This American is Proud to Review the Pride of America 4/11 to 4/18

[motleyfan]

See my post just above this one as I mentioned lobster in Jefferson's Bistro. We didn't know the POA brought aboard live lobster from Kona. It was a very nice surprise once we sat down in Jefferson's Bistro. We were told Cagney's offers this lobster too. First come first served basis. So if you're really really wanting fresh lobster, consider the night of Kona in either of these two restaurants and book an early enough reservation.

 

Next post - Kauai!

 

I'm loving the review so far, pride of america is definitely on my list of cruises to do.

[Retiring cajun]

going on. POA mid august. can we ask room Stewart to remove mini bar items? so we can use frig..

[mel-b]

I'm loving the review so far, pride of america is definitely on my list of cruises to do.

 

Thanks for reading! I hope this review is helpful as you consider the POA!

[mel-b]

going on. POA mid august. can we ask room Stewart to remove mini bar items? so we can use frig..

 

My understanding is yes, you can request the cabin steward to remove the items in the fridge. We did not need to make this request, but I recall hearing of others who did. There was just a little bit of room in the fridge for me to place a couple bottles of vitamins.

You might even be able to make this request prior to embarkation? This question might be able to be answered by others who have been successful in doing so.

Edited July 14, 2015 by mel-b

[maryandmarge]

We've always removed all the things ourselves and put them in an empty shelf, cupboard, or in a space that we weren't going to be using. The night before we leave we put everything back. It keeps us from drinking one of their items and being charged for it. We bring our own pop on the cruise ship and have never had any issues. Hope this helps and enjoy your cruise. We did the Pride of America in 2010 and absolutely loved it...hoping some day to make this cruise again.

[Molokai-Chuck]

I have done the stuff in the refer both ways...asked to have it removed, and done it myself.

Works fine every time for us.

 

Chuck

[mel-b]

So, our cruise on the POA was rockin' along so well up to this point. The only problem I seemed to have was deciding which island was my favorite! A good problem to have. And honestly, what we encountered first thing in Kauai was not the end of the world. Disappointing, yes. But you know that old adage, "glass half full?" That's how we viewed what happened the first day in Kauai. And the circumstances and change in plans allowed us to have a killer day we otherwise would not have had (well, I'm sure we would have, just different activity!).

 

What happened? Something I honestly did not anticipate. Let me back up to my pre-cruise planning for Kauai. I was stoked about this stop. There were so many options for activities and exploration. Once again, we wanted to maximize our time to the fullest. With a full day, overnight and half of the next day, I wanted to be smart about how we spent it. What we ended up deciding to do seemed best for our interests and for the time schedule in Kauai. The different areas/regions of this island are so diverse IMO. It would take a day or more just to explore, say, the north shore area.

 

I worked my way backwards in terms of planning Friday first. Friday (the 2nd day in Kauai) was a half day. We needed to be back aboard the ship around 130 pm in order to do the sail-by of the Na Pali coast. Therefore, that didn't leave a great amount of time to book a big activity. Since I had narrowed down our options to helicopter tour and zodiac raft tour (of the Na Pali coast), I decided the 2nd (half) day would be best for a morning helicopter tour. That left Thursday, a full day of activity and exploring. Several people had recommended the zodiac raft tours of the Na Pali coast. We knew this would be right up our alley, so I researched the various outfitters. It appears some go out of the north shore area and a couple go out of the southwestern side of the island. We knew we would not have enough time on Friday (half day) to do the zodiac raft tour. So ultimately, it made sense to arrange that on the first day in Kauai and as I mentioned, the helicopter tour the 2nd day.

 

I chose not to book the zodiac raft tour through NCL. We didn't book any of our activities through the ship. We have generally booked our own excursions on past cruises we've taken. Hawaii makes it all the more easier to do your own thing because of the itinerary. Port intensive. American ports. Overnights.

There were a couple of raft companies I was considering. One of which did not operate until May. The "winter" conditions can be rough around the Na Pali coast, even though that's the best time to see whales! Since we were sailing mid April, we were on the tail end (pun intended) of whale season. Captain Andy's Raft Tour came highly recommended. They are located in Ele'ele which is in the southwestern area of Kauai. I called and spoke to a gal who arranged our reservation. I was concerned because of the check in time and expressed that to her. The POA schedule in Kauai starts at 8am that Thursday. I figured we would be cutting it a bit close to disembark the POA, grab the rental Jeep and head to their office for 930 am check in. Tight, but not impossible. I expressed these concerns to her and she agreed it should not be an issue. I provided her with a credit card to secure a spot (not payment). I didn't think twice about it (and realized I never received an email confirmation/contract from them) until...

 

We arrived late in Kauai. I don't know why. But by 8am, when the POA was to have been docked, we were at least half an hour to 45 minutes out. When I was finally able to get a signal on my phone, I immediately called Captain Andy's. At first, they couldn't locate our reservation. I realized at that point the email they were to have sent to me after I made the reservation never was sent. Nonetheless, they located our reservation and I proceeded to tell them our predicament.

