We chose this cruise based on island itinerary and our previous five experiences sailing on other HAL ships. We hold HAL to a higher standard to other cruise lines we have sailed. However, the Rotterdam, in general, was extremely disappointing. We had multiple issues with our stateroom including air conditioning not working, a persistent tapping noise in the wall near our bed which took 7 days to resolve, scalding water out of the cold taps, a lot of peeling paint and rust on the veranda.

It was also the first time we've been bored on a cruise! There were very few shipboard daily activities, no variety, and the bulk of the activities were geared towards trying to sell us something. No pool games, scavenger hunts, only 2 cooking demonstrations. If this had been our first cruise I don't think we would have ever cruised again! On the other hand, our cabin steward was one of the best we've ever had and the staff, in general, was very good. The evening shows were also quite good. Other passengers also commented about similar issues with their staterooms and it appears that maintenance on this ship has been deferred extensively. For example, the bathtub had so many scratches and stains that the finish was worn through. This is not what we expect from HAL.

We actually asked the Guest Services assistant manager if HAL was planning to retire the ship which would explain the lack of maintenance, but she said no. If it weren't for the 6 fabulous island excursions, we would have been totally upset with this cruise experience and not up to HAL's standards.