Norwegian Jade, built from 67 blocks, is a sister ship to Norwegian Jewel, but with decor and features specific to the Hawaii cruises the ship operates until February 2008 as Pride of Hawaii. It will then undergo a small transformation (including the addition of a casino) to become Norwegian Jade, for cruising in Europe and the Carib­bean. The ship features a “pod” propulsion system. The interior decor is decidedly in keeping with Americana and the 50th state of Hawaii, and the interior colors are best described as “in your face bright.”

Norwegian Jade’s interior focal gathering place is “Bar Central” – three specialty bars (Magnum’s Champagne/ Wine Bar, Mixers’ Martini/ Cocktail Bar, and Tankard’s Beer/Whiskey Bar) that are connected but have distinct personalities. They are located on the deck above the reception lobby. All told, there are a dozen bars and lounges on board). Other facilities include a casino, three meeting rooms, a chapel, card room, bridge viewing room, and the SS United States Library (with original photography and material about America’s last ocean liner).

The dress code is casual – very casual; no jacket and tie needed, although you are welcome to dress formally if you wish. In fact, there is no suggested dress code in the daily program. Children are well provided for, and have their own facilities, including a Kids’ Club; teens have their own disco, the Wipe-Out Club.

While the initial cruise fare seems very reasonable, the extra costs and charges soon mount up if you want to sample more than the basics. This ship has an all-American crew and service. It is full of revenue centers designed to help you part with more of your money. You can expect to be subjected to a stream of flyers advertising daily art auctions, “designer” watches, and many other promotions (including poolside “Inch of Gold” sales outlets).

A non-changeable service charge – this is, not a gratuity – for staff is automatically added to your onboard account at $10 per person ($5 for children aged 3–12) per day; this is pooled for all crew and provides payment when they are on vacation. A $5 (fundraising) “donation” to the Bishop Museum is also added to your account; you can remove or reduce it by visiting the reception desk. The crew is paid a salary (plus all sorts of additional benefits, including health insurance and paid vacation), so additional gratuities are not necessary, although they are not refused.

In addition, a 15% gratuity plus Hawaii sales tax (presently 4.166%) is added to all bar and spa treatment accounts (this is a US-flag ship, remember). The onboard currency is the US dollar.

Passenger niggles include waiting to use the interactive dining reservation screens in the public areas; lines for breakfast in the main dining spots (particularly before the shore excursions start); and poor service and hospitality in some areas.

Note that the score and rating achieved is for the ship as Pride of Hawaii. However, this score and rating may change when the ship begins operation as Norwegian Jade. Also, when this book was completed, not all the names of the public rooms had been announced.

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008