This was our 6th cruise--the first with Holland America, the first to Hawaii, and our first sailing without a balcony. If I was allowed only one word for this experience it would be TERRIFIC! That said, there were a couple of glitches that provided some consternation, but nothing could diminish an overall A+ experience.

San Diego: We arrived on our own, one day prior to cruising. We highly recommend arriving one day prior for a cruise that begins with 4 days at sea. We stayed at the Hotel Solamar in the Gaslight district and loved the restaurant there. It was an easy $12.00 cab ride to the port and just slightly more from the airport.

Embarkation: We arrived a little before noon. The embarkation procedure was well organized and completed in less than 45 minutes. The only hitch was when the tide shifted and they had to adjust the ramp. That event resulted in a little people shifting and brief wait. Read more