Although I had an exceptional vacation, and would recommend the Zaandam for it's excellent voyage itinerary, more intimate size, tasteful cuisine and nicely appointed rooms and public areas; the cruise was not without faults. Although as individuals I believe the 'international' staff tried to be professional, pleasant and accommodating, the (more than one incidence) language barrier made for less than expected experiences. Some of the 'classes' were very poorly presented, either because presenters were ill prepared or could not articulate (why put a staff member in that position?) It was also quite noticeable that if a mere question was asked concerning an off ship detail that was not Holland related, the staff suddenly had no knowledge to share. Word of wisdom, be sure to check your statement for errors the last night on the ship - the line at the service counter was quite long and sometimes 'vocal'.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Excellent dinner in the Pinnacle. Service a little too 'relexed' in Rotterdam, dinner in Canaletto a total disappointment, not worthy of the surcharge
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
adequate, but I expected the selection and level of quality to be higher
Entertainment
3 out of 5
the guest comedian was the best entertainment
Children's Programs
3 out of 5
Not applicable to me
Service and Staff
3 out of 5
Rag, the wine Sommelier was beyond exceptional, extremely knowledgeable, gave a fabulous wine tasting class and was personable and friendly during other parts of the cruise - whish I could say same about beer tasting (read all the notes off cards) and the edible flower arrangements (forgot the correct knive, language difficulties - I blame the co-host - she 'threw' the young man 'under the bus' instead of 'picking the ball up' and covering (she was after all, one of the entertainment co-hosts on stage)
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
Lovely ship, I would say the bathrooms could use an update
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
I loved retiring each evening to a new 'sea creature' welcoming me to the room. My room stewards were exceptional, thank you.
Ship tip
Read all the information left outside your door or on your bed - all worth the time to be up to date on activities etc. Request a statement the evening of the last night at sea, it gives you time to check for errors and have them corrected before the final statement is processed.
Explore past all the gift shops - each town is equally quaint and the people friendly. If you are able walk beyond 'Main Street' - find the local hiking path.
DO visit one of the Totem Pole parks - but then head to Deer Trail Mountain fora fabulous hike through rain forest type of foliage as you climb toward the summit as much as time will allow before you have to back down same way to get back on ship
LOVED ocean kayaking, hike to falls near Mendenhall Glacier and a stop at Alaska Brewing Company for Beer Tasting. If there are enough people in your group to fill a taxi you can enjoy friendliness of a local taxi driver instead of doing a large tour bus.
Incredible scenery - stay outside, but position yourself to where you can here the Park Service Rangers - they have incredible knowledge/stories worth hearing as you take in heaven on earth!
Adorable town, much less 'commercial' than the others on the itinerary. The Sea Life Marine Center is a MUST SEE, remember that the admisision fee (2015 $20.) is well worth the price, as it helps save our magnificent nature.
I suggest that you check your statement more often. Why wait until the last night. I was on two HAL cruises last year and on both of them the On Location Guides answered many question from those wanting to sightsee independently. I was very impressed with this. It is too bad that you had a different experience on your cruise.
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