Our nearly perfect Eastern Caribbean cruise on HAL's newest ship, the ms Eurodam, began as an extremely pleasant surprise. While enjoying a cruise on the ms Maasdam from Montreal to Boston in August we were the winners of a "Free Caribbean Cruise for Two" in a drawing from tickets purchased by passengers.

So in mid-March we drove to Ft. Lauderdale, using the convenient, discounted parking arrangements recommended by HAL. It was a 5 minute shuttle ride to the Eurodam. The process of boarding the ship was smooth and well-paced. Lunch was available in the Eurodam's huge Lido deck buffet. Being familiar with the Lido arrangements on both the Ryndam and Maasdam, smaller ships, we were somewhat overwhelmed by the size and options available. We filled our plates and were welcomed by another couple at a sunny window seat.

In fairly short order, we found our room, with the help of the ever-smiling, super-helpful staff. Our bags arrived in a timely way. The inside room was in perfect order. It was quiet, well ventilated, though not quite as roomy feeling as on the smaller ships, it seemed. It was more than adequate for two travelers who do not enjoy room service meals and spend little time in their cabin except to sleep and get ready for the day. Read more