Table Of Content
So what makes the Pride of America so weird, I mean, “unique? ” As the only American flagged ocean cruise ship, you’ll notice three major differences between the Pride of America and other ships that sail to/from Hawaii. First, the Passenger Vessel Services Act does not apply to American registered ships, so the Pride of America isn’t required to stop at a foreign port.
Specialty Restaurants Fill Up Fast
It was usually four pages in length and full of great information on activities and entertainment. Most of the excursions we took were quite long and included lunch. For a “floating hotel” of that size, it never really felt crowded, except for the arrival at Kona, when there were long, crowded waits for the tender boats to shuttle us from the ship to shore. We’ll share all the details, but if this is TLDR, the skinny is that the cruise itinerary is excellent, the destinations are amazing, the cabins are adequate, the food experience was sub par.
Cruise lines skip Maui port calls - TravelMole
Cruise lines skip Maui port calls.
Posted: Mon, 14 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Decks and Cabins
Fortunately, the visit to Kahului, Maui took place as planned from 8 a.m. On Monday, April 15, before the technical issue developed. Please get in touch with us if you want to extend your stay in Hawaii before or after your Norwegian Cruise Lines – Pride Of America cruise. We have all sorts of transportation options, uniquely Hawaiian experiences, and great hotels to share with you. One of the most fascinating attractions in all of Hawaii is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It’s a park that is worthy of exploring for more than just a day, but as you’ll likely only have a day here, you’ll get to see some of the park’s highlights.
Is Norwegian (NCL) Pride of America a good ship to cruise on?
We’ve lost count of the number of times we’ve been to Hawaii and we experience something new every time. So, with a cruise, you should set your expectations that you’re going to get to see some amazing places, but you’re not going to get to do everything. Hawaii is an outstanding destination with so much beauty and culture. Though there’s little time to explore the embarkation/disembarkation port of Honolulu on Oahu, there’s a good amount of time to discover the three other major islands — Maui, Hawaii (Big) Island and Kauai. Actually there are two days each at those islands, which is double what you’d find on other cruises to Hawaii. Further west, stop in historic Lahaina, which is home to a massive 149-year-old banyan tree along with galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Understand How To Get Free Espresso Drinks With The Hawaii Beverage Package
We found a mistake on our final bill – we were charged for several drinks that should have been included in the Hawaii Beverage Package. No biggie, I called guest services and they refunded our credit card. It actually pays to do this every few days (you can view it on the TV in your cabin) or even daily as lines and waits for guest services can be longer toward the end of the cruise. This would give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
What to see on Hawaii’s Big Island in One Day – Part One from the Kona Side
And the third difference, directly related to the second, is cost. You’ll likely pay a much higher per night cruise fare on the Pride of America than other ships that sail to/from Hawaii. Pride of America crew members are paid more, enjoy labor protections foreign workers do not, and turnover is higher, leading to increased cruise fares. Our total 7-night fare on the Pride of America was nearly double what we paid for a 15-night sailing on the Grand Princess round-trip to Hawaii from San Fransisco. In fact, it was our most expensive vacation ever (factoring in the expense of getting to and from Honolulu by air).
There are quite a few options, from interior rooms without views, rooms with picture windows and rooms with balconies. Some rooms with windows or balconies have obstructed views and are noted in the room category. Most of the common areas of the ship are decorated with bright, exciting colors. Generally speaking, the decor was in good taste and reflected the excitement and adventure of a cruise.
ALL CRUISE LINES (1543 SHIPS)
Pride of America offers a plethora of exciting shore excursions for a fee (ziplining, kayaking, bus tours of Volcanoes National Park, luaus and more). Shore excursions are such a big deal on this ship that they often fill up before the ship leaves port the first day. Do some research before you go and try to sign up way in advance for the best slots.
Don’t Look For The Casino
Pinks Champagne Lounge seemed to be an ode to the Royal Hawaiian hotel. For a ship that’s dedicated to sailing within the Hawaiian Islands every day of the year for many years, it sure could use more Hawaiian or tropical decor. Possibly one of the very best aspects of the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America Hawaii cruise is the itinerary.
When each Hawaiian island offers so much to see and do for a week-long land vacation, how do you best spend your limited hours at each port? We’ve gone on many land vacations in Hawaii and we’ve taken the NCL Pride of America cruise of Hawaii, so we know Hawaii very, very well. As such, we’d like to share some thoughts and suggestions on the top tours to do in each port. Built in 2005, Pride of America is the only large-scale cruise ship in the world that can legally sail Hawaii cruises roundtrip from Honolulu, thanks to some creative wrangling. When the pandemic hit, it was widely assumed this special status would help Pride of America restart operations first. With any cruise in Hawaii, you’re only going to get to see a few highlights of each island and that’s it.
While this itinerary visits four islands, first-timers should plan for at least two nights on Oahu—home to Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. Fly in early, book a hotel in Waikiki and try your hand at surfing or outrigger canoe paddling. If you feel energetic, reserve a time (early morning is best) to hike to the summit of Diamond Head for panoramic views. Or visit Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum to experience the royal Hawaii of old. With so many bars and lounges to discover, finding your favorite may take a few days. Pop some bubbly and toast to the good life inside Pink’s Champagne Bar.
There are several scenic beaches—including Secret Beach, Lumahai Beach, and Tunnels Beach—along the way, but parking is roadside, access can be tricky via steep trails and swimming isn't advised due to rough surf. That said, there's definitely some strategy required to maximize your on-island experience. Having just returned in mid-May from my second Pride of America sailing (the first was in 2006 not long after the ship's debut), I'm happy to share advice that can help you enjoy your Hawaii experience. Even if you’ve already eaten multiple desserts from the restaurant, there’s always room for a made-to-order crepe. Hit the buffet during dinner hours each night so you can try all the delicious combinations.
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