As a 4 Star Mariner, I expected more (or at minimum at least what I have experienced over the last 20 years on HAL). Embarkation was fine. Cabin was ready when we arrived- suite with ample storage and a nice balcony. Lido pool always overcrowded- especially on days at sea. Seaview pool is nice except for the non stop cigarette smoke. The food in the dining room was mediocre on day one...slowly getting better in taste and selection as days went by... never anything you would write home about. Service extremely slow. The Lido buffet was less than what it used to be. Never a great selection of fresh fruit or vegetables. Too many dishes drowning in sauce. Desserts- meh. Ability to order from NY Deli and Pizza and Dive In via the app was nice but not always available. Freshly made pizzas were good. Pizza by the slice not so much. Burgers- tasteless. Fries are now thicker steak fries but don't taste like fresh potato. Room service for breakfast was dependable and they honored special requests. Grand Dutch had superior food choices.

Drink package is annoying. Your only options for water are canned "Still" water or Perrier. Many bars are always out of Perrier. Many are also out of wine covered by the package and you pay the difference. Coffee undrinkable unless from Grand Dutch or Explorations Cafe. Pinnacle Grill was better than the main dining room but definitely past its prime.

Excursions were disorganized and the itineraries frequently changed. Good luck getting in touch with the Excursions staff- especially in person. (And don't expect to get what they say you will). Read more