holland-volendam1

Note - this page contains multiple reviews.

Name: David Walker
Email: walkerhome@webtv.net
Age: 40
Occupation: Travel Agent
NumberOfCruises: 13
TravelAgent: Yes
Ship: Holland-Volendam
SailingDate: 05/22/2000
Itinerary: Alaska Inside Passage
Cabin: A6146
FoodDiningRoom: 80
CruiseDirector: 85
CabinComfort: 95
FoodRoomService: 85
CruiseStaff: 80
CabinAmenities: 95
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 80
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 85
CabinSteward: 80
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: NA
ShoreExcValue: 90
GoodForHoneymoon: NA
CasinoStaff: NA
PrivateIsland: NA
GoodForFamilies: NA
LoungeService: 85
TenderService: NA
GoodForSeniors: NA
BeautySalonStaff: NA
EntertainmentLounges: NA
WheelchairAccess: NA
ExerciseFacilities: NA
EntertShowLounge: NA
OverallPortsofCall: 85
BeautySalon: NA
EntertainmentPoolside: NA
CruiseActivities: 80
Casino: NA
AirSeaProgram: NA
MedicalFacilities: NA
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 70
DiscoNightclubs: 80
DeckSpace: 75
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 80
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 87
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 01 Jun 2000
Time: 22:43:00
Remote Name: proxy-554.public.rwc.webtv.net
Remote User:

Comments

I have just returned from a 7-night Inside Passage cruise on the VOLENDAM sailing roundtrip from
Vancouver's Canada Place. I bought my own air r/t from Charlotte NC to Seattle and purchased the cruise
line's Transfers to and from Vancouver. I stayed 2 nights in Seattle at the Hampton Inn Downtown next to the
Space Needle. I rented a car from Budget for the 2-night stay and returned to the SEA-TAC airport at 8am to
make sure I was there in plenty of time to beat the crowds using the Transfer Service. Around 8:30am in the
airport Lower Level (Baggage Claim area) the different cruise lines begin setting up their counters for
Transfer check-in. At 9am they begin trading our transfer vouchers for the small boxed lunch provided for the
road trip to Vancouver, and around 9:30am begin loading the first of several buses. You are given a number
based on how early you got there, and when they called your number, your boarded the bus. We departed at
9:50am and the 3 hour 20 minute transfer was scenic and narrated. The border crossing was uneventful and
we arrived at Canada Place Terminal around 1:20pm.

Now came the fun part. It was a National Holiday in
Canada, and combined with a shortage of staff and computer problems, every passenger who had arrived
that morning was STILL waiting to begin Embarkation. There were almost 1000 passengers mingling and
waiting in the Embarkation Hall and it was not a pretty sight. When you got off the bus you were given a Tag
Number based on your arrival sequence at the port, starting at the Number 1 up to and ending around the
number 30. My best guess is that each Tag Number equated to about 25-30 passengers or one bus-load.
Finally around 2pm they begin boarding those passengers given the Number ONE. Around 3pm they finally
got to our bus assigned Tag 14. Embarkation was still going on at 5pm so departure was delayed by well over
an hour. Once aboard the ship I expected to be escorted to my mini-suite in the gracious manner that is
supposed to be associated with Holland-America. Did not happen. I had to make my own way. The mini-suite
itself is lovely and very spacious with floor to ceiling windows and a door that opens to a nice sized balcony
complete with patio chair and chaise lounge.

