I was on a 7-day Mexican Riviera Cruise. This ship is relatively new and clean. The hotel manager is the best and most approachable officer I have met. The other officers are also a bunch of friendly Dutchmen. Although the entertainment is amateurish, it is enthusiastic. You can write off the mandatory up-front tipping and do it yourself with cash -- don't be afraid to ask. Food is exceptionally good, just beware of high beverage prices, and don't fall for the soda card unless you plan to drink mucho. Casino slots a little tight.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
If you like shore excursions, book late dining. Otherwise, eat early and have plenty of time to enjoy the evening activities aboard ship. Hint: most HAL customers are oldsters who monopolize early dining. Food is always good with lots of menu choices, either in formal dining or in the Lido.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
Lots of fun for the night owls who like karaoke and dancing. The staged presentations were disappointingly thin, but you do not go on a cruise for that stuff, you go to Las Vegas instead. Plenty of good things for the kids to do at all hours, with good supervision.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
Excellent.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Some casino and front desk crew were officious and stiff. Otherwise not much to complain about. The internet guy was the worst.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Book a cabin near the elevators if you don't like hiking down long corridors in heavy seas. This is a big ship, so plan to be close to the areas you will use more than others like the spa, play areas, pools, casino, etc.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Holland America has bigger than average cabins. Forget the minibar unless you like to spend three or four times normal for drinks and snacks. Use room service instead if you like to use the cabin a lot.
Pros: Friendly and competent Indonesian cabin & dining room crew
Cons: Having to pay constantly for extras; truly awful piped-in music
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1 Comment
Gwbigdog 1 year ago