When cruising with Holland America Lines (HAL) be prepared to be disappointed. This was our third cruise, the first and last with HAL. We love to cruise.

EMBARKATION: We embarked from Tampa Florida. The entry process was smooth until we arrived at check-in when we found that we had to wait and sit for two more hours before boarding the ship due to a Novo-virus, aka gastrointestinal flu with vomiting that was present on the prior cruise. We were told that the ship had to be re-cleaned and sanitized prior to our group entering the ship which was well and good. Once we were given the okay, we were able to board the ship but had to wait about 30 minutes before passengers could enter their staterooms. Okay, things happen.

We had a Verandah room with a nice balcony and loved the room and the view. The tub, however, was very high and one had to step really high to get in and out. We prefer the cabins that have the shower-stall only. Read more