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Note - this page contains multiple reviews.
Name: Robert Feldman
Email: rqf@idt.net
Age: 71
Occupation: Retired
NumberOfCruises: 15
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Holland-Veendam
SailingDate: Dec. 12, 1999
Itinerary: Half Moon Cay, St. Thomas, St. Kitts
Cabin: 783 - E
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 60
CabinComfort: 90
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 75
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck:
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue: 60
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 98
GoodForFamilies: 80
LoungeService: 85
TenderService: 95
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 70
OverallPortsofCall: 75
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities:
Casino:
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 96
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 80
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 24 Dec 1999
Time: 19:40:45
Remote Name: ppp-32.ts-6-bay.nyc.idt.net
Remote User:
Comments
Review MS Veendam - HAL. 7 Day cruise from Dec. 12 to Dec. 19, Ship departed from Ft.
Lauderdale and
visited three ports: Half Moon Cay. St. Thomas, St. Kitts.
Profile: I am 71 years of age and my wife is 64. We have been on 15 cruises having taken
the first cruise in
1970. Previous cruises have been with Princess (2), RCI (1), Carnival (2) NCL (1), P&O
(1) and other
cruises have been with cruise lines that are no longer in operation.Prior to this cruise
we sailed on the
Sensation (Carnival) in January 1999.
We did our own air so no comments will be made with regard to transfers. We left one day
before the
cruise departed. I almost always arrange my own air since I have found it less costly, in
most instances,
than the cruise line price. The cruise line add-on for this cruise was $300, per person,
NYC to Ft.
Lauderdale. I was able to get the air for $152 per person with American Airlines.
EMBARKATION: Very efficient and quick. Embarkation, I was told, began at about 1:15 pm. We
arrived at
the dock at about 1:40 pm and we were in the cabin by 2:15 pm. When you arrive you are
given a number
(ours was 24). You are directed to an area to check in for the cruise - this took about
five minutes including
waiting time. After checking in you are directed to an area (one flight up) to await the
calling of your
number. 40 to 50 people are in each numbered group. When the number is called you proceed
to board
the ship. A number was called every 2 to 3 minutes. Once on the ship you are greeted and a
member of
the crew escorts you to your cabin. This was something that was always done on cruises in
the distant
past. It was not done on the Carnival cruises taken and I don’t recall this being
done on the Princess
cruises taken in the past six years. Being escorted to the cabin is a nice touch.
CABIN: Had an outside cabin on A deck. The cabin was larger than most I have had on past
cruises. The
bed was arranged as a king size but you could ask to have them separated. The cabin has a
love seat that
seats two and can be made into a sofa bed. There is also a small table and a side chair.
These last two
tend to give the cabin a cluttered appearance and, if removed, it would be easier to move
about the cabin.
These is also a hassock but we kept it out of the way, under the table top of the dresser.
There is more
than enough storage space - six drawers in the dresser and three large individual areas to
hang clothing.
In addition there was storage space (2 drawers) in each end table on either side of the
bed. There was
additional drawer space and a lamp on an end table next to the love seat. The bathroom is
quite large. It
has a full sized bathtub and the sink is in the middle of a table top that runs the length
of the bathroom.
There are adequate mirrors in the bathroom and also a hair dryer. Shower cap, lotions and
shampoos are
provided. Cabin Steward kept the cabin immaculate and was easy to find during the morning
and evening
hours. He came to the cabin a few minutes after we arrived to introduce himself. He asked
how many
pieces of luggage we checked (2) and asked for the color of the luggage. In less than five
minutes he was
back with one case. We quickly unpacked and headed for the elevator to take us to the Lido
deck for
lunch. We saw our second luggage item near t he elevator. When we got back to our cabin,
after lunch, the
cabin steward had placed the second piece in the cabin. There is a television in the cabin
and it receives a
few channels, CNN being one. Various movies are shown throughout the day on one of the
channels.
DINING ROOM: Standard cruise fare. Portions were small but seconds were always available.
Food was
well prepared and presentation and the ambiance were quite good Only had a problem with
one meal. A
sauce served with a veal dish was too salty and was returned for another entree item.The
table was served
by four people: the waiter, his assistant, a wine Steward and the fourth was identified as
a supervisor. The
waiter and his assistant, of course, were always in attendance as was the Wine Steward.
The supervisor
checked the table at least twice during every meal. Dining room service was exceptionally
good and the
people servicing the table were never intrusive. The dining room has two levels. The upper
level seats
fewer people and piano music is played throughout the meal on this level. The lower dining
room does not
have someone playing a piano but the music can be easily heard. Dining was very
pleasurable because
the room was not noisy. There was open sitting for both breakfast and lunch. On most ships
I have been
on when a meal had open sitting a table was filled before people were directed to another
table. On the
Veendam you might be placed at a table already occupied by someone else but more likely
you were
placed at a table by yourself. They would seat people together only when there were no
vacant tables and
this did not happen often. We took every meal but one in the dining room .
