This was a long-planned “bucket list” cruise and did not disappoint. The overall shipboard experience was everything we had hoped for and more. The itinerary, with multiple sea days and the Canal itself being the crown jewel, was the reason for the cruise and was thoroughly enjoyed.
We had arranged for transportation from LAX airport to San Pedro pier through NCL and this was handled very smoothly. NCL personnel greeted us in the baggage claim area and escorted us to our bus that delivered us to the NCL embarkation area. NCL embarkation staff were friendly, patient and courteous and had the process well organized.
Once aboard we were directed to our correct deck and our Stateroom Steward "Barnard" appeared and greeted us by name & taught us how to navigate to our stateroom using the swimming fish pattern in the hallway carpet as well as the door color (blue = starboard; red = port). (See below for further cabin information.)
Our Stateroom Steward "Barnard" greeted us by name upon our arrival & taught us how to navigate to our stateroom using the forward swimming fish pattern in the hallway carpet as well as the door color (blue = starboard; red = port). This was invaluable information that we relied upon multiple times each day of the cruise! He made sure our stateroom was always immaculately prepared in a timely manner & we always looked forward to his daily animal creatures! Our balcony mini-suite stateroom was very comfortable with adequate storage and closet space which included sufficient hangers as well as a safe. The coffee maker facilitated early morning coffee on the balcony. Morning room service consisting of coffee/tea with sweet rolls, etc was also available at no extra cost. Our Stateroom Steward removed the contents of our mini-fridge at our request for our personal use. The bathroom with tub/shower enclosure as well as separate toilet enclosure was well equipped with shower gel & shampoo, hand soap and plenty of towels that were replenished twice a day as needed. There is also a handy retractable clothesline in the tub/shower enclosure. A hairdryer was provided at the vanity area outside the bathroom. The TV provided continual "bow-cam" views on Ch 13 and ongoing ship's information on Ch 12 as well as various news channels and movies.