In 2004, Norwegian Cruise Lines totally refurbished Norwegian Sky and re-named her Pride of Aloha to cruise in Hawaii. Last year, with three American flagged ships in Hawaii, NCL America had difficulty staffing the ships with American workers, which is required for itineraries without ports of call outside the U.S. They changed Pride of Hawaii to Norwegian Jade and moved her to alternative itineraries. They later announced Pride of Aloha would be moved to their sister line, Star Cruises, which focuses on an Asian market base.
In a surprise move, Norwegian recently announced the decision to give Pride of Aloha her original name, Norwegian Sky, and put her in the Bahamas. With the tough economy, this seems like a smart move. 
The market for short cruises continues to grow dramatically, and it will be nice to have a newer ship in the Bahamas. Newer ships have more balconies, and that means balcony prices start as low as $329 per person. 
The itineraries from Miami will begin in July and continue at least until the spring of 2009. The three nighters add NCL's private island of Great Stirrup Cay to the standard Nassau. The four nighters add a third port, Grand Bahama Island, to most of their embarkation dates, although a few will only have two ports.
Through May 31, you can take advantage of introductory pricing, and on some cruises, kids sail free as third and fourth passengers in a room. Call Wes toll free at 866-554-5553 to get onboard!