I have cruised on several cruise lines and this was the best
appointed I have ever seen. Wall safe, queen-bed with the softest pillows I have ever felt, hair dryer, stocked
mini-bar, TV and VCR, plenty of storage space, full sofa, tub with shower stocked with shampoos and soaps.
The bath towels are plush and very luxurious. The cabin was a nice oasis. I set out to explore the ship (and
try to find some food) since I had missed the Embarkation Lunch (it ended at 4pm) and I was 2nd seating for
dinner. There were wait-staff on the Lido walking around with platters of pizza for the hungry and that held me
over until dinner. Now for the Volendam herself. The ship is stunning. Enormous boquets of flowers
everywhere, smaller boquets everywhere else, and vases of flowers in between. The art work and furnishings
were exactly what I had expected to see on Holland-America. Old World elegance with a dash of flash for
balance, and all the flowers makes this the loveliest cruise ship I have ever seen (and I have seen several
dozen as part of my job). Also the Java Bar with the FREE coffee's and cookies, the full movie theater with the
fresh popped popcorn, the 6' X 15' illuminated full World Map showing past and present sailings through
history and current ship location, added nice touches to my first cruise aboard Holland-America. The ship
sailed late, but at the same time as the Norwegian Wind and Sea Princess.

All three left minutes apart and
paraded under the Lions Gate Bridge. This was my 3rd time, but every time I go under the Lions Gate Bridge
is as exciting as the first. The rest of the evening and next day we transited the Inside Passage enroute
Juneau. The weather cooperated nicely and we arrived at the capital city around 1pm. Since I had been here
twice before I did not sign up for any shore excursions but opted to walk around town and head up to Mt
Roberts (which was still covered in lots of "fun to play in" snow) via the Tramway. There were 2 other cruise
ships in port so the streets were crowded, as well as the shops. I wanted to go to the Red Dog Saloon (a
"must-see") but it was packed wall-to wall. The ship left promptly at 11pm heading out for Skagway. Arrival
into Skagway is a lot of fun as you cruise up the narrow Lynn Canal and there are walls of mountain all
around you. Again there were 2 other cruise ships in port.

We were docked by 6am (sunrise is at
4:15AM...WOW!!!). I left to go in to town to take more pictures as the weather was spectacular, and that is
rare in Skagway. I signed up for 2 excursons, the Liarsville Cookout (my second time doing it...lots of fun and
great food) and the Haines Jetboat Eagle Preserve trip. Both are well worth the money. On the jetboat trip we
saw Timber wolves, mink, eagles, and moose. Glacier Bay was our next stop and again the weather was
amazing. We cruised up to the breath-taking Margarie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, but not before passing the
Reid and Lamplugh Glaciers. The Lamplugh is by far the bluest glacier I have ever seen. The inlet in to the
Johns Hopkins Glacier was chocked with ice flow so we never got to see it. Too bad. I saw it 2 years ago and
it probably the most photo-genic, looking like fudge ripple ice cream flowing from the mountain tops. Outside
of Glacier Bay around Point Adolphus we saw dozens of humpback whales, one coming within 50 yards of the
ship before submerging. Ketchikan greeted us with 2 other cruise ships docking before us. I had signed up
for the Saxman Village Tour (a very good value).

Our last day was a full day of cruising through the Inside
Passage (we transited the Narrows mid-afternoon; very very scenic) and our eventual return back to
Vancover the next morning. To my surprise Disembarkation was fast and efficient beginning at 8am. I was off
the VOLENDAM by 8:30am for the bus transfer to Seattle, which arrived at 12:20pm. A small boxed SNACK
was included for the ride. As for my opinion of the food and service aboard this ship my review is less than
generous with praise. The total lack in ability for the cabin and waitstaff to even converse in basic
conversational Englsih and the total lack of any inter-action with passengers was disappointing. Service was
intrusive and often invasive. Several times the waiter reached over me to get to the plates of the passenger
sitting ACROSS the table from me, instead of walking behind them and getting from that side of the table.
Meals and desserts in the dining room (although quite good) were industry average and were not supperb
and not to my expectations of what Holland-America should serve. I did eat lunch once in the Marco Polo
(reservations required seating) and was not impressed. They served the same lunch menu every day. Dinner
menus varied but were similar to what what was being served in the Main Dinning Room. The meals and
desserts I had last year on the 12-night Celebrity GALAXY re-positioning from L.A. to Alaska were far far
better. And a recent partial crew change 2 sailings before ours did not help my overall impression of
Holland-America's supposed "Tradition of Excellence". Overall it was a stunning ship, but the dining room
experiences and coldness of the crew off set the rest of the entire cruise. Based on this cruise experience,
and comparing it with others I have had on CCL, Princess, RCCL, and Celebrity, I would not choose to cruise
on Holland-Amrica again if there was a similar itinerary and price on another cruise line.

