Just back from the NCL Pearl on an Alaskan trip and we had a fabulous time. I have read some negative reviews of this cruise and had to wonder if we were on the same boat! Okay, we had an obstructed view cabin right next to O'Sheenans which was easy to navigate to and from and being on deck 8 handy for all levels. Room was a good size but the safe in the wardrobe was difficult to use. Room steward was okay, but not the most enthusiastic we have had.

Most breakfasts were eaten in the Garden Cafe and I agree with other cruisers this was very busy every morning and seating was hard, but not impossible to find. A tip I have given before, get a table before you get your food, easier than wandering around with plates of hot food trying to find somewhere. The Great Outdoors was usually quieter and you can also use La Cocina the Italian restaurant as an overflow for breakfast and lunch. Food was good and hot you could queue for fresh omlettes or just take to omlette of the day. Plenty of stations to use and staff clearing tables were friendly and efficient.

We ate at Summer Palace one of the MDRs and had a couple of very nice meals, but please bring back cheese and biscuits for those of us who don't do puddings. A couple of times at the Lotus Garden which is now included, but this was occasionally busy so eat early or later. The starters and the soups were really good but the main was just okay. A lovely meal was also had at Le Bistro where the starters again were really good and the steak I had was delicious. O'Sheenans was a bit confusing as you were given a menu but you could help yourself to a small buffet, so we weren't sure what to do, but as I wanted the fish and chips and that was cooked to order so we were waited on. The fish and chips were very good, not too much and hot! Read more