Westerdam Cruise Reviews

Like a storybook town, Westerdam is not too big and not too small. With room for 1,916 travelers, this Vista-class cruise ship fits solidly in the midsize category. But, it has more than enough activities, entertainment, and dining to satisfy everyone. Westerdam delivers an enjoyable experience for first-timers, couples, baby boomers, and families traveling with teens or older children. Refurbished in 2017, Westerdam's amenities represent an evolution of Holland America Line, which keeps the best of the old and adds plenty of new.

One of Westerdam's signature features is the Music Walk. This multi-venue neighborhood is home to several entertainment options. There's the Lincoln Center Stage, an intimate jazz and chamber music space. Billboard Onboard, where dueling pianists belt out pop hits from the 1950s through today. B.B. King's Blues Club, is the place for all things rhythm and blues. For cabaret-style stage shows, musical revues, and themed productions, visit the Mainstage Theater. Holland America also hosts a rotating roster of international guest performers, illusionists, and family-friendly comedians.

If you prefer adult-oriented fun, Westerdam has an excellent lounge scene with five unique venues. Options include the Ocean Bar, the Gallery Bar, and the Crow's Nest, which is located within Explorations Central. EXC unites Explorations Café with a cozy lounge, travel guide library, and interactive exploration zone. Here you can learn about the destinations you'll be visiting and plan your next adventure.

Westerdam itineraries and departure ports

Holland America's Westerdam offers 7-day cruises and grand voyages that explore Alaska, South America, and Asia. The ship's Alaskan cruise season runs from June through September. Seven-day itineraries travel between Vancouver and Seward. In October 2019, the ship will transition to Asia where it will embark on in-depth 14- to 28-day voyages. For the 2020-2021 winter season, Westerdam will tour South America and Antarctica on multi-week routes between San Diego and Buenos Aires or Santiago.

Before you book

This ship is best for: Westerdam is popular with mature couples, baby boomers, and first-time cruisers. It's great for those looking for a laid-back experience who are interested in sailing to Alaska and other popular destinations.

You should know: Active cruisers may not be satisfied with the limited scope of the ship's onboard amenities. Passengers should be prepared to share public spaces with smokers and travelers using mobility aids.

Activities on Westerdam

On Westerdam, you can cruise at your own speed. Passangers can hit the sports courts, lounge by the pool, or retreat to the thermal suites at the Greenhouse Spa. With two pools and multiple sundecks, including the adults-only Retreat, there's plenty of room to relax. Fun and games are never far, whether you enjoy bingo, trivia, bridge, or blackjack. The Loft teen lounge and Club HAL playroom offer a respectable selection of activities and special events. Voyagers of all ages can take advantage of an interactive treasure trove of travel resources in Explorations Central. Westerdam also has a lively bar and lounge scene. You can choose to enjoy a handcrafted cocktail in the Gallery Bar or a nonalcoholic beverage at Explorations Cafe.

Westerdam ship highlights

• Lido Pool with retractable roof
• Sea View pool and bar
• Adults-only Retreat sundeck
• Multipurpose sports courts
• Club HAL kids activities
• The Loft teen lounge
• B.B. King's Blues Club
• Lincoln Center Stage
• Billboard Onboard
• America's Test Kitchen workshops
• Microsoft Digital Workshop
• BBC Earth Experiences edutainment
• Explorations Central & Cafe
• Screening Room theater
• The Mainstage theater
• Pop-up dining
• Unique bars and lounges
• Greenhouse Spa with thermal suite
• Duty-free Atrium Shops
• Fitness center
• Casino

Westerdam cabins

Westerdam is a midsize cruise ship with 961 staterooms. This traditional line offers many familiar cabin categories, including interior, oceanview, and veranda rooms as well as several suite classes. Staterooms on Westerdam are generously sized with 175 to 225 square feet of living space on average. 70 percent of accommodations have private balconies. Cabins boast a contemporary European aesthetic with light, airy colors and ocean-tone accents. Regardless of the class, the comfortably appointed staterooms feature a desk, chair, luxurious Mariner's Dream mattresses, and ample storage. For the best selection, travelers recommend booking at least six months in advance. Especially if you're looking for a wheelchair-accessible cabin or centrally located room.

Westerdam dining

With four flagship restaurants and several casual eateries, Westerdam serves everything from family-style comfort food to fancy steakhouse fare. The Dining Room and Lido Buffet offer complimentary selections in a formal or casual setting with your choice of fixed seating or anytime dining. Previous Holland America cruisers will recognize two of the line's premier specialty restaurants. Canaletto is a cozy, reasonably priced spot serving shareable antipasti, entrees, and pasta. Another option is the Pinnacle Grill, which is known for its prime steaks, wild-caught seafood, and luscious chocolate souffles. On select evenings, the steakhouse doubles as Rudi's Sel de Mer, a pop-up prix fixe venue. Selections from the line's Tamarind restaurant are available on Asia sailings.