GETTING THERE We traveled with a group of 14 (ages 15 - 50). We live in Denver but we decided to go out the night before to avoid any issues. We stayed at the Marriott Residence Inn in El Segundo using Marriott reward points. Hotel provided free shuttle (2 trips) from the airport to the hotel. Rooms were clean and well appointed. We got there at 10 so only one delivery service was available - menus are in the room. Surprisingly the food was quick, hot and reasonable. I had a steak and cheese sub for about $9.50 which included the delivery fee. The next morning we had Super Shuttle pick up 10 of us at the hotel. Cost was $100 which included tip. Trip was only 30 minutes to the pier.

EMBARKATION Arrived at the pier at 11:15 and the place was pretty empty. The embarkation staff was friendly and organized and we got through in about 15 minutes. They had us wait off to the side until they called our number which was only about 5 minutes after we sat down. Then up to the ship. Total time was about 30 minutes TOPS!

ONCE ON BOARD We had two boys who were 18 and thus allowed to drink beer and wine but the pier staff told us we had to have their room keys redone at the Purser's desk in order for them to be allowed to drink. So first thing we did was to go there and get it done. All we had to do was sign a form and they got new cards - I don't know why this couldn't get done shore side but no biggie. Also the premium restaurant reservation desk is located in the lobby in front of the Purser's desk. If you have a coupon for a 2 for 1 or if you just want to make reservations you can do it here. FYI - we were going to go to the Teppanyaki restaurant the first night and use our 2 for 1 coupon because online it stated the price as $12 per person. When we got there it was $25!! So instead we went to Le Bistro which was only $15 (before the discount). Also the NCL website stated the Endless Summer and Trattoria restaurants were free but they were not. You should know this before you get there if you are wanting to plan your week in the premium restaurants. Cabins were ready around 1:00 pm so we just hung around the pool deck and ate (of course). Read more