We both enjoyed our trip and it was a great experience but we feel that there are some things that need discussed. Firstly, NCL's website is clunky at best and made sorting out excursions before travel a little frustrating. We booked the extra dining package (on advice) through their website but it never showed on our account and I had to ask for an email confirmation so that there was no argument. The speciality dining package is essential because the main restaurant food is not up to cruise standard but the smaller speciality restaurants are good. The French Bistro and the Steakhouse are best.

We did the '4 days in Honolulu' before the cruise and it was well worth it, thanks in large part to our guide, Robert. It is not for the feeble hearted and you need the cruise to relax afterwards. That all went very smoothly. DK's restaurant in the Waikiki Marriot has the best french onion soup anywhere.

On board, the cabins are small no matter what price range and, yes, it is not a big ship. However, the fact that the ship cannot operate a casino and there is limited alcohol, both of these because it is registered in Honolulu and operates in Hawaiian waters, means that corners have to be cut somewhere to cope with the lack of profits. So, it is a case of cram 'em in and charge extra for worthwhile food and wine. The coffee on board is cheap and unpleasant, even in the coffee bar. To send me onshore looking for a bitter Starbucks, it has to be poor. Read more