With 19 different places to eat and 14 bars and lounges, the light, bright Norwegian Jewel epitomises Norwegian Cruise Line's concept of Freestyle Cruising - nformal, un-stuffy, fun and packed with choice. The 2,376-passenger ship sails to the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada and Alaska, transiting the Panama Canal on its journey between its winter and summer homes.

The many dining options include a steakhouse, an Asian restaurant, the posh Le Bistro, a Brazilian churrascaria, La Cucina for Italian home cooking and Teppanyaki, a traditional Hibachi restaurant where the chefs chop, twirl knives, banter with guests and sizzle steak, seafood and chicken right in front of you. Some of these restaurants are included in the cruise fare and others carry a small supplement. There are bars for every taste - we love the brightly coloured FYZZ, for its private karaoke rooms, where nobody minds how badly you sing.

On deck, Norwegian Jewel has a large pool with a waterslide and plenty of sunbathing space. Around the ship, there's also a gym, a Polynesian-themed spa, a sports court, golf driving net and even a wedding chapel. For children, there are kids' clubs catering to all ages as well as a giant screen for Nintendo Wii games.

Accommodation ranges from inside cabins to sumptuous villas in The Haven, the ship's complex of suites, which are perfect for extended families, or groups of friends, or anybody wanting to entertain as the larger staterooms come with generous dining space. We also love the aft-facing Penthouses on decks 8, 9 and 10, with their extra-large balconies and views over the ship's wake; perfect for romantics.