Today was a day of cruising and I promised to talk about the ship on the one day at sea. But before that I would like to clearly state that the stories about Holland America being a cruise line for older people to be absolutely and positively correct based on this cruise. Marge has seen one kid, I have personally seen less that a dozen people under 40 and many many over the average death age. Maybe it's the itinerary, maybe it just coincidence but it is surprising how much of an older person cruise this is.

Okay on with the ship, the room was a fairly normal ship cabin with good storage proved by the fact most everything went somewhere and we had lots of stuff . We have a tub in our bathroom not full size but nice enough if you wanted one. There are two single beds that could be made into a king and a sofa bed, flat screen TV and DVD player not that we plan on using it.

The ship itself is quiet and restrained where Carnival was bright with flourishes. Lots of muted browns and other colors the art is mainly well placed pictures and sculptures nothing overboard almost a little art museumish, if that is a word. There is a casino and numerous lounges most of which are open at night with music from piano, jazz, modern to classical. The classical element was handled by a 4 piece group called Adagio Strings that played in the Explorer's lounge each night so far.

The Mainstage productions have included a Harmonica player (very nice), a piano virtuoso tomorrow and 2 production shows. They have all been enjoyable for me at least and a nice way to help wind down the evening.

So how do I rate Holland to Carnival the only other line I have been on? A more quiet restrained atmosphere with less commercial intercom messages and dining a little above Carnival in the main room. Carnival appeal is more the appeal of Vegas with over the top decorations and more contests and definitely more intercom messages. Also Carnival's Lido deck always seemed much more used than here where most people must use the dining room. This is possibly related to the age of the crowd.

In the end I like both I enjoy Vegas but I also enjoy a museum and quiet time with the classics. Guess it will just depend on which ship I am on when I cruise as I am not sure I would likely have a bad cruise.