We always wanted to go through, a full transit, the Panama Canal.
After much research we chose Norwegian Cruise Lines Star which had a cruise from Miami to Los Angeles. That was great for us because we only had to fly to Miami and ended up at our home port. In Miami we stayed at the Embassy Suites which was close to the airport and provided transportation to the dock.
The hotel was nice but service was poor. Lots of excuses which for an established hotel was pretty bad. We couldn't get directions; no one knew where a Target was located and the restaurant was not only slow, but bad. Took more than an hour before our meal was served. Even the drinks we were given free to make up for the service took about a half hour to be served.
Our cabin, 12030, was ideally situated on a deck with fewer cabins. We chose this cabin because it was slightly larger than similar cabins. The cabin protruded a bit from the deck and we not only had a side view, but also a view towards the bridge and bow.
The cabin was spacious. The bathroom was nicer than my bathroom at home. I appreciated the laundry line over the tub.
The ship's laundry and dry cleaning services were reasonably priced.
Very nice cruise terminal. We hired a taxi and driver. Apparently the taxi drivers are given training in English and sightseeing tours. It was inexpensive. The driver was so good we gave him a tip almost equal to the cost!
Arrived on a Sunday and just walked around the beach area which had lots of vendors selling a variety of souvenirs. Some really nice things. Pretty much everyone charged the same; not much bargaining.
Finally found a Starbucks! Very modern marina area, Nice souvenir shops. Got a kicj out of watching a sea lion in the marina.
Los Arcos, Sea of Cortez were nice. Saw some whales.
Flew to Miami a couple days before getting on the cruise. Did not do any sightseeing.
Went to a local mall to get some things for the cruise which we had decided would be easier than packing them.