Confused about Maasdam

[30scruiser]

My husband and I are thinking about booking a Canada/New England cruise for this summer on the Maasdam. The ports look amazing, and I went on HAL once with my grandparents and really liked it. I think it will work well for me and my husband, because even though we are in our early thirties, we are not stay up all night partying people, especially on vacation. We like to see new places and have some time to relax.
My hesitation is that when I read the reviews, people seem to either love the Maasdam or hate it. This is a lot of money for us on a vacation (we usually take road trips, but our honeymoon was an Alaskan cruise and we had an amazing time) and while we don't expect things to be perfect, we certainly don't want to be sailing in a dilapidated ship with no activities and bad service, which is the impression I got from some of the reviews.
Can anyone who has been on the Maasdam weigh in on why the reviews seem so polarized?
Thanks!

[tkwbear]

I've sailed the Maasdam for 52 days total, beginning in 2003. 35 days of that was last summer on the Voyage of the Vikings.

I really like the ship. I had an issue with heating/ac, which was unfortunate, but I had them set it to "real cold" and slept under 2 blankets. Quite a few people I knew had issues with this. Beyond that, everything worked really well, and I look forward to my next cruise on the Maasdam.

However, I've never been on ANY ship where someone wasn't unhappy about something, so don't worry about those guys, book the cruise and have a great time.

[clan]

I sailed on the Maasdam in May of 2008 and had a wonderful cruise. The ship was definitely not run down and I don't recall any mechanical problems. The food and service were very good. There may not be as many activities as on some other cruise lines, but I never found myself looking for something to do. Keep reading the CC boards and asking questions to be sure you are making the best decision for you. Happy cruising!

[amster65]

Sailed on the Maasdam last April. Fourteen days of pure bliss. I you like to relax, dont party past 11 or so, and are not offended by some elderly folks like me, you will have a great time. The best part of my day was always the sailaway and the two for one drinks in the Crows Nest. I'm starting to get setimental just thinking about it. Be aware this is not a super glitzy cruise ship. This is a real ship, not a floating hotel. You can actually walk out on that promenade deck and see the ocean go by. That was one of the first things we did every morning, walk that deck, but thats all we did, no treadmills,weights and all that stuff. They are available though. I had no issues with my cabin, the staff was just great, I could go on and on. Have great trip and have two for one for me.

[ottawa_traveler]

30scruiser, I am in the same boat as you (oh man, pun not intended, but it's so perfect!).

We had our first cruise on the Volendam last summer and really enjoyed it. Not blown away by the ship or anything, but certainly no complaints. I saw a lot of complaints/negative comments about the Volendam before sailing, but we had no problems at all.

So now I'm looking at booking the Maasdam for the 7-day New England/Canada cruise and am seeing the same comments as you about the ship being old, outdated, etc., and I'm starting to wonder if it's the right choice for us. The other ship I'm considering is the Celebrity Summit, and it also gets a lot of negative reviews. I wonder if maybe the cruise lines put their older ships on this itinerary?

Looking forward to hearing from others who have recently sailed on the Maasdam!:)

[trophy_23]

Canada / New England is an amazing place to cruise. My gf and I spent 2wks on the Eurodam last fall cruising from Quebec City to Ft. Lauderdale(we are 25 and 24 just to give you an idea). We had an absolute blast, we were by far the youngest couple on the ship, but did we care? Nope. We sat at open dining tables of 12, 10, 8 and it was wonderful chatting with all sorts