Embarkment in Venice was very smooth. Used Hal's transfers. Transfers are very expensive for a 30 min. drive; but efficient. The ship is clean; but plain. This is not an elegant ship. Carpets in front of the elevators are showing wear; but the ship was kept very clean. Staff was excellent. Always smiles and they are very accommodating.

The ports were all OK. Only took the ship's tours in Istanbul. The one at dinner time on the sea was wonderful. The tour the following day was very informative. Istanbul at night was a sight to see. Athens was OK. A busy city but interesting to see. Many tenders on this trip; but they all went smoothly. Just wait an hour & you will not have to get a ticket. Myknose was missed because of rough seas. The food was very just OK. I expected much better food from Holland America. The Lido was always crowded I had to save a table while my husband got his plate almost all the time. Entertainment was OK. Just something to do after dinner. The piano bar was very entertaining.

Biggest problem with this ship is that 1/2 the ship was sick with a cough and/or a cold. Sneezing & coughing all over the entire ship. Table mates were great; but we were all sick by the 5th day. Disembarkment went very smooth. Took Hal's transfer and got to the airport in plenty of time. The Venice airport is very small and the lines move very slowly. Found that my same room was sold for 1/2 the price we paid 35 days prior to the sail. Leaves a bad taste. Mid ship 5th deck balconies look down on the full lifeboats. You can not see the water below; just the orange lifeboat. Will not be taking Holland America again.