Roz - 20 yr HAL cruisers here. We were on Rotterdam 3/13 - 3/20. Not impressed either. Took a reasonably priced offer to try a Vista Suite. Underwhelmed. Other than double days in our quest for 4 star, no great difference from a VD -VA balcony. Cabin steward informed us he was only allowed to service the room once a day.
Spring break time so half the pax were under 50 and many brought kids. We have always enjoyed the Halcats in the Ocean Bar at nite. Gone. A piano player for 2 45 min sets and he played obscure music rather than stds and was far too loud. Hot hor doevres - Gone. Mixed nuts - Gone. Replaced w/ tasteless unsalted peanuts.
Dining room service pace was glacial. Had to ask for water or tea refills. No more cold fruit soups. Shrimp cocktail one night. Other than that, an $8.50 upcharge. No choc tulip dessert. No lobster other than w/ surcharge. Lasagna on menu 3 nites. Finally tried it and I’d prefer Stouffers frozen. Back to the smaller ships for us.