We chose this cruise because we would not require airfare as we live I. The departure city of Vancouver. Wanted to try a newer ship, I thought HAL would have fewer children and better COVID protocols as they cater to an older clientele. This was my first cruise since Covid.
I was very surprised at the general lack of cleaning around the ship, never saw any staff sanitizing elevators, railings, anywhere. Most troubling was the lack of hand sanitizing or washing by most cruisers before entering eating facilities. For example, the Lido had 4 entrances, only 1 had a person standing there and they did not remind anyone to clean their hands. I be
I believe the ship must be running with way less crew as the dirty dishes piled up on the outdoor tables and the buffet stations often had no one there to serve you. The menu was not as varied and did not have the quality I have seen in the past. Can’t believe Macaroni and Cheese is served every day. The different theme food nights were not as tasty as they have been in the past. HAL used to have better food, now it’s just like going to a cheap buffet
Cabin 6125 was spacious, lots of room for 2 people. It was a Vista suite and I upgraded to it because of an upsell offer. There were no fresh flowers in the room as is indicated on the HAL website. Ypthe cabin was very quiet and the stewards kept it in good condition throughout the week.