I will preface my comments by saying that I usually cruise on Celebrity having taken several transatlantic cruises on their ships. I have heard positive comments about Holland America so opted to try them this time.
My number one, chief complaint was with the response I received from H-A home office to a request I made as to how rapidly I could disembark in order to catch a train leaving from Barcelona Sants rail station. I was simply told there wasn't any way to be sure of a time. What I learned at the end of the cruise was that one could leave the ship by taking their own luggage and be off the ship immediately after port clearance. It shows a lack of interest or concern on the part of home office staff. I guess they can't be bothered to know the ship routine.
On the positive side the ship's staff is definitely superior, courteous, friendly and efficient. The veranda stateroom was clean, the bed comfortable, but lacking in desk space and a decent chair to sit by it. The computer lectures were well done, but a little too basic, but that is understandable. I did learn something and it was worth the time. The best entertainment by far was the two ladies from the Ukraine, the pianist and violinist; Adagio. Considering the fact that their venue was limited in space and sight lines, they were full for every performance. Embarkation and disembarkation was smooth and efficient.