We are 4 star Mariners which means- among other things- we have sailed on a variety of Holland America ships. As always the staff and crew were outstanding. Our cabin steward was one of the best we have had. We were always greeted with a smile and hello everywhere on the ship. The itinerary focused on Indonesian ports and being in prime viewing space for a total solar eclipse. The captain made some adjustments to his original plan and had us in perfectly clear skies for the entire eclipse.

There as definitely been cost cutting in several areas including dining. The number of courses on the menu has been shortened and there were several up charges for things that used to be included. We were in a concierge suite and the lounge does not seem to have been impacted by the cost cutting.

The ship itself was the weakest part of the cruise. The layout in our suite was not comfortable. There was no desk and the table was very low. We brought the table in from the veranda in order to have a place to write, us the computer and eat. There was a constant roar from a facilities closet across the hall. Several times we had to leave our cabin for a bit because the ventilation system was drawing in chemical fumes. We love HAL. We don't like the Volendam.