Terrific Panama Canal Cruise

Norwegian Star Cruise Review to Panama Canal, Central America

Cruises: 4-6 cruises
Review: 1
Helpful Votes: 59

Overall rating:

4.8 out of 5
Verified Review
Norwegian Star

14 Night Panama Canal Westbound (Miami To Los Angeles)

Sail date: February 15, 2019

Ship: Norwegian Star

Cabin type: Suite

Cabin number: 11510

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 5 years ago

Review summary

The cruise highlight was the transit through the Panama Canal. To experience the operation of this wonder of engineering was exceptional. Being able to cruise with NCL made the experience that much more enjoyable. Even before the cruise ended we were already planning for our next cruise.

Embarkation

4 out of 5
The entire process was smooth and efficient. However, we walked right by the suite check-in area. The signage was not very prominent and even after showing our itinerary to various people we still ended up in the normal check-in area. The agent took care of all our needs and even escorted us to the proper area.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5
Although we didn't partake in the main dining rooms the specialty restaurants were always welcoming with great service and delicious food. The buffets were always very presentable and the food tasty. The best part was being able to go back for seconds or even thirds.

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5
We purchased a Thermal Spa pass for the cruise and very glad that we did as it provided a relaxing time away from friends and family when needed.

Entertainment

5 out of 5
We attended only one show, Vegas, and enjoyed the progression of music and entertainment through the years.

Children's Programs

No children

Service and Staff

5 out of 5
We were well taken care of in all aspects of service. If we had any questions or concerns they were answered quickly and efficiently. There was never a time when we felt we needed something and no one was available.

Ship Quality

5 out of 5
The sleep, eat, play design was very advantageous as all were well within reach. All areas of the ship were well taken care of. It was very comforting to see daily sanitation of the handrails and door knobs.

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
We were very surprised at the roominess of the cabin as the pictures did not clearly reflect the size. It allowed for privacy as well as a common area to gather.

Ports of call

Miami, Florida

4 out of 5
Although we did not spend much time besides arriving and transiting to the cruise terminal. We were happy with how easy the transit was.

Cartagena, Colombia

5 out of 5
We enjoyed the city tour, especially visiting the main square. However, the number of street vendors became tiresome.

Panama Canal Transit

5 out of 5
Greatest part of the cruise! Enjoyed the entire process, especially the operation of the locks!

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

5 out of 5
Enjoyed being able to walk off the pier and visit the local area. A bit disappointed with the train tour as I expected a longer and more scenic ride.

Puerto Corinto, Nicaragua

4 out of 5
Although I had my reservations about visiting this country I was pleasantly surprised with my visit. The equestrian tour was very interesting.

Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala

5 out of 5
The visit to Antigua was very scenic and interesting with the rum tour a great way to finish the visit

Acapulco, Mexico

4 out of 5
We toured on our own and was pleasantly surprised how easy it was to get around.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

4 out of 5
We toured on our own and enjoyed Gardenias for great tacos and tequila.

San Pedro (Los Angeles), California Did not visit port

We did not spend much time besides arriving and transiting to the airport

Disembarkation

5 out of 5
We were a bit worried when we saw the line for US Customs but we moved along quickly and the staff made sure everyone was well taken care of.
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1 Comment

GerryBCruisin    3 years ago

Thanks for taking the time to share your review of the Norwegian Star. Glad you had a wonderful time on your cruise. We loved our Panama Canal cruise on the NCL Star!

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