This was a Panama Canal Transit that started in Seattle (we embarked in San Diego). We are 53 and 57 and retired. We flew into San Diego a day early and stayed at Holiday Inn on the Bay with a King Bay View Room. The weather was gorgeous and we were excited. This was our first time staying in this hotel although it was not the first time we have taken a cruise from San Diego. I would stay in this hotel again.

Originally we booked an SC Guarantee at an unbelievably great price and waited until about 3 weeks prior to the cruise for assignment. I was somewhat hesitant when we were assigned a suite on the hump/curve but those fears I later found out were unwarranted as the cabin was lovely.

Embarkation was a disaster, the worst we've experienced with HAL, it appeared that no one on the ground in port knew what to do. Going through security, no one was aware that you were able to take as many wine bottles as you wanted onboard (they insisted it was no more than 2) until I made enough noise that someone from HAL came over and cleared up the misinformation (after holding up the line for more than 20 minutes). We went straight to our suite to drop off our carry-ons and make our requests to our cabin steward and the Neptune Lounge. With that set we went to check out our dining assignment - Perfect, a table originally for four set for 2 - Fantastic!!! Read more