Lynn@ECGA

The LCS assemble was absolutely the best offering that HAL had as far as music and entainment went. The other offerings in the Rock & Roll lounge were loud, crowded, hot and uncomfortable. The paino players were not great but drew a crowd depending on what the venue was. Last cruise (Nov TA) the LCS players gave 2 performances in the MS which was standing room only both nights. One day time performance likewise. Have not heard the new group but look forward to something a bit more cultured.

We were on Oosterdam for 26 days in November and were not offered pastry unless we ordered it and were served only one which was a fresh fruit topped Danish that was hard and stale on several occasions.

It is evident that HAL is changing directions to attract more younger cruisers with families in tow. A recent 14-day Caribbean cruise was nothing like anything experienced before on HAL ships. Despite that school was in session and only 2 weeks before Thanksgiving, which is usually a lighter travel period, there were many children (200+) and lots of couples in their 20''s, 30's, and 40"s --not the usual older crowd. Vaccination requirements had been relaxed and promotional fares were offered to last minute cruisers. Cost cutting was obvious as food was not great and even the orange juice was over diluted. Some common breakfast items either were depleted or unavailable. Service in Lido and MDR poor and staff overworked. Entertainment was lacking and additional costs have been added to specialty dining venues. Drink packages were also discounted so bars operated from early morning to late night. A relaxing cruise it wasn't. Is too bad as HAL had smaller ships where these issues were not so evident. Very disappointed.3