Western Caribbean Explorer from Ft. Lauderdale with Miami Beach Stay, 12 January 2026 (13 nights)

A twelve night cruise around the Adriatic and Med, the whole experience was superb, staff went beyond duty and the ship was first class, any quibbles, two, the cost of excursions and the gratuities, both expensive but apart from this a great holiday

An excellent holiday on a very refined cruise ship. Food and service were outstanding. A wider range of entertainment would give this ship full marks.

The ship was all you would expect of a nearly new ship Staterooms and verandah were excellent.Entertainment in main theatre was good, but BB King blues club and Rolling Stones Rock club were too loud and too repetitive.Food and dining areas all very good.Drinks prices on board were too high, and the ship felt a bit like a floating cash till.Gratuities of 14.50 dollars per day and then15per cent service charge on all purchases was a bit over the top, I cut the gratuities and they did not seem too happy.On return they charged me to my card 63.50 for a missing item in the cabin, which basically accused me of theft.They refunded it after a phone call by me, and said it was an error.It still leaves a bad taste, and it is doubtful I would use them again. Overall a holiday is what you make it and we had a good time,.

This is our third cruise with Holland America and although each cruise was different each ship has been equally good in facilities offered, food, comfort, staff etc. I think that the stateroom on the Koningsdam was slightly bigger. This ship was the largest one we have been on but rarely were there any queues. We didn't use the pool much but if we had we might have had an issue with finding a lounger near the pool but I guess that this is the problem in all cruise ships. As in cruise lines, alcohol prices were high so if you drink a lot it might be worth looking for a cruise ship where a drinks package is included. We only went on one excursion and that was with a private company. Excursions with HL are expensive for what you get The formal nights were replaced with gala nights. I guess that this was many people don't like wearing formal wear.