This was my 5th cruise, but my first on Holland America (I have cruised twice previously on Royal Caribbean, once on Carnival, and once on Celebrity). The cost was $940 per person including taxes and port fees for 11 nights out of Norfolk, VA over New Years (leaving 12/27/05).

First, I will fill you in on our philosophy on vacations  my husband and I love cruising because of the nice weather offered (Caribbean destinations anyway), the ability to swim in pools and soak in hot tubs, the access to food 24 hours a day, and the ability to thoroughly relax and enjoy each others company. We typically get a table for just the two of us at dinner, dont see many of the shows, and dont really do any of the excursions, so Im sorry but I cannot tell you about ship-mate camaraderie, or recommend shows or excursions. I can give you a detailed account on the food and service and how easy or difficult it is to relax on this ship and how this line compares to the other lines I have cruised with. If you care about these things, read on.

Checking in at the port was relatively easy  we waited in line for about 30 minutes total. We drove to the Cedar Grove Parking lot in Norfolk  parking was $10 per day and a bus brings you to the cruise pier. We boarded the ship around noon and proceeded to the Lido to wait until our room was ready. There was a buffet available while we waited but we decided to hold off until we were settled. Read more