Norwegian Jade

The Norwegian Jade was the second of the Jewel class ships to be built. It was originally called the Pride of Hawaii and was used by the American division of Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL). Its name was changed in 2008 and it continues to fly under the US flag, with its port of registry in Honolulu.

Even before stepping on the Jade, passengers will be aware of the effort that has been put into creating a comfortable, modern and attractive ship. The vessel's exterior is painted in a bright white, and the hull is decorated with a swirling mural of jade that stretches along the front third of the ship - this gives just a taste of what's to be expected on the inside.

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The ship is based in Europe and offers popular itineraries around the Mediterranean, departing from Venice, Civitavecchia, Barcelona or Malaga and calling at destinations like Naples, Dubrovnik, Naples and Split. Voyages are also available to the Canaries.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 2,890
Year entered service: 2006
Beam (ship width): 105.6 feet
Draught (ship depth): 26.9 feet
Length: 964.8 feet
Tonnage: 93,558
Crew: 1,000
Maximum speed: 24.6 knots
Number of passenger decks: 12
Number of lifts: 12
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 1,233

Food, cuisine and dining

The two main dining rooms are the Grand Pacific and Alizar, both of which offer three meals a day, all with open seating and delicious cuisine. The Alizar is a more modern setting with brightly coloured decor and contemporary furnishings. Meanwhile, the Grand Pacific is more traditional, with an interior inspired by the great ocean liners of the 1920s and 1930s.

One of the most popular aspects of NCL cruises is the company's Freestyle cruise concept - this gives passengers complete freedom over their own schedules and is especially appreciated when it comes to dining.

With Freestyle Dining, there are no set meal times to be found anywhere on the vessel and guests can choose where they eat and with whom, making the whole experience more like going out to eat at a restaurant, rather than heading off to the cafeteria.

As well as the various no-fee restaurants and buffets, passengers can opt for a more intimate and meal in one of the many specialty restaurants.

For example, there's Cagney's Steakhouse, an elegant eatery with a vintage decor. It serves a delicious selection of steaks and seafood, with every item expertly prepared with all the trimmings.

There's also Jasmine Garden, which serves an eclectic selection of pan-Asian cuisine. Or if you're looking for some fine French fare, head to Le Bistro.

If you're looking for something else, there's also:
• Blue Lagoon
• Carden Cafe
• The Great Outdoors
• Papa's Italian Kitchen
• Sushi Bar
• Paniolo Tapas
• Teppanyaki

And if you don't feel like leaving your room, room service is available 24 hours a day, with a number of complimentary and for-charge options. Alternatively, pizza delivery can be provided at any time for a small fee.

On-board entertainment and activities

The Stardust Theatre is the main entertainment venue on the Jade and it plays host to Vegas-style shows on most evenings, as well as reviews and cabaret productions. There are two shows every night, with the later one usually being a bit less crowded.

Of course, live music can be found elsewhere on the vessel - the various bars and clubs often have jazz musicians or pianists to set the mood, while others have full-on bands and dance floors - perfect for passengers who want to strut their stuff.

Other options include casinos, shopping and enrichment programmes, while there's also a kids' club and babysitting facilities on port days.

Spas and fitness facilities

To really work out all your stress on your cruise, a trip to the Yin & Yang health spa is a great choice. In this peaceful setting, you'll find a large thermal suite and treatment rooms where you can enjoy a massage, facial, pedicure or a number of other indulgences.

Meanwhile, the Body Waves fitness centre has plenty of exercise machines, or you could get your blood pumping with a swim, a game of tennis or some time on the jogging track.

Cabins

The Norwegian Jade has more than 1,200 rooms, meaning that there's an accommodation option for every budget - from those who want to splash out on the best suites, to those looking for great cruise deals.

The most luxurious cabins are the Garden Villas. These feature a rooftop terrace with a private garden furnished with sun loungers and an outdoor dining area, as well as a hot tub. There are three separate bedrooms - the main one has a king size bed and an en-suite bathroom. There's also a separate dining area and a built-in entertainment systems have BOSE surround-sound speakers.

Other options include Owners' suites and Courtyard Villas. All suites come with complimentary concierge service and a mini-bar stocked with soft drinks and bottled water. Instead of a standard coffee station, you'll enjoy an espresso machine and guests will appreciate the fine soaps and shampoos provided in the bathrooms.

Alternatively, more basic accommodation includes Oceanview staterooms and interior cabins. Whichever option you choose, your cabin will include a comfortable bed, private bathroom, flat-screen television and a desk/vanity unit.