Chose this cruise firstly as we'd sailed with HAL before and our local cruise agency recommended this new ship. Also, we were looking for a varied itinerary which included Istanbul and Ephesus whilst enjoying luxury, a range of restaurants on board and plenty to do.

Unfortunately, due to safety concerns, the ports in Turkey were withdrawn prior to sailing and Sarande in Albania, Mkyonos and Santorini.

We enjoyed the space on-board, decor and furnishings of the highest level; the additional 500+ passengers compared to the slightly smaller 'sister' ship the 'Nieuw Amsterdam' made a significant difference, especially using the main dining room on an open seating arrangement; we do not enjoy fixed dining at either 5.30pm or 8.15pm - different days ashore or on board are enjoyed best with flexibility. However, the earliest dining times seemed to suit the older range of passengers (average age we were told was 68) who then saw the second show time in the theatre at 8.30pm before turning in by 10pm! Read more