We have sailed with NCL several times & we have done this itinerary before as a repositioning to/from Vancouver and the Mexican Riviera return to L.A. This is the first time that we have done both as back to back. Coming into San Pedro (L.A.) we had the option of staying onboard, which was nice. But we chose to go across the port to the Ports-of-Call just to get out. This used to be a bustling community of little shops, but most now stand empty. We did browse through a great art gallary (Parkhurst Gallary) and a Jeweler, where we found puzzle rings (Middle Eastern style); worth the trip.
The NCL Jewel has been into dry-dock & some public areas have been renovated since the last time we sailed on it. Improvements were made to the Photo Gallary, the Blue Lagoon was replaced with O'Sheehan's Pub and the Moderno Brazilian restaurant has been moved to Deck 13 beside Cagney's Steakhouse. The view from Moderno in the evening as the sun goes down is incredible. This space used to be a piano lounge & was rarely used before; good decision NCL, although our grandkids will miss the Blue Lagoon.
The staff & crew are very friendly & eager to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Our Stateroom Steward was amazing. Tip: I often tell people that if you desire a robe in your stateroom, just ask your room steward & they will likey provide them.
Our cabin was very clean & comfortable for 3 people. Our stateroom steward thoroughly cleaned it morning & night (amazing is the word to describe her). Tip: We borrowed a candle from the dining room in order to provide a little light in the bathroom at night because if anyone gets up in the night they don't have to turn on any lights & wake others. We exchanged it each evening (they are recharable) & returned it before we disembarked.
Love this port, except for the hoards of timeshare salesmen waiting on the pier for you to disembark. We were met by my cousin who took us to San Jose del Cabo for lunch & a stroll. There was no one there, so we had everything to ourselves. I recommend this destination if you are taking shore excursions.