How to decide?

[Bigoldhag]

We are looking at a 7 day cruise in Hawaii, our problem is that there are several ships that do pretty much the same itinerary so how do you decide which ship? Any suggestions or comments would be welcome in helping us decide.

[electricron]

It's easy, even if the cruises are similiar. The Pride of America departs and arrives in Honolulu on Saturday, the Pride of Aloha departs and arrives in Honolulu on Sunday. Even with the same ship, NCL varies the cruises somewhat, some with an extended stay in Maui, other with extended stays on other islands.

First, pick your preferred departure day to help select which ship, then pick the cruise you like best where that ship goes. Some prefer one of the ships not withstanding its departure and arriving day.

For example, some who cruised last year on the Aloha may wish to cruise on the America this year for a change of pace. Others will remain loyal to a particular ship.

All you have to do is decide which ship and which cruise. Since both ships weigh approximately the same, although the Aloha is five years older than the spanking brand new America, it had a major redecoration and drydock just last year, so it's basically brand new too, with approximately the same number of restaurants and lounges. It's very difficult to choose between them, since neither has a distinct advantage over the other.

But if you take a closer look, since the America has more suites and balcony cabins, it should be easier to book those staterooms on it. Likewise, if you looking to book an oceanview or inside stateroom, the Aloha has more of the cheaper staterooms to book.

:cool: