This was our first trip on NCL in fifteen years, the first time being on the old S.S. Norway in 2000. We selected this trip last minute out of San Diego, our hometown, and initially had a family balcony stateroom but upgraded to a full suite just prior to departure. More on what’s included as I write.

EMBARKATION: Several years ago the Port of San Diego built a nice, new cruise ship terminal and for the life of me I don’t know why they don’t use it. Along with the Sun, Holland America also had a ship in port. Instead of using a terminal for each ship, the powers that be decided to use the old terminal for BOTH ships. What a nightmare. Thousands of passengers coming and going led to the most chaotic embarkation we’ve had in nineteen cruises. Once we got past the port security, however, our experience was flawless. There was a separate check-in for suites and no wait. After the paperwork was completed we were escorted to meet our concierge, Elvina, for a quick debrief about what to expect. From there we were lead onto the ship and to our specialty dining room for lunch.

STATEROOM: Our suite was ready not long after and luggage was delivered within an hour. Just as the empty bags went under the bed our butler, Dominic, came by to introduce himself. This was the best perq we have ever had. He kept our fruit bowl filled, our coffee bar stocked, our DVDs supplied, and coordinated with Elvina for anything he couldn’t handle himself. My wife wanted to pack him up and bring him home with us. Bryson, our cabin steward was as good as they come. By the time the trip was over, we had a nice collection of ten towel animals. Read more