I have just returned from a great Panama Canal cruise. I do not have allegiance to any one cruise line, but choose the cruise according to their itinerary and dates available.

First of all, a few comments about the cruise itself on Norwegian Star. This itinerary was for a very hot climate - I would have appreciated more lounge chairs outdoors in shaded areas - these were always at a premium - at times, having to put up with cigarette smoke just to get out of the sun.The meals were not as great as I have become accustomed to while cruising - there wasn't anything wrong with them, but they lacked the variety and "pizzaz" I would have liked. Breakfasts in the buffet were the same every day for 2 weeks. They did offer a variety of foods, but my quest for that "something a little different" each morning went unanswered. FreeStyle Dining means that jeans, shorts and even HATS are allowed in the main dining rooms at dinner - this took away from MY experience of elegant dining while cruising. With this cruise being for 2 weeks in Jan, there were very few children on board.

Now for the ports and excursions: We were very fortunate to be the only cruise ship in each of the ports that we attended. We booked all of our excursions through NCL for safety reasons. In Cartagena, Columbia we took the Exclusive Hop On Hop Off Bus - we quite enjoyed this tour but did not have time to hop off and back on again - the bus toured the city and then included a 1 hr walking tour of the Old City. The only negative was all of the people trying to sell you something in the Old City and they were very persistent - our guide seemed to have his favourites that he didn't mind recommending, and he stopped for certain street performers to ensure they received tips. Don't miss out on the "Nature Reserve" hidden in a corner of the pier - it's free and a great chance to see lots of birds and animals. Read more