This was a fabulous ship with excellent dining options. We enjoyed all meals on board, even the buffet for breakfast and lunch. We enjoyed the entertainment and guest speakers at art auction. Our ports of call were great - Half Moon Cay (gorgeous), Grand Turk (lovely), Samana (the Best beach & snorkel), Bonaire (stunning), Curacao (great food). I must elaborate on Samana which tends to get a bad rap. We shared a van/taxi with 2 other couples and went to a gorgeous, secluded beach for the entire afternoon. The town of Samana had a charming malecon/boardwalk all along the shore with a stunning view. Samana was very picturesque and locals were so very friendly. We read reviews of folks saying "stay on the ship". Big mistake! This was one of our favorite stops - quite beautiful.

We will never sail on Holland America again until they eliminate the smoking! Though smoking is in casino and on all balcony's, we were constantly exposed to the smoke throughout the ship. Even taking any elevators or stairways, we got hit with the noxious smoke. The worst was our balcony. We paid extra for this lovey balcony, only to be confined to our room because of our smoking neighbors! We would order breakfast and take it out to the balcony. The cabin next door had 2 heavy smokers and we would end up hastily bringing our tray back into our cabin! The smoke was too much! Later in the day when we would be departing during sunset, we took our wine on the balcony. Again, we had to come indoors due to the excessive smoke!

We were so angry that we paid for this balcony yet not able to use it without being choked with smoke. Holland America needs to realize the harm they are causing so many folks, esp. the seniors who breath the Casino air. The casino is open to the entire ship! Therefore, the central atrium all the way to the top floor (elevators included) reaks of smoke. Thank goodness for the cruise lines who have elimanated smoking. BTW, the staff was so very friendly and completely accomodating. They bent over backwards to make sure we were happy!