We have always cruise with NCL because of their flexibility of dining and times. NCL always gives great incentives for FREEBIES when you book early with them. Staterooms are spacious and clean (balcony rooms are the best). We were sad about the entertainment on the Star which was mostly one person singing instead of dancers and singing. We did book our pre and post hotel through NCL - great hotel with all the transportations needed to and from airport and ports. Crown Plaza accommodated us when we arrived early in the day (1:00 pm) and let us in our room to sleep awhile after a 12 hour flight. I would definitely look into using the ship's internet instead of your own because it's much better when traveling abroad. All of the excursions we took were well worth the money and time. Now trying to decide where to go next with NCL!
Very spacious cabin. The shower on the boat was much bigger than past boats.
Definitely buy a boat pass and look at Venice from the Grand Canal. You definitely see a lot in a short amount of time and can hop on/hop off just about anywhere in Venice.
We did not book an excursion through the ship bc there weren't that many. We did explore the city and ate a nice lunch (restaurant on the water) and were many picture opportunities throughout the city.