We chose this cruise so we could sample the diversity of multiple islands in one trip. The itinerary is the greatest draw of this cruise. While the Pride of America is not the most glitzy cruise ship out there, it's clean, easy to get around in, and everything was on schedule.

One key factor for me was having gluten-free dining options. And that's where NCL shined. I contacted the cruise line 45 days out and they passed my dietary needs on to the restaurant management on the ship. It was recommended that I meet with the restaurant manager when I embarked, but that never happened. I was told by guest services to see the individual managers before dining in their respective restaurants. So, there's a little bit of a mixed message there. What I soon found out was the wait staff have been trained very well on how to deal with Celiac needs. If the waiter or waitress was unsure, they immediately consulted their manager -- who came to my table to talk to me about my options. We ate at three of the premium restaurants (buy the "ultimate" dining package to save $). They were quite good. We rounded out meals in the main dining rooms. I never felt unsafe with dining choices and enjoyed great meals.

Our stateroom was not huge, but with the Family Balcony, it gave us a little extra room. Views from the balcony did not disappoint. Our steward was attentive and did a great job. The common areas of the ship are a little dated and showing wear, but with constant cruising, they are doing maintenance all the time. Read more