If you are hoping for something up-scale from Carnival you will enjoy HA’s new Koningsdam; if you don’t mind having to get to the popular ship events (lectures, evening entertainment etc.) at least 20 minutes early to even get a seat you will enjoy your time on-board; if you look forward to being charged for every coke, gelato dessert, every minute of internet, a glass of wine at dinner, and even lounge chairs on certain areas of the upper decks – items often free on most other “upscale” cruise lines, you will also enjoy HA. But don’t come on board if you enjoy reading (no library) or seeing movies on a big screen (no movie theater) or finding some lunch without mobs of people waiting in front of you. And if after a lengthy trip from wherever you call home you are happy waiting for upwards of two+ hours to board ship (unless you are in the “suites category) you will for sure enjoy HA’s newest ship.
There is no doubt it is beautiful overall with spectacular music-themed art work and public areas done in great taste – but I would suggest you wake before 7AM any morning to truly appreciate it before the hoards of people make it not-much-better than NYC’s 5th Avenue on a beautiful summer weekend. The food is excellent even though their over-hyped NY Pizza and Deli does a disservice to the concept of “New York pizza”.
Maybe HA is not aspiring to be in a class with Azamara or Oceania or Crystal or Regent but that is regrettable as they were traditionally a “great” cruise line but it appears they have sunk to appeal to the greater masses who are looking to upgrade from Carnival. Just a word of caution to be sure your expectations are not too high.
Brand new ship with obviously brand new cabin -- the TV "went out" and needed to be re-booted; the air conditioning failed for three days; the safe would not open without the use of a knife or other sharp instrument; the electrical system (lights) went out and needed replacement --- we have been in much more luxurious suite cabines for sure; and the Neptune Room (for suite guests) is on a different floor and on the total opposite end of this gigantic ship
Lovely Spanish port city
Interesting Port City - lots to see
A surprisingly exceptional port stop - beautiful city