This was our first transatlantic voyage, and I found it very interesting to set sail for so many days (8) without land.
We embarked in Fort Lauderdale, which is our home town, so it was very easy, and the HAL was very organized so it went very smoothly, setting a good tone. We did choose this kind of ship to be without lots of screaming children running all over the ship. So the passengers were older, we are over 65 too, just a handful of kids and toddlers, which we did enjoy.
Holland America Line runs a really exceptional ship. All of the staff could not have been nicer or more efficient. From the housekeeping staff to the food service people all over the ship, and the entertainment, was first class. The food was so varied, there was always something for everyone. We did eat at the specialty restaurants several times, and found the Italian one very good and worth the little extra ($10.) charged, the Pinnacle Grill excellent($25.), but the 'Le Cirque' is menu very over-rated and hyped.
We were directly under the navigation deck, could see the feet of the officers above through a glass floor. With that came a large light and box that blocked my view when taking pictures from the balcony. Other than tat, the room was great, actually larger than we had imagined. Lots of closet space.