This was our first cruise on Holland America but our 14th cruise in total. We are seniors, young at heart, and enjoy cruising.

We arrived in Ft. Lauderdale the day before and took a cab to the Renaissance Hotel on the 17th St. Causeway. Hotel was great. Nice room, everything clean, spent time at the pool, area very nice, water just right, had great view of the Port on Sunday morning, could see lots of the ships at dock. Had dinner across the street at Bravo's an Italian restaurant, food was excellent. Sunday morning had breakfast around the corner, a little French bakery that serves coffee, pastries and sandwiches. Very good. Didn't eat in the hotel although there was several places to eat.

Sunday morning took a cab to the pier, got there about 11am. This had to have been the fastest check in we have ever experienced. Went to Lido deck for a quick lunch, inspected the ship and at 1:30 our cabin was ready. Ship is beautiful, lots of art works, flowers everywhere, very well maintained. Didn't see any signs of wear and tear. Easy to get around and well marked. Pool area very attractive and never had a problem getting a chair on sea days. Adult pool in rear of ship but never used it. Not lots of activity around pool like other ships, just music by someone playing steel drums etc. Waiters plentiful but don't bother you unless you flag them down. Very restful, lots of snoozing going on. Read more