wildflower71

We parked at the Maui Mall in front of Long's Drugs - open 24 hours. Didn't see a sign saying we couldn't and we had no issues.

What is the night life like on Pride of America? Are the bars open late? Do they have activities going on late into the night? Does the cruise director’s staff have lots of activities to participate in?

 

We will be on POA in 250 days and can’t wait!

 

Thanks in advance.

 

 

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Nightlife? None

Bars open late? 11 I think, but we never saw anyone in them past 8.

Activities late? No

Cruise Director activities? Some but we always went ashore when in port so if you choose to stay on the ship, they have activities planned

Aloha! We didn't visit Kalalau Trail/Ke'e Beach/Pu'u O Kila lookout, but they seem pretty remote so I'd definitely do them on day 1 so there's no worries about getting back to the ship in time. I can tell you that we reached Waimea canyon's top lookout in 30-40 minutes from Lihue. Keep in mind you'll be getting a view of those areas during sail-away from Kauai. I guess it all depends how close of a view you want!!

We were on POA 4/7-14. We rented a car for both days. First day itinerary was Wailua Falls then driving to the north shore (using the Shaka Guide app) Went to Hanalei Bay and walked the pier and beach, walked through town, shopped, had lunch at a food truck - poke bowls! Then some shave ice at JoJo's. Stopped in Princeville for more sight-seeing and a drink at a local tiki bar. We were back in time to change then hit Duke's (which is walking distance to ship) for dinner/drinks/relaxation - super amazing day!!!

On day 2 we drove to Waimea Canyon. Glad we didn't bother stopping to take pics on the way up because they don't compare to the view from the top!!! Luckily we had a gorgeous, clear day and our pics are amazing. We were back in time to return the rental car, take the shuttle back to the ship and make it to Duke's for lunch/drinks/more relaxation - it was another incredible day. I love Kauai <3

As for overnight parking, we were concerned, but there is FREE street parking right along Nawiliwili Rd (58) between Wilcox Road and Waapa Road. We were shocked when we saw others parked there so we grabbed a spot for the night. There's only room for about 10 - 12 cars so grab one there if you can! Aloha

That depends, if you want the night view of the lava and dont want to see the port building you don't want port side.

 

If you want the view of the Napoli coast you want port side. Port side was worth the view of the coast on the final day. It was breathtaking!

 

This site will tell you if there is any lava flowing into the sea at the current time. If there is no lava flowing to the sea, then the ship sails north around the island and the side your cabin is on makes no difference for the lava flow.

 

You do want a port (left) side cabin for the Na Pali coast view.

 

https://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/lava2.htm

 

Thanks for all the input - I just booked port side balcony for April :cool:

We just finished our cruise of Hawaii on the Pride of America. It was Amazing! If you have any questions please let me know. I would love to answer them and make your trip more enjoyable. Wish I had seen all this before we took our trip:)

 

Can you give an opinion on which side of ship is best for a balcony room? Thanks

HAL newbie here. So we booked our upcoming cruise on the Veendam a year ago directly through HAL. We have a lanai cabin. The price has dropped $550pp since. Does HAL usually do something if questioned about it? Like, giving OBC or upgrade or free sig beverage cards? No idea what to expect when we call tomorrow.

First timer on HAL. We're booked in a lanai and they are offering Vista suite for $299 pp. Other than a private verandah and a bit extra space, anything special about this room?

[quote name='jaguarstyper']It's definitely a mainstream cruise line, in my opinion. However, I would categorize it as somewhat of a boutique mainstream line. Smaller ships than most mainstream competitors, arguably nicer accommodations, slightly better service and an air of elegance not found on most others. Kind of along the lines of Starwood's "W" brand or Marriott's "Renaissance" and "AC" brands.[/QUOTE]

My thoughts exactly

This discussion of the old generic wine punch cards brings back memories of when CCers used to leave their wine cards with unused punches in the Bible in their room. It was commonly known on CC that it was done so the Bible would be checked as soon as people entered their rooms.

 

Then they would just wait a few days before trying to use them because a card with punches used on the first day was a dead giveaway.

 

I suspect this practice was behind the introduction of the computerised cards that are linked to a specific room key and are deactivated at the end of the cruise.

 

I remember telling a first time cruiser about the Bible thing and she rushed down to her room and came back waving a half used card. We had a good laugh about that. 😄

 

I love this story!! Too bad they didn't still have the cards as I'd love the opportunity to find one or leave one behind :D

I want to purchase Holland America branded luggage tags but not online, as they add a 20.00 handling charge. Can I purchase them onboard or at the dock?

Pet peeve of mine, I hate paying for shipping and handling when I don't have to!

 

I just got my two sets of them in the mail yesterday and they are worth it IMO. Very nice looking & good quality

Welcome to Cruise Critic! Bermuda is a wonderful itinerary, and it's so nice to dock in Hamilton. Fewer bells and whistles than DCL, but a nice relaxing cruise. Enjoy!!

 

We went to Bermuda on Veendam the first year she went there. We're going back on her at the end of August on a New England cruise. Like you, I've seen the mixed reviews, but we're willing to trust HAL to give us a good cruise.

 

Thank you Kathy! It's been fun researching the ship on this site. Not used to having formal nights, so shopping has been fun too :D

It was awesome. The crew are warm and friendly, we loved the ship. We saw none of the things people complain about - no sewer smells, ship was clean and well maintained. We thought the food was very good. Just a wonderful cruise in every way. We are looking at our next cruise, not sure where yet but it will be with Holland America.

 

Lorie

 

Great to hear as Veendam will be our first cruise outside of DCL! I've been reading a mixed bag of reviews for years about her, but the itinerary to Bermuda can't be beat IMO. We leave July 4 from Boston and have a port side lanai cabin.