tranquil natural beauty famous for its vineyards and being the home of prestigious Cornell University. The eleven lakes which bear this region’s name present fantastic hiking locations in pleasant weather regularly throughout the year.
Grand Turk
DAY 408 Apr 2023
Time at Port: from 10 AM to 5 PM
Margaritaville is ideal for those wanting to socialise with plenty of bars and beaches, pools and amusements. Otherwise head over to the beach where you can relax on the warm, pristine sands and snorkel in the nearby reefs. For those wanting to venture further out from the cruise port, head to the Turks and Caicos National Museum to learn all about this gorgeous island, just a short taxi ride away along the west coast.
Things to do in Grand Turk:
Turks and Caicos National Museum
This museum holds exhibitions telling the story of the island from the historic Lucayan Culture up to the present day. A highlight has to be the Molasses Reef shipwreck from 1505, the oldest recorded shipwreck in the New World.
Pillory Beach
Enjoy a relaxing swim or snorkelling experience at the picturesque Pillory Beach. Aligned with picturesque resorts and casuarina trees, this glistening beach is a wonderful place to kick back and unwind during your day in Grand Turk.
Grand Turk Lighthouse
Standing at an impressive 60 feet tall, Grand Turk Lighthouse overlooks the beautiful North Creek. Built by Alexander Gordon, a prominent British architect in 1852, this historic lighthouse has been a significant attraction since its construction in the 19th century.
Puerto Plata
DAY 509 Apr 2023
Time at Port: from 10 AM to 5 PM
On the northern coast of the Dominican Republic sits Puerto Plata. A very picturesque region with superb beaches and spectacular mountains, it was the country's first major tourist destination. Its breathtaking, expansive scenery mixes the sea, mountains, verdant valleys, rivers, and several beaches with the sea. Cacao and coffee plants are grown there, and beneath the soil is said to be the purest amber on earth.
Things to do in Puerto Plata:
Cable Car
The only cable car in the Caribbean, the Puerto Plata cable car offers picturesque views out over the mountain. A wonderful experience to enjoy during your stop over in the city, there’s plenty of photo opportunities throughout the uphill journey.
Fortaleza de San Felipe
Built to protect Puerto Plata from pirates in the 16th century, the Fortaleza de San Felipe is a popular tourist attraction in the city. Considered a significant military structure, its construction ended in 1577. Years after it was built by the Spanish to defend the city, it was used as a prison to house the formidable dictator Trujillo.
Independence Park
In the centre of the town, Independence Park is a colonial central plaza. Located next to the San Felipe Cathedral, it features several statues and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
DAY 610 Apr 2023
Time at Port: from 12 PM to 7 PM
Charlotte Amalie is bursting with laid-back Caribbean charm. Visitors will find evidence of its Danish roots, such as the popular watchtower called Blackbeard’s Castle built in the 17th century. Here, you will walk up the hundred steps to the top for unrivalled views of the island and out to sea. Meanwhile, a short journey on the amazing Skyride Aerial Tram will provide unrivalled views of the stunning landscape.
Things to do in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas:
Skyride Aerial Tram
This cool cable car takes you all the way up from the bottom of the cruise terminal harbour area to Paradise Point for stunning views all the way up. At the top is a great restaurant and bar too to take in the sights in true paradise.
Blackbeard’s Castle
Originally called Skytsborg and constructed by Danish colonists for defence and a vantage point, this modern-day hotel also has entertaining guided tours to learn all about the history of Edward and his infamous band of marauding pirates.
Charlotte Amalie Overlook
A short drive away from the port, the Charlotte Amalie Overlook grants extraordinary views out towards the ocean. Although this isn’t within walking distance, the views that you get across the city is well worth the effort.
Philipsburg, St. Maarten
DAY 711 Apr 2023
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
The capital of the southern Dutch side of the Caribbean island of Saint Martin. A sun-filled paradise, Philipsburg is perfect for making the most of the golden sandy beaches and crystal blue sea. One quirk of the city is the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit - a must for any Star Wars fans!
