EDITOR’S NOTE: I’m pleased to feature the next installment of our newest Never Bored Onboard column, authored once again by my mom, Darlene Leppert, and this time, also accompanied by the talented photography of my dad, Mark Leppert.
Norwegian Cruise Line‘s Pride of America is truly different from any other cruise ship in the world. It is the only USA-flagged ship; thus it is able to call exclusively at US ports along a single itinerary. In this case, the ports are all Hawaiian cities on four different Hawaiian islands.
Never Bored Onboard: Cruise Like a Hawaiian on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is continued below…
More Cruise Reviews from the Norwegian Cruise Line Pride of America, Hawaii 2014 sailing:
After embarking in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, you sail to Maui where you dock at Kahalui for an overnight stay. Then on to the Big Island of Hawaii for stops in Hilo and Kona and lastly, Kauai, my favorite island, for another overnight stay. There are an abundance of shore excursions to enjoy of varying degrees of activity levels. Or you can always explore on your own.
For those who choose to stay onboard, there are also a good variety of activities to enjoy. As the ages of the passengers are so diverse, the assortment is offered with all ages in mind. One can enjoy the uniqueness of being on a Hawaiian cruise by learning to hula or make a lei. In addition, there is a wonderful exhibit displayed at the Kumu Cultural Center showing the history of Waikiki complete with photos and assorted memorabilia. Hawaiian clothing is readily available in the ship’s gift shop so you can continue enjoying the spirit of Aloha upon your return home.
While there is no casino onboard due to the regulations of being a US-flagged ship, there are plenty of other things to do. Competitions such as trivia, sports, and talent abound. If learning something new is for you, then join in the daily hands on arts and crafts projects such as card making. For the sportsmen among you, try your luck at ping pong, basketball, or shuffleboard tournaments as well as pool based games. Themed trivia is a favorite for many with the topics ranging from film scores to testing out your knowledge of the ship itself.
Evening shows are varied as well. Music is always a huge part of any cruise, and this ship offers many types at several locations. There are sing-a-longs to the tunes of Neil Diamond, Abba, and The Beatles to name a few. Piano and guitar soloists are happy to offer easy listening favorites. Production shows are quite entertaining with some being Hawaiian-based, bringing on dancers from the islands themselves. Cabaret type shows include a magician and comedian who offers both family-friendly comedy and adults-only shows. Origami paper folding, ice carving, and the clever art of folding towels into animals are all part of the fun onboard the Pride of America!
Children and teens also have their own activities with pool parties and playroom games. Even singles will find events strictly geared for them as they get the chance to get to know each other better. This ship is a wonderful way to see the beauty that is Hawaii! If this is the first time you have been to these special islands or your tenth, you cannot help but enjoy seeing them in such a relaxing way!
For more information on the Pride of America, visit Norwegian Cruise Line‘s website here.
HEADER IMAGE SOURCE: MARK LEPPERT