We chose this cruise as it was calling at ports we had not visited before and wanted to transit the Panama Canal from the other direction (Pacific to Caribbean) as we had been through the canal in the past from Caribbean to Pacific Ocean.
We have also sailed on the Jewel before in September 2009 as well as other NCL ships, so were well acquainted with life on board.
Embarkation at San Pedro, California was seamless (we did have a penthouse suite!) Far easier than progress through arrivals at LAX!!! We stayed two nights in San Pedro at the Double Tree Hotel prior to this cruise; not the best of areas as not much to see or do there. Hotel was quite good with complimentary transfer to the port. The hotel does offer a free shuttle bus to local areas too.
Our aft penthouse suite (10166) was a little disappointing in size with a small bathroom leading off a very narrow short corridor separating it from the wardrobe. The wardrobe was accessible from both sides though. The bathroom itself, though small in area, was well equipped with lots of towels. The tap (faucet) over the hand basin was too long and did not swivel, so you could possibly hit your face on it whilst washing. There was a large, comfortable bed with curtains to surround it if required. Although the wardrobe was a good size, drawer spaces were a bit small. There were two safes in the suite plus a flat panel TV and coffee machine that would supply a variety of hot drinks. The balcony was provided with two sun loungers and a small table. Occasionally we experienced smut landing on the area.
Went straight to our hotel in San Pedro, the Double Tree by Hilton.
Hotel was fine, but not much in the immediate area. Hotel does offer a complimentary shuttle to local areas, but still not much in this area of note. We saw a movie and did a little shopping. Free transport to the port provided by hotel.
Went on a tour to Antigua. It was quite a long ride there and back and no time really to stop for a drink or to eat. An interesting place if one had more time to wander around.
This was an NCL tour "Easy Antigua", that we were on by default as we missed our scheduled tour!
Just my wife and myself in a car with driver and a guide who gave us a comprehensive tour of the city and surrounding areas. We really liked Cartagena!