This was my first cruise back since Covid hit and I was smiling ear-to-ear once I walked into my stateroom. This was my Disneyland for I was in "the happiest place on earth". The ship was 1/2 full so there were no lines, no lack of tables or chairs on the sun deck. The other passengers were pleasant and mostly kept to the mask mandate established. Service was excellent and the food...on-point! Great to be back and will see them again very soon!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
It was too easy! I walked in, was looked up in the system, moved to security, looked to the facial recognition kiosk and was on board and in my suite! Awesome!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
HAL's food is always top notch. Pinnacle Grill is always fantastic. Dive In burgers and fries are awesome. Having the staff serve us (due to Covid changes) worked well. It helped curb portion control. They should keep that!
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
HAL ships are not known for a range of activities like RC and the like. However, I chose not to engage in anything as I was there to relax and get some sunshine.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
BB Kings All Stars are always great and usually a Godsend. Billboard Onboard (dueling piano bar) this time was disappointing - the sound was poor and the 2 singers/pianists were subpar. I did not stay long for any performances. The MainStage was a dance troupe - not a fan / not my cup o tea. Prefer the days of a short musical with singing/dancing instead.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The ship was at 50% capacity so we had a lot of attention. Nevertheless, the staff is always fabulous. One note, the staff only cleaned the room once a day. They stopped turn down service at night but you could request it. We did not get the usual towel animals & chocolate on the pillow (more of a tradition) until 2 nights before the end. Not sure if folks complained or if that was the plan. Regardless, the service was excellent.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Great to see this newer ship. It was beautiful. Protocols were well managed and I felt safe that the ship was clean and maintained throughout the voyage.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
With availability, I took advantage of the upgrade to a suite. It was roomy and fabulous. One negative is that the couch is under the tv so you can only watch it from the bed or a slightly uncomfortable desk chair. But the bathroom space with 2 sinks, a tub and a shower was pure luxury!
Ship tip
Pace yourself with the food! It is all enticing but plan accordingly and try not to over indulge - you have x number of days to feast!
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