Background Information A year ago, after completing our cruise on the Carnival Miracle, my little princess says "Daddy, can we go on an Alaska cruise next time"? Well, within a couple weeks, we had reservations for the NCL Star and a year to look forward to it. I immediately began the Roll Call on September 7, and little by little completed our travel plans culminating in our cruise this past week.

This would be our fifth cruise as a family (previously twice with Disney, once with Royal Caribbean, and once with Carnival). As experienced cruisers, we know that everything cannot be perfect and simply look for an enjoyable/memorable experience. We have yet to be on a cruise that we've been disappointed or unhappy with.

Travel To Port of Embarkation Since we live in New Jersey, making travel arrangements to a cruise beginning in Seattle was a project in itself. We flew out a day early, flying AirTran from LaGuardia (via Atlanta). We also stayed at an airport hotel by LGA the night prior to take advantage of a stay/park/fly package and because our flight was at 6AM. At all NYC airports, daily parking rates are in the $15 to $20 per day range. Having the parking free with the hotel along with the included shuttle made things very convenient. Read more