Considering that the two of us lived in separate states and we paid for the 11 day Cruise Tour in Hawaii 3 weeks before leaving and we never cruised NCL before, all the pre-phone handling and verification went smoothly. Each of us was greeted by a rep at the airport with an 'Aloha" and a lei. The rep ensured transport to the Marriott Waikiki. The next three days we were on excursions all around the island of Oahu. All the bus drivers are native to the island they toured us on. They were funny, knew the history and the changes to the island over time. They also teach you a bit of language every day. Cody was our Oahu driver.

He whipped us in shape with ground rules and was wonderful. You very quickly get immersed into the Hawaiian culture and history. at the Cultural Center all the separate ethnic groups that make up the Polynesian culture (Figi, Tahitian, New Zealand, etc.) put on a grand display of the colors associated to them and the dances all on boats floating down a canal. There are exibits of their lifestyles games and handywork. A great way to start your journey through the islands. The next day was devoted to Pearl Harbor. I didn't think I was going to like it, but I proved myself wrong. Everyone has a different reason for seeing this, but at one point or another you grasp the enormity and scope of our military and history. I personally loved the architecture of the Memorial and its meaning and the restoration hangers for restoring aircraft old to newer. The Punch Bowl-peaceful and serene-and more. 3rd day - Na'uanu Pali-breathtakingly beautiful. Koaloa Ranch -educational -catamaran ride in turquoise water, clear blue sky-Sea turtle sitings- beach-lunch and amazing mangrove growth- -all before 2pm when we were driven to the Pride of America to embark. Suitcases were taken to the ship while we were on tour.

At the ship another lei. We made our way to our cabin which was a Penthouse with large balcony. the pictures never do justice to the room. We had a hard time leaving the cabin it was soooo comfortable and spacious. Within a few minutes of taking in the room, a knock on the door from our butler, who promptly showed us how to open and close the sliding door to the balcony. We were overwhelmed with all the information he was giving us. Our fault, as we had no the time plan out dinner reservations and excursions ahead of time. We were constantly in catch up mode and having the butler make things happen. Truely amazing! Don't do it our way though. It creates tension you don't need. Read more