Preface: Let me start by saying we have cruised 8 plus times with all but one being on Royal Caribbean. Like a lot of people Norwegian was chosen for this cruise not for the line but for the itinerary of starting, staying, and ending entirely in the Hawaiian islands. Since the ports are great and their are many reviews on them (they are great) I will instead review the Norwegian Pride of American product versus Royal Caribbean in key areas. One additional notation is the last cruise on Royal Caribbean was in 2010 so any significant changes since then is not reflected.

Embarkation: After flying in from Atlanta Georgia two days a before the cruise and spending a day driving around Oahu we arrive at the port via rental shuttle at around noon. Security and checking in was a breeze. We had to sit for about 30 minutes before being allowed on the ship but there was entertainment to keep us pacified.

Score: Norwegian POA-A Read more