This was our very 1st cruise on Holland America and to Alaska. While we enjoyed the cruise overall (and got to spend time with my grandparents), there were many things that we did NOT enjoy.
The first was the service on board. The staff was NOT friendly OR fun. There just wasn't the "love" that I've felt from other cruise lines. I will say, this was our first Alaskan cruise, so I don't know if it was the destination, the demographic, or what. I am in my late 20's, and my husband is in his mid-30's, and this was our 3rd and we were both completely underwhelmed.
The shows were also lack-luster. They had a comedian 2 of the nights (he was ok), and wish that there had been an actual entertainer (comedian, magician, etc.) each night, instead of the singers/dancers.
Our room was pretty standard. We had a balcony room - the one thing I did like is that there was an actual tub, and the furniture on the balcony was very high quality.