We returned to Holland America after several years of cruising with Celebrity and Viking River Cruises. We had sailed previously on the Maasdam, Noordam and Rotterdam. My wife approached a return to Holland America with some skepticism because she felt the cruise might be a bit geriatric for us.

We were very pleasantly surprised. The ship was well-maintained, the staff friendly and efficient, and the shore excursions were appealing to all ages. We went zip lining in Costa Rica and horseback riding in the ocean on Half Moon Cay. Both excursions were well-managed and lots of fun.

We ate regularly in the main dining room for dinner. The food was generally very good. ( Although, my wife's prime rib was a bit chewy the first night. The food got better after the first night. We also had two dinners in the Pinnacle a grill along with several breakfasts there. The food was excellent and the service friendly and attentive. The Pinnacle Grill is well worth the upcharge for a special occasion. The only criticism is of the wine package. We chose the Admirals Package and found ourselves disappointed by the quality of the wines offered.