We just returned from the seven night cruise aboard the NCL Star. Just wanted everyone to know what an absolutely fantastic time this was for myself, my husband and two grown (21 and 22) year old daughters. We had cruised NCL 15 or so years ago and was not impressed by their ship or service but enjoyed the itinerary, sooooo decided to give another chance and glad we did! This is a very nice ship with very friendly staff, much nicer than the Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas, which we sailed last year and spent more money on. Iloved the Freestyle Dining plan as it gives you so much variety , there is absolutely no way to get bored with the food. And the food was great in all the restaurants (buffet was just ok but that is not one of the restaurants). I didn't mind spending the little bit extra on the surcharge, it was worth every penny. One complaint might be the wine selection, there was a bottle of Chardonney which goes for 7.87 at Sams Club and they were hawking it at 26.00 per bottle. needless to say, we didn't bite that one! The cabin was spotless and the most comfortable beds! Duvet covers instead of blankets, which I appreciated. The itinerary is great except for going to fanning island but that will not be an issue starting in 2004 as I think this ship will change registry,so it will be a perfect trip! We loved it and felt it was the best way to see the islands as you don't waste time getting on "puddle jumpers" and going island to island. Having done Hawaii both ways now, I highly prefer this cruise one! Take the helicopter excursion in Kauai, well worth the money for something you will never forget. If you go to the Haleakala Crater in Maui, be sure to ask if it is fogged in as we went and couldn't see a thing. I understand we could have checked on the internet cam from the ship beforehand. The Mauna Loa Volcano in Hilo is a must see for excursions also ( has vent holes with steams coming up and many "hot spots" on ground as lava is only 2 miles or so down). Wish I had extended my time in Honolulu for one day but did squeeze in the Arizona 'Monument, very very interesting. All in all a great time.