Embarkation and first evening

 

We stayed overnight in San Diego, so had a relaxing morning and headed to the cruise pier about 1pm. This was the fastest embarkation I've ever had. San Diego now has face recognition embarkation, and we were able to walk through security and immigration with no line-ups. The whole process took us about 15 minutes including dropping off our luggage and walking on board. A beautiful Sunday in San Diego harbour with lots of boat traffic. We sat out by the pool and had a beer and a snack, then went to un-pack. This cruise I booked an outside cabin with semi obstructed view. It's on the Promenade deck and we can actually see out quite well. People do walk by the window, but we can't hear them and they can't see in. (at night with the lights on it's necessary to draw the sheers). 

So far I'm impressed with the ship. It's one of the oldest in Holland America's fleet, but very well kept and maintained. There are a few things in the cabin that show the age like only having 2 plugs in the room and not by the bed. Also the safe needs a card with magnetic strip (like credit card or drivers license) to open and close. The ship has a traditional feel in the lay-out and furnishings. I think the ship is fairly full, but it doesn't feel crowded.

We decided to do early set dining on this cruise, as the sun is going down by 4:30pm. Eating at 5pm is a bit early for us but we're just adjusting our day accordingly. The first night at dinner there was the usual confusion as people haven't yet figured out where to go etc. Service was a bit slow but the food was very good. I had Snapper Diablo, and the fish was cooked just right. Drinks after dinner in the Ocean Bar (all the bars have slightly different drink menus and this one looks the best) and then on to the Theatre to watch the Holland America origin story.