We (two retired female friends) chose this cruise because the P of A spends so much time on the islands, with all traveling done at night. We spent two days on Oahu before the cruise, got to see a big wave surf competition, and the Kualoa Ranch. (Both excellent). Arrived at Hanauma Bay, prepared to snorkel, and found that they close at 5:30, not 7 p.m. as advertised everywhere. So we missed what I now assume to be the best snorkeling spot in Hawaii.
We arrived at the port around 12:30 p.m. and were on the ship within the hour. Went to the buffet for lunch and all rooms were announced to be ready before we were finished. We had anytine dining with reservations for 6:30 on most days. Never had to wait for a table, had same waitresses every night, and a window table. Most food was pretty good. Went to the french restaurant one night. Service was impeccable. Food so-so (big disappointment). Cream puff dessert was highlight.
Whether it was because there was no casino or that we were so busy off the ship all day, every day, we found that we went to sleep pretty early every night but not before seeing shows and laba flow! Entertainment was great! Comedian was a riot! We saw him twice, two different shows. Magician was very good. The four guys in the rock and roll band were excellent! We had planned much of our dinner times around being able to get to shows and were very glad that we did.
Cabin was tight for two females to share but we had enough closet and drawer space and made the shelves in small bathroom work. Extra large balcony was wonderful. 2 chairs, 2 chaise lounges, 2 tables.
Loved Oahu! Rented car for two days. Drove up the east coast to Kualoa Ranch tour, then continues north to pipeline beach. Hanauma Bay is gorgeous and huge. Get there by 3 if you want to swim or snorkel as they get everyone out of water at 5:30.
Tender port. We had an excursion booked but it was canceled due to lack of participants. There is a small beach and nice shopping area just outside of the pier where tender drops you off. Water was too cold for us to swim but beach was nice. Shave ice and ABC stires everywhere, including here.
Rented a car and saw several waterfalls and lookouts enroute to Wiamea Canyon before rain came. Then went to Poipu Beach which was nice but kind of rough.