 

Let me just say this. Initially, they were unwilling to refund the excursion (of which we hadn't been charged for yet). I understand that is their policy. They wanted us to either take a dinner cruise that evening (on a catamaran I believe) or take the zodiac raft excursion the following morning (which we would not have had enough time to do considering the 130 pm all aboard for the Na Pali sail by). Upon discussing our predicament with the manager, it sounded like they either do not have many POA passengers who book through them or it's rare the POA is late to port. At any rate, upon further discussion with the manager and explaining to her this was out of our control (yes, we could book the dinner cruise but originally booked them for the zodiac) we were willing to eat the cost (of which we hadn't been charged yet) but we wanted to return to Kauai and use them. They come highly recommended. In the end, the manager agreed to not charge our credit card. The conversation came to a positive close. Or so we thought. Guess what? They still charged our card. This is what I'm frustrated about. If this hadn't been guaranteed, I would not be frustrated. I would chalk it up to our bad decision in booking an excursion outside of NCL...but I want to hold them to their word. I'm going to make an assumption it was an oversight and accidental charge. We just discovered this on our statement literally within the last few days and are in the process of getting it worked out. So stay tuned. If it gets worked out as promised, I would not hesitate to recommend this outfitter to anyone.

 

Needless to say, we were bummed!!! We really really were looking forward to touring the Na Pali coast by raft. In and out of the sea caves. Close to (potential) whales and dolphins. Snorkeling if possible. So we started calling around to other outfitters. It didn't matter at that point who. We discovered most were not going out due to weather conditions. What I noticed was most were on the north shore. So it's my understanding the conditions going from their area to the Na Pali coast were different than the conditions going from the southwestern (Ele'ele area) to the Na Pali coast. Captain Andy's was still going out. Most others were not.

So, we gave up the fight. Initially defeated but hopeful for an awesome day of random exploring. We gathered our things and went down to the excursion desk on the POA. All of their zodiac raft tours were cancelled due to the conditions. So, since we had a jeep rental, we decided to disembark and make our way to the rental company.

Edited July 17, 2015 by mel-b

[bonesj0nes]

Thanks for this review! Loved reading it.

We are sailing away on POA 9/5 for our honeymoon and we couldn't be more excited!

[mel-b]

Thanks for this review! Loved reading it.

We are sailing away on POA 9/5 for our honeymoon and we couldn't be more excited!

 

Oh, congratulations!! How exciting! I hope this review has been helpful as you plan your honeymoon.

[GASPARTY]

So, our cruise on the POA was rockin' along so well up to this point. The only problem I seemed to have was deciding which island was my favorite! A good problem to have. And honestly, what we encountered first thing in Kauai was not the end of the world. Disappointing, yes. But you know that old adage, "glass half full?" That's how we viewed what happened the first day in Kauai. And the circumstances and change in plans allowed us to have a killer day we otherwise would not have had (well, I'm sure we would have, just different activity!).

 

What happened? Something I honestly did not anticipate. Let me back up to my pre-cruise planning for Kauai. I was stoked about this stop. There were so many options for activities and exploration. Once again, we wanted to maximize our time to the fullest. With a full day, overnight and half of the next day, I wanted to be smart about how we spent it. What we ended up deciding to do seemed best for our interests and for the time schedule in Kauai. The different areas/regions of this island are so diverse IMO. It would take a day or more just to explore, say, the north shore area.

 

I worked my way backwards in terms of planning Friday first. Friday (the 2nd day in Kauai) was a half day. We needed to be back aboard the ship around 130 pm in order to do the sail-by of the Na Pali coast. Therefore, that didn't leave a great amount of time to book a big activity. Since I had narrowed down our options to helicopter tour and zodiac raft tour (of the Na Pali coast), I decided the 2nd (half) day would be best for a morning helicopter tour. That left Thursday, a full day of activity and exploring. Several people had recommended the zodiac raft tours of the Na Pali coast. We knew this would be right up our alley, so I researched the various outfitters. It appears some go out of the north shore area and a couple go out of the southwestern side of the island. We knew we would not have enough time on Friday (half day) to do the zodiac raft tour. So ultimately, it made sense to arrange that on the first day in Kauai and as I mentioned, the helicopter tour the 2nd day.

 

I chose not to book the zodiac raft tour through NCL. We didn't book any of our activities through the ship. We have generally booked our own excursions on past cruises we've taken. Hawaii makes it all the more easier to do your own thing because of the itinerary. Port intensive. American ports. Overnights.