Name: Mike Beresky
Email: mike@specialeventcruises.com
Age: 53
Occupation: travel agent
NumberOfCruises: 13
TravelAgent: Yes
Ship: Holland-Volendam
SailingDate: August 14, 2000
Itinerary: Alaska Inside Passage
Cabin: B
FoodDiningRoom: 93
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 93
FoodRoomService: 89
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 93
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 87
FoodMidnightBuffets: 90
CabinSteward: 93
ShoreExcVariety: 85
FoodVariety: 92
DeckService: 86
ShoreExcValue: 78
GoodForHoneymoon: 85
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland:
GoodForFamilies: 85
LoungeService: 87
TenderService: 78
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff: 88
EntertainmentLounges: 87
WheelchairAccess: 95
ExerciseFacilities: 97
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon: 90
EntertainmentPoolside: 78
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 85
AirSeaProgram: 85
MedicalFacilities: 87
ShipCleanliness: 99
EmbarkDisembark: 93
DiscoNightclubs: 82
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 94
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 93
OverallCruiseValue: 90
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 13 Sep 2000
Time: 15:51:15
Remote Name: c48836-245-53-42.ixpres.com
Remote User:

Comments

Less then a year old the Volendam provides a class of cruising that represents the best of bygone
years yet heralds everything positive about what we can look forward to cruising in the 21st century.
Although the Volendam is a beautiful, bright and somewhat 'large' ship… not unlike some of the newer
Carnival ships, Holland America has not lost sight of their huge customer base (Mariner Society) and
their expectations of an 'upscale and polished', not 'glitzy, non-stop excitement' cruise experience.

The Volendam is very similar to the Statendam, Veendam, Ryndam, Massdam. The layout is
essentially the same. The ship, with her twin-sister the Zaandam, differs only in that they are slightly
larger then the other four (with an alternate fine dining restaurant) and each has a different theme
which is mainly applied to the interior décor….floral for Volendam and music for Zaandam.

This was my third trip with Holland America. Previously I had sailed on the ms Noordam and ms
Westerdam. Although the Volendam is a larger ship, it still retains all the smaller-ship charm of the
others. The design of the ship is unique in that there are 3 decks completely set apart from the cabin
decks (4 if you include the Sports Deck with it’s beautiful and expansive Crows Nest lounge. This
allows plenty of space for passengers to 'spread out'. Activities tend to be specialized so as not to
draw too many people into one area of the ship at one time. I noticed very few people waiting in lines.
The only exception was at certain times during the noon mealhour there would be a small line formed
at the Lido for buffet lunch…however there were no lines if you arrived within 30 minutes of the buffet
line opening or closing. There was never a line to enter the main showroom for the evening
entertainment and only rarely did I see a line at the Pursers desk.

The food quality, preparation and presentation was outstanding. My personal opinion is that it ranks
above CCL, NCL and PRINCESS and is on par with CELEBRITY and close to the standards of
CRYSTAL. The lunch and dinner menus were well thought out with selections to please everyone. (I
was pleasantly surprised to see Segruva Caviar on the menu twice and was further surprised to see it
laid out for high tea one afternoon). Even room service was better then expected. The room service
menu was very extensive, much more so then I’ve seen on CCL, NCL and PRINCESS. Although they
have eliminated the traditional 'midnight buffet' I don’t think anyone missed it. Instead the kitchen staff
presented 3 or 4 late night 'after-dinner' extravaganzas on the Lido at around 10pm. The highlight, of
course, was the world famous Holland America Dessert Festival.

