This was a one-week "romantic" escape for my wife and me. We boarded the Pearl in Miami on an eastern Caribbean itinerary which was a bit different than "typical", calling on Samana in the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, Tortola, and finally a beach day at Great Stirrup Cay (NCL's "private" island).

The check-in process was smooth and efficient, even though we were delayed in boarding. Apparently CBP had cleared the ship's previous sailing very late and everything was running way behind, but in all sincerity, this wasn't something within NCL's control nor something they should be blamed for.

The ports of call were good choices, especially for those of us who are experienced cruisers. Samana and Tortola were new ports for us, even though we've cruised the Caribbean extensively in the past. They were both charming stops and had nice options for visitors. We were somewhat disappointed with the excessive prices charged by NCL for their shore excursion, especially at Samana. We paid $50 each for what basically amounted to a 10 minute boat ride from the ship to Cayo Levantado. We (along with a number of other passengers we spoke with) felt that was abusive, but since NCL had the "only game in town" if you wanted to visit this beach, it was either pay it or don't go. Read more