First Cruise and we are now hooked. Was very impressed with the ship and cabins and the options available at each stop. We will definitely look at Holland America line for our next cruise.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Pools and Spa were nice. Fitness Center was out of this world but I did not have time to use.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Really liked the night club (music row) set up. Blues club and Rolling Stone club were excellent. Also attended several shows in the Main stage. Preferred the smaller nightclub atmosphere though.
Children's Programs
1 out of 5
N/A There were probably less than 10 children on board. Not a kids type cruise.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Welcoming and Friendly service and staff
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
My first cruise and I am afraid Holland America has be spoiled. Very impressed with the ship design and the rooms. I was really impressed with this operation.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Designed down to the minute level of detail. Outstanding use of space. Plenty of storage space and the night light at the foot of the cabinet was a nice touch.
Ship tip
Get the unlimited Laundery plan. You don't waste time doing clothes and can pack lightly. Also the formal nights were not a big deal. Quite a few people did not wear coats. Very few wore ties. I liked this casual atmosphere. Do not want to wear a coat and tie on vacation for dinner. Don't bring too many clothes.
Rome was our starting point. We flew in day prior to departure. Spent one half day in Rome battling the crowds. Very OVERTOURISTED. Trevi Fountain was a joke. Have never seen this many people there before. Im retrospect I would just do direct from Rome airport to Civitavecchia and knock around there for the arrival day. It looks OK to me , just be sure to get a decent hotel so you can rest up before your cruise starts.
Port city itself was not much good. But we did take the Amalfi Coast tour. That was great, but there was lot of bus riding. I think on the 8 hour tour, we were on the bus for 4 of those hours. The trip back to ship from Amalfi was spectacular though, so did not mind that part of the ride. I would skip the town of Sorrento and see if you can find a tour or transport straight to Amalfie.
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