ALTERNATIVE DINING: Available in the Lido Restaurant on the Lido deck. A large airy area
that was
conducive to dining. Service is cafeteria style - get in line, receive a tray and move
along making your
dining selections. Hot items are served to you, all else is choose and pick. You have to
move to another
area for drinks and deserts. There is also a salad bar. The area is divided in half and
there are two serving
lines. There is more to choose from, especially deserts, in the alternative dining room
than in the regular
dining room. Only took one meal, a lunch, in the Lido. We much prefer to be seated and
have waiter
service so every other meal, including breakfast, was eaten in the dining room. Another
reason we prefer
the dining room - we tend to over eat in the alternative dining area.
OTHER FOOD AREAS: Hamburgers and franks available pool side on the Lido deck. High tea
served at 4
pm in the Ocean Bar. Pizza served daily from 4 to 5 pm poolside on the Lido deck. There is
a coffee bar
(Java Room) on the Promenade Deck that is open until 5pm daily. Popcorn is available for
those people
who go to the theater to view a film. On one night there was a barbecue from 5 to 7:30 pm
poolside on the
Lido Deck. Room service is also available. Can’t comment on room service since we did
not avail ourselves
of this dining option.
MOVIE THEATER: There is a movie theater (Wajang) located on the Promenade deck. Films are
shown at
three different hours. The afternoon showing is at 2 or 2:30 pm. Films shown have been in
release for
many months and everyone could be renter at your local video store. As mentioned above
popcorn is
available, free of charge.
LIQUOR POLICY: You could bring liquor aboard in your luggage. So far as I know luggage is
not checked.
You can buy liquor on the ship for consumption in your room. A surcharge of 20% is added
if you want to
take the liquor to your room. Example: A liter of Absolut vodka was selling for $10 if you
wanted it delivered
to your room at the end of the cruise for taking home. If you wanted to take the liquor to
your room the
bottle would cost $12. At this price there is no reason to bring liquor with you.
BAR DRINKS, SOFT DRINKS: Soft drinks, in cans, were $1.65. Mixed drinks varied in price
between $3 and
$4.50. There was a drink of the day but unlike other ships waiters were not walking around
hawking the
drink of the day. Like everything else on this ship selling of drinks is low key.
SOCIAL STAFF: The cruise director was a women who had just joined the ship. I can’t
tell you much about
the social staff since I rarely frequent the places where these people operate - poolside
on the Lido deck
or when they head up the various activities.
BINGO: Was a major activity with two games every day and three on the last day of the
cruise. There was a
snowball bingo (have I got the name right?) and the winner of the final game won close to
$3000. I don’t
play bingo so I can’t tell you much more.
CASINO: Fairly large and well populated during the evening hours. Again, can’t tell
you more since we
don’t gamble. Actually not true. Always donate $10 to the slot machines. This year,
however, we won $30
and quit.
LOUNGE CHAIRS: Padded deck chairs are available in a number of areas on the ship. As is
usually the
case lounge chairs, poolside, were quickly taken as were the chairs aft of t he Lido
dining room. Deck
chairs were also located on the Navigator deck which has a smaller pool than the main pool
located on the
Lido deck. Deck chairs could also also found on the Promenade deck and these chairs were
always
available. Deck chairs could also be found on the Sports deck (one deck above the Lido)
and on the
Verandah deck (one deck below the Navigator deck). Chairs on both these decks were limited
but you
could always find an available deck chair on the Verandah deck. To my mind this was a
choice location -
full sun, quiet and no wind.
EXERCISE FACILITY: Well equipped with equipment that looked relatively new. Four step
masters, four
treadmills, bicycles and all kinds of equipment for toning the muscles.
LAUNDRY FACILITIES: Laundry facilities were seen on the Main and A decks. There might be
one other on
the Verandah deck. The facility contained four washers and dryers plus two ironing boards
and irons. Cost
was $2 for the washer. Detergent is automatically dispensed. We did not use the facility.
DEBARKATION: Basically same procedure as used for embarkation. Given a number. When number
is
called you leave the ship. Can’t fudge since the number is collected as you leave the
ship. Again, 40 to 50
people assigned a number. Order is determined by travel plans of the individual. We were
remaining in Ft.
Lauderdale so we were the last to leave the ship (was assigned #27). Debarkation started
at 8:35 and the
last number, 27, was called at 9:30 am. Ship was emptied in about one hour. Incidentally,
numbers are not
called in order. For example, first call was for numbers 1, 2, 3 and 5.Have no idea as to
the rational for
calling numbers out of order. At any rate, it was quick and efficiently done.
