My husband and I (61 years old) met up with our best friends for this cruise. We both had Verandah suites just 5 doors apart at midship, making for a very comfortable arrangement. This was my 3rd cruise, first on HAL, and I really experienced a higher level of service on this ship than I had on my previous cruises. Our suite was wonderful. I won't cruise again without a balcony. It extended our living space, and afforded us a private, but beautiful (and sometimes romantic) space for breakfast or late night drinks. The whirlpool bath was a decided plus for that first night after walking my legs off in San Diego the day before. I used the daylights out of my plush robe that came with the suite, and appreciated preferred seating when we dined (upper window.) The bed was very comfortable, and the down comforter was yummy.

My biggest compliment is for the stateroom steward. Wow! What service. Invisible, speedy, perfect every time. My next compliment is for the friendliness of every member of the crew and staff. Everyone, all the time, smiling, with pleasant but brief conversation. They all worked well as a team for my happiness and comfort.

Food was above average. I never had any complaints. Well presented, cooked properly, good temperature and, except for one Mahi Mahi dish, very tasty. We made the mistake of not reading our literature very well, and failed to order the wine packages which would have been much less expensive than ordering bottle by bottle as we did. Now, I am really angry that the wine sommelier did not say anything about it to us on the first night when we ordered wine. Shame on him! Read more