Hawaii is to die for and don't let anyone tell you anything different! It was our first time. Although Honolulu was not the greatest, the Polynesian Cultural Center was terrific. The re-enactors were outstanding, food was great, and price was right for an all day immersion into the Polynesian culture.
Embarkation was a breeze compared to many other cruises we have been on. No photographers hounding you at every turn. Our room was a standard balcony - not the best or the least. Our cabin steward was outstanding! She went out of her way to make our vacation effortless. Ship entertainment was enjoyable - ship's band was great at big band sounds and dance music went on for hours. The illusionist was AMAZING!! He even did a program at the pool in front of everyone - in the water for 2.38 minutes in chains and came out unhurt!
Excursions were a joy - a nature hike- we ate flowers, smelled different leaves, and waterfall jumping with Glory, surfing (!) with guys who treated us like their jobs depended on both of us getting up on the board, snorkeling with wetsuits (!) and a surfboard that allowed you to drift along and see as much as you possibly could - not exhausting as past experiences - the Atlantis submarine (!) --all were just outstanding. The pride and love of the Hawaiian peoples for their home was palpable.