PORTS: HALF MOON CAY. You tender in but with four tenders in operation there was no
waiting at either
end. You pick up a tender ticket in the main show lounge. You must be ready to leave the
ship or you don’t
get a tender ticket. Excellent beach with ample lounge chairs and umbrellas for shade
against the sun. No
shade trees on the beach. If you go to the beach area near where you get off the tender,
it is about 1/4 of
a mile to the picnic area where the food is served. There is a tram that operates between
the beach area
near the tender and the picnic area. Beach is quite long and the further you go from the
tender area or the
picnic area the fewer people on the beach. Did not hear one unfavorable comment about Half
Moon Cay.
SAINT THOMAS: Ship docked at Crown Bay which is located between the airport and the main
shopping
area. Cost to get to town was $2.50 a person. Cost to Magens Bay was $6 a person. Crown
Bay is
basically a warehouse area and not particularly attractive.
ST. KITTS: Docked a mile or so from the main business district. Not much to see or do in
St. Kitts and
shopping was sparse so don’t wait to shop in St. Kitts. From pier to town was $1.50 a
person. The most
popular excursions are to the Fortress National Park and the Rommey Gardens. These
excursions, in my
opinion, are overpriced. If you want to visit these places you can arrange to do this by
hiring a cab. The
cost per person is $11 a person for a 2 1/2 hour trip. To get it at this price requires at
least six people. You
can hook up with other people on the pier or assemble a group before getting off the ship.
We took a 3
hour tour that went around the island. Cost was $15 a person. Only problem was you
didn’t get enough
time at the gardens or the fort. I assume you can make whatever arrangements you want with
the cab
driver, at a higher price, so you spend more time at the fortress and the gardens.
TIPPING POLICY: The usual 15% gratuity is not added when you purchase a soft drink or
liquor. I would
not characterize this as a “no tipping policy”. It is made quite clear that you
can tip if you so desire. No
suggestions are made, however, as to what is an appropriate tip as is done on all cruise
ships.
PAYING CASH ON THE SHIP: Cash is not accepted. You are given an ID card to use for getting
off and on
the ship at a port. It must also used when you make a purchase at one of the ship’s
stores. When you
purchase a drink you are asked for your cabin number and sign a chit - no “sign and
sail card” is issued.
THE SHIP: In excellent condition, immaculate and tastefully decorated. No “Las Vegas
glitz” on this ship. It
is small by today’s standards (55,000 tons) but that only adds to its charm. The ship
has the quiet
elegance that you found in the transatlantic ocean liners in years past. . The antiques
and the works of art
on the ship make touring the ship an enjoyable experience.
PASSENGER MIX: From toddlers to senior seniors. There were at least 30 pre- teens, a
smattering of
teens, few passengers in their 20’s or 30’s, the greater majority being baby
boomers and senior citizens.
There was never evidence of loud or boisterous behavior. In other words, it is not a party
ship. - if you like
disco this is not the ship for you. The children were exceptionally well behaved - may be
due to the fact that
the general atmosphere is low key throughout the ship.
CONCLUSION: Enjoyed the cruise immensely and wouldn’t hesitate to sail with HAL in
the future. After our
last cruise my wife became a bit disillusioned with cruising and said 'never again'. Her
faith in cruising has
been rekindled as a result of this cruise experience.
Name: Crane Walden
Email: cwalden@jps.net
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired
NumberOfCruises: 8
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Holland-Veendam
SailingDate: 2-27-00
Itinerary: Western Caribbean
Cabin: 664 Large Outside
FoodDiningRoom: 70
CruiseDirector: 88
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 75
CruiseStaff: 88
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 80
CabinQuietness: 93
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 80
ShoreExcValue: 80
GoodForHoneymoon: 90
CasinoStaff: 85
PrivateIsland: 95
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService: 95
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess: 90
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 85
OverallPortsofCall: 83
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities:
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: 90
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 85
EmbarkDisembark: 88
DiscoNightclubs: 85
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 85
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 20 Mar 2000
Time: 16:24:48
Remote Name: 216-119-34-7.o1.jps.net
Remote User:
Comments
My wife booked this cruise because we were solicited through a newsletter from Dr. Julian Whittaker to
which we subscribe. In addition to seminars by Dr. Whittaker, an investment guru, John Dessauer also
presented seminars. It was billed as a 'Health and Wealth' cruise. As far as the speakers went, we
enjoyed both and felt hearing them was worthwhile.
This was our first cruise on Holland America. If it had been our first cruise, period, I expect our criticism
would have been less severe. Holland America suffers when compared to RCI, Celebrity and others we've
travelled on. I have a hunch this is due not so much to lower standards but to very inept supervision from
the first level on up. Laxity has a way of becoming the norm absent continuous demands for superior
performance.
