A Treasured Memory!
Volendam Cruise Review to Alaska - Inside Passage
Contributor Level:
Purser
Cruises: 2-3 cruises
Review: 1
Helpful Votes: 14
Review summary
This is our second cruise and first one to Alaska. Though we got sick returning home, I would not trade anything for such wonderful experience. I praise Lord for giving us great weather and a safe trip. Thank Jennifer Thomas at Cheapcaribbean for booking us quiet and convenient rooms. Thank airlines and airport workers to be on top of everything to help everyone's vacation, Thank HollandAmerica crew and staff for an epic trip!Embarkation
We arrived earlier than our embarkation time. It turned out to be a good decision. The line was light and there were so many workers to help make the process fast and smooth. Many guests were like us so the ship departed early and we got to enjoy food onboard.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Lido market has Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Mexico and American food. There are always plenty of veggies and fruits. Formal Dinning is good too. I only wished they can serve one night free lobster and crab legs. Free main courses include Alaska Salmon, steaks, lamb, duck, etc. The size might not be enough for an adult man, but you can always go back to Lido to have more food.
Onboard Activities
We enjoyed the fitness center, Pickleball tournament, Ping pong tournament, Trivia games, Park Ranger presentation. Very pleased with ship's daily printout for activities. I kept them as good memories.
Entertainment
The stage is not big, but the art director did a good job in selecting dance/sing/instrument performance for night entertainment. Very good quality and love the selections.
Children's Programs
Children under 12 can go to HAL program. My favorite part is children got Jr. Ranger badge on the day of ship visiting Glacier Bay National Park.
Service and Staff
EVERYONE is so polite and helpful! We love our waiters, room clean crew, and Lido market staff. We felt well taken care of, which made it a great trip!
Ship Quality
Maps everywhere so you won't get lost. Plus staff are helpful. I have nothing to complain.
Cabin / Stateroom
Definitely a step-up from just normal cabin. Feels with more room and our family sometimes hang out in our room's couch comfortably.
Ship tip
I should have booked a Balcony room. We all got sick except one and last three days on the ship, I noticed many cough and sneeze. I think a balcony room with fresh air will help.
Thumbs up
0
Ports of call
Vancouver (Canada Place), British Columbia
We love Vancouver and Canada Place. There are small stores near Canada Place you can buy postcard and postage and mail home. It's very convenient!
Love the views changing all the time. The ocean has different colors and so peaceful to watch and enjoy!
We visited the Mendenhall glacier by public bus. We also walked 4-5 miles, a much needed exercise. The Glacier is a must to visit. The Nugget waterfall is refreshing and beautiful!
We rented a car from Drive About Car Rental and had a great experience driving to Yukon/Emerald Lake. We in and out of US/Canada by car, ship, and airplane three times in one week! The driving is easy except at the high sea level, it was foggy at times. The scenery is super beautiful and the trip is well worth it. Highly recommend Ann at the rental place.
Tranquil, breath taking to see blue ice, birds, and glacier bay! That's the highlight of the trip!
We took public bus to see Totem state park. The parker is smaller than I thought. We wish we did some excursion to see wild animals such as bears and bald eagle.
Disembarkation
Again, with so many workers to help, the process is super smooth. Thumb up to Canada for making every tourist feel at ease.