We are from Victoria so this was a quick get-a-way as our next cruise is not to next year. Caught the 09:00 Ferry arriving at CruisePark about 11:30 Ryndam and Carnival Spirit in dock Canada Place as well. The lines for security were extremely long but because my wife was in a wheelchair we were escorted through a special line and Check in for S Suites we were onboard in 15 minutes from terminal arrival. 7008 was ready for us as the ship was just out of refit so the rooms were already made up. Had a snack in the Neptune then Lunch at the Lido. Boat drill at 16:15 and Sailed at 16:30. Suite as usual excellent for myself, wife and 26 year old son. Room Steward Andri was outstanding as were the Concierges in the Neptune. Appetizers kept well stocked by Pinnacle Staff. Ate twice at Pinnacle as we were not to happy with the food and the Service in the Dining Room. As you wish dining is a disaster as the lines were long and the waits longer. I am sure the staff level is less from our previous cruises and less experienced. The food was only warm and the portions were not what we were used to. It was difficult but I did manage to get a Baked Potato but not with blank stare and the repeated we have mashed potatoes. Food in Lido was superior to Dining Room as was service. Food in Pinnacle and service was outstanding. Saw two shows the dance troop and singer were excellent as was their production called GOL. The Broadway singer Shari (opening act for Striesand) was good. The main difference on this cruise was the age as was evident in the Crowsnest which was packed with a large under 50s crowd every night. The bartending staff were top of the line. The Ports Seattle weather cool but cleared by sailing. Took the shuttle in and did Pikes Market and the Shopping Centers downtown. Astoria Weather in the 80s. Rented a Car from Enterprise and drove to Seaside and Cannon Beach. The state park just north of Cannon Beach was gorgeous. And at my wifes' request stopped at Fred Myers for some tax free shopping (Costco is Next door) before returning to the ship. Victoria Well this is our home so I stayed onboard and relaxed.

Overall I rate the cruise and Staff as excellent with the exception of the main Dining Room. It did not come close to the standards we expect from HAL. Loved the younger crowd as the energy level was high and a lot of fun. If they repeat will do it again but bring a few more dollars and eat in the Pinnacle each night.