We flew from California to Florida, arriving a day early in Ft. Lauderdale. We were met at the airport by
HA representatives, directed to a bus and taken to our hotel. The hotel was good. The next day, HA reps
loaded our luggage and ourselves on a bus and we were taken to the HA embarkation at the dock. The
check-in and boarding were efficient and as quick as could be expected.
Once on board, we were surprised to find our luggage had made it to our cabin before we did. In
addition, there were two extra bags. We soon discovered they belonged to the couple in the next cabin,
which gave us a chance to meet them.
Our steward soon came by and introduced himself. He took good care of us throughout the cruise, being
almost invisible but trying to anticipate our needs.
The room was not expansive by any means. (We would have opted for a better cabin when we booked,
but were told this was the best available for that sailing. It turned out that the ship was fully booked for
this particular cruise. About half the passengers were part of the Health and Wealth group.) But the room
was adequate for our needs. We appreciated the tub/shower arrangement: it was larger than on most
ships we've been on. The closet and drawers were ample as well.
However, I was surprised that the room (and the rest of the ship)showed so much wear and tear in the
less than 4 years the ship has been in service. I suspect maintenance is a deferred item. For example, I
noticed that the tub drain had been jimmied and could not be closed. So much for wanting to take a bath.
The furniture and carpet had dirty spots on it, and the hard surfaces were marred. In the show lounge a
section of plate glass in the front of the balcony was cracked and could have caused serious injury to
someone knocking against it (as well as glass shards possibly falling on someone sitting below on the
main floor). An OSHA employee would have had a field day on this ship.
Don't get me wrong. Overall, the ship is very nice and just about the right size; it's just that they haven't
gotten the details down yet.
We requested second seating for dinner and a table for six. I had a few qualms not asking for a larger
table because if you get a couple of duds for dinner companions it can ruin your trip. Not to worry. Our
table was one of the most animated in the room. In addition to two lovely ladies of a certain age there was
another retired couple who fascinated all of us with much wit and charm.
So much for the company. The food and service were another thing altogether. The waiter could not get
our orders complete, often omitting someone's appetizer or soup. There were long delays while a
replacement was obtained. Entrees often were dry or cool. One evening, one of the ladies ordered rack
of lamb. It arrived so dried she couldn't cut it. Rather than order another, she let it go because it would
have taken so long to replace it. On another night, the beef I ordered tasted strongly of the lamb that was
probably next to it in the warming oven.
As a result, we ate breakfasts and lunches in the Lido cafeteria. They were quite good and there was a
great variety on the lunch menu.
We played bingo several times, and were surprised that so few people played. It turned out that the
majority of the Health and Wealth group were not into gambling of any kind. A casino employee I
overheard said the casino action was unusually quiet during this cruise. I would guess the great majority
of passengers were well over 60; more elderly folk than I remember on other cruises.
Our ports were not terribly interesting, but where can you go in the western Caribbean? Cozumel, Grand
Cayman, Ocho Rios. Grand Caymen did attract us enough to make us want to go there and stay for a
week or two, which we may do next year.
Holland America does a pretty good job lining up shore excursions, and there was a lot of variety. Due to
my wife's health, we did not take any, but if she were well, we could have done several.
The line's private island, Half Moon Cay, was a highlight of the trip. It was exceptionally clean and
well-maintained. We really enjoyed the few hours we had there. RCI take note: Labadee should be
brought up to this standard.
Disembarkation was pretty similar to the procedure on other cruise lines: unless you have an early flight,
you sit around in the public areas with your luggage waiting for your group to be called, and to make it
just a little more special, they don't call the group numbers in sequence so you can't anticipate when your
number might be called.
If the overall tone of this commentary seems overly negative, I misled you. There were a lot of things I
liked about the cruise. The ship was very nicely decorated with Dutch artifacts, paintings in the style of
the Dutch masters, and a good bit of the feeling of luxury. I liked the way the photographers (who are
after all trying to make a living) did not harass passengers to have their pictures taken. (I could have
done without the obligatory scene with the pirate, however.) The complimentary hors d'oeuvres in the
cocktail lounges were a very nice touch, and were very good, too. The British officers had a good sense
of humor. The lounge entertainment was very good, although the stage entertainment was average, in
my opinion. The embarkation procedure seems to be very finely tuned and went exceptionally smoothly.
All of the HA representatives were first rate, something I cannot say about other lines.
In comparison to other lines, I would rate HA toward a lower rank. I haven't compared their prices to
others with a similar itinerary, but it may be that they are lower as well. If so, they may represent a good
value for the money.
