It was an exciting experience as both DH and myself had never been on a cruise in our lives! We arrived at Pier 2 to board the Pride of America, a 7 day cruise to 3 Hawaiian islands. Those of you who had travelled with little ones could understand the challenges of checking in and out the airport with a child which explained why I had decided to book into a cruise like this to experience the islands.
Clayton was all enthusiastic about getting into a cruise liner! The check-in was fast and we were surprised at the crowd even at an early check-in. I mean, we were going to be on-board a cruise ship that could house 2,000 over passengers! I chose the higest deck for our balcony stateroom at 11th deck and it was nice up here. We were so eager to see how our room was like since we had never been in a cruise. To our surprise, it turned out to be better than expected. We had a big Queen size bed that looked more like a King and a sofa bed next to it which we didn't use. I must say that it wasn't easy trying to fit in 2 big luggages and a couple of smaller bags but we managed it somehow.
Obviously, we took a tour around our 'cruise ship' and was happy with the fact that we were on the floor where the coffee house was situated, as well as the 2 huge pools. The ambience of the cruise was great upon arrival – relaxing, pleasant, filled with Hawaiian singing and music, smiling and curious faces...etc.
The ship sailed late due to the some snow-stranded flights in some airports but nevertheless, we were too busy checking out the shore excursions and other facilities while waiting. It didn't bothered us a bit. While lunch was at Aloha Cafe and dinner was at Liberty steakhouse. Aloha Cafe, like all coffee houses, was a big buffet cafe and you could almost anything you wanted to eat here. From the east to the west, there was something for everyone here, we were happy to be sitted at the Kids Cafe area, which was pleasantly decorated with bright and cheery colours.
Surprisingly, opposed from the critics and reviews I read about this cruise ship, the food turned out alright for some fare, especially the roast beef. It was so yummy that I went for second helpings. I loved the baked potatoes too, not forgetting the fresh local papaya and mangoes cut right before your eyes.
Ok... though I really want to tell you more, the internet connection on the ship is expensive and slow, unless the Hilton Hawaiian Village... til then, I'll post more reports and photos when the wireless is on again!
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