Zaandam Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We had cruised to Alaska before but were unable to maximise our experience because of health issues towards the end of the experience. Having cruised HAL in 2017 after a break of about 10 years cruising with one of their main competitors we were keen to return to Alaska and experience it with HAL. The 14 day itinerary sttod out as a must do option travelling further north than our previous cruise.
Following Cruise Critic we were made aware of the upgraded bathrooms on many of the ocean view cabins so we upgraded. The new shower is really good and we were pleased with our decision.
As we prefer set dining the first night on any cruise is a little worrying - how would we get on with our dinner companions. In all our cruises we have never had to ask to be moved and indeed again we got on really well with our new friends from Florida. On this sailing second sitting was relatively empty. This was great for us as we were able to build a great rapport with our wait staff, Oka, Arie and wine steward Florence. They were a great team and we really enjoyed our dinners throughout the cruise.
Cabin Review
Large Ocean-View Stateroom
Being an older design ship the bed backs on to the Ocean view so it is that much more difficult to see out! However, we were well looked after and even though our door opened onto the stairway/elevator hallway we did not suffer from any noise issues.
Port Reviews
Homer
It is worth taking the independent trolley into town and visiting the local museum.
Kodiak
Probably our least favourite port but still enjoyable. We used the local taxi service.