We chose the Pride of Aloha for our first Hawaiian cruise because of the great economic value. We had a cabin with a porthole. We loved looking up at the stars at night and watching as we came into each port by morning. Our cabin steward (Sylvaina) was a dream and went the extra mile over and over to make everything special.
Our favorite meals were the lobster at the Crossings and seafood at the Pacific. The strawberries flambe' were a treat at the Bistro, and the desserts and shrimp scampi at Kahili were great, too. We tried every restaurant and found the Hukilau buffet breakfast helpful when we were in a hurry to disembark.
We pre-rented a car for each port so avoided decisions there. At each dock there was a spot for rental car vans to pick you up and take you to your car. They would bring you back when finished (be sure to find out their closing times to the dock). The Hawaiian ambassador was informative and helpful. He gave hula lessons, lei making classes, and other Hawaiiana info.