We are a family of three (late 30's, DD age 7) who had previously sailed HAL to Alaska and Island Princess to Hawaii. No other luxury line experience to compare it to. Our overall experience was very positive in regards to itinerary, ship, service, and food.Our 11-day itinerary on the PG July 7 cruise differed somewhat from the typical 7-day one. We sailed from Papeete to Rangiroa, then had 2 sea days en route to the Marquesas. There we stopped in Hiva Oa and Nuka Hiva, before sailing the return trip to the Societies (Bora Bora, Taha'a motu, and Moorea, before docking again in Papeete).

EMBARKATION: We had booked our own air from DC to LAX, where we did an overnight near the airport. The airport hotels have set up a trolley service that runs to Manhattan Beach for a cost of $2/ea. If you're looking for a way to kill some time before you fly out. In theory it's great, but we experienced bus breakdowns on the outbound and an hour wait for the bus on the return. Still cheaper than renting a cab. Alternately, you can take the Big Blue Bus to Santa Monica for 75 cents; longer route and somewhat rundown neighborhoods.

Our flight to Papeete was using Regent air - ATN 1pm flight out of LAX, which got us in around 6:30pm the day of departure. We were met at the ATN desk in LAX by a Regent rep who checked off our names. There is very little in the terminal after security in terms of food, so be forewarned. Most of the people on the plane were fellow cruise passengers. We were in coach and the seats got mighty uncomfortable after about 2-3 hours—very cramped, not good cushioning. Be prepared. Food was ok and wine was provided, plus people were in pretty good spirits which helped the flight! The movie system is very weird. You have to wait until the longest movie has finished playing until you can watch another one, and they are not on demand. There were no TV channels but there are games and music. Between that and a good book, you should be covered on the outbound. The return trip is another matter.... Read more