My daughter and I drove to Tampa from Wilmington, NC and the trip went very well. I booked a Cruise and Stay pkg at the Holiday Inn at West Shore. This package included room, parking for my vehicle and shuttle to and from the cruise terminal. I was very surprised at how smooth everything happened. Hotel called prior to our arrival to arrange the shuttle to the terminal for the next morning. My scheduled arrival time at the Norwegian Star was 10:30 am to 11:00 am so the shuttle was schedule for 9:30 am. I'm still recuperating from heel surgery and requested embarkation and disembarkation assistance. Arrived at terminal in ten minutes, porter checked bags in and we were taken to an area to wait.

As soon as passengers were off the ship I was taken by wheelchair on board. We immediately ate lunch in the Market Cafe Buffet and it was delicious. Our rooms were ready just prior to 1:00 pm. We had the free beverage package and had no problems at all ordering drinks. No waiting in line at all. Enjoyed all the meals with the exception of lunch ordered one day in the Irish Pub. Took forever and wasn't correct order. However, we enjoyed breakfast several times in the pub with no problem. I do wish that lobster was on the menu at least once during the cruise without having to pay extra. Attended Art Seminar and auction and learned much and had a great time. Daughter took River trip and Mayan Ruins excursion and loved it ( she climbed to the top of all four of them).

Room was always nice and clean and any requests we had were attended to immediately. Staff was always courteous, very friendly and professional. Read more