I can not believe the two previous reviews of this cruise - almost as if they were on different cruises and ships.We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves both on the ship and in port. Maybe if the previous posters had survived the December hurricane on the Zuiderdam around (almost) Cape Horn, they would have appreciated what a great cruise it was. Smooth waters and a great crew. Anyone who can't find something to really relish in the main dining room must be a very picky eater. Every crew member we encountered was extremely friendly and professional, including our 2 great room stewards, Canto and Asep.Obviously, the Panama Canal was the "goal of the cruise, and it really delivered!! Like any cruise, some ports were better than others, and it depends on what you choose to do or not do. If you never left the ship, there was some spectacular scenery in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Alcapulco and Cabo san Lucas.Contrary to one of the earlier reviews, smoking is NOT allowed on all outside decks, only a small portion of the Sea View aft pool area, and a small area on the Observation deck. As a smoker, I could not believe the non-smokers who would sit down in the limited smoking areas, and then gripe about the smoking.We met some fantastic people, including some new friends from Istanbul that we hope to visit there next year. Being in a suite, we enjoyed the Neptune Lounge and the suite party with the Captain and officers, all more than we thought we would.We would sail the Zuiderdam again in a heartbeat. Unfortunately, some people's cup is always half empty. Mine overfloweth.