Name: Ken Lovell
Email: klovell@oneok.com
Age: 45
Occupation: Oil and Gas Exploration
NumberOfCruises: 3
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Holland-Veendam
SailingDate: May 31, 2000
Itinerary: Inside Passage - Alaska
Cabin: 167 / Cat. B
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 95
FoodRoomService: NA
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 95
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 85
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon: 95
CasinoStaff: 95
PrivateIsland: NA
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: NA
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff: 80
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess: 90
ExerciseFacilities: 95
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 95
BeautySalon: 80
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 95
AirSeaProgram: 95
MedicalFacilities: NA
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 09 Jun 2000
Time: 15:11:51
Remote Name: 12.39.160.5
Remote User:
Comments
We have recently returned from our Alaska - Inside Passage cruise on the HAL MS Veendam (May 31 -
June 7, 2000). This was our second cruise with HAL and also on the Veendam and our experience with HAL
was even better this time around. I was somewhat disappointed with our first HAL cruise, but this time we
thoroughly enjoyed our experience and wouldn't hesitate to cruise HAL again, and hopefully again.
We booked a two-day pre-cruise option and arrived in Vancouver on Monday afternoon. HAL flew us from
Tulsa to Vancouver with one stop over in Dallas. We flew in one day early on our prior cruise and I am sold
on arriving at least a day early. This removes all the concern about delayed flights and missing the ship.
We've heard too many stories about this and the extra day is worth the small cost. We would strongly
recommend this to any cruiser.
The weather in Vancouver was overcast but pleasant temperature and we spent the afternoon walking
through Gastown and China Town. We made the mistake of walking from Gastown to China Town. We would
caution against this as it is a rough neighborhood even though it is only a couple of blocks. Take a taxi.
Actually, we would pass on China Town as it wasn't that interesting and everything closed at 6:00 p.m.
Gastown is nice with lots of shops and restaurants and it is very close to the hotels and cruise dock. HAL put
us up at the Waterfront Centre which is a beautiful hotel located across the street from Canada Place where
the ships dock. We were on the 23rd floor with a gorgeous view looking across the pier and water to North
Vancouver. The cruise liners docked right below us. It was incredible to look down and watch the ships come
and go. Perfect hotel in a great location. HAL did us right on this part of the trip.
Tuesday morning the bus arrived to take us to Victoria, BC via the ferry. This is a wonderful trip but it makes
for a long day, at least 12 - 13 hours. The ferry to Victoria Island is nice and the restaurant on board was
excellent. As soon as we arrived on Victoria it began to rain but they are prepared at Buchart Gardens with
handy umbrellas. Rain in Victoria is not like rain in Oklahoma. It is more like a soft drizzle than the blinding
storms we get here. An umbrella is worthless in Oklahoma, but was all we needed to tour the gardens in
comfort. These gardens are beautiful and should not be missed. The town of Victoria is also nice and I only
wish we could of spent more time there. Beautiful town with lots to see and do. My wife enjoyed the many
shops.
Wednesday morning we watched the Veendam come into port and this just made us more anxious to get on
board and get going. We passed on the morning Vancouver Bus Tour and spent the morning just walking
around downtown on our own. We showed up at the terminal about 12:30 and there were already several
others checking in. They were able to process us, but we had to wait until about 2:00 before boarding the
ship. By then the terminal was full of passengers waiting to board. All in all, it wasn't a bad embarkation
process and the HAL staff were very friendly.
The Ship - the Veendam is a great ship and we prefer the mid-size ship over the super cruisers. Even with
1250 passengers, we seldom noticed any crowds and the public rooms are very nice and well maintained.
We stayed in a Category B Mini-Suite, which was excellent and well worth the extra money. I know you're not
in the room much, but when you are, its nice to have that view and to be able to relax on the verandah with
your own privacy. Our prior cruise on the Veendam was on the Main Deck in an outside deluxe room and it
was very nice also, so I wouldn't hesitate to go either way. Our Room Steward was very efficient and HAL
always does a great job in servicing your room. My favorite feature on this ship is the Steam Room and it is
used so little, that you feel like you have your own private club. My friend and I got up early each morning
and did our 2 -3 miles, and then hit the steam and shower. Very seldom was anyone else using these
facilities. Don't hesitate to cruise this ship. The Veendam is the perfect size and beautifully decorated.
My only complaint dealt with our dining schedule. We had asked for the early seating and thought we had it
confirmed. Upon arrival, we learned we had the late seating (8:00 p.m.), but were told we could work it out
with the maitre'd. Fat chance!! We sat in a waiting room and then were summoned in as though we were
peasants presenting a plea to royalty. Three staff members seated behind a table, looked at me and asked:
"Why do you want to change your seating?" When my plea was presented, we didn't even get an apology. It
was just: "Can't do it. No way." "Next." I guess you had to be there, but my point is, these guys need some
training in how to better handle this situation. We took it in stride and let it go.
