North To Alaska
Norwegian Pearl Cruise Review to Alaska - Inside Passage
Sail Date: May 29, 2011
Ship: Norwegian Pearl
Cabin Type: Inside
Traveled As: Singles/Friends
Reviewed: 6 years ago
Review Summary
After more than 12 cruises, I found NCL to be a complete letdown. My group was open to Freestyle dining but found out after boarding that it was impossible to book a table without first standing in line and then getting a buzzer to alert you when the table was ready. This was very difficult for a larger group; and didn't help that the crew staff constantly pushed you to go to the more reservation-friendly Specialty Dining restaurants - which cost additional. These are nice as a special event on other lines; not an everyday occurance as NCL hopes.The prices on NCL seemed higher, too. From drinks to seminars to charging for a pass to the Spa where most lines would allow free access to sauna or steam rooms, NCL seems to "nickel and dime" passengers at every turn.
The Pearl itself was nice, although surprised at the limited amount of adult only space. For example, there are no adult-only pools or lounges; and although I enjoy being around children, this seemed to be especially evident on this ship.
Ship Experiences
Food and Dining
Entertainment
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ports of Call
Don't Miss: The White Pass Railroad - easy and lots of great photo opportunities.
Don't Miss: Whale watching - we saw three!
Pros: The itinerary
Cons: Freestyle dining, ship's crew