Astounding beauty
Zaandam Cruise Review to Alaska - Gulf of Alaska
Review summary
We thoroughly enjoyed our Alaskan cruise on HAL Zaandam. We had an inside stateroom on the main deck (level 2) for 3 adults; it was comfortable--more spacious than the rooms on other cruiselines we have sailed. Plenty of storage: 3 closets, bureau drawers, desk, underbed drawers, 2 nightstands. The inside staterooms do not have a refrigerator. The room was adequately soundproofed from other cabins and the hallway noises. However, we did hear rumbling vibrations a few times (wave action? engine noise?). But we slept well. Comfortable beds!
Food was tasty, plentiful, and always available. Service in the main dining room, Rotterdam, was attentive. The buffet on the Lido deck had many of the same entree choices as the more formal Rotterdam, in addition to vegetarian, ethnic, and sushi options. The Dive-in Grill, by the forward pool on the Lido Deck, serves burgers, hotdogs, and chicken sandwiches. Delicious, but slow preparation. There's a taco buffet there too. Keep this in mind when the Lido Buffet closes down and dinner is not yet available. The hands-on computer and photography seminars were so helpful.
Alaska is unendingly beautiful! Glacier Bay is awe-inspiring.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Onboard Activities
Entertainment
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ship tip
Explore the whole ship. Don't miss going out on the bow, then go up two flights of stairs to access the open forward deck that overlooks the bow.
Ports of call
Vancouver (Canada Place), British Columbia