In the fall of 2000 we spent 20 magical days on back-to-back Noordam Mediterranean cruises. Yes, she is old and lacking in the amenities of her newer sisters. Yes, she vibrates in spots - not everywhere. But: the food was excellent and the service above-normal for HAL; we also picked up our 100-day award on that trip.

Ever since, the boards have been harshly critical of this ship - although some continue to report good experiences. But what to do with older ships that are beyond their prime?

My thought is that when we get to that age and condition where the family wants us to go into a long-term care home, we should have an older ship to go live on instead. Just sign those pension and insurance checks over to HAL, leaving just enough spneding money for a drink before dinner and crew tips. The Noordam would do.