Headed to the Eastern Caribbean early November. We were late to embark due to flight delays but I think it worked in our favor as there were no lines or wait times to board the ship.
We specifically chose HAL as we're a bit contrarian and do not necessarily cruise to take advantage of all activities, night life and all-you can-eat buffets. Rather, we like to order room service for breakfast, find a comfortable quiet spot to read and relax, enjoy the thermal suite, and look at the stars from our balcony to finish the night. HAL provides all that and more.
The Pros:
We had an Aft Cabin on the Rotterdam Deck, Veranda Room 7138. We've never had a room facing back we but really liked it. Very Very quiet and private. Our balcony deck was a little deeper than most and we always had a beautiful view of the ports as we were departing. We were protected from any kind of wind and it enabled us to be out there at night for some wonderful star-gazing. However, because it is so protected from the wind, the sun could be a bit merciless at times and we would ultimately have to close our drapes to keep the room cool depending if we were facing west during the late afternoon. Sandi and Eji were our room Stewards and were top notch.