There were a couple of raft companies I was considering. One of which did not operate until May. The "winter" conditions can be rough around the Na Pali coast, even though that's the best time to see whales! Since we were sailing mid April, we were on the tail end (pun intended) of whale season. Captain Andy's Raft Tour came highly recommended. They are located in Ele'ele which is in the southwestern area of Kauai. I called and spoke to a gal who arranged our reservation. I was concerned because of the check in time and expressed that to her. The POA schedule in Kauai starts at 8am that Thursday. I figured we would be cutting it a bit close to disembark the POA, grab the rental Jeep and head to their office for 930 am check in. Tight, but not impossible. I expressed these concerns to her and she agreed it should not be an issue. I provided her with a credit card to secure a spot (not payment). I didn't think twice about it (and realized I never received an email confirmation/contract from them) until...

 

We arrived late in Kauai. I don't know why. But by 8am, when the POA was to have been docked, we were at least half an hour to 45 minutes out. When I was finally able to get a signal on my phone, I immediately called Captain Andy's. At first, they couldn't locate our reservation. I realized at that point the email they were to have sent to me after I made the reservation never was sent. Nonetheless, they located our reservation and I proceeded to tell them our predicament.

 

Let me just say this. Initially, they were unwilling to refund the excursion (of which we hadn't been charged for yet). I understand that is their policy. They wanted us to either take a dinner cruise that evening (on a catamaran I believe) or take the zodiac raft excursion the following morning (which we would not have had enough time to do considering the 130 pm all aboard for the Na Pali sail by). Upon discussing our predicament with the manager, it sounded like they either do not have many POA passengers who book through them or it's rare the POA is late to port. At any rate, upon further discussion with the manager and explaining to her this was out of our control (yes, we could book the dinner cruise but originally booked them for the zodiac) we were willing to eat the cost (of which we hadn't been charged yet) but we wanted to return to Kauai and use them. They come highly recommended. In the end, the manager agreed to not charge our credit card. The conversation came to a positive close. Or so we thought. Guess what? They still charged our card. This is what I'm frustrated about. If this hadn't been guaranteed, I would not be frustrated. I would chalk it up to our bad decision in booking an excursion outside of NCL...but I want to hold them to their word. I'm going to make an assumption it was an oversight and accidental charge. We just discovered this on our statement literally within the last few days and are in the process of getting it worked out. So stay tuned. If it gets worked out as promised, I would not hesitate to recommend this outfitter to anyone.

 

Needless to say, we were bummed!!! We really really were looking forward to touring the Na Pali coast by raft. In and out of the sea caves. Close to (potential) whales and dolphins. Snorkeling if possible. So we started calling around to other outfitters. It didn't matter at that point who. We discovered most were not going out due to weather conditions. What I noticed was most were on the north shore. So it's my understanding the conditions going from their area to the Na Pali coast were different than the conditions going from the southwestern (Ele'ele area) to the Na Pali coast. Captain Andy's was still going out. Most others were not.

So, we gave up the fight. Initially defeated but hopeful for an awesome day of random exploring. We gathered our things and went down to the excursion desk on the POA. All of their zodiac raft tours were cancelled due to the conditions. So, since we had a jeep rental, we decided to disembark and make our way to the rental company.

 

Wow what a great review and very helpful about options in the ports. I hope you get your issue worked out with Andys. Waiting to hear about the helicopter tour. We were in Kaui (sp) and had scheduled that tour, was cancelled due to weather. Would love to do that tour.

 

So is there more coming of this review? If so, can't wait!

[mel-b]

Wow what a great review and very helpful about options in the ports. I hope you get your issue worked out with Andys. Waiting to hear about the helicopter tour. We were in Kaui (sp) and had scheduled that tour, was cancelled due to weather. Would love to do that tour.

 

So is there more coming of this review? If so, can't wait!

 

Thanks Gasparty! I hope we get it worked out with Captain Andy's too. They come highly recommended, and we'd love to use them when we return to Kauai!!

I should be able to finish the Kauai portion of my review this weekend, so stay tuned! I'll also talk about Oahu/Waikiki Beach. Thanks for reading!

[mel-b]

I used discounthawaiicarrental dot com again for our Jeep rental in Kauai. We were paired up with Alamo for the best rate. Once we disembarked the POA after the zodiac raft tour debacle, we grabbed the Alamo shuttle bus just outside the port building. The majority if not all car rental agencies are located at the Lihue airport. This cruise port is industrial like Maui and Hilo. However, there is a Duke's restaurant and I believe a Marriott within walking distance along with a beach, few shops and an awesome food truck I'll mention in a bit.

 

Grabbing our rental was easy and we found ourselves on the road to the north shore in no time. We decided to just drive. Grabbed an old fashioned map and took off, destination unknown other than driving to the very end where Ke'e beach and the hiking trail of the Na Pali coast is located.

 

One of our first stops was at the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge. Well worth the stop and admission fee. This is open Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00pm, closed on Sunday and Monday and all federal holidays. Admission is $5.00 per person. Children 15 and under are free. All federal land passes are honored here. It's such a peaceful spot. If you're a bird/nature lover, this is a must stop.

