This was our 3rd HAL cruise and 12th overall. Cruise dates Aug 31 - Sep 7, 2013. Flew from Phoenix to Seattle via SW Airlines the morning of the cruise, arriving at 1030am. Taxi from SeaTac to Pier 91, including a stop at Safeway for wine, $60. Boarding was painless and we were in our cabin by 1230.

Cabin attendants introduced themselves and provided us with their card and phone # if we needed anything. Achmad and Komang from Indonesia provided us with excellent service throughout the cruise. We booked a veranda, VF, 4016, port side, fwd. Large veranda with 2 chairs, ottoman and table. The cabin was roomy enough for the two of us with plenty of storage under the bed for the suitcases. 3 closets, bathroom with shower/tub, small sofa, and a small tv. 2 outlets at the desk. Cabin was quiet with no noticeable noise and close to the fwd elevators.

We like the layout of the Vista class ships of Holland America. Easy to navigate about and not a lot of walking around to find things. Crow's Nest has excellent views, quiet and a nice place to watch the scenery. Lido provided a variety of eggs benedict each morning, which I loved. In fact, we enjoyed the no waiting in the Lido so much we didn't go to the dinning room once. Different strokes... Room service was timely and had enough options to keep us satisfied for late night munchies and snacks. Read more