From May 24 thru May 31st, 2008, we sailed the NCL Star to Alaska. Prior to our departure, I'd read every review that I could get my hands on about NCL, particularly the Star. Some were good; some were not so good. I wasn't sure what to expect. So, here is my two cents worth.
Hands down, we had a fantastic, fabulous, wonderful time. We had a balcony state room on deck 11, and, quite literally, sat on our balcany with our drinks and watched the icebergs, seals, whales, eagles and majestic, snow-capped mountains glide by (truly, words do not do them justice. I have never seen such beauty, inside or outside the US). Our room was elaborate, moderately roomy, clean and very sufficient for our needs (which, admittedly, were basic).
The ship itself was absolutely beautiful. I had heard complaints of the Star showing her age, and maybe she is, but she still awwed me.
There were a plethura of on-board activities to choose from on a daily basis--we were never bored. On days we wanted to be active, we were. On days we wanted to sit and watch the scenery go by, read books (I devoured three in four days), or sleep in, we did.
We went out on every port, and I must say, Ketchikan was my favorite. It was my first glance at true Alaska, and it was a beautiful, sunshiney day, cloudless blue sky (unlike prior cruises, we had PHENOMINAL weather. No rain, snow, sleet, or percipitation of ~any~ kind. Nothing but sunshine and cloudless blue skies. Blue-jean-jacket-only weather.), and I stepped off to be greeted by a gorgeous snowcapped mountain. Right in front of me. Oh wow!
I'd also heard lots of grumbles about NCL's food. Personally, it all suited our taste. Whether it was room service, the Market Cafe, or one of the restaurants, we never had a problem finding something we liked. But again, our needs, and honestly our expectations, were basic (this was my first cruise, which explains some of the giddiness, I'm sure.)
The staff was exceptional, particularly our room stewards. They helped us tremendously, were funny, charming and catered to our every whim. We were glad to get to know Efran and Julito.
I didn't notice much 'hawking' as people called it, ie, staff trying to sell pops/drinks/etc. There was some, but not enough for me to really be bothered.
Overall, this was the most relaxing, rewarding, and flat out fun trip I had ever taken. I will sail NCL again, and I will particularly look for the Star again. Overall, I give the entire experience a very high
.
Thanks for reading!
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~~Hats Off~~ to NCL Star!!!
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It must have really been awesome seeing Alaska for the first time! 
Great Review! Thanks so much! 
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