 

View from the lighthouse area towards the Na Pali coast. The ritzy neighborhood closest to the Kilauea point is where Ben Stiller has a home.

 

As we drove back through the Kilauea area towards the main road, we stopped at a taco truck called Julio's Beach Burritos. So so tasty!! I remember the fish tacos being the fresh catch of the day. Definitely stop here if you're hungry. After our snack, we continued on towards the end and Ke'e beach. We passed through the area of Hanalei, which I absolutely loved. Such a small town, lots of taro plots. This would be a good place to stop for lunch/snack. I think we passed a good looking burger joint if I recall.

 

View from the main road looking down into Hanalei and the taro plots

Bridge before Hanalei

Hanalei

[mel-b]

As we drove through Hanalei, we continued on towards the very end of the road which dumps you out at Ke'e beach and the trailhead to hike the Na Pali coast. We passed several small beach areas which allowed us to pull off and take in the scenery. Many of these areas were secluded, which was peaceful.

 

 

Ke'e beach has lifeguards. Most of these smaller areas do not, so keep that in mind especially if the surf is rough (which it was the day we were there). One such area had several people sitting on the beach. Nobody swimming since the waves were extremely high and rough. Unfortunately, a group of three people were laying too close to the edge of the surf and a rogue wave blew through, carrying their belongings with it!! So take heed, especially in winter months.

 

Ke'e beach was very crowded. We couldn't find a place to park, so we decided to turn around and head back. We considered hiking the small portion of the Na Pali trail, but decided to spend our time exploring the Princeville area which we passed between Kilauea point and Hanalei (this is where the infamous Queen's Bath is located and where we cheated death...) The St. Regis resort along with a few others are located within this community.

[mel-b]

Princeville is a super nice area in the north shore of Kauai. I'm glad we decided to drive through with the goal of hiking down to the Queen's Bath area. There is a small parking lot within the residential part of Princeville. A few cars were already parked. There is a marker leading the way to the short hike down to the ocean. The hike was very pleasant, albeit muddy. There is a stream and small waterfall. I'd say the time it took to get down to the lava rock cliffs and Queen's Bath was about 15 minutes. Once you reach the water, this is your view along with a wooden sign attached to a rock which reads the number of deaths that have occurred at this location.

 

 

That sign is no exaggeration. The surroundings are so, so beautiful but rough. Mother Nature means business down by the Queen's Bath.

 

There were several people hiking around. We were able to hike back a ways from the edge which was nice because the waves were insane. It's very obvious how a rogue wave could crash into this area and knock a person either back towards the rock (a better scenerio) or out to sea... We hiked onward (in the direction towards the Na Pali coast) and found a group of people perched on the rock looking down into the Queen's Bath. It took my breath away to see a few people actually swimming down in the bath. It's shaped like a horseshoe actually, with two entrances/exits where the ocean will swell, rushing into the horseshoe from both entrances/exits. Thankfully, there is a cluster of lava rock about midway which seemed to break the swells. When the waves are calm, a "bath" is created which is crystal clear and absolutely amazing. My understanding is on most days, the issue is high tide/low tide. The tide can rush in, immediately filling the bath and carrying those unfortunate souls out to sea. The other issue, which we experienced this day, is massive waves. Rogue waves too.

 

 

The wisest thing to do is not swim this bath. I never claimed to be the wisest so....we did. But let me say this. We waited a good half hour at least. Observing the conditions. Watching others jump in and climb out. And, there were several people present when we did it. They have an advantage of watching from the top of the rock while you're swimming below. We also happened to be in the bath with two women who were familiar with the bath. I'm thankful for that. Because looks can be deceiving...as in, what it looks like from the top versus in the water.

 

My husband jumped in first with the GoPro. I blame him for the peer pressure. Adrenaline junkie! I hesitated on the rock like the old(er) lady I am. "I'm no longer in my 20s", I said to self. "I'm no longer a spring chicken", I said to self. "I have a dependent son at home who needs me", I said to self. The devil on the other shoulder must have literally pushed me in. :)

It was exhilarating!

I should've jumped earlier...I would've given us more time before the first wave hit. The two women jumped in after me, and we had just enough time to record a brief GoPro clip as the first of three waves slammed into our backs. Holy $#%^. It not only took us by somewhat of a surprise, the force and power of Mother Nature we might have underestimated a wee bit.. my husband was behind me and knocked into the lava rocks that were at the approximate midway point of the horseshoe. They're a thankful stop point. One of the gals we were with (who knew the bath so she said) swam towards an outcropping at the edge, underneath where the people were sitting above. We clung to the rock like sea urchins. She mentioned waves coming in threes. Not sure if she was full of it or if that's an accurate theory. At any rate, it was helpful to have the individuals up above with a better view of the waves rolling in. Sure enough, two more waves hit. We were able to keep our grip on the rock. Some guy on top, who I will refer to as my angel, peeked down and said it would be a good time to swim towards the rock where we could climb out. He didn't have to say that twice!! I was the first to sprint off that lava rock like Michael Phelps. My glory days of swimming and lifeguarding came back to me in a flash. If it was the Olympics, I would've won the gold.

