I went on my first cruise last summer to Hawaii on Norwegian Cruise Line. I discovered that is the only way to do the islands. It was great. Although the Pride of America got bad reviews for the food, service, etc it wasn't that bad. The main restaurant food was ok. The speciality restaurant was good and only cost $10 extra. Service was pretty good, with only one person complaining about the hours they work( well we asked him and they do work ridiculous hours) When I looked up the reviews, I learned that the ship sank when it was still being built.
We just booked another cruise today on Princess in Europe for the summer. It starts in Copenhagen, Denmark then to Stockholm, Sweden, then goes to Helsinki, Finland, then 2 days in St.Petersburg, Russia, then to Tallin, Estonia, then Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland, then to Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany, then finally Helsingor, Denmark before going back to Copenhagen. I can't wait until July.
I hope you have fun on your cruise aaron.