The entertainment was excellent and the cruise entertainers seemed well rehearsed and talented. The ship
comedian/magician wasn't real strong, but we enjoyed the impersonator very much. The Cruise Director -
Yvette ? was very nice, but Lauren Henry the Social Director was excellent. She is one of the nicest and
most professional cruise staff members we have encountered.
Food on the Veendam ranges from good to excellent and service in the dining room is great. We continue to
be a little unsatisfied with the service on the Lido Deck buffet. The chefs could be more friendly and the
tables could be bused a little better. This is not intended to be a major criticism, just an observation. Burgers
and pasta at the Lido Pool area are great! We will pass on the Midnight Chocolate Buffet next time though. It
always looks better than it tastes. We were one of three finalists in the bingo game for a free cruise, but had
to settle for $100 in the tie breaker. To be so close . . . .
I should mention that we got incredibly lucky with the weather on this cruise. The first day out was cool and
overcast, but Juneau was sunny and warm. Same for Skagway and Glacier Bay. It rained a little on us in
Ketchikan, but they get 12.5 feet of rain a year, so we were happy it was just a light off and on again drizzle.
Most days were sunny and beautiful. To be so lucky . . . .
Excursions:
Juneau - we learned on the Internet about Orca Enterprises and Capt. Larry's Whale Watching Excursion.
He has a web page you can find on Yahoo. We took and chance on him and by-passed the cruise ship
offerings. One of the smartest things we've ever done. We strongly recommend this excursion. Cost was
about $100 per person and their office is located just across the street from the pier. Easy to get to. He has
a great boat and took us out to an area where we watched a pod of 6 - 7 Orca and 3 Humpback whales.
After watching these, he took us to a secluded area where at least 8 - 10 bald eagles came down to fish on
Herring. It was incredible. Capt. Larry is a great guide and this is a trip that should not be missed. We rate it
a 10 out of 10 for value and quality. Afterwards you will still have plenty of time to shop in Juneau which has
a nice pier front shopping area.
Skagway - here we booked the Scenic train ride through the cruise ship. If you are interested in this, book
early or book in advance. This excursion sold out the first day of the cruise. The train loads right where the
ship is docked so it is a very convenient tour. I understand you can book on your own and save a few
dollars and the walk into town is only a short distance. But in my opinion, the convenience is worth the price.
Our ride as an up and back ride only and lasted about 3 hours. It is beautiful scenery and well worth the trip,
but they do not let you off the train at all. I understand that other passengers booked the train/bus
combination which takes you up a little further on the train and you board buses for the ride back with some
stops along the way (this trip is about 5 hours). This was good enough for us and we recommend it to
others. They switch sides on the way back, so it doesn't really matter which side of the train you ride on. If
you can stake out a spot on the outside deck, you will get some great pictures. Be sure and share the
space. Back in town, we had lunch at a local restaurant and then hiked the short distance to the historic
cemetery. This is a great walk, about 4 miles round trip, and well worth it. Don't miss the short trail above the
cemetery to Reid Falls. What a beautiful setting. Clear cold water in a lush and cool setting. Great for
pictures. You can climb up to the first falls and stand behind the water falls. You get a little wet, but it's a
great way to cool off. They said you can drink the water, but its not a risk I was willing to take. Not on a
cruise. Skagway is a great town for shopping. Lots of small stores, mostly located on one main street. You
should be able to get wonderful pictures of the town from the deck of your ship. Beautiful setting.
Ketchikan - we booked the Misty Fjords flight through the cruise line and again were very happy with the
results. Even with the low clouds and drizzle, it was a beautiful trip. Incredible scenery. We landed on a small
lake high up in the mountains surrounded by snow and water falls. Passengers are invited to stand out on
the pontoon and take pictures. At the lake we saw a black bear and as we moved the plane closer he
watched us carefully. We must of gotten too close because he eventually took off. We were grateful for the
close encounter from the relative safety of the plane. Ketchikan is also a great place to shop. The pier front
shops are new and well maintained. My wife bought a beautiful tanzanite pendant and we were pleased with
the price. (One of her cruise experience necessities.) There is also a Cyber by the Sea, cyber-café, in one
of the buildings close to the pier. Address is 5 Salmon Landing #217 (www.cyberbythesea.com). They
charge $6 minimum and $10 per hour for Internet access. Great opportunity to check your stocks, e-mails,
etc. There may have been some in Juneau, but we didn't see it. I'd be surprised if there was one in
Skagway. I can't wait until they have reasonably priced Internet access on the ship.