 

I climbed out like Spiderman and settled down on a rock to reflect on my stupidity. I laughed it up with my angel who happened to be a local. He mentioned how often he hears fire sirens heading towards this area to rescue souls (tourists) and we discussed the danger of the location. He never jumped in. I honestly think he was there to observe, laugh, and provide a needed cell phone should that need arise. Which it didn't thanks be to God. Needless to say, been there done that have the tee shirt. No need to do it again! (But it was one of the best days of our trip). :)

 

We dried off, grabbed our belongings and hiked back to the car. At this point, we were nearing the sunset hour. We decided to drive on down to the town of Poipu to watch the sunset.

Edited July 21, 2015 by mel-b

[big al]

Mel-b..great review!! A few questions: I am considering doing this cruise sometime in 2017..we ( Wife) can't decide what time of year to go..it will be very $$ because we live in the Southeast, so just the air will be steep..balconies are running around $1800-2200 PP..you mentioned the aft was a good choice because you can see both sides when you are cruising...I have done aft 3-4x...did you really get to see all you wanted? Also, my friend was speaking to someone at his community pool about the POA & this cruise..he said it was "the WORST food & service" he'd ever had on his 10 cruises..he loved the ports..he said he felt like the crew "couldn't care less about service- they were just there to get paid"..he ate one night in a specialty venue & said it was great- the dining package was not offered then so he ate 6 nights in the MDR...comments? I know food is subjective- I've been on 31 cruises on all but Costa & MSC plus I'm a cruise agent, so I know about food, but what did you think about his comments about the crew & food? Thanks again- great review!!

 

Big Al

[mel-b]

Mel-b..great review!! A few questions: I am considering doing this cruise sometime in 2017..we ( Wife) can't decide what time of year to go..it will be very $$ because we live in the Southeast, so just the air will be steep..balconies are running around $1800-2200 PP..you mentioned the aft was a good choice because you can see both sides when you are cruising...I have done aft 3-4x...did you really get to see all you wanted? Also, my friend was speaking to someone at his community pool about the POA & this cruise..he said it was "the WORST food & service" he'd ever had on his 10 cruises..he loved the ports..he said he felt like the crew "couldn't care less about service- they were just there to get paid"..he ate one night in a specialty venue & said it was great- the dining package was not offered then so he ate 6 nights in the MDR...comments? I know food is subjective- I've been on 31 cruises on all but Costa & MSC plus I'm a cruise agent, so I know about food, but what did you think about his comments about the crew & food? Thanks again- great review!!

 

Big Al

 

Hi Big Al! Thanks for reading the review. Let me see if I can break down each of your questions and answer them accordingly.

 

we ( Wife) can't decide what time of year to go..

 

Since this was our first time on the POA and to Hawaii, I'm not sure if there is a best time to go persay. Makes me think of the Caribbean and high/low seasons and the various costs associated (low season typically less expensive than high unless holidays). I think Hawaii is broken down by winter season and summer season. Whales versus no whales. I'd ask yourself if that is an important thing to see? If so, do make sure you cruise prior to mid April (winter months). That's when we were there and we only saw two whales breaching the surface. Generally they migrate back north by mid April. As for cost, I'm not certain if airfare fluctuates at all for Hawaii, as in high/low season or winter/summer in Hawaii's case. The airfare is what gets most people. Since we needed to be in Oahu for work, that was helpful for us airfare-wise (mileage and work covered the expense). This is ultimately why we went when we did in April, to wrap it around the work trip. I wouldn't hesitate to go back in that month, but I would consider other times as well. I just don't know if there is ever a break in airfare pricing? Perhaps others who have gone before and frequently can answer that question. It is astonishing the cost though. For $1100 rt I flew from DFW to Jakarta, Indonesia last October (layover Tokyo). To fly to Hawaii for that cost or more blows my mind. I'd go to Bali instead!

 

balconies are running around $1800-2200 PP..you mentioned the aft was a good choice because you can see both sides when you are cruising...I have done aft 3-4x...did you really get to see all you wanted?

 

We booked this cruise late in the game. Since you're considering 2017, I'd personally wait until 2016 at least to book. Depending on when you go in 2017, I'd even wait until early that year. NCL has been running promotions, and I'd consider waiting to see if one of those broke again. Especially if Unlimited Dining Package is a desire. As for the balconies...If I'm going to cruise, personally at this point in my life I want a room with a balcony. I like to walk out at any time in my robe, with a cup of coffee.. We've probably done aft just as equally as mid. There's something about the wake of the ship, watching it and feeling it somewhat. As for the POA, I did get to see all I wanted. Now, I haven't mentioned the Na Pali sail by yet in my review, but we opted to do that from the Aloha Cafe on aft deck 11. 2 decks above our room. The view would have been essentially the same from our room. But it was nice to mingle with friends, have drinks, and view from the entire aft. If we were to sail the POA again, I would do another aft. Suites do not make sense to me on this cruise (the cost) because we were rarely in our room except mornings and evening before bed. I'd consider a suite on another NCL ship with at sea days.

