My husband and I are first time cruisers in our late 50's. We selected HAL because we wanted a smaller ship/fewer people. I believe there were 1900 passengers on this trip. I understand the total capacity of the Westerdam is about 2400 passengers if every bed is filled.
I did a lot of research because I like to know what to expect. I read many reviews on this cruise line, destination and ship on Cruise Critics for months prior to our cruise. As a result, I expected mediocre food, an old worn out ship, plumbing problems, decent entertainment, great stateroom service and incredible scenery.
My experience:
Clean, quiet. Very comfortable bed.
We arrived to Victoria late due to gale force winds the night before, so really no time to do an excursion. We walked from the ship to the inner harbor (takes about 25 minutes). The Empress Hotel and Parliment building were nicely lite up.
Nice town to walk around.