This was my fifth cruise with Holland America, the second with Holland America for my son and his friend (both 24) and the first for my traveling companion (56), so throughout this review I may compare to other Holland America ships, not other cruise lines.

We arrived a day early and stayed at the Comfort Suites - Federal Hwy in Ft. Lauderdale. This was perfect as Comfort Suites will pick you up at the airport and deliver you to the cruise port. They offer a free continental breakfast and you may make your own waffles. Cost was reasonable and they accept corporate and military id's for discounts. Also offered is a small pool. Smoking inside is prohibited. We made reservations directly with the hotel.

We arrived at the port at approximately noon...waited in line for a brief five minutes and were onboard eating our lunch in less than 15 minutes. Read more