 

Also, my friend was speaking to someone at his community pool about the POA & this cruise..he said it was "the WORST food & service" he'd ever had on his 10 cruises..he loved the ports..he said he felt like the crew "couldn't care less about service- they were just there to get paid"

 

I'm beginning to think these individuals (not your friend) are never content in life. I realize the POA can be one thing for one person and entirely another for another person. But, one MUST go into the POA knowing it's a means to an end. Proper expectations. It's just not the ship IMO for cruising...no at sea days, no casino. It's for the ports. It's a floating hotel. Period. And the best darn option in which to see 4 islands in a short amount of time. A taste of Hawaii. Now, to this person's defense, he might have cruised awhile ago and he might have had horrible food and service. I don't know. Maybe the POA stepped up its game by the time we arrived in April. But the POA they speak of and the POA I experienced are not the same. I do confess, we did not eat in the main dining area except for breakfast twice. It was normal cruise breakfast. We ate all dinners in a specialty restaurant. We had the complimentary Unlimited Dining plan. But, had we not, I would've paid to eat in Cagney's, Jefferson's Bistro, and Moderno. Twice each. :) Good food is important to us when we vacation. I'm not saying main dining room food was not good as I don't know (for dinners). Buffet was standard buffet. I say eat on the islands people!!! Plan to eat in Hawaii, on the islands. Fresh fruit, traditional fare, fish, etc.

As for the service. Everyone we encountered was awesome. No service issues. I mentioned this in my review above, but I think what many don't consider is these employees on the POA are governed by American labor laws. No overtime. Think about it. When we cruise, say, the Caribbean with (now) mostly Indonesian and Filipino employees (cabin stewards especially), they are not governed by American labor laws. They work and work and work. For little pay albeit much greater by their pay standards in their respective countries. Overtime is part of their gig. Their contract. Not so with POA's American employees. Again, expectations and understanding can go a long way to having a great time on the POA... Goes to show people are so used to cruising with employees always at their beck and call, catering to every whim. That's definitely awesome. But not the way it's done on the POA. With that said, again I did not encounter bad service. I didn't encounter our cabin steward as frequently as past cruises. But she did her job and all was fine. The captain seemed more accessible on this cruise. All servers and bartenders were super friendly.

 

I hope this helped! Let me know if I can answer anything else. :)

[Retiring cajun]

mel-b: I really am enjoying your review. we are on POA in 19 days!!

I have a question @ your cabin. Did you have sway or vibrations or motor noises in that aft cabin? we almost booked it, but the 3 other couples wanted mid ship.

[big al]

Hi Big Al! Thanks for reading the review. Let me see if I can break down each of your questions and answer them accordingly.

 

we ( Wife) can't decide what time of year to go..

 

Since this was our first time on the POA and to Hawaii, I'm not sure if there is a best time to go persay. Makes me think of the Caribbean and high/low seasons and the various costs associated (low season typically less expensive than high unless holidays). I think Hawaii is broken down by winter season and summer season. Whales versus no whales. I'd ask yourself if that is an important thing to see? If so, do make sure you cruise prior to mid April (winter months). That's when we were there and we only saw two whales breaching the surface. Generally they migrate back north by mid April. As for cost, I'm not certain if airfare fluctuates at all for Hawaii, as in high/low season or winter/summer in Hawaii's case. The airfare is what gets most people. Since we needed to be in Oahu for work, that was helpful for us airfare-wise (mileage and work covered the expense). This is ultimately why we went when we did in April, to wrap it around the work trip. I wouldn't hesitate to go back in that month, but I would consider other times as well. I just don't know if there is ever a break in airfare pricing? Perhaps others who have gone before and frequently can answer that question. It is astonishing the cost though. For $1100 rt I flew from DFW to Jakarta, Indonesia last October (layover Tokyo). To fly to Hawaii for that cost or more blows my mind. I'd go to Bali instead!

 

balconies are running around $1800-2200 PP..you mentioned the aft was a good choice because you can see both sides when you are cruising...I have done aft 3-4x...did you really get to see all you wanted?