Things to do in Philipsburg, St. Maarten:
Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit
This unexpected treasure in the Caribbean is an absolute must for movie fanatics and science-fiction enthusiasts. Showcasing the history of Nick Malley, who created Yoda from Star Wars, this museum boasts memorabilia from the franchise, such as scripts, storyboards and props.
Great Bay Beach
Enjoy a relaxing walk along Great Bay Beach - a popular attraction within the town, with beautiful white sand, a vibrant boardwalk and an array of ships, restaurants and more on its shore.
The Rusty Parrot
Feel transported back in time, to the time of the pirates at this fun attraction. From hearing true stories of pirates’ escapades to state-of-the-art multimedia displays, this family-friendly attraction is a unique experience in Phillipsburg.
New York
DAY 1115 Apr 2023
Time at Port: from 10 AM to 4 PM
There are simply too many places to mention when it comes to the Big Apple but highlights have to be: the Statue of liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, the Natural History Museum and the Met art museum- not to mention all the cool sights of downtown Brooklyn, swanky Manhattan and the classic skyline from Rhode Island. New York is a bucket-list destination that just cannot be missed.
Things to do in New York:
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is an essential part of any trip to New York, providing fascinating insights into the history of this vibrant city. Given to the US from France in 1886, Lady Liberty is situated on Liberty Island, a short and scenic ferry ride from Battery Park, New York.
Central Park
Located in Manhattan, New York, Central Park is a classic part of the city’s history after first being approved in 1853. There’s no shortage of sightseeing and events to do all the family will love, from Central Park Zoo to the Alice in Wonderland sculpture.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center has a plethora of attractions and events to discover that will suit all ages. Explore NBC Studios where entertainment and news come together and soak up the fantastic performances of The Music Hall featuring The Radio City Rockettes.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
As the third most visited art museum in the world, the Met is a must for lovers of art, history and culture. Featuring works from early Europe, ancient Egypt and modern art, this museum also contains vast collections of clothing and weaponry.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a quintessential landmark of New York City and provides an immersive insight into the history of this stunning building. Visitors can marvel at the views from the observation deck, before enjoying exhibits, shopping and dining.
Times Square
Renovated in 2016, what began as a small square in the 1880s has flourished into an iconic tourist destination filled with fantastic eateries, dazzling musical theatre and designer shopping, not to mention the famous advertising board.
Brooklyn Bridge
As the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge is a fantastic feat of the hard-work carried out in the late 1880s. A walk along this bridge takes approximately 25 minutes and is particularly stunning at sunset and sunrise.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
After first opening its doors in 1879, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral sees over five million visitors each year. The classic Gothic architecture is truly magnificent and features an organ with 9,000 pipes, over 4,000 stained-glass panels and beautiful sculptures.
Fifth Avenue
Located in Manhattan, Fifth Avenue boasts Museum Mile where visitors find the African Art Museum, Guggenheim Museum, the Met and more, while other landmarks include the Empire State building, the Rockefeller Observation Deck and Flatiron Building.
National September 11 Memorial and Museum
Located at the World Trade Centre site, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum commemorates the lives lost during the terrorist attacks in 1993 and 2001. The memorial consists of two reflecting pools, while the museum offers tours, exhibitions and multimedia displays.
New York Public Library
With nearly 6 million items (including books, e-books, audiobooks, music and films), the New York Public Library has no shortage of fascinating materials to discover. The main branch itself in Manhattan is a stunning New York landmark and a perfect photo opportunity.
Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes are an area of tranquil natural beauty famous for its vineyards and being the home of prestigious Cornell University. The eleven lakes which bear this region’s name present fantastic hiking locations in pleasant weather regularly throughout the year.
