Exceeded out expectations

Volendam Cruise Review to Panama Canal, Central America

an2m

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)

Review: 1

Helpful Votes: 16

Overall rating:

4.7 out of 5

15 Night Panama Canal Westbound (Ft. Lauderdale To San Diego)

Sail date: October 19, 2018

Ship: Volendam

Cabin type: Oceanview

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 6 years ago

Review summary

As first time cruisers my husband mainly agreed because I really wanted to go. Plus the Panama Canal and Central America were a draw. But almost from the start, we both were enjoying ourselves. The smaller ship was important to us, not wanting to be stuck on a crowded city ship. We anticipated some down time to kill and took some movies to watch and lots of e-books. Turns out there was plenty to pick from, activities on board and excursions in ports of call. We almost never turned on the TV and didn’t need any movies. They have an extensive library of DVD’s to borrow, but we always found something else we wanted to do. The evening show included two different comedians, both hysterically funny, a magician, singers, dancers, a gymnast, a pianist, etc. The food on the Volendam was exceptional, and we are picky. The servers in the dining room, as well as ALL the crew and officers with whom we had contact, were very friendly and eager to please. We found we were able to order double entrees (if we were hungry enough), more green beans, or whatever. Our “fixed” seating was flexible also. After an initial few days of over-eating, we started making some healthier choices so when we got home, neither one of us had gained weight! That after a 15 day cruise. We did usually take the stairs and we walked the Promenade deck around the ship somewhat regularly. Our cabin had plenty of storage room for us; two drawers under the bed we didn’t even use. We found other cruisers so friendly that we socialized more than we do at home and we even made new friends. We danced for the first time in years! It was so much fun that we booked our next cruise to Alaska for six months hence, on Holland America, of course!