Tuesday, July 3, 2012

About the Ship - Norweigan Jewel



Built in 2005 in the shipyards of Papenburg, Germany, the M/S Norwegian Jewel is the proud namesake of the Norwegian "Jewel Class" cruise ships.  She is a whopping 965 feet(over three football fields) long, 106 feet wide and weighs 93,000 tons!

She boosts a crew of 1,154 which can easily cater to its 2,376 travelers.  With 1,120 cabins and 15 decks, this city on water can power ahead at a staggering 25 knots dispite her enormous size.   

As well as offering some of the largest suites at sea, there are staterooms to accommodate every style.  When it comes to entertainment, this ship is filled with excitement: 16 dining options, 13 bars and nightclubs and that's just the beginning.  How about some of these amenities:
  • State-of-the-art fitness center
  • Waterslide
  • Pools, hot tubs
  • and the list goes on and on.
How about the Stardust Theatre which seats 1043 people!

Stardust Theatre - Seating Capacity: 1043


Or, the Sapphire Pools which accommodates 144 sunbeds, 314 chairs, and additional stools. Idon't know how much use this thing gets in the far North, but I'm sure the Carribean runs get a lot of use from it!

And if that isn't enough, how about tennis courts, bowling or a fully stocked and elegant library to spend some time in.  The Norwegian Jewel is truly the crown jewel of the fleet.


A short video from Norwegian Cruise Lines

Total Deck Plan of the Norwegian Jewel

Deck Plan 9

Deck Plan 8






We'll be staying in the forward- most section of Deck 9 as seen in the diagram above and to the right (room 9009) on the starboard side of the ship.

The deck plan to the left illustrates deck 8 in comparison to deck 9.














































































Our stateroom! Check out the floor plan....click on the images to enlarge.












Our Itinerary

The Itinerary (ie., "The Plan")





















Saturday:  Seattle                                                                                          Departure: 4:00 PM
Seattle sits on the slip of land between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, with the Olympic and Cascade Mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop for this oh-so cosmopolitan city. Soar up the futuristic Space Needle and experience the views atop this stunning landmark created for the 1962 World's Fair.


Specialty Dining Reservation tonight:


















Cagney's Steakhouse


Like Cagney himself, our upscale, traditional steak house is right out of the 1930's with all the trimmings. Succulent steaks, filet mignon, prime rib, lamb, fresh seafood and grilled chicken.
Accomodates 158     Location Deck 13
Sunday:   At Sea

Specialty Dining reservation tonight:

Moderno Churrascaria
Location Deck 8
As the succulent skewers of barbequed meats are carved tableside, you control how much you want with the Moderno Green and Red Chip. Green for go and the carving continues or red to stop. Also, enjoy a wide selection of perfectly prepared salads, sliced meats and traditional accompanying dishes from the salad bar.



Monday:  Ketchikan                                            Arrival:  7:00AM             Departure:  3:00PM
Its Tlingit Indian name, Kach Khanna, means “spread wings of the eagle.” Chances are you'll see one of these magnificent birds perched atop a Sitka tree. Thanks to its abundant rainfall, Ketchikan is surrounded by some of the world’s most lush wilderness.

Excusion planned:

Nature Sanctuary, Eagle Center & Totems
A coastal drive takes you to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, a private reserve located in the forested mountains in rustic Herring Cove. This pristine natural environment is home to several species of wildlife, attracted by the major salmon runs in the abundant marine estuary. You'll be greeted by your naturalist and guided along an improved trail through the heart of the dense forest, amongst tall stands of hemlock, spruce and Alaska cedar. Your guide will lead you to a protected open estuary, where you follow Eagle Creek along an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands. During the spawning season, bears and seals feed on salmon returning to this pristine environment. If you like nature, you'll love this tour. At the conclusion of the half-mile trail hike, you'll have an opportunity to interact with, feed, and photograph Alaskan reindeer. Also, see Bald Eagles up close at the Alaska Wild Life Foundation. After observing these gentle creatures, be guided through the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill, established by legendary pioneer Ben Fleenor, and visit a master native totem pole carver at work. Explore and learn about this renowned site and receive a sample of aromatic local Alaskan cedar. Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing. This tour operates in all weather conditions. Rain ponchos provided if needed. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and are more frequent in mid summer.


Tuesday:   Juneau                                                Arrival:  2:00PM             Departure:  10:00PM
Juneau has been called “Alaska’s peak experience,” certainly due in part to its unparalleled glacier viewing from such places as Tracy Arm Fjord, the Juneau Icefields and Glacier Bay National Park. Kayak up one of the area’s many protected waterways, go flightseeing, tour historic downtown or try your hand at panning for gold.

