This was our first cruise, a test run to see if we liked it. What a great experience. The entire staff (large staff and I mean every single person) were friendly and attentive. Our cabin ( balcony. 9th deck) was roomy, well laid out and had surprising amounts of storage space. If you go book on the starboard side, you will get to see most of the islands as you approach and leave ports.

New to cruising but thought the alcohol, soft drink and water pricing was high. I also didn't like the "tip service" charge added to the bill (I tip well with service like I received on board, I think tipping for service is individualistic, not a pool fund to be divided up). Also, I thought the Internet service charges were outrageous. Almost a necessity nowadays and $210 per trip seems ridiculously high.

Shore excursions were great. On Maui, we rented a jeep (enterprise car rental a couple of blocks from the port) and did the road to Hana (nice drive), Old Lahania Luau (lots of fun) and a trip up the volcano the next day. The rest of the time we did the excursions. Drivers were really knowledgeable about the trips they drove on.