This is our third Holland America cruise. Our last HAL cruise was in 2003. We did this back to back cruise that included the Baltics: Germany, Russia and the Viking cruise that included Norway, Iceland, Greenland and Halifax, ending in NYC.
We spent four days on our own in Amsterdam before the cruise and truly loved the city. The embarkation in Amsterdam was simple and easy. We were enjoying a Mariner Society luncheon in the main dinning room at 12:15. We went to our stateroom immediately after lunch and our luggage was in the room. Our cabin steward, Usep, was there to greet us and he provided outstanding service the entire 28 days. As a matter of fact the entire crew were helpful, gracious and always offering a smile. On the downside, the officers (or staff in officer type uniforms) were not so friendly or engaging. In most instances the would just walk past you even when you greet them. Back to this issue later.
Overall Ship: Very clean. Various public areas to sit and enjoy on sea days.
Inside cabin is a good size. Bathroom fine. Enough closet space. Only one chair so its not too comfortable to eat in the cabin, unless one of you sits on the bed. Good location in the aft. Near the back elevators.