We took this trip for our 25th Wedding Anniversary. My husband and I have never cruised before and we chose this cruise due to the itinerary and plus we got a great deal at the time of booking.

We flew out of Buffalo early in the morning amidst a snow storm. Arrived in Chicago and left there for a 9 1/2 hour plane ride. Very long. We would definitely break the trip up more so your not sitting so long on an airplane.

We arrived the day before the cruise and stayed at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. It is a beautiful spot. The beds are wonderful. The Cruise line met us at the Airport and shuttle bus took us to the hotel. The luggage was brought to the room and shortly after we signed into the NCL office below. There, they make the embarkment so much easier for you. We had dinner at the Cheese Burger Restaurant just down the street. Very good. We went the ABC Stores for early gifts and they are very reasonable in price. Read more