Holland America continues to provide the friendliest crew who attempt to please you in every way. Beautiful holiday decorations everywhere. Food is excellent in all areas. Everyone smiles and is gracious. Cabins are very comfortable with outstanding beds and linens. Flowers everywhere. Too many bars for us. Daily activity program is so-so and layout of schedule could be improved. Seems many fewer activities than on previous cruise.
Things we didn't like--Lido pool area for families is too crowded with deck chairs nearly on top of each other. Holland has added another feature to squeeze more money from its passengers by adding private cabanas along one side of Lido pool area which can be rented daily. These take away a large area from this public space. Also another entire deck 10 section has become a private area called The Retreat and is available to only those who rent cabanas on this outside deck. Internet access is slow and costly. Flexible choice dining still requires reservations if you wish a certain time. It works fine for just 2 or 4 people, but we had a group of 8 and it was not the smoothest process.