The entertainment was excellent. Three main productions were offered (one was an exclusive Barry
Manilow musical based on his best selling song 'COPACABANA'). On each of the evenings without a
main production there would be either a comedian, magician or concert pianist. to entertain the
guests. On some evenings there would be two different entertainment events. The Filipino staff had a
show one evening (which was very good) and the traditional 'passenger talent show', masterfully
engineered by the asst cruise director, was a winner.

Service was exceptional. Holland America has always been very selective about where they acquire
the kitchen, hotel and bar staff. They draw exclusively from Malaysia for hotel staff (room stewards in
particular) and the Philippines for bar staff. Kitchen staff is a mix of the two with Dutch management. All
staff are trained to exacting standards at a special Holland America facility. The ship’s officers, of
course, are Dutch. Of note on our earlier HAL trips the waiter took care of the table without the
assistance of a busboy. However, on Volendam every table had a busboy; however they are referred
to as 'assistant waiters'.

And I was appreciative that you could sit down in any bar and not be 'hounded' to buy a drink.

Tipping can be somewhat of a mystery to many passengers. Holland America does not maintain a NO
TIPPING policy; rather it is a 'TIPPING NOT REQUIRED' policy. I talked with some people who had the
impression that tipping was not allowed which, of course, is not the case.

The cabins are all very spacious. Refrigerators are available in the Cat B’s and higher. Every cabin
has a curtain to separate the room in the event of a 3rd passenger sleeping on the convertible sofa
(much like the newer NCL ships). I viewed one of the handicapped staterooms and found them to be
spacious with wider doors to accommodate a wheelchair and a very large bathroom in full compliance
with the American Disabilities Act.

Embarkation/debarkation was a breeze. All passengers are issued an 'identity card' (like a credit card)
which has passenger name, lifeboat station and booking number (but not cabin number). The card is
used to gain entry to your cabin, enter and exit the ship and charge items to your shipboard account.

All in all this was a first rate cruise. Holland America has the advantage of experience and I felt that
their self-proclaimed 'commitment to excellence' was genuine and seems to ensure their product
remains consistent over the years.

Name: Catherine L. Johnson
Email: whatif-c@excite.com
Age: 51
Occupation: writer
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Holland-Volendam
SailingDate: 9-4-2000
Itinerary: Alaska
Cabin: 1814
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector:
CabinComfort: 90
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: 95
DiningRoomService: 100
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 90
CabinSteward:
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue: 95
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland:
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService:
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors: 98
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 98
WheelchairAccess: 90
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge:
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities:
Casino:
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 98
EmbarkDisembark: 60
DiscoNightclubs: 98
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 90
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 20 Sep 2000
Time: 16:42:09
Remote Name: a050-0743.lsan.splitrock.net
Remote User:

Comments

The Volendam cruise to Alaska was magical. All the staff was especially kind, personable, and eager
to please. Of special note was, of course, the food. Marvelous, varied, and enough to gain 5 pounds in
one week! For me, it was really a toss-up between the formal dining and the Lido buffet, but both were
outstanding. The ship is extremely clean and well managed. I do want to mention several employees
who made the trip even more memorable. In the Crow's Nest, Raymond, (Reymundo), who was the
soul of thoughtfulness and personality, whether serving alcohol, or making a special alcohol-free but
imaginative drink for my 16-year-old daughter.

In the various areas on deck 5, music was always a
treat; in particular, the Colin James Trio who are absolutely fabulous, and play requests with style and
ease. They are classy, friendly, and their music is of a quality I would pay to hear on its own merits. In
another area, 'London Bobby' invited my daughter to sit with him and sing, a thrill for her and for me.
He encouraged her and made her feel quite special. Roy Holland, the ship's security officer, is one of
a kind. I accidently carried aboard a knife I usually carry for my own protection, and his 'confiscation' of
it was gentlemanly and without fuss. He returned it when we made Vancouver, safe and sound. He
defines class, professionalism, and beautiful manners to all. The only item I noted was so small as to
be nearly insignificant aboard the ship: the carpeting was not sealed at the joints in one or two spots,
and it might cause someone to trip.

