Noordam Review
Rating by category
Additional details
I never sailed the islands of the Pacific, and this was a perfect opportunity to do so. A few days in Sydney prior to sailing allowed two visits to Hunter Valley (two different companies) and a lunch at the top of the Sydney Tower. Staying at the Sydney Harbor Marriott allowed wheeling your luggage right up to the ship with no problem....very handy! Boarding was quick and easy.
Tropical Cyclone Cook interrupted our visit to two ports in New Caledonia, but one stop in Vanauatu was substituted. Days were hot and sunny as we visited Fiji and Samoa - great for those who are wild about beaches, but not much in the way of historic signts.
Lots of sea days - some five in a row - gave plenty of time to kick back and read if you weren't attending a cooking demo, lecture, movie or bingo. The daily "Sip & Savor" with two wines ($4 per glass) and a good snack were led by the somalier with explanation of the wines. Something new each day, and always interesting and tasty. The wine package offerered two levels of wines - Navigator and Admiral - a variety of choices in either. I chose the lower priced Navigator and was never disappointed.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Ocean-View Verandah Stateroom
As a solo traveller, it is very good. Would appreciate a few drawers instead of all the closet space devoted to shelving. The small refrigerator came in very handy, after all of the cans were removed and stored in the hassock at the dresser. Fridge magnets bought along the way will stick nicely to the metal walls (although walls don't look like metal).
My room stewards, Andre and Yoga, were outstanding in keeping my cabin in terrific shape from morning to night.
Port Reviews
Dravuni Island
Took the tender to shore and walked along the beautiful beach. Too hot to spend a lot of time looking at native handicraft which was colorful.