Norwegian Pearl Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Embarkation - If you're in a suite category and expect a special security line (such as in Long Beach), you'll be disappointed in New Orleans. However, once through the line there was a room for those in suites (not mini) and haven categories to be processed. This was quick and we were then, in a small group escorted up to Cagney's steakhouse where we had lunch while our cabins were prepared. The luggage could have been delivered a bit sooner (wanted to get unpacked quickly) but that was quite minor.
Cabin - 9670 is an aft suite. Awesome view from the back of the ship. No noises from either above or below.
Dining - We had five of our evening meals in specialty restaurants. The priority reservation status that being in a suite receives is more myth that fact. 2 of our reservations were at 8pm forcing us to miss both show times for that evening. We found Moderno (Brazilian steakhouse) to be somewhat disappointing as we have eaten at Brazilian style steakhouses before. Teppanyaki was a unique experience, very hard to get reservations and got no help from the concierge on that either.
Cabin Review
Penthouse with Large Balcony
The penthouse suite is a nicely large cabin on the aft port side. Great view off the balcony. Of course with this suite you receive the VIP treatment (walk on embarkation skipping all the lines, butler and concierge service, breakfast and lunch in a specialty restaurant) so the extra price is well worth it.
Truly enjoyed the fact that 2 curtains draw around the bed so one can be sleeping while a partner is about the cabin.
Nice bathroom (tub and shower combo) with plenty of towels etc.
Port Reviews
New Orleans
We arrived 2 days early to enjoy New Orleans. We had a great time, staying at Harrah's hotel. Even though it was spring break we didn't feel too cramped. Great food, restaurant suggestions would be Luke and Grand Isles.
Costa Maya
Nothing of note, once again shops and restaurants. Some tours were offered, nothing that interested us.
Cozumel
Wife did the Chichen Itza ruins by air. Though a bit pricey, she says it was well worth it. 45 minute flight, time at the ruins and flight back. Her only complaint was the guide didn't let them do any exploring on their own. The tour gets a rating of 5.
As for the port itself, I did some walking (you quickly tire of all the pushy vendors) and returned back to the ship after about an hour or so.
Harvest Caye
Some shops, overpriced restaurants and little else on board. I did get some hot sauce and t-shirts. That was my Belize experience.