Flight departs
DAY 11
Customer reviews for Norwegian Gem
3.4
Based on 10 reviews
Cabin
3.4
Service
3.4
Excursions
3.4
Dining
3.4
Activities
3.4
Value for money
3.4
Entertainment
3.4
The ship was clean and comfortable but a bit cramped and noisy. The Stateroom was on the small size and very little room to get comfortable, furniture was badly laid out and for example, there was no bedside table on one side of the bed. The carpet fitted very badly around the room and very little desk space to do anything. Too stay less than 5 hours in Port on a number of occasions was totally unacceptable and managing embarkation and disembarkation at times were at best chaotic. The entertainment was not up to the required standard and the board games were quite often missing pieces. The Steam room was inefficient and was not switched on early enough for maximum efficiency However, I found the staff to be helpful and courteous and they should be congratulated for that.
Verified customer
1 cruise
21 Jan 2019
We did the 2 nights Niagara, 3 nights New York, 10 days cruising on the Gem in February. This was our first visit to North America and our first ever cruise (so cannot compare to other lines), and we had a great time, although wouldn't go to Niagara again now we have seen the falls. We stayed at the Sheraton, which, according to reviews, is just about the best mainstream hotel available and ate in the buffet restaurant (1 dinner & 2 breakfasts) - a bit pricey but good and with fantastic views. The area around the hotel is very tacky with amusement arcades etc and not to our liking. Included transfer to train station to catch the Amtrak to NYC was fine, luckily got there early as within 1/2 hour was absolutely packed with Brits doing the same itinerary. Yes, the train was slow (total journey around 11 hrs) but we didn't mind as seats were comfortable. Husband queued for 2 hrs for coffee but, as he said, he didn't have anything else to do! Took taxi from Penn station to our hotel - The Marcel at Gramercy, which was fine for us, although compact, with a view of the Empire State Building. Had great 2 full days in NY - did 9/11 museum, Top of the Rock, brunch at Grand Central etc. Thoroughly recommend Bluebell Cafe near hotel, especially Sunday brunch. Included transfer to Gem very disorganised, our 'private' car was booked for 11.30 but we didn't get one until about 1pm and then had to share it. The same happened with included transfer from Gem to JFK at the end of cruise. Anyway, on to the Gem. We loved it. Yes it is geared up for the American customer but there were quite a lot of Brits and other nationalities on board and, believe me, obnoxious and loud individuals come from a variety of countries including the UK. Luckily the ship is big enough to get away from them! We ate in the MDR most of the time and found the food and service very good. We had bought the 3 nights speciality dining package but really didn't think it worth it or necessary. Always good choice available in buffet, especially at breakfast time. The drinks package was included in the deal and it was great not having to worry about the final bill. Our balcony cabin was midships on Deck 9 and very comfortable, especially the bed. We took 3 excursions with NCL as rookie cruisers, which were a bit pricey but very enjoyable. We loved the musician Leo who played guitar and sang in the evenings but didn't go to entertainment in the theatre once, so can't comment. A great first cruise and we are definitely hooked, having booked another one, this time sailing from Southampton, within 2 weeks of our return!
Verified customer
1 cruise
18 Mar 2017
Just returned from a ten day Caribbean cruise on the Gem. A great cruise and a superb experience overall. Only criticism is that because NCL is American owned we had to pay gratuities on everything we bought from the bar (we didn't have full drinks package). I don't mind tipping people that I choose to tip but resent that it is compulsory.
Verified customer
1 cruise
19 Feb 2017
Just returned from 3days Niagara, 3 days New York. No complaints. Joined Gem for 10 days cruise. Ship was fine, cabin was very good. Food was geared mainly to Asian cuisine, rice and noodles, lentils and spicy foods, OK burgers and french fries always available. The Grand Pacific - service was appalling and food not up to usual cruise ship restaurant standard. Garden Cafe had a special Asian Night - no change there as the food was very repetitive and Asian based for 10 days. As a frequent cruiser, will not be joining this line again as my personal experience is better served with other lines.
Verified customer
1 cruise
5 Feb 2017
Alternative Cruises on [[Celebrity Millennium]]
Terms and Conditions
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
