So good things first:
A.) This was our first cruise and the embarkation / disembarkation at all the ports (including LA) was fast. We were particularly worried about the disembarkation at LA because we had a flight to catch, but there were no problems there (ship arrived at 8am, we were at LAX with our luggage by 10:30am).
B.) Food, entertainment (especially the acrobatics and the magic show) and on-board activities were great.
Nice waterfront area with free trolley service.
We walked around Old Mazatlan then walked to the beach. Took the taxi to the Golden Zone. Entire area is gorgeous and locals are very friendly.