We chose this cruise for the great itinerary. Loved the ports and the overnight stays. Other than that, the cruise was average. Our inside cabin was very small, not much storage. Bed was comfortable. The food was mediocre at best. The buffet was better than the dining room. Service was an issue. Not many enthusiastic workers. The ship itself was clean. Embarkation and debarkation were quick and smooth.
Bars were lackluster: wine bar had same limited menu that dining room had. Entertainment was very good! Enjoyed the comedian and Oh What a Night. Also loved the Hawaiian dance performance. All the previous reviews are fairly accurate, this is a great cruise for seeing Hawaii, but NCL needs to make some major improvements. We rented cars on all the islands, so we were able to go where and when we wanted. Would have been nice to park at the pier instead of having to return car to airport on the overnight stays.
We took the public bus to Pearl Harbor for the afternoon. Had booked a tour on line a few weeks prior to our trip. Wonderful afternoon. Took bus to Diamond Head and hiked to the top. Did the Chief's Luau-very nice evening with great entertainment and delicious food. Stayed on Waikiki at the Wyndham with another couple in a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo. Terrific!
We rented a car and drove The Road to Hana stopping along the way. Saw beautiful waterfalls, black sand beaches, flowers everywhere! Stopped at a roadside stand for delicious banana bread.
We rented a car and headed for Volcanoes National Park. It was wonderful! Listened to a presentation by one of the park rangers - very informative. Saw the steam vent.
We rented a car and drove to the farmers market - lots of local fruits and veggies as well as hand made items to purchase. Had lunch at Kona Brewing. Very good food and beer on the outdoor patio.
Loved this island! Again rented a car and headed straight for Jack Harter helicopter ride that we booked prior to our trip. Chose the no doors helicopter which was absolutely amazing!! Drove as much of the island as we could, stopping at beaches and scenic views.