Norwegian Star Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We chose this cruise because of the ports of call. They were all wonderful. The highlight was Cartagena but we loved each and every one. We were glad to start in Los Angeles as each port just got better and better ending with the best last. We took some NCL excursions and some with local tour companies. All excellent though don't like the large groups that usually accompany ship tours.
The ship itself was a bit below expectations but overall very good. Especially good was the on board entertainment. We especially loved The Astorgas Latin music, These Guys a cappella group, and broadway style programs. Food was okay. We did not eat at any of the specialty restaurants. We enjoyed the dance lessons and dancing opportunities. The ship itself needs maintenance but the staff were outstanding. Take a multi-prong plug - only one receptacle in the cabin and couldn't find any other US on the whole ship. Narration on the Panama Canal was a bit of a disappointment.
Cabin Review
Mid-Ship Inside
Terrible layout. We almost always select inside cabin since don't spend much time in there but this was very tight, furnishings poor with only seating, the chair, just in the way. Limited drawer space. We'd be careful not to get a "convertible" room ever again.
Port Reviews
Puerto Quetzal (Antigua)
We hired a local "taxi" to Antigua. It's a beautiful colonial city. We spent a month in Guatemala 30 years ago; 2 weeks in Antigua studying Spanish. The city has grown up a lot in the intervening years. Now much more sophisticated with many shops, galleries and restaurants but still maintains its charm. Wish we'd had more time there.
San Juan del Sur
Took ship tour here. Wanted to visit Granada and volcano -- both wonderful. It's a long drive and we ended up not having enough time in Granada which for us was a bit of disappointment. Could have done without the stop at the Market -- lots of curious, not much of quality. The lunch at beautiful estancia was wonderful. Beautiful setting, exhibition of Paso Fino horses, animals, pottery making -- very special place and good food.