Norwegian Cruise Line today announced plans to refurbish the Pride of America, thus greatly improving the line’s Hawaiian product. Formerly one of three USA-flagged vessels under the NCL America banner, the Pride of America now remains the only cruise ship to offer convenient roundtrip sailings exclusively within the volcanic island chain. All other foreign-flagged cruise ships must make berth at a non-USA port such as Ensenada, Mexico during each itinerary, requiring that most Hawaiian cruises begin and/or end far from the islands themselves. (To better understand these logistics, read our Cruisin’ USA article by clicking here.)
Consequently, the Pride of America offers a very unique cruising experience already, and after her upcoming dry-dock in March 2013, she will additionally boast several new enhancements.
Notable additions to the Pride of America include 24 suites, two of which will be 566 sq. ft. Deluxe Owners Suites that will accommodate up to four guests. The 22 other new suites will be Family Suites ranging in size from 363 to 416 sq. ft. with most accommodating up to six guests, and each of the two Deluxe Owners Suites will connect with a Family Suite to further increase the luxurious capacity. The suites will offer the largest balconies in Norwegian’s fleet with 245 sq. ft. verandas for the Family Suites and 410 sq. ft. verandas for the Deluxe Owners Suites.
Taking a page from Norwegian Epic‘s book, the Pride of America will also receive four new Studio staterooms intended for solo travelers as well as four new inside staterooms.
A Studio stateroom as seen on the Norwegian Epic (Copyright © Norwegian Cruise Line)
As for dining, the ship will install an additional restaurant experience with Moderno Churrascaria, Norwegian’s Brazilian-style steakhouse, while the existing Lazy J’s Steakhouse will make way for Cagney’s, the line’s other signature steakhouse. Also, the current Aloha Cafe lido buffet is slated for a fresh new décor.
Finishing off the ship’s refurbishment are new flat screen televisions in all the staterooms, stem-to-stern Wi-Fi, complete carpet replacement, A/V improvements, fitness center equipment upgrades, updated ship signage, and renovated photo and art galleries as well as gift shop. The Pride of America will return to service with seven-night sailings from Honolulu in April of 2013, and the new suites and staterooms will go on sale beginning October 1, 2012 for itineraries starting September 7, 2013. For more information, visit Norwegian Cruise Line’s website by clicking here.
What do you think of this refurbishment? Share your thoughts in the comments section below…
HEADER IMAGE SOURCE: NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE