Travelled on the Pride of America on 2nd April 2011 for 7 nights. The Itinerary was what persuaded us to book this cruise.We were absolutely thrilled with all aspects of the ship, it was warm and friendly, very clean and without exception all the staff we encountered were polite, friendly and seemed to be enjoying themselves.I would mention Laura who was working in the Waikiki Bar.Food was excellent at the Buffet and in the 2 included restaurants.We didn't eat in any of the speciality restaurants. Shows were ok, not really high caliber, but very watchable.Price of shore excursions was also a turn off, book yourself you will save Loads. One example in Maui, we went Whale Watching in Lahina. Price with NCL $100 each. We got the free shuttle to the Mall, picked up the local bus for $2 each return, then paid $25 each to go on the same Whale Watching boat NCL recommended.Most of the Islands you visit the ports are in industrial areas but don't be put off, you just need to get in a taxi or shuttle and go explore. Although we really enjoyed this cruise i have a criticism with NCL.We paid $12 each per day, $168 for the week added to our bill, for Gratuities. On top that all drinks at the bar carried a 15% gratuity also. I would say that in the one week our Gratuities came to $250.Because of this we did not individually tip any member of staff, even though a couple of them stand out as being particularly worth a little extra.
Balcony cabin was adequate for our needs, average size for a cruise ship, comfortable and clean.