Excursion planned:

Estimated Duration
4 hours

 


    Mendenhall Glacier & Mount Roberts Tram
    This tour visits Juneau's hallmark attractions, the Mendenhall Glacier and Mount Roberts Tramway. Your journey begins with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau and the city's highlights as you make your way to Mendenhall Valley - home of the mighty Mendenhall. Upon arriving at the Mendenhall, your guide will point out many of the attractions that you'll want to see during your approximate 1 1/2-hour stay. Included is scenic Photo Point and the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center where you'll want to take time to watch the short film about the glacier and the 37 other glaciers that make up the Juneau Icefield. The area boasts several self-guided scenic trails that allow you to learn about the role the glacier had in carving the landscape. Each of these trails offers a different view of the Mendenhall through trees or along the shores of Mendenhall Lake. Next, you're off to Mount Roberts Tramway and it's terminus at the 1800 foot level of Mount Roberts above downtown Juneau. Enjoy a stroll along an alpine trail and gaze at the vistas and distant waterways and islands. Visit the Nature Center and learn about the surrounding alpine ecosystem and be sure to stop by the raptor center. Inside the tram's main building you'll enjoy Native arts & crafts and goods for sale. Downstairs in the theater you can view a local documentary or have a snack at the Tram's cafe'. The Tram will always be your last stop, so you can either return to your coach for the transit back to your ship at the designated time, or spend as much time on the mountain as your port time allows. Note: This tour operates under a special use permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service.


    Wednesday:   Skagway                                         Arrival: 7:00AM              Departure:  5:30PM
    In a single year from 1896 to 1897, this remote town along the Inside Passage grew from a few tents to a city of 20,000 gold seekers. Today, travelers come in search of other riches – to experience yesteryear along Skagway’s charming boardwalk lined with buildings that replicate those Gold Rush days.

    Excursion planned:



    White Pass Railway and Yukon Expedition

    Climb aboard a deluxe motorcoach for a 65-mile journey to experience the magic of the famed Yukon Territory. You'll climb the South Klondike Highway to the top of the White Pass at 3,292 feet above sea level. Majestic peaks, waterfalls, and glaciers can all be experienced on this incredible drive. Leaving the White Pass and the U.S. behind, you'll enter Canada, and see the unspoiled beauty of the Yukon Territory. Marvel at the chain of lakes that form the headwaters of the Yukon River, explore the rustic town of Caribou Crossing (Carcross), snap a quick photo of the 'world's smallest desert,' and enjoy the tales of the Klondike Gold Rush. At Caribou Crossing, you'll be treated to a delicious chicken barbeque lunch complete with grandma's famous homemade donuts. After your meal, you'll have the opportunity to tour the Yukon's museum exhibit of local wildlife, including the Ice Age Wooly Mammoth. Carry on to the Dog Musher's Village, where you can visit with Yukon Quest dog mushers and take pictures with the racing dogs and puppies. Once back at Fraser, British Columbia, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad for an unforgettable and breathtaking ride. Note: This excursion enters Canada - all participants are required to carry a valid passport. This is due to Canadian Immigration and Customs clearance in Fraser.


    Thursday:  At Sea
    Specialty Dining reservation tonight:







    Chin Chin
    Location Deck 7
    This elegant adventure into Pan Asian fare is a world-class experience in the finest authentic Japanese, Thai and Chinese cuisine.


    Friday:  Victoria, BC, Canada                                  Arrival:  2:30PM             Departure:  9:30PM
    Roam the spacious lawns of stunning Butchart Gardens with its exotic flora, unusual topiary and exquisite fountains. Explore historic Bastion Square, the treasures of Chinatown and the many sights and sounds to be found along the boardwalk of the Inner Harbour.

    Excursion planned:
    Victoria Highlights












    Victoria is one of the most picturesque cities in North America, and exudes Old World charm and a distinctively British flair. This tour will show you the heart and soul of why so many visitors from around the world come each year to the City of Gardens. Starting at Ogden Point you'll head into the residential neighborhoods, complete with manicured lawns, abundant flowers of all shapes and sizes, and million dollar views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountain range. Pass some of the highlights of Victoria, including views of Craigdarroch Castle, all that remains of the stately Dunsmuir estate. The tour will conclude at the Inner Harbor, the centerpiece of Victoria. This is the home of the Royal BC Museum, numerous street performers, craft vendors, food stalls, the BC Parliament Buildings, and the world famous Fairmont Empress Hotel. Note: Order of sights may vary.

    Saturday:  Seattle                                                                                      Arrival: 8:00AM
    Return to dock for disembarktion and transfer to Sea-Tac Airport for the long flight home!