 

We booked this cruise late in the game. Since you're considering 2017, I'd personally wait until 2016 at least to book. Depending on when you go in 2017, I'd even wait until early that year. NCL has been running promotions, and I'd consider waiting to see if one of those broke again. Especially if Unlimited Dining Package is a desire. As for the balconies...If I'm going to cruise, personally at this point in my life I want a room with a balcony. I like to walk out at any time in my robe, with a cup of coffee.. We've probably done aft just as equally as mid. There's something about the wake of the ship, watching it and feeling it somewhat. As for the POA, I did get to see all I wanted. Now, I haven't mentioned the Na Pali sail by yet in my review, but we opted to do that from the Aloha Cafe on aft deck 11. 2 decks above our room. The view would have been essentially the same from our room. But it was nice to mingle with friends, have drinks, and view from the entire aft. If we were to sail the POA again, I would do another aft. Suites do not make sense to me on this cruise (the cost) because we were rarely in our room except mornings and evening before bed. I'd consider a suite on another NCL ship with at sea days.

 

Also, my friend was speaking to someone at his community pool about the POA & this cruise..he said it was "the WORST food & service" he'd ever had on his 10 cruises..he loved the ports..he said he felt like the crew "couldn't care less about service- they were just there to get paid"

 

I'm beginning to think these individuals (not your friend) are never content in life. I realize the POA can be one thing for one person and entirely another for another person. But, one MUST go into the POA knowing it's a means to an end. Proper expectations. It's just not the ship IMO for cruising...no at sea days, no casino. It's for the ports. It's a floating hotel. Period. And the best darn option in which to see 4 islands in a short amount of time. A taste of Hawaii. Now, to this person's defense, he might have cruised awhile ago and he might have had horrible food and service. I don't know. Maybe the POA stepped up its game by the time we arrived in April. But the POA they speak of and the POA I experienced are not the same. I do confess, we did not eat in the main dining area except for breakfast twice. It was normal cruise breakfast. We ate all dinners in a specialty restaurant. We had the complimentary Unlimited Dining plan. But, had we not, I would've paid to eat in Cagney's, Jefferson's Bistro, and Moderno. Twice each. :) Good food is important to us when we vacation. I'm not saying main dining room food was not good as I don't know (for dinners). Buffet was standard buffet. I say eat on the islands people!!! Plan to eat in Hawaii, on the islands. Fresh fruit, traditional fare, fish, etc.

As for the service. Everyone we encountered was awesome. No service issues. I mentioned this in my review above, but I think what many don't consider is these employees on the POA are governed by American labor laws. No overtime. Think about it. When we cruise, say, the Caribbean with (now) mostly Indonesian and Filipino employees (cabin stewards especially), they are not governed by American labor laws. They work and work and work. For little pay albeit much greater by their pay standards in their respective countries. Overtime is part of their gig. Their contract. Not so with POA's American employees. Again, expectations and understanding can go a long way to having a great time on the POA... Goes to show people are so used to cruising with employees always at their beck and call, catering to every whim. That's definitely awesome. But not the way it's done on the POA. With that said, again I did not encounter bad service. I didn't encounter our cabin steward as frequently as past cruises. But she did her job and all was fine. The captain seemed more accessible on this cruise. All servers and bartenders were super friendly.

 

I hope this helped! Let me know if I can answer anything else. :)

 

Thanks for your complete responses! You are right- some people are never satisfied & always looking for something to complain about...I will tell my friend what you said......thanks again!!

 

Big Al

[mel-b]

mel-b: I really am enjoying your review. we are on POA in 19 days!!

I have a question @ your cabin. Did you have sway or vibrations or motor noises in that aft cabin? we almost booked it, but the 3 other couples wanted mid ship.

 

Retiring Cajun, I don't recall having much sway or vibration at all in our aft cabin. Since the POA cruises at night and not very far between islands, there doesn't seem to be too much ocean effect on the ship. We had perfect weather the entire time. I know we slept like babies with the sound of the wake (having left the balcony door open a few nights).

 

Have a great time on the POA!

[mel-b]

We had heard the Poipu area was great for catching the sunset. I suspect it's an awesome area to explore, lounge in the sun, snorkel...I'd like to return to Poipu and potentially stay a few nights on this side of the island. The drive past the port area towards Poipu is beautiful. I can't recall which road we were on, one of the last two lane roads that dump into Poipu. There were these magnificent trees creating a canopy over the road. Several people pulled off to take pictures.

 

We put our names on the wait list at Brennecke's which is directly across the street from the beach area. This restaurant had been recommended. Their Mai Tai's are excellent. We parked in their lot and walked down to the beach to catch the sunset. So beautiful.

 

 

I was hoping to see the phenomenon called the Green Flash. If it occurred, it was literally in a flash and we missed it. Poipu is a very romantic spot. We grabbed our belongings and walked back to Brennecke's for dinner.

 

 

If you can grab a spot by the open windows, do so. It's a great view to the ocean. This restaurant is family run. The owner was there and made himself very accessible. Good food, good drink and good atmosphere. We were glad we came.

