The Jewel In Cruising's Crown

Tina-louise jackson swaps a sea view for a view from the sea on board the glittering Norwegian Jewel.

Gliding across Sydney Harbour, we smile and take in the sights that have become familiar in the three years we’ve called Sydney home. But this time, rather than our usual commute on the Manly Ferry, we’re waving goodbye aboard a magnificent ocean liner and the landmarks fade into the distance as we head out to sea on our very first family cruise.

Making a splash Just a few hours after boarding Norwegian Jewel, our home for the next 10 days as we explore Southern Australia (taking in Melbourne, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Tasmania and Eden on the NSW South Coast), we’re exploring the ship’s 14 feature-packed decks. Luka has already found the time to whiz down the water slide multiple times.

After a visit to our compact yet surprisingly spacious state room, Luka’s next port of call is Splash Academy. Norwegian Cruise Lines group its kids’ clubs by age and Luka, who turned 11 a couple of days before we set off, will join the Dolphins, the club for 10–12-yearolds. She’s mildly disappointed not to have access to Entourage, the cool teens’ club next door, and immediately starts planning to return when she turns 13. But with everything from arts and crafts to computer games and theme nights on offer, there’s plenty to keep her occupied in the meantime. Whether it’s

Survivor night or a pyjama party and pillow fight, Luka opts for evenings at the kids’ club rather than dinner with the parents.