We were very pleased with our first cruise on HAL.We used the airport transfers and Hotel Sheraton for one night pre cruise.The Hotel was centrally located and made walking to Pike Market and surrounding areas a breeze.Very happy we decided to come to Seattle a day early.We also used HAL hotel/ship transport.The representative arranged for 2 buses so we wouldn't be crowded. Embarkation went very smoothly.We were on board by 12:45 pm.We used the time before our rooms were ready to set up our on board spending as we were using cash.The representative let us secure our account with 1,000$.We also made our Canelleto and changed our Pinnacle reservations.My husband also reserved a cooking class. We went to our room(although the room announcement had not been made yet) Met our Stewards,dropped off luggage and then headed to the Lido.We found the selection and the taste of our food to be very satisfactory,throughout the cruise. We were very happy with our room choice.It was centrally located mid ship lower Promenade Deck.Easy access to the outside deck which we used on many occasions,for viewing scenery and relaxing.The Amsterdam is tastefully decorated with an intimate atmosphere,and size.The only times we felt crowded was on Glacier viewing days.We were allowed down on the Bow but it did become overly crowded for taking pictures.We selected Late Fixed Seating in the dinning room.It worked out great for us,but I think we would have enjoyed open seating as well.We had a table for 6 in the back of the Restaurant which offered excellent views.Our table-mates were all compatible and we enjoyed our dinners together as well as socializing at other times throughout the cruise.Our Waitstaff was attentive as well as personable.The food was served and prepared to our liking. The only suggestions I can give that would have made our cruise perfect:Vary the show times.Didn't like having the show at 7 pm.We felt that the music should have started at 6 pm for cocktail hour (not 6:30).A lot of events were offered when the late seating guests were at dinner and not offered any other times,for example Name That Tune.I would have liked audience participation at the Piano Bar.Love to sing along.More Rock and Roll. In summary we had a fantastic cruise.The staff was exceptional,courteous and friendly.The ship was kept spotless.The food was always flavorful and good quality.And best of all was Alaska with no rain! Now for the reason we took this cruise Anchorage,Homer and Kodiak.Tried several time to book Anchorage/Portage Glacier Tour both though HAL and Gray line.It was cancelled which was a shame I was able to book it through Alaska Denali Tours with the Help of Jacqui.The tour enabled us to Visit the Native Heritage Center.Alyeska which was amazing and a Cruise on the Ptarmigan to view Portage Glacier.I highly recommend this tour.We were able to get off the ship at 7:30 and grabbed the first cab (with 2 others) trip cost us 4$ + tip.We took the free shuttle back to the ship at 7 pm. Homer Great little place wish we could have been there longer.Took Hop on Hop off bus to the Pratt Museum not to be missed.Had booked through HAL Taste of Homer.We went to The Meadery,Bear Creek Winery and Beer Brewery.Such a fun tour and something different.The Beer and Mead were good,but the wine was superb!Wish I could have bought a bottle of everything they made.The grounds were beautiful as well.We spent the afternoon at the Spit.Took the free trolley. Kodiak we booked Bonnie from Fridays Taxi.Although she was very knowledgeable about Kodiak and very friendly,she spent most of our time setting up other fares(dispatching)I guess you get what you pay for.Cabs run 55$ per cab we had her for 2 hours so divided by 6 that is pretty reasonable.The free shuttle was supposed to be for those that used canes or W/C,but the walk was a little more challenging and further then we were told by the cruise staff.Glad I only did it one way!Several nice museums.Not a shopping Port