Pride of America Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We were first timers to Hawaii and NCL but have cruised many, many, many times before with other cruise lines. In the past our preferred line has been HAL. We travel with the idea that we'll see it all completely, never to return because there's so many places we want to go and see). Since the island ferry was no longer available we chose a week in Waikiki to explore Oahu and then a week of island hopping via NCL's Pride.
The idea of freestyle cruising caused some anxiety as it was the unknown. Fortunately, enroute on the rental car van we encountered a couple coming off the last cruise and they gave us some handy tips.
The advantage to freestyle is going to dinner at a time that you choose. This is convenient as it can allow for spontaneity. The disadvantage was that you really have no opportunity to sit down and meet new people (other than at the lounges, during events, shows or on excursions). We've been lucky to have made good, long time friends from our dinner seatings on other ships.
Cabin Review
Balcony
We had room 9166. Love the location. Was a bit apprehensive about the balcony location but once I saw it I loved it. Being on the end you have a Full 180 degree view of your side of the ship as opposed to those balconies with the wall out to the railing edge. Also you have alot more room in the hallway because of the corner location. Even though it was close to the elevator it was quiet.However, these rooms are really small. Smallest we've ever had on a ship and we always get a balcony room. My husband (6'0" - 240 lbs) and I (5'7" - 180 lbs) often had to step into the bathroom or on the balcony to change places as you can't do so where the desk /sofa is located and/or anywhere around the bed.