We booked our cruise with NCL, as it was the only way to cruise Hawaii from Hawaii. We at first were apprehensive as we read mixed reviews,and we were in constant communication with our personal cruise consultant from NCL to check on specific issues brought up by cruise critic members. Although we sailed 15 times we had never sailed NCL.
The cruise was fantastic! The young American crew were exceptional, the freestyle dining was enjoyable, and the cruise was great. It was a real treat to watch American football in a real bar with real bartenders. The entertainment although not lavish was very enjoyable.
But, we will never sail with NCl again, because of the inconsistent corporate policies. First, we were herded into a long line for check in because we came in a Roberts van ( all other vans were immediately greeted by baggage handlers). Then my luggage was confiscated because it contained a bottle of wine and I was given a 4 hour window to retrieve it or lose it for the cruise. The corporate policy says each passenger may bring a bottle of wine on board and a $15 corkage fee applies. My wife's luggage was delayed 3 hrs as they questioned her curling iron. And yet, we could not enjoy our balcony as we were surrounded by smokers in other cabins. Our sink even had a burn mark from a left cigarette. Secondly,when the staff dwelt too long with a customer, a white shirt office would hasten them on.