This was our first experience with NCL; our previous cruises have been on RCL, Carnival and Princess. We sailed the Mexican Rivera itinerary once before on the Princess Diamond in 2004.

We flew from DFW the day before departure and stayed at the LAX Renaissance; this is a nice property with a free shuttle from the airport. Taxi fare to the port from LAX is about $55.

Embarkation: we arrived at noon and stood in line outside for about an hour. It was a beautiful sunny day so this wasn't a problem; however I can't imagine this same process being much fun if it is cold or raining. Read more