My parents have cruised on HAL several times and my mother booked us for a mother/daughter trip the first of January. She spoke well of the line and maybe I set my sights too highly considering I normally cruise with Carnival because I take my kids and we can easily drive to several ports. I've also been on a few Norwegian and Royal Caribbean cruises.
First the pro: Food was very good for a cruise. Loved the steakhouse and the Asian restaurant was divine. Food in the main dining room was also very good for a cruise.
Loved the movie theater seating - sooooo comfy. Popcorn is provided but stale and burned. Bummer.
Cabin steward super friendly and did a good job cleaning room. We booked twins and walked into a double but he had it fixed before first bed time. Cabin seemed small. Liked that the bath had a tub. I wouldn't swear to this
Took the water taxi to beach and had an enjoyable day. Sun was shining and service from Honky Tonk bar was good. Free wi-fi and cold beer.
Chairs far too crowded in. Had to pay extra for a decent chair and vendors wanting to braid hair or sell pot were annoying. Seemed seedy.
Waited 3 hours trying to get off ship. The tender ships were totally stupid. Running once every half hour. This should be far more organized.