We were picked up by bus from the Mariott Hotel only a block from our hotel. The tour guides filled us in on the important aspects of our route and the dinner cruise itself. Then our guides turned into servers on the cruise.
We left the hotel about 4:30. We arrived at ship side greeted by hula dancers. On board we were quickly seated near the center of the first deck. We had great views out both sides of the boat and entertainment was forward and behind us. Tropical fruit drinks included with the cruise were immediately served to us and a photographer came by to take our picture.
As the cruise started all the newlyweds and people celebrating anniversaries were called to the dance floor to the tune of the Hawaiian Marriage song. Of course, we joined the group. One of our tablemates grabbed our camera and came running to the dance floor to record the moment. Everyone was always looking after others on this island.
We all ate the same menu and each group of tables had its own server. We had a tender salad from the heart of romaine lettuce, the most delicious tenderloin steak and all you could eat crab legs. The salad was garnished with fresh basil and the garlic potatoes with a sprig of rosemary which imparted its flavor throughout the potatoes. The passion fruit sherbet had mint on the side . . . all touches a herb grower appreciated.
There was plenty of time to dance, watch the dinner show and tour the ship. We found it to be increasingly hard to walk the higher we went. By the time we made it to the fourth or observation deck, most people were finding it hard to stay upright without hanging onto a railing. All the more fun! Check out the bar with its huge shell bowl full of orchids used to garnish your drinks.
We cruised from Aloha Towers to Diamond Head and turned around to return. A very memorable time!