I am so happy my friend invited me to go for a cruise! I have been missing out my whole life. This particular cruise had a lot of adults who were well behaved so there were no loud or obnoxious party people. It was nice to see so many nationalities of people, getting along, enjoying and supporting an area of our world hard hit by several hurricanes this year who welcomed us with open and loving arms.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Smooth as silk, lines moved quickly. Bags were delivered to room practically before I could get there. It was Christmas Eve, so of course everybody (staff AND cruisers) were in a great, celebratory mood.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
There were multiple places to eat and all were outstanding. The daily 'buffet' had salads that were so fresh, even on the last full day, you wonder how they did it. Variety as well. The upscale restaurants were amazing with food and ambience. The Pinnacle restaurant was clearly the best. There were also places to get food by the pool and on the aft deck. Pizza was so so, but 'Dive In' burger stand was good. Some of the bartenders were very enjoyable (others seemed to be marking time). Drinks were NOT watered down!
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The pool area seemed well laid out and not too crowded, but was always full. There were cabanas along one side you could rent for a day and I wish I had known how affordable it was, would have done it (didn't ask til way too late into the cruise). Didn't use fitness center or spa, so cannot comment. Shops were nice and seemed well stocked except for cold medicine, so if you get one--look for a drug store in port.
Children's Programs
4 out of 5
While I did not travel with children, there were many on this cruise and many multi generation families. I thought Holland America was more for the middle age set. The kids seemed to really enjoy the pool area, there was ping pong going on all the time. The beaches in port were perfect for the little ones. We were on a Christmas cruise, and Santa was 'sighted' in the air by the bridge and reported, made a stop on the ship, kids seemed to love it. There were specialized areas for kids (HALS club, etc.). Seemed great.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
We were fortunate to have two very hard working, friendly cabin stewards. But all the staff was great; guest services folks helped with lost and found items, bartenders and wait staff in all the food venues were very ingratiating and quick to ask if everything was as ordered. The security folks efficient in getting us on and off the ship in ports.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
I have not cruised before so I don't have a basis to compare. But I've stayed in hotel rooms that were not as well appointed. The bathroom was spacious, the shower head and water pressure very good, there was a bath mat which many major hotels don't even provide. (I view it as a safety item and should be mandatory). Everything seemed spotless, every day, throughout the ship. Very clean!
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
We were on the Verandah level midship. Our balcony was above the lifeboats and very spacious. There seemed to be quite a bit of storage space and the closets were larger than I expected with lots of hangars and shelves. The in room television programming was good, there was even a feature on the tv that allowed views from the bridge forward, and the aft deck backward (fun for coming into or leaving port). Good movies for downtime.
Ship tip
Don't be afraid to sail out of fear of sea sickness, you can barely feel the ship movement. I brought tons of dramamine and didn't use a single tablet. Very solid sailing experience.
It was clear the island had sustained major damage in recent hurricanes and people are working hard to keep it invisible. We spent time at Margaritaville, and the staff was so nice. They were so happy to see tourists return, they need these jobs and work hard to make you happy. The beach was immaculate and easily accommodated folks from 2 docked ships at once.
The largest port we visited. Took self guided walking tour. Lots of old, old buildings many of which still show clear damage from the hurricanes. Roads damaged, trees uprooted from sidewalks. This is a beautiful and historic island and yet, we talked to some locals who indicated there are still 50% of residents without power. Again, the people are delightful and so happy to see tourists return. Bring your camera, there is much here you'll want to photograph and remember for years.
On this island, you must take transportation into town (but its affordable, $4 for cab or jeep ride) as there are only a few shops right at portside. Largest number of jewelry stores of any of the islands it seemed. Look for "Gladys' Place" restaurant in one of the alleys, fantastic local food! Read up on the history of this island, it is fascinating (pirates, etc.). Gorgeous vistas!
Everyone raves about this island and I can see why. Softest sand and most beautiful beaches of all of them. Wonderful food court, and several bars, many staffed by your shipboard wait staff. Very clean, lots of photo-worthy buildings. Not enough time in this port, get up and get out there early so you don't miss out.
Very well organized, so no lines until you got to Immigration and even those lines went fast. Again, I'm a first timer so I don't have anything to compare it to.
Yes cruising is very addictive. My first one was back in 1987. I believe it is the best vacation you could do. You can see many beautiful places without packing and unpacking; you can eat 24 hours (if you can do it); your entertainment is right there for you; casino and movies, the pools and not to mention the places you’ll see. Love cruising. I go in 13 days again to Cuba. This will be my 24th cruise.
You cruised on a great cruise line and ship! Glad you enjoyed it! Based on your comments about appreciating no obnoxious party people, I’d recommend sticking with Holland America, Princess or Celebrity for your next cruise. The other lines may be cheaper, but they also focus more on the party crowd. Not bad or good, just different. 🍸
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