Overall, we had a very relaxing time. Very crowded due to the holiday season but there was still opportunity to get away from the kids and large groups and find quiet time.

Embarkation took over an hour - terrible. Beautiful spa - ship despite the size continues the clubby feel of the smaller HAL ships. If you like reasonably sized balconies, do not book the cabins on deck 11 - more like a french balcony. The location is very nice however - very few cabins, low traffic, and the Explorer lounge and crows nest just around the corner. Food was typical for HAL.

The big surprise was the condition of the ship - carpets very worn and stained - throughout and the signs of rust were everywhere including on the stern over the white lettering of the name (tacky). The streaking rust above our door is a prime example of deferred maintenance. The extra deck of cabins vs. Zuiderdam gives the ship[ a crowded feel at times. Staff was perfunctory - the dining room service in fixed dining was terrible so we bailed and went to anytime which was much better (usually it is the other way around ). Staff was inattentive to details i.e. toast but no butter, tea bag no hot water, unlike other HAL ships where staff is friendly and outgoing - NA staff was reserved and generally only spoke when spoke with. The bar staff was borderline surly. Ship is spotlessly clean and food was good with a great variety of options in the lido. THe cruise was ok but not all that special.