With many Holland America ships enjoyed over the past years, I wanted to see the newest version of their line. Overall, the ship is beautiful. A few things not to my liking didn't keep me from enjoying the ten days on board. As a senior traveller, I still find a library a great place to kick back and read....no library here. Coffee at the Explorations Cafe was always another favorite, but with Explorations now on Deck 12 it is out of the way to just drop in. The new Dutch Cafe is located in the old space on Deck 3, but it's just not the same.
One item I found lacking was a bit of complimentary internet time for 3-star Mariners. All other lines include at least a half hour for their past passengers...no so Holland. To get my boarding pass for my return air, I had to buy 15 minutes internet time so I could print it. Not a big deal at $8.75, but an annoyance.
I had booked a "guarantee ocean view cabin", and knew I would be assigned a cabin at a later date....but not THAT late! My luggage tags printed up with no cabin, and I arrived at the port still having no cabin. Once checked in and given my key card, I found luggage belonging to other folks in 1091. Checking at the main desk, I was told firmly that it was my cabin and the other luggage would be removed. So begins my journey!
Great closet and drawer space, and a wonderful shower. Many complaints heard about the toilet angle, but it presented no problem to me. The window is large, the lighting very good, and bedding just as I like it. I prefer a blanket to the duvet, and it was changed as soon as I made the request. My steward was outstanding.
I fly to the port from Tampa. The line waiting to enter was really long, but moved quickly.
It was quite a walk from the entrance to the bar-b-que tables. Food was not that great, and seemed to have been prepared long before serving time.
Very large port area with lots of shops to browse.
Being Sunday as well as Mardi Gras time, shops were closed. The big parade never reached the port area until sailing time, so we missed it