This was my first Norwegian cruise and I my first first trip to Hawaii. My pre-cruise stay was at the Marriott Waikiki Resort. The location was excellent! The beach was directly across the street and there was lots stores and restaurants within walking distance. The only negative about the hotel was the remodeling; part of the lobby was boarded up and during the day you could hear the construction workers. Shuttle service from the hotel to the ship was quick and well organized. The embarkation process was smooth. I loved each of the ports of call, but the cruise ship and staff were just okay. A waiter in Honolulu had warned me that this cruise would not be as upscale as the Caribbean cruises I'd taken from Florida.

I agree with that this is the most economical way to see the islands, but I would have liked more shipboard activities and a more experienced staff. Most evenings I was bored; the entertainment was lack luster. This is the only cruise I've been on that did not have a casino. When we commented on the lack of activities, a waiter told us that the cruise is about the destination and excursions, not the ship. The cruise line assumes that guests would be off the ship while in port and too tired for entertainment when they return in the evening.

I ate in the main dinning room once for dinner (it was terrible; horrible tasting alfredo sauce) and twice for breakfast. The service was sub-par. Most of the staff I spoke with had only been working on the ship 4 - 6 months. By day 3 me and my travel mates were convinced that this must be a training ship. The Aloha Cafe buffet was okay. The Cadillac Diner had the best breakfast and lunch options. The specialty restaurants (Cagney's, Jefferson Bistro, Moderno & La Cucina) were exceptional; the food was fabulous, the waiters were experienced and worked well together. Read more