Disembarkation was painless. This is the worst part of cruising -- having to leave. We waited in the
showroom for our number to be called and quickly proceeded to the gangplank, our bus and on to the
airport. Our flight was delayed an hour, but that is to be expected. Got home at 10:00 p.m. and are still
trying to adjust to the time change. Keep looking for the next buffet, but there is none.
If you read my opinion post on www.cruiseopinion.com from last year, you would see that I had not originally
planned to cruise HAL again. In fact, I was looking for a bargain on Princess or Celebrity, when I found what
was an unbeatable deal on the HAL Veendam Mini-Suite. I'm glad I did, because we enjoyed this cruise
immensely and I am now a big fan of HAL, particularly the Veendam size ship. I apologize for complaining a
little about the age category of this ship in my earlier opinion (we are in our 40's). The fact is, about 75% of
the HAL cruisers are in the 65+ range. But its also true that these are the best people to cruise with. They
are happy, they enjoy having fun and there is no doubt, they truly are "the greatest generation." If you're a
young couple or young family that is interested in a younger crowd, you might want to pass on HAL. But
even young families will have a great time if you don't need a lot of young peers around. We took our
teenage daughters on HAL last year and felt very comfortable giving them the run of the ship. I'm not sure I
would feel as confident on another cruise line. We still want to give Princess and Celebrity a try, but HAL will
stay high on the list for future cruising. We would like to cruise to Hawaii next.
I would be happy to answer any questions. Happy cruising!!
Name: Mark Sirull
Email: sirull@ibm.net
Age: 48
Occupation: Software Developer
NumberOfCruises: 3
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Holland-Veendam
SailingDate: 06/28/2000
Itinerary: Alaska - Inside Passage
Cabin: 513
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 90
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 80
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 85
CabinSteward: 85
ShoreExcVariety: 80
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue: 65
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland:
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService:
TenderService:
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges:
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge:
OverallPortsofCall:
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino:
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark:
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace:
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio:
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 16 Jul 2000
Time: 20:57:19
Remote Name: slip-32-101-139-227.ga.us.prserv.net
Remote User:
Comments
This is my third cruise review for cruiseopinion.com. The other two reviews were for Celebrity's
Century and Galaxy. Based on all the responses I received, and there were MANY, I've decided to
keep up the tradition and do a review for Holland America's Veendam. So here goes...
EMBARKATION
Didn't take long at all. Less than an hour from the time we entered the cruise terminal until we were
on board. I distinctly remember spending two hours in Celebrity's Ft. Lauderdale terminal waiting to
board. A pleasant change. No problems with luggage. It came to our room about 30 minutes after we
did.
ROOMS
I’ll give HAL a big plus for the size of their room. Definitely among the largest in the industry. More
storage room than we needed. Nice. But on the downside, HAL still uses the ‘two key-card’ method: a
mag-stripe card for purchases, and a separate, old-fashioned plastic card with holes for the room
key. Celebrity blows HAL away here by giving guests one mag-stripe card which does both. Tsk, tsk,
HAL.
Once we were in our room, I noticed the remote-control for the TV was missing. I asked the cabin
steward about it, and he informed me that ‘someone took it’. Instead of keeping an ample supply of
extra remote-controls on hand, HAL has chosen to let their guests ‘just do it manually’. As anyone
knows, operating a modern television set is pretty much impossible without a remote.
Let me just state that I'm not one of those that spends their vacation in their room watching TV. But
during those periods when you ARE in your room, TV can be more of a factor. Like furnishing mood
music, generally jazz or classical. Or offering in-room, on-line gambling. Or showing bridge cam(s).
Or letting guests view their charges and book shore excursions on-line. Or supplying weather
information. For the most part, HAL had none of the above. Sporadically, they offered a bridge cam
which featured classical music. Otherwise, that ONE channel ran a continuous shore excursion
commercial. A far cry from Celebrity, which not only offers ALL of the above, but SEVERAL music
channels. HAL is light years behind.
Air conditioning / heating worked well in our room. Although the bathroom fan NEVER worked. Poor. I
also didn’t like the built-in headboard lighting. Didn’t give off as much light as real nightstand lamps.
A cheap substitute. Bathrooms were adequate. Water pressure was strong enough for fighting fires!
Very good. Showers/faucets all worked well.
POOL FACILITIES
Although it wasn't very crowded poolside, the facilities were good. Especially the two whirlpools under
the skydome. It's hard to describe how wonderful it feels to jump into, no, make that stagger and limp
into a whirlpool after being on your feet, sightseeing, for 8-10 hours. Twenty minutes in the whirlpool
(the bubbles and warm jets on the soles of your feet are fantastic!) will magically erase the aches
and pains.
