Pride of America: Your Hawaiian Islands Cruise

The Pride of America offers a unique way to experience the Hawaiian Islands, distinguished by its itinerary that features daily port calls. This allows guests ample opportunity to explore the islands extensively. The ship itself was significantly enhanced in 2016, providing a stylish and comfortable setting for your journey. Guests can expect exceptional service throughout their cruise, with a variety of venues onboard designed to cater to diverse interests. This approach to cruising Hawaii is ideal for travelers who wish to immerse themselves in the destination while enjoying the convenience of a ship-based holiday.

Dining on Pride of America offers a range of choices from complimentary options to specialty restaurants with additional fees. You can enjoy traditional cuisine at Skyline Restaurant or contemporary American dishes at Liberty Restaurant. For casual meals, Aloha Café provides a buffet, while Cadillac Diner offers comfort food, and Key West Bar & Grill serves up grilled favorites. Specialty dining includes French cuisine at Jefferson's Bistro ($60 cover), premium steaks at Cagney's Steakhouse ($60 cover), Italian classics at La Cucina ($40 cover), and a lively Japanese Teppanyaki experience ($60 cover). East Meets West, an Asian Fusion venue, also has a $50 cover charge. For entertainment, the Hollywood Theatre hosts production shows like "Aloha Polynesia." You'll also find various bars, a Mardi Gras-themed lounge, quiet areas like The Conservatory, and shops like Kai Clothing and Na Hoku for island-inspired goods.

Pride of America provides a wide array of accommodations designed for comfort and flexibility, catering to various travel groups. For families, options range from the 2-Bedroom Deluxe Family Suite with Balcony, accommodating up to five guests, to Family Club Balcony Suites and Family Oceanview staterooms. Many suites, such as the Deluxe Owner's Suite, offer luxury amenities like 24-hour butler and concierge service, fine linens, and priority dining reservations. Solo travelers are also well-catered for with dedicated Solo Balcony, Solo Oceanview, and Solo Inside staterooms, plus the unique Solo Studio cabins which include access to a private Studio Lounge for mingling. A variety of Balcony, Oceanview, and Inside staterooms are available, with many offering convertible beds and connecting options for larger parties.

Onboard Pride of America, there are engaging activities for every age group. Younger cruisers from 6 months to 3 years can enjoy Guppies Open Play with their parents, while Splash Academy offers active games and crafts for kids aged 3-12. Teenagers aged 13-17 have their own dedicated space at Entourage Teen Lounge, featuring modern digital options. For adults, the Mandara Spa & Salon offers a range of treatments, from massages and facials to hair and nail services. The Pulse Fitness Centre is open daily with a full gym and classes. Outdoor amenities include two swimming pools (South Beach Pool and Oasis Pool), four hot tubs, a jogging track, a basketball/volleyball court, and two golf driving nets. Enrichment opportunities include Shore Excursions, a Behind The Scenes Tour, and even Private Vow Renewal ceremonies.

Pride of America is particularly well-suited for flexible cruisers, families seeking adaptable options, and solo travelers. As part of Norwegian Cruise Line's "Freestyle Cruising" philosophy, the ship offers a relaxed, casual elegance with no formal dress codes and flexible dining times, appealing to those who value freedom over formality. The ship's focus on daily port calls in Hawaii makes it an excellent choice for travelers eager to maximize their time exploring the islands. Its diverse range of accommodations, including numerous family-friendly cabins and innovative solo studios, further enhances its appeal to these groups. The overall atmosphere is less stuffy than some competitors, providing a comfortable environment for an independence-valuing traveler.

When planning your Pride of America cruise, it's helpful to be aware of a few practical aspects. While the ship offers a variety of complimentary dining, some of the more premium dining experiences, such as Cagney's Steakhouse or Jefferson's Bistro, come with an additional cover charge. Room service also typically incurs a convenience fee. The ship underwent a significant enhancement in 2016, ensuring a modern and comfortable experience. As part of Norwegian Cruise Line, the "Freestyle Cruising" approach means a relaxed vibe and no strict dress codes, allowing for a more casual packing list. Guests should also note that while entertainment is varied, the editor verdict suggests it "could be more robust" compared to some other ships.