We are a mid-50s couple who chose this HAL cruise because of our wish for a vacation that we hoped would be a more adult-oriented, less family/kid-oriented cruise experience. Happily, we got exactly what we wanted on this Nieuw Amsterdam sailing! Here are our observations/experiences by category in the order they come to mind.

The Ship: Classy decor, uber-comfortable, and spacious. Lots of indoor and outdoor places to get away from the crowd, even on a fully-booked, sold out ship. For quiet, very comfy relaxing, check out the padded chaise loungers outdoors on the promenade deck and the leather, padded recliners in the top of the ship Crows Nest lounge. The fitness center/gym is very roomy, very well-equipped, and has a great sea view. The NY Times-sponsored Explorations Cafe has lots of books (bestsellers too), reading materials, and computers for internet (pricey) connection.

The Cabin: Oceanview Verandah cabin on the aft verandah deck, roomy enough inside and on the balcony, the best cruise ship bed and bedding we've ever slept on, absolutely silent ventilation/air-conditioning system, the best shower water pressure we've ever had on a cruise. Read more