FOOD
Definitely on par with the better cruise ships. Overall, good food and good service. The main dining
room, the Rotterdam, was exceptionally nice. The Lido Restaurant, on the eleventh floor, was also
quite good. Unlike Celebrity's cafes, the Lido has no omelet station. This didn't really bother me too
much, since having an omelet made usually means LONG lines. On the plus side, HAL had FRESH
SQUEEZED O.J. available, EVERY DAY. A MAJOR advantage over drinking yucky canned O.J.
Another plus was the size of the glasses. I remember those tacky, teeny, 4 oz. plastic glasses on
Celebrity. Thankfully, Veendam doesn't use 'em.
At lunchtime, the buffet line at the Lido is not the only option. You can also dine poolside where the
have hamburgers, hot dogs, a pasta bar, and a taco/burrito bar. All good. Unless you're starving (fat
chance on a cruise) skip the afternoon pizza. It's sub-grade to grocery store frozen pizza.
Regarding the late-nite chocolate buffet.... We trudged up to the Lido Deck to check it out, but, as I
expected, it was easily a 30-minute wait, so we skipped it. Seems to me like they should spread it out
into the pool area where there's LOTS more room for a big event like this.
SHORE EXCURSION - JUNEAU
Unfortunately for all of us, it rained all day in Juneau. I just couldn't get motivated to do any
sightseeing because of it. Right next to the cruise terminal, there's a sky lift that goes way up to the
top of the mountain. When we noticed that the upper half of the ride was shrouded in clouds, we
figured it wasn't worth the $20 cost, so we passed.
I heard horror stories from other guests as well. Some had opted for a $200+ helicopter flightseeing
tour with a landing on the glacier only to have the landing canceled. Fortunately, they received
$100-150 refund, which seems only fair.
SHORE EXCURSION - SKAGWAY
I felt that the train ride was bit too pricy ($78), so instead we opted to spend the afternoon in Haines,
which is about an hour away by ferry. We picked the Haines-Skagway Water Taxi, which was very
reasonably priced at $35 round trip per person, operated by a real nice guy named Glen. It ferries
you over to Haines, stopping along the way for wildlife. We saw over a dozen bald eagles perched in
trees. No whales that day, but Glen pulled up near a family of seals that were hanging out on the
shore. A fantastic photo op, best of the whole trip! Haines is a pleasant little town. Not much to do
there, but you can get some great photos by the harbor, with the mountains in the background.
SHORE EXCURSION - KETCHIKAN
Since I won $200 at bingo the night before, we decided to go for a helicopter flightseeing tour at
Ketchikan. We chose Alpine and flew over the Tongas Forest. Saw a few bears and a few mountain
goats. The pilot landed on top of a mountain - another fabulous photo op.
Ketchikan seemed to be a little more organized for booking tours than the other ports. Maybe that's
becuase more cruise ships dock there. In the visitors center, all of the tour operators have a
separate ticket counter. Sorta like the airlines at an airport. Very efficient. Kudos to whoever
designed this setup.
GLACIER BAY
You don't leave the ship at Glacier Bay National Park, but you don't need to. Veendam pulls up to
within a hundred yards of the Margerie Glacier, and parks there for an hour. I actually video-taped
three good-sized calvings (big chunks of ice falling into the water). Be forewarned it's
time-consuming, but you must be patient. Trust me, it'll be worth it!
ENTERTAINMENT
Four different forms of entertainment were featured. A juggler, a male vocalist, a magician, and the
Veendam singers & dancers. I enjoyed the juggler. Didn't see the vocalist. Thought the magician was
too condescending. In my humble opinion, the singers & dancers were the best. They performed two
different musicals. Not necessarily Broadway caliber, but better than Six Flags or Disney World.
MONEY-SAVING TIPS
As I've mentioned in my other two reviews, you generally come out ahead if you book your own shore
excursions. My wife and I booked a helicopter flightseeing excursion in Ketchikan for $129 each.
Veendam's price was $159 each. A $60 savings by booking on your own.
You'll save about eleven dollars per person if you book the Skagway train ride on your own. The
walk-up price was $78, Veendam's price was $89.
If you're a map person, like myself, you'll probably want a map of the inside passage. Instead of
paying $13 at the Veendam gift shop, wait until you get to the first port. They sell similar maps at the
souvenir stands for TWO bucks!
SUMMARY
We had a good time, overall, on Veendam. Despite the shortcomings, it's a nice ship with a friendly
staff. Yvette Sechrist, the cruise director, is a sweetheart. Very business-like in her attitude, but
always highly interested in pleasing her guests. There's lots to do aboard the ship on at-sea days.
And with the exception of the RIDICULOUSLY steep climb on the gangplank at Ketchikan, I was quite
pleased with how quickly the Veendam crew set the walkway up. No long waits. Nice.
Would we go on HAL again? Sure. Would probably lean towards Celebrity, but you really can't go
wrong either way.
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