Westerdam Review
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Additional details
We just returned from the January 6th Southern Caribbean cruise and had a well deserved restful cruise on the Westerdam. This was our 24th overall cruise and our 3rd HAL trip, the first 2 on the Maasdam. We are 62 and 57 which fit well in the demographic.
We arrived a day early and stayed in the Hilton Beach Resort. Most of the bill was paid for with points. It was very nice but not worth the $400 they command for one night. It was fairly well located and about a $20 cab ride to the port. Lunch at the Casablanca, a small and somewhat eclectic restaurant, was convenient and tasty. Dinner that night at Timpano was not so good. I would rate it as an upscale Olive Garden. Food was OK but not the high caliber claimed by the concierge at the Hilton. I wonder what his kickback was? After dinner, we walked to the CVS and stocked up on snacks, last minute essentials, and wine for my wife. I have to admit that this was the first time I bought alcohol in a pharmacy.
The next morning, my wife walked to the Dunkin' Donuts for her morning fix. She is truly addicted to the stuff. Decaf to boot. Go figure! She brought back a little something for me and then it was off to the port. We hopped onto a Taxi and got there in about 15 minutes. What struck me was that every one of the cabs we took, the driver was Haitian. All were very polite, friendly and honest. We arrived around 11:15 and there was a short line for security. Once through, we went to the line, got our documents, ran past the photographers and were on board by 11:45.
Cabin Review
Neptune Deluxe Verandah Suite
We were in a spacious SA Deluxe Veranda Suite. The cabin was spacious and well laid out. Plenty of closets and drawer space. Luggage fit easily under the beds. The sofa was very comfortable and large. The bed was very comfortable with excellent pillows. The TV was way too small for the size of the cabin. The bathroom was dated and in need of an updating. The counter was chipped and worn. The tub was not necessary and the space could have been devoted to a larger shower. Plenty of storage in the bathroom. My wife found the dressing area to be very useful. The balcony was large with a table and four chairs and 2 chairs with footrests. The suite amenities including the Neptune Lounge were a big plus. I would pick this cabin again in a heartbeat.