We picked this cruise because 1. we are loyal HAL cruisers, 2. we liked the itinerary and 3. the dates worked for us. We sailed out of Ft. Lauderdale on Dec 10 and returned Dec 21. The ports we visited were St. Maarten, St. Thomas, St. Lucia, Barbados, Martinique, and Dominica. We were scheduled to stop at Half Moon Cay but didn't due to strong currents.
Embarkation & Disembarkation went smoothly enough. We were delayed about an hour for disembarkation but that was due to high winds moving the gangway.
We had late dining at 7:45 in MDR. Food was absolutely delish every night. The waitstaff were incredibly kind and helpful. First two courses always came out quickly, but the main course always took a while. In order to make it to the 9pm show we really had to rush it and most times we went past nine, so dinner really took about 90 minutes. We had breakfast at the Lido and it was never a disappointment.
This was our second time on Koningsdam and we had a vista suite on Deck 4. Our cabin was spacious, light, and tastefully decorated. Included in the vista suite is the mini-bar area, refrigerator (contents of which are not free), binoculars, and umbrella. I love the bathroom in the Koningsdam--very modern but the toilet does sit at an awkward angle. The balcony is a good size and has small table, chair, and lounger. The cabin is midship.
Took shuttle ($5 per person one way) to nearby Carlisle Bay--about 10 minute drive. Had pre-booked and pre-paid for umbrella and chairs at Harbour Lights. Excellent venue for a nice, quiet beach escape. Rental for umbrella/chair was about $20 for as long as we wanted. Water is stunning and calm. Great time! Free wifi too!
We took the water taxi across to the center of town. Rented an umbrella and chairs for $25--that included six beers at Holland House and spend the day at the beach. Great time!
Two snorkeling sites--one at the bat cave, the other closer to the beach. Great time! Would book it again.