The boarding of the ship was another matter. The movie
'Schindler's List' came to mind: hours of waiting, shuffling forward with awkward bags, purses and
whatnots, all of us confined to a pretty awful area prior to boarding. The moment we entered the ship,
however, there were white-gloved men everywhere, eager to take our burdens and show us our
rooms. All in all, it was the most wonderful trip, full of happiness, pampering, and state-of-the-art
cruising.

Name: Steve Johnson
Email: stevesan@earthlink.net
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired
NumberOfCruises: 4
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Holland-Volendam
SailingDate: 11/02/2000
Itinerary: S. Caribbean Seafarer
Cabin: 3339/C
FoodDiningRoom: 80
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 100
FoodRoomService: --
CruiseStaff: 100
CabinAmenities: 100
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 10
CabinQuietness: 100
FoodMidnightBuffets: 90
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 60
DeckService: --
ShoreExcValue: 75
GoodForHoneymoon: --
CasinoStaff: 80
PrivateIsland: --
GoodForFamilies: --
LoungeService: 70
TenderService: --
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff: --
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess: --
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 60
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon: --
EntertainmentPoolside: 60
CruiseActivities: 95
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: --
MedicalFacilities: 100
ShipCleanliness: 100
EmbarkDisembark: 40
DiscoNightclubs: 95
DeckSpace: 100
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 90
SpaceRatio: 100
OverallCruiseValue: 85
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 24 Nov 2000
Time: 09:09:15
Remote Name: dialup-64.152.242.220.houston1.level3.net
Remote User:

Comments

This is a review of Holland America Line’s 10 day Southern Caribbean Seafarer on the MS Volendam.
Sail date was Nov 2, 2000. The itinerary and detailed physical descriptions of the ship are available at
Holland America’s web site. The following is a summary of our experience(s). We are two sixty plus
senior citizens who are not yet ready for The Home. As is HAL’s custom, boarding did not begin until
about 1:30PM. Those who complain about late embarkation may comfort themselves with the thought
that HAL actually cares about between cruise cleanups. Once begun, boarding moved at a snail’s pace.
For example, our wait for number eighteen exceeded an hour. Crew and staff attitudes and rapport with
the passengers was unconditionally excellent, especially the front desk people. The infirmary is well
staffed and considerate. Our cabin steward was typically capable and willing. Regrettably, the dining
room was sorely understaffed for the evening meal. Our waiter was strained by the lack of an assistant
(bus boy). He worked his tail off, but courses were slow coming and drinks seldom replenished. Early
seating, 6:00 PM, seldom got out before 7:30. None of this was our waiter’s fault. We were a table for
six, none of whom imbibed. Consequently, the wine steward only approached us on the first night, a
pleasant change from prior experiences. The Maitre d’ never visited our table. I guess he had heard
enough complaints about the staffing. The food was typical HAL. Preparation and presentation were
acceptable, but undistinguished. I prefer Celebrity’s menus and preparation. Breakfast and lunch
service in the main dining room was very prompt, and the servers pleasant. We dined in the alternative
Marco Polo twice. Reservations were easy to come by. Technically, Marco Polo reservations are only
available between 9 and 11AM. However, I stopped by the first evening and the headwaiter accepted my
application. I made our reservation for a second night at a later date, with no difficulty. The menu is on
HAL’s web site. It is Italian and well prepared, but the Marco Polo is also understaffed. On a busy night,
our waiter was too rushed, once delivering the wrong entrée. However, he made a quick recovery and
brought the correct order, accompanied by a profound apology. There were three formal and two
informal nights. Formal dress was typically HAL, mostly tuxes and dark business suits for the men and
elegant formal for the ladies. For those unaware of HAL customs, formal wear is retained throughout the
evening. The Shore Excursion office folks are eager and pleasant, but their lack of experience with this
itinerary caused a number of tour problems at many islands. Itinerary changes were common. Change
notices were placed under the cabin door the evening before departure, far too late to make alternative
choices. At Nassau, key excursions were actually cancelled at pier side. The blame was placed on the
tour operator not having us scheduled, but a more experienced ship’s staff would have the tours
confirmed in advance. Although this was a Caribbean cruise, HAL maturity still prevails. If you’re looking
for a more representative Caribbean experience with a gay, festive, party atmosphere, this ain’t your
boat. Despite some disruptions and disappointments, we had a pleasant experience. I think I can best
summarize my feelings about the trip with the following:

Reflections on a 10-day Southern Caribbean Cruise:

1) A ten-day Caribbean cruise is 3 to 5 days too long. 2) Two consecutive sea days is two days too
many. I don’t limit this to S. Caribbean trips. However, I must concede that a sea day is often logistically
necessary, and is preferable to a day of air travel. Unfortunately, the travel mode required just to get to
the ship often negates the air travel day analogy. 3) Six S. Caribbean islands are five too many.
Although each island has its own unique qualities and characteristics, they are all too similar when
visited for only one day. 4) The Caribbean experience is antithetical to the regimented and confining
environment of a cruise ship.

Conclusions:

Instead of a cruise, spend four or five days at a select all-inclusive resort. Sandals, St. Lucia, would be a
great choice. There‘d be enough time to truly enjoy the island, become familiar with the surroundings,
and experience a pampered, relaxed, laid back, Caribbean setting. This may be slightly more expensive
than the cruise, but it sure takes care of 3 and 4 above. Or, if one must visit the S. Caribbean by ship,
take a seven-day cruise out of San Juan, if the airfare isn’t a deal breaker. This option takes care of 1
and 2 above, but still leaves 3 and 4 as dominant factors!

Admittedly, I couldn’t have realized these revelations if I hadn’t taken the cruise. Experience is the best
teacher, but it sure is a costly tutor! Note: if you deem the cruise ship a sought-after destination, then
none of the immediately preceding comments apply. I use cruise ships as an alternative to hotels. A ship
is sometimes more convenient, but it is certainly more confining, disciplined and cramped than any 3 or
4 star hotel. Finally, I will not attempt to deflect criticism by closing with an IMHO disclaimer. It’s entirely
evident that most of what we say is simply opinion. If you disagree with any of my observations, feel free
to fire away.

Name: Donna Nance
Email: dnan67@hotmail.com
Age: 51
Occupation: timber and logging business
NumberOfCruises: 5
TravelAgent: No
Ship: Holland-Volendam
SailingDate: 1-06-01
Itinerary: Southern Caribbean
Cabin: 7093
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 85
CabinComfort: 95
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 95
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 80
CabinQuietness: 85
FoodMidnightBuffets: n/a
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService: 85
ShoreExcValue: 90
GoodForHoneymoon: 75
CasinoStaff: n/a
PrivateIsland: 90
GoodForFamilies: 85
LoungeService: 80
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff: n/a
EntertainmentLounges: 80
WheelchairAccess: n/a
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 85
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon: n/a
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 80
Casino: n/a
AirSeaProgram: n/a
MedicalFacilities: n/a
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 85
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 85
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 28 Jan 2001
Time: 15:34:45
Remote Name: cache1.infoave.net
Remote User:

Comments

My husband and I and another couple from the Atlanta area took the 10-day Southern Caribbean cruise
leaving January 6, 2001. This was our 3rd HA cruise and their 1st. We have taken the 7-day Western and
another very similar 10 day Southern Caribbean cruise. We both made independent air travel and met at
airport. Taxi over to port was quick and easy. Our wait time was only around 45 minutes as there was no line
at check in. We arrived on board around 1PM. Our cabin (mini suite) was 7093 Navigation Deck, theirs was
2639 Main Deck. They did not want a balcony as wife has had problems with seasickness on a RCL Bermuda
cruise.

