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Hi there, I am not too sure if I am too late but I thought I would give an opinion. I have been on Ocean Village 1 before around the Med and we have sailed with NCL now 4 times. NCL was definitely my preference. It was much more laid back, the food was to die for (Ocean village, the food was just ok) The cabins on Ocean village were slightly bigger than NCL Gem but I preferred the bathrooms on Gem as the shower area etc was bigger. With NCL being an American ship, its better value for money for drinks in the evening as the money is in Dollars. The only things euro is when you go onto land in the Med. If you like soft drinks through the day they also do a deal where you pay $50 and you have unlimited soft drinks for the whole week - which is also brilliant value. Im sure you will have an amazing holiday whatever you choose. Cruising definitely is the way to go! ClaireAnne McCormack Belfast, Northern Ireland

Thanks, we are also the kind of people who feel a little uncomfortable being pampered etc, strange I know but we are just happy to do what we feel comfortable. Another question though? Can anyone compare ocean village to the island escape? I don't think the escape is quite as nice but you do get an inclusive drinks package foc with them at the moment.

"The ocean village holiday is also slightly cheaper but not by much" - but that's just the ticket price. Add to the NCL ticket price, compulsory gratuities (hows that for grammar!) at about $80 pppw, (grats included in OV ticket price) and drinks prices on NCL approaching double OV's prices, and your cruise overall will cost substantially more with NCL. ..........Inclined to agree with Bill that NCL would be way way better for an on-board wedding, but I read you cruising AFTER your wedding. ..........Chris

Thanks guys, if I am honest I think that Ocean Village is better suited for us it's just that I like to get as much for my money as I can and the NCL ships do look alot newer but I think my partner would feel more confortable in her surroundings on the ocean village. I'm also concerned that my onboard spending my go to far on NCL because I like to have a drink in the evening.

I go along with Macro. But don't expect much privacy except in your cabin. And I would like to know a better place to have a meal on board any ship to celebrate your marriage than the James Martin Bistro!

We wre on NCL Jade in April and it is a BEAUTIFUL Ship. Not at all garish! It was our fourth time with NCL, so you can tell we love Cruising with them. They DO make you feel VERY special and their Celebration Packages are lovely. We had a lovely Ocean View Cabin. Very big, luxurious bed with top quality bed linen and a super mattress topper. Also lovely toiletries (Elemis) in the very well appointed bathroom. You won't feel out of place at all. Why on earth should you, wherever you go? Just go and have a fabulous trip Jacquie Drinks are expensive on all Ships, so just be aware. As are tips. The only difference is how they are taken.

I have been on both NCL and Ocean Village last year. I have now been on Ocean Village 3 times, NCL once. Enough said ! You will find it cheaper on OV because all tips are included (and that can add a lot to your holiday) the ship is in british pounds and with the current rate of exchange is by far the cheaper option and you dont have to pay any currency fees for the dollars on NCL. OV is NOT old and TACKY. the Jade was the tackiest ship I have ever been on in 12 years of cruising. The decor is terrible and the cabins small. OV has very large cabins and they are ALL large (180 sq.ft) minimum. Much better value. The restaurants for which you pay extra are much cheaper than NCL and the entertainment is younger and more 'funcky'. go for it !