This was a marvelous cruise. For starters, the weather at home and along all the U.S. & Canada west coast was pretty dreadful -- heavy rains, snow -- good to get away from. Mexico was warm (hot in 2 ports), sunny, clear, calm, beautiful, with no rough seas at all: a great winter get-away.

I'd sailed on the Star in Hawaii in spring 2002, and felt at home boarding her again, although she's had changes of course. Our stateroom was wonderfully located, views excellent. All crew members were courteous and helpful. We dined in many venues, including Le Bistro, Ginza, Endless Summer, Versailles and Market Cafe & room service. For fresh fruit and salad, and breakfasts, the buffet is great. Versailles is a beautiful dining venue, quite the most beautiful and elegant on the ship with its full glass wall at the bow of the ship, and one of my meals there was a high point for me (portobella mushroom dish -- yum). We liked the ice cream availability, either in Market Cafe or way back by the fitness center (you get to watch the exercise machines while licking ice cream cones -- oh the opportunity for guilt!), for much of the day.

I've cruised about 10 times now, Princess, Orient Lines, Holland America and American West Steamboat Co., as well as NCL, and in my opinion, the shows on the Star are THE BEST! The Jean Ann Ryan Co. is amazing -- we loved all 3 of their shows -- and the Chinese acrobats are unbelievable. The cruise director, Clint, had just the right level of enthusiasm without going over the top, and was very well organized and personable. The crew show was very good, and the passenger talent show was entertaining as well. Read more