Veendam Review
Rating by category
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We chose this cruise because of the Cuba visits. We traveled with another couple. Our cabins were next to each other. From the beginning it was a great experience. The ship is smaller. Floor six was great for walking each day. 4Xs around was a mile. Nothing seemed rushed or crowded anywhere. The cabin, the buffet breakfasts, the dining room experience were all top notch. The entertainment was superb! The best we've experienced in 25 years of cruising.
We enjoyed our visits at each stop. We didn't book any excursions from the cruise line. We selected a tour guide upon disembarkation at Belize. He was great and made our trip so memorable. In Cienfuegos we walked to the square. It was Sunday and all activity was there. We visited with people who took larger tours from the cruise line and they felt herded and had impersonal experiences.
We booked a tour online for Havana. Havana Journeys was the company. We provided a credit card number about a month before we left the US. It included a guide, a 57 Chevy with air conditioning and about a 6 hour tour. Most importantly it provided us with a fabulous guide, Ada, whose English was perfect. She met us just a short walk to the Square from the ship. This tour qualified for the "People to People" experience required in Cuba.
Cabin Review
Verandah Suite
Comfortable. The Lanai was great. We were on the top floor. Just a walk up one level to the buffet and pool etc. Our cabin steward was superb.
Port Reviews
Belize City
We hired a private guide upon leaving the ship. He was local and a hoot. We loved our day. His van was disaster which added to the ambiance. His English was perfect and he was very knowledgeable about his city.
Havana
Havana Journeys was the company we engaged online. Great experience from beginning to end. Ada was our guide. She provided us with an amazing day. We learned history, saw old and new Havana. She answered all our questions and took us to a local restaurant in a neighborhood. Such an great experience.
Cienfuegos
We walked to town and hung out at the square. It was market day and such a treat, with entertainment and history.