Holiday Inn Express on the cheap
Overall this HIE is a good property which offers everything I've come to expect from the brand. Check-in staff was extremely friendly and helpful, made us feel very welcome. The room was comfortable, especially the beds; the bathroom floor could have been cleaner, especially for a HIE.
 It is obvious that this property- being handy to the cruise ship port- was built for heavy traffic and crushing waves of guests. The decor needs updating, both in the rooms and in the public areas. But the only real annoyance is one that can't be so easily fixed. The hotel's construction (possibly all-wood frame core) makes for terrible noise as everything vibrates. 
 The noise from nearby rooms and the pounding sensation of guests walking/running in the hallways is very noticeable and disrupting. Sound insulation is poor, worse than most other HIE's. Thankfully, it didn't go on all night; we would not have been able to sleep if it had. 
 Noise from the nearby expressway, though, is practically non-existant. 
This is a good location for non-cruisers as well; and the zoo is nearby, making it great for families. The outdoor pool area looked attractive and well-kept. I'd stay again, but I'd request the top floor next time.