Pride of America is a great way to see Hawaii. However, the ship itself and NCL failed to meet expectations. Boarding was a farce. We have sailed from 6 ports and always were able to drop off our luggage before getting in line to check in. There the 7 of us were along with everyone else tugging our luggage a few feet at a time to get to the luggage drop. Unfortunately, that was not the only problem area. We ate in the main dining room only twice and had to ask for a desert menu both times. The menu itself left a lot to be desired as all the better choices came with an additional charge The food was typical cruise fare as far as taste. Not great but edible. The buffet was also typical. We all thought the omelets were good without a lot of wait time. Our ages are 14 to 73 (me).We made specialty reservations before the cruise for 3 nights. I tried to make them for seven but was told could not make for that many at a time, even though I was originally told would be better to call for that many. So I make for my wife and I and my Daughter calls to make them for their 5. She was told hers had to be for a different time as did not make for 5 at same times as for 2. Anyway, Daughter, Son in law, and 3 Grands go to Cagney's on Monday at 5:30. We follow 15 minutes later. (Reservation was for 6) While being seated close to our family I inquire if that would be proper since we could not get a reservation together. Manage was there about a minute later and was appalled that our reservation was not made together. He took care of our other specialty reservation at Moderno and Teppanyaki and we had no more problems. Good to have someone to thank. Cagney's was by far our best meal but if not for a dining package would have been way too pricey. After the salad bar, Modernos went downhill. Teppanyaki was good and entertaining.
Only went to opening night and the 4 season tribute shows and enjoyed them both. Magicians and comedians are not usually my cup of tea Went to the old Lahaina Luau and really enjoyed the evening. Would highly recommend. Drinks were part of ticket price and actually had alcohol in them. The wife said I enjoyed too much. Our waiter (Uncle Tim) was a real hoot. He knows how to get the good tip and he did. Saw a lot of Hawaii on excursions and enjoyed them all. Drivers were good and informative, especially Rosie and cousin Earl as he called himself. Waimea Canyon really is spectacular.
Went to check our bill on last day as usual. Our package included paid gratuities but were still charged to my account. I brought this to their attention and he asked the wrong question. DID I HAVE ANY PROOF? Now I should not need any proof since everything was booked and paid directly with NCL. In my sweet way I let him know that fact. (Note- My better half walks away when I explain something like this to someone that should already know.) Just so happens I did have written proof in the cabin which I go to get. Our Daughter who made all the reservations also has email on her phone showing gratuities are part of package. We return to the desk and another man after looking at our proof informs me they will check it out. Guess my proof was not really good enough for them. However, in the end our charges were correct.
Really small with small bathroom but okay for 2. Great balcony but really noisy early in morning as right underneath outside buffet dining.