I think Sue summed this up best when she said... "isn't your travel agent
able to answer any of your questions?" Even thought I own a cruise-only
travel agency, I still need to devote most of my time and research to the
clients that do book with me. After all, that is what I am in business for,
and I do own an obligation and commitment to my customers. However, since we
did start this dialogue in good faith, and to at least try to answer a few
more of your questions, my recommendation would definitely be to pick Maui
over Honolulu as your port of embarkment. For one, is seems to fit the bill
for your particular situation far better than Honolulu would. Besides, you
will still have the opportunity to see Honolulu through a shore excursion
(or two) if you wish, when the ship stops there. Just check on some of the
available shore excursions I included as a pdf file in a previous response.
And, look at the bright side, Maui is far prettier that Honolulu; more of
the picture perfect Hawaii.
Likewise, it also seems that arranging airfare on your own, and not through
the cruise line, would also benefit you more. However, remember that the
cruise line can also arrange for many of the things you want for the air
portion of this cruise, through their air deviation department. However,
there will be a cost for them to do do. Yet, on the other hand, all
transfers will then be included if arranged through the cruise line, and as
I mentioned the added security of tying their air schedule in with the
sailing of the ship. No matter how you slice it, if you arrange air on your
own, the ship waits for no one if your late.
Likewise, if your travel agency is not checking these things out on your
behalf, at least check on a few of there items yourself at www.ncl.com.
Norwegian Cruise Lines own Website should provide you with a wealth of
information. Likewise, deck plans are also available of their Website that
may answer more of your questions.
That's about all I can offer for now, I just don't have the time needed to
do the additional research on your behalf, that your agency should be doing
for you. Yet, I'm sure others may respond to your inquiries, who indeed may
already have the answers. Already, Sue provided much more than I can answer
at this time. Yet she did question why your agent was not helping.
John Sisker, Agency
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