When I booked the cruise, I was on a Superior Suite guarantee(SZ). I was upgraded to the SS level. I guess they consider this an upgrade because the room was higher on the ship, but frankly we like to be more in the center of the ship with all staterooms. This room put us right below the outdoor swimming pool (hamburger/hotdog stand). Early morning they started setting up and we could hear the noise quite distinctly. I guess we were not happy with the upgrade, but the ship was full, so we could not change. The room was of course lovely, and our room steward, Winsu, could not have been more agreeable and on top of things. The room was always clean and refreshed when we got back. I did not see him much, but obviously he was working hard.

We know the ship very well because we also have traveled twice on the Westerdam which is essentially the same ship design. I was taking my mom and dad for their first cruise on HAL. They have taken maybe 50 cruises, but for some reason, HAL itineraries did not work out, so they were anxious to give it a try.

We took this same cruise ship last May to Alaska. We asked for the same dining attendant because he is the best (Hunky Dorey - no really!). I was amazed he was still there! We were all very impressed with the food. It was even better than I remembered and Hunky Dorey had all our special requests memorized and ready for us whenever we showed up for dinner. Because my mom and dad eat late and my husband and I usually eat early, we chose the new 'make a reservation or walk in' dining. This was fine except is kind of messed us up for seeing shows. We actually missed one altogether because we could not make it with the dinner schedule. My dad loved the pasta bar upstairs and after the first day the fellow cooking up the special orders pretty much started to make his dish when he saw him coming. Everyone was so accommodating. Read more