I read a few reviews of this cruise before taking it. Now I want to add a little. Stuff I wish I knew before. I live in Hawaii, have lived on Oahu since 2007, Because of my previous time in the Military and now retired doing my current job, I've been to all the islands. However, my family has not. I thought this would be an excellent way to let them get a glimpse of all the islands and well as take our first cruise together. I live on Oahu, so, I'm well versed here, so I'll talk about the cruise.

First impressions walking on the ship was that it was beautiful and well taken care of. It had just been fully refurbished, so everything looks new. Cabins small, but it just makes it more fun. I've had friends that worked on cruise lines, and they have all given me negative ratings for taking a cruise. Yet, all my friends and relatives who have cruised, have all had positive ratings. The staff on this ship were very friendly and very accommodating. Never had a negative vibe.

Food, was awesome. I had read negative reviews of bad food. Not so. So many options, but the one we always used was the buffet as it always had good stuff, and forget about being on a diet if you're going to take a cruise! You can spend extra money to eat at some of the restaurants on board, we didn't bother. Didn't need to, but that's your option. Alcoholic drinks were not that expensive, of course, you're going to pay for alcohol. Things I wish I knew before boarding: I am a cigar smoker, love a good cigar with a beverage outside. I thought the whole ship was none smoking. Not so. There is one very nice bar at the back of the ship where one can light up whatever they want too. If I knew, I could have brought my cigars. They do have some available to purchase though. I think it would be a good idea for NCL to better advertise this amenity. Read more