 

With our bellies full and the night having set in, we drove back to the ship. Let me make mention of the parking situation. You cannot park directly at the port. There is a lot by Duke's just down the street in which you can park. I believe there is a charge. We actually parked in a spot on the street and did not pay. Our Jeep was there the next day so I assume this was an okay place to park (we weren't the only ones). The walk to the ship is about 10 minutes. It is not gated and secured like Maui. You will be walking on an open street, though not too busy. Once you get to the port, there is security and you will walk through an industrial building to go through the scanners and enter the ship. I think this is the port where my DH had some issues with the security and having a pocket knife. Clearly he got it aboard the POA when we embarked at the beginning of the cruise. It would be like having a scuba dive knife. People do it all the time. Anyways, we finally got through but not without some explaining which is so silly...

 

Stay tuned for my review of our last day on the POA, last day in Kauai which was a helicopter tour and Na Pali coast sail-by.

Edited July 31, 2015 by mel-b

[mel-b]

I booked an hour helicopter tour of Kauai with Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours. The primary reason I chose them (other than the good reviews) was the private tour with the option of doors off. For nearly the same price, why not take your own tour?! When we saw the larger helicopters that took at least 6 passengers (no doors off), I realized I had made a good decision for us. We did not want our view to be encumbered by others or by windows.

 

I chose to book the tour on our half day (2nd day) in Kauai. I chose this island over any of the others due to the diverse topography. To see Kauai by air is magical (the Na Pali coast, waterfalls, Waimea Canyon, think Jurassic Park....) In the future, I would not hesitate to do this again in Kauai. I would also like to see the Big Island by air.

When I chose Mauna Loa, I called them to set up our tour. They're very professional and on point with everything. Do keep in mind, there is a weight limit per person. I'm not sure if this applies as much to the larger helicopters that fit 6 or more passengers. It was funny when I called, the gal asked for our weights. We had each gotten on the scale that morning, so I relayed to her exactly what the scale read. She added on 5 or 10 more pounds each because she said most people flub that number!!! LOL I told her I did not want to die, so I gave her the most accurate number I could. (They weigh you on their scale in their office before you fly).

 

We chose the door off option. If you're adventurous, choose this. You won't regret it.

We woke up on the 2nd day of Kauai and had breakfast on our balcony. Our tour was for 10am, check in 915am. I chose this time not only because we didn't have a full day on Kauai, but because the helicopter tours are best done in the morning before the weather changes. Mauna Loa's office (which is actually a nice RV/bus) is parked stationary in the shopping plaza area down the street from the port (across from Duke's). We didn't need to drive since they were directly across from where we had parked our Jeep the night before.

 

Once everything was finalized (our exact weights, etc which includes the gear you are taking so go light and only take cameras), we had a few minutes to kill. Let me mention what to wear. If you go doors off, be prepared for the wind. It's recommended to wear pants and a long sleeved shirt. There is a restroom within walking distance of their bus office (in the shopping plaza). Do use this as there is not one at the airport you can use. The gal who checked us in drove us to the airport (helicopter field). This is where we were able to see the other helicopter tours. Our bird was very small compared to the others, but again it only fits 4 people in total. And the views were undoubtedly going to be spectacular with the doors off!!

 

My DH with Kian, our pilot. He was awesome!!

Me prior to takeoff

Edited July 31, 2015 by mel-b

[df5250]

Mel-b, Thank you for the great review. Your review along with several others is so helpful in planning our own cruise this coming May. Your comments about Mauna Loa's tour on Kauai Day 2 sealed the decision for our own plans. We had been debating about whether to take the Mauna Loa tour on Day 1 or Day 2, and were trying to figure out how to fit it in along with the Waimea Canyon Drive on Day 1, especially with the loss of 2 hours on that day. Thanks again!!

[Host Jazzbeau]

mel-b: are you done? It seems we still have the cruise by the Napali coast and the return to Honolulu (not to mention we left you on a helicopter with no doors!) Have enjoyed your reports so far and would love to see the rest!

Edited August 8, 2015 by Host Jazzbeau

[mel-b]

Mel-b, Thank you for the great review. Your review along with several others is so helpful in planning our own cruise this coming May. Your comments about Mauna Loa's tour on Kauai Day 2 sealed the decision for our own plans. We had been debating about whether to take the Mauna Loa tour on Day 1 or Day 2, and were trying to figure out how to fit it in along with the Waimea Canyon Drive on Day 1, especially with the loss of 2 hours on that day. Thanks again!!

 

Thank you for reading the review! I'm so glad it's been helpful for you in planning the cruise. Y'all will have such an incredible time! I'm about to finish my review of the Mauna Loa helicopter tour. I can't recommend them enough!

[mel-b]

mel-b: are you done? It seems we still have the cruise by the Napali coast and the return to Honolulu (not to mention we left you on a helicopter with no doors!) Have enjoyed your reports so far and would love to see the rest!

 

Hi Jazzbeau! Thanks for your patience as I wrap up this review! I'm about to finish the review of the helicopter tour and Na Pali coast sail-by. Thanks for reading!