Just back from 7 night New England, Canada cruise departing Boston last Saturday 9/21. This is our third cruise with HAL, and will be our last. We knew the ship was older, but we wanted a smaller ship with a more quiet atmosphere. The ship is definitely showing its age and is in need of new carpet, painting, and a general spiff up. It was very clean, but looked rather worn and tired. There was a definite decline in service and a HUGE decline in the quality of food. We traveled with family, so spent a fair amount of time playing cards and visiting. We may have ventured more, if we were traveling alone.

The room stewards did a great job, and our room was always clean and tidy - with the obligatory towel creatures several different times. Really, the whole ship was very clean. Hand washing stations were everywhere, and they were very mindful of hygiene. As is the new practice, you are not allowed to serve your self in the Lido for 48 hours to avoid virus transmission.

Departure went very smoothly, and leaving Boston Harbor was fun with the planes departing Logan as we exited the harbor. Overnight, the weather got bad, with gale force winds and serious rain forcing the cancellation of the Bar Harbor stop. We were disappointed, but, understand the need for safety - especially in a port where we would have tendered in. The port taxes were refunded to our stateroom bill. There were a variety of activities that day, but the weather kept everyone inside. The pool was too cold for swimming, as were the outdoor hot tubs. But, surprisingly, they kept the pizza station open on the outside rear Lido - with one poor staff member hovering out there in 2 coats, and near the ovens to keep warm. It should have been closed for several days when it was too cold for anyone to venture out for pizza. Read more