We were so lucky to have been on the Nieuw Amsterdam for its 3/12/17 sailing out of Ft. Lauderdale. I can't say enough good about the service, the food and the overall relaxing experience. We spent three days in Key West prior to the cruise and drove back to Ft. Lauderdale on Sunday morning. The drive was easy (and very interesting) and we easily made it to the port before noon, checked in and waited only about 20 minutes to board the ship. We knew it would be a great trip when we found that our cabin was immediately available and our luggage was already in our room.
Our cabin was a really nice balcony cabin just below the thermal suite, which we use often. Our cabin stewards could not have been more helpful and they were exceptionally efficient.
We did not book any shore excursions as we had been to all of the islands before and basically were content to do minimal shore time and enjoy the ship. The entire ship was immaculate. I like to describe HAL ships as elegantly understated. They're very pretty without being gaudy. Traffic flow on this ship was easy and we never encounter crowded hallways. It's a really, really nice ship.
Nice cabin with convenient access to the thermal suite (just above)
We enjoy leaving from FL.
Great beach right at the dock. Nice spot.
We've been to San Juan many times and know our way around. Always a great stop for sangria and tapas.
We rented a car and went to the beach on our own. Back on the ship for lunch and spa time.
Very nice private island. Went to the beach, did a little swimming and then went back to the ship. Will likely take advantage of this spot more on our next visit.