We chose this cruise because of the itinerary and convenient dates of travel. (Coincided with a US holiday.). It was our first time on Holland America. We had a wonderful time and loved the ship. We liked the modern music-themed decor very much. Nothing stuffy about the ship's interior! The design of the ship was well planned. We rarely had to wait for an elevator, there was always a public bathroom just where one was needed, traffic flow was mostly good everywhere.
Embarkation was smooth and painless. We had no waiting to check in, and just a few minutes wait until our group number was called. We boarded around 1130 and our room was ready. We sailed in a veranda cabin, which we liked very much. Most comfy bed I have ever slept in while traveling. There was plenty of storage space. We did not feel cramped at all. We liked the large shower and the TV, which could be seen from the bed or the couch. Good selection of movies on demand, too!
We really enjoyed the food on the ship. We had most dinners in the MDR. Service tended to be slow, but the food was tasty. Special requests were no problem. We did anytime dining and were seated with fun and interesting people each time. We had several lunches in the Lido. We enjoyed the fresh salads and the yummy deserts most of all. Lido breakfasts were good, though a little hectic. (The usual problems of people saving tables for themselves or others while those who are actually ready to eat must look and look for a table.). The staff in the Lido were very helpful, bringing coffee and juice, etc.). We had great experiences with room service. Whether we ordered breakfast the night before or just picked up the phone and called the orders were always right, always fast, and the food was always hot.
We drove ourselves to the port. Had a couple of fun days exploring the city before we sailed.