Westerdam
Sail date: September 22, 2012
We had a very nice cruise despite high winds and rough seas. The dining room food was overall quite good, while the Lido deck buffet was mediorcre at its best. The captain managed to avoid almost all the rough seas that even shut down the harbor in Sitka. In doing so, he was able to extend our shore time in Ketchikan and Victoria. Our extended visit in Victoria really allowed us to see the area, something we had not been able to do on a prior cruise. For an approximately 8-year old ship without a major refit, the vessel was in good shape and it was evident that the crew worked hard to maintain it. Holland America still manages to have the best cocktails and bartenders afloat, although the wines in their wine packages are pedestrian and over priced.