Suite

Holland America Line

Family Cruises

Gay & Lesbian Cruises

Romantic Cruises

Singles Cruises

Senior Cruises

Gourmet Food Cruises

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

Vancouver

San Diego

San Francisco

Port Canaveral (Orlando)

Miami

Barcelona

U.S.A.

Bahamas

Caribbean - All

Mexican Riviera

Panama Canal & Central America

Mexico - All

Costa Rica

Poor

Excellent

Nieuw Amsterdam

Elba

We went with another couple (dear friends) who had never cruised before.  I made all of the arrangements, and therefore, felt somewhat responsible for everything surrounding this Panama Canal cruise.

The embarkation process, the friendliness of the staff, and the condition of the ship was exceptional.  That's where it stopped!  I think the entire experience was that of "cheapskate".

1.  They didn't have enough dining room staff to service the number of guests.  One night, our dining experience took 3 hours!

2.  The food quality was so-so.

3.  The offerings at the buffet was the same every day, and very limited.  One line on both port and starboard sides.

4.  The entertainment was average.  About half the time, the shows were with the "singers and dancers" of the staff.  How many ways can you make a ham sandwich?  I must say, the entertainers brought on board were quite good.

5.  There was not enough time in the ports of Cabo San Lucas and Cartegena to enjoy ourselves. 

6.  The major cheapskate was offering a Mexican Fiesta on the fantail to watch the sunset.  They piped in Gypsy Kings music (old and from Spain) over the loud speakers,, when for a few pesos, could have tendered a Mariachi band in to do it right.

7.  Getting tired...I could go on and on, however, I think you get the idea.

Compared to other cruise lines we have sailed with, VERY DISAPPOINTED!

I was lucky enough to be a guest of my parents for this lovely trip from San Francisco, down the Mexican Coast, through the amazing Panama Canal, and up through Caribbean waters to Ft. Lauderdale.  First, I'm now a big fan of reposition cruises as the itineraries are a bit varied.  Second, know that this line is indeed for more sedate crowd.  Although there were a few, "hipper" activities, don't go on this cruise for excitement and thrill seeking.  No water slides or wave pools here, just lovely, nooks and crannies such as the Crow's Nest on 11 forward where an ocean bookstore environment can be found consisting of several computer terminals, vast lending library, specialty coffee bar (extra $) and comfy chairs surrounding the huge windows to laze the day away in. There is also a huge bar and many tables for games, puzzles or visiting. On excursion days, there might be either a guest lecture providing commentary on the wonders of the Panama Canal or the excursion lead providing insight on the town.

Also on 11 forward are the private cabanas which I was lucky enough to enjoy throughout the voyage.  Our cabana, the Costa Del Sol, was a femily cabin on corner, equipped with 2 large and comfy lounges, table and 4 chairs.  Daily amenities were fresh fruit, chilled waters and chilled Evian mist bottles.  Almost any food or beverage could be provided and afternoon brought champagne, chic strawberries and frozen grapes.  Sprinkled in the day when hot, were chilled towels. Dedicated cabana servers were attentive and charming, anticipating every need and doing best to provide.  Perfect spot to spend the day going through the canal.

For those lucky enough to be in Neptune Suite, the Neptune Lounge is lovely- note- lounge is almost smack midship on deck 7 so if you want to be real close, book accordingly.  Lounge is open 7 am to approx 8-9 pm. And has delightful self serve cappuccino/latte.  No hot eggs, bacon etc, but great continental assortment and also meats cheeses a la European boast.  And no pursers desk needed for you; the lovely concierges (shout out to Mimi) will care for every need.  

Our cruise was fortunate to have two great speakers, who provided daily lectures (on sea days) on relevant topics such as Panama Canal history.  The other activity which was highly attended were the computer classes.  Of course the usual shopping and art auctions were also included as were trivia, bingo, towel folding, various crafts and myriad of other activities.

In short, great, relaxing cruise choice for those who wish a more sedate experience and not looking for a bar scene.

Gentle Cruising on Repositioning Trip

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