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Holland America Line

MS Veendam

Your Rating:
Reviewed by:Thomas Meadows
# previous cruises: 2
Date of Trip: April 8, 1998
Itinerary: Caribbean Eastern

I had one requirement that I told the travel agent when selecting the cruise line for my wife and my 25th wedding anniversary. We wanted the line which gave the best service. Holland America was recommended by everyone and the Ms Veendam was the ship of choice. We wanted for nothing for seven glorious days. We'll pick Veendam again. We were warned by seasoned cruisers that we had just spoiled ourselves and no other ship or line would ever be as good.

Well appointed. We love antiques. The ship was full of antiques and intersting atifacts from around the world. We enjoyed every corner of the ship. Pools were very clean and safe. Casino was nver crowed when we played. Friendly service every where. Plenty of room. Did not feel cramped.

We must have gained 20 pounds. EXCELLENT! That's all I can say. Having lived abroad for three years and traveled extensively, I can say the food on Ms Veendam was as good or better than any top rated resturant in the world. Evening dinners in the King's Room of the Rotterdam dining room were superb. Once again........Service, Service, Service. Buffets on the Lido deck were fun and sumptious. If you went hungry it was you own fault.

I am a full figured gentleman and I did not feel cramped or crowded at any time. Shower was more than adequate for my needs. Verandah deck (outside w/ verandah) room was very comfortable. Beds were turned down every night with a chocolate on each pillow. Room service or cabin boy service was available 24 hours a day. It was great.

Shows were very good. Did not go on the cruise for the ship's entertainment, but the few we attended were very professional and entertaining.

What can be said about the Caribbean in late winter or early spring. Perfect weather, perfect seas, pefect islands to visit. Half Moon Cay is a real treasure. Nice stop over to just rest and forget about corporate America. St. Thomas is the "shop till you drop" capital of the world. I always find a new shop when I go there. St. Kitts/Nevis is another stop that is laid back and very restfull. I had been warned that I would come back tired from having such a good time, but once again, the trip was designed to be restfull and rejuvenating. It was that and then some. A perfect trip.

We are mid 40s and I would say the majority of the passengers were our age or maybe a little older. The thing we noticed was the absence of little travelers. The younger travelers were very well mannered and one could tell they were experienced at traveling and conducting themselves with decorum and properness. Once again, this was another reason we picked Holland America at this time of year. Not many youngsters traveling. We love children and have two grown children of our own. But when you spend the kind of money that a cruise costs, the last thing you want is to not enjoy it because of someone elses children.