After lunch on the Lido, we both went our separate ways to unpack and settle in. Sail away was fun on the aft
deck at the pool with many other passengers.

Dining: We sat at table 124, second seating, the 4 of us and another couple. Comparing our service from our
2 previous cruises; we were disappointed in service in main dining room. There were not enough servers,
waiters, staff to adequately serve table. Often times orders were not right and one night I waited 10 minutes,
after other guest were served, for my entrée. The staff was just stretched too thin. They were apologetic and
tried their best. We did not use wine steward except for one night when he served champagne we had won on
board. We ate most mornings in the Lido for breakfast. My only complaint was I did not find fresh squeezed
orange juice until last day. Why not have some on regular line? I ordered room service for breakfast 4 or 5
times and it was always prompt and correct. Love that service! We actually ate 2 nights in the Lido for supper
and found it to be just as good as dining room. You get your own salad and appetizer from the line and take it
to table and waiter takes your entrée order. Was nice not to have to dress for dinner and it was quiet and not
at all crowded. We also ate twice in the Marco Polo Restaurant and enjoyed our food there a lot. The Poolside
bar-b-cue was not as good as previous ones. Our steaks were nearly raw, thank heaven for the salmon.
Steaks were never cooked as requested in any area. With the abundance of food, we never went hungry. My
friend was disappointed not to be able to get rum raisin ice cream every day. Why not have all flavors
available every day, it is already on board?

Shore Excursions: Our first stop was Curacao. The town of Willemstad is absolutely gorgeous. Picturesque,
colorful houses and businesses. We took a snorkel trip and had the best time. Most fish, most colorful fish I
have ever encountered in any snorkel trip. After lunch we went into town and did minor shopping. My husband
and I visited the Maritime Museun and found it to be a great stop off the beaten path. We were directed there
by one the shop keepers. Walked there and did not feel threatened at all. Fireworks as we were leaving were
wonderful. Made us feel as if our tourist dollars were welcome. Our stop in Venezulea was our least favorite.
La Guerra is a port near Caracas and it is not a beautiful city. We took half-day trip to Murano glass factory,
which was interesting to see. Our tour guide spent the one hour trip there explaining to us how not to blame
them for high gas prices, they are a poor county. The military presence was very evident, 18-20 year old
soldiers in full gear, some with dogs. Most all homes had burglar bars and razor wire around gated and wall
perimeters. Even the poorest areas had burglar bars on windows, some 3-6 stories off ground. We were
stopped by military police at terminal, which demanded we all unpack boxes of glass we had purchased at
factory, which had been especially packed for travel. After several tense minutes some of the other
passengers just said no, we were not going to unpack boxes, so we all picked up our boxes and headed for
ship. If I never go there again it will be too soon. Took a good beach trip to Maracas Bay Beach in Trinidad
and had a very informative narrative by our taxi driver to and from the beach. Was impressed by level of
lifeguards on the beach and in pontoon boat just off shore. In Martinique we walked around town and were
surprised at how friendly 90% of shopkeepers were. We did not find this to be true 2 years ago. The four of
ate lunch in a local sandwich shop where we found one worker who spoke English. The apple tart was
fantastic. Great experience. At St. Thomas we took catamaran trip on Castaway Lady. Beautiful boat and
great crew even had 2 large vegetable trays and snack mix along with best rum punch I have had on boat
trips. Friends went into town, but we shopped at Haven sight Mall. Check out rum cake factory shop. Friend
found great Kate Spade knock off purses for $30. Our last stop at Half Moon Cay was a fun day, dodging
typical tropical showers, swimming and enjoying our last day.

Entertainment: Was the usual ship fare. We went most nights just to have something to do.

Cruise staff: Did not find that they were around our areas much. We do not gamble or participate in many
activities. We did enjoy the 50-60’s night in disco. Contests were fun and we won twist contest.

The MS Volendam is a beautiful ship, filled with beautiful flowers, art and many places to sit and visit. We
found that many people we talked to felt the same way we did about dining room service, more older people
than previous cruises, and that many of them were unbelievable rude. Often times breaking in line, adding 6-8
people to a waiting line. Smoking in the public areas of the ship and going to and from places really bothered
me. It seemed as if I always came up behind some one smoking or someone got on the elevator (actually got
off one day) Our cabin steward was very efficient and we were glad to learn he was going home after our
cruise after a year away from wife and 4 year old son. These men work very hard and I hope people will tip
them according to the service they render. The ship seemed more crowded than the Statendam or Veendam.
Some of these things HA has no control over, but they could do something about smoking policy. We enjoyed
the movie theatre this time, also. All in all we had a wonderful time and will certainly travel again with HA.

Name: Katharina Mayne
Email: kmrrm@gtcinternet.com
Age: 52
Occupation: Executive Secretary
NumberOfCruises: 4
TravelAgent: Yes
Ship: Holland-Volendam
SailingDate: March 27-April 6, 2001
Itinerary: 10 Day Southern Caribbean Wayfarer
Cabin: G2702
FoodDiningRoom: 95
CruiseDirector:
CabinComfort: 95
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff:
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 90
FoodMidnightBuffets: 85
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 89
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 98
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService:
TenderService: 98
GoodForSeniors: 99
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges:
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge:
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities:
Casino: 85
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 08 Apr 2001
Time: 14:44:36
Remote Name: 10-039.022.popsite.net
Remote User:

Comments

My husband and I just returned from the March 27-April 6 (10-day) Southern Caribbean Wayfarer cruise
on the ms Volendam, which we enjoyed immensely.

Non-stop airline tickets from Newark/Fort Lauderdale/Newark were purchased from Continental Airlines
for $199.50 each. We also obtained our own air for our three previous cruises (all non-stop flights).
However, we continue to purchase round-trip transfers to/from a ship through our travel agents. This
simplifies the transportation of our luggage to/from the airport/ship.

Our previous sailings were in June 1998 on Celebrity’s Galaxy (7-day Alaska), November 1998 on Royal
Caribbean’s Monarch of the Seas (7-day Western Caribbean) and April 1999 on Princess’ Regal
(10-day Panama Canal). We were not overly impressed with either the food or service on the latter two
cruise lines.

A week prior to sailing, we learned our inside Category ‘N’ cabin with a guarantee was upgraded to an
outside Category ‘G’ cabin (with window). The cabin was handicapped accessible, somewhat larger than
most in the 'G' category, and was located on the Main Deck in the very rear of the ship. The closet/shelf
space was more than ample. Our cabin steward was extremely efficient in carrying out his duties.
Warning -- Holland America does not supply hair conditioner, so bring your own.

Our boarding and deembarkation went well. Ports of call were Willemstad, Curacao; Caracas,
Venezuela; Port of Spain, Trinidad; Fort-de-France, Martinique; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Since we had not set foot in these ports previously, we signed up for shore
excursions at each destination, except Half Moon Cay (their gorgeous private island).

My husband and I are 55 and 52, respectively. I would guess the majority of the ship’s clientele were in
the 60-80+ years age group. However, we were aware before booking that Holland America catered to
an older crowd and this certainly did not deter from our overall cruise experience, which was quite
pleasurable.

The foods offered on the Lido Deck for breakfast/lunch were somewhat repetitive, but the coffee,
available 24 hours a day, was consistently exceptional. The midday/evening meals in the Rotterdam
Restaurant were varied and very tasty. Dinner at the Marco Polo was also quite good, but not
exceptional.

We highly recommend Holland America and would definitely sail with them again. Still, we rate Celebrity
a smidgen above Holland America because of their outstanding meals.

Please contact me if you require additional info.

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