We chose this cruise because it fit our available days for travel, and we hoped to see the beautiful fall colors in Canada and New England at the end of September. However, leaves were just starting to turn, and we were told in New Brunswick that usually colors are best around Canada's Thanksgiving -in mid October. The ship was attractive and well-maintained, and staff were mostly very friendly and helpful. We were disappointed that the common areas were very noisy day and night and lacked comfortable chairs for reading, watching the scenery, etc. There was in general a sort of "Vegas" atmosphere. We expected the bars and nightclub type venues on the ship to be more separated from the common areas rather than right in the middle of them. We did discover the library and lounge, but they were small and all chairs typically claimed. Also many of the activities on the ship were for an extra cost. For example on another cruise line, we were offered behind-the-scenes ship tour, food prep demonstrations, programs on the next port, etc. at no extra charge. They weren't sure they were going to offer a ship's tour on the Dawn but said it would be $79 each if they did. Shore excursions were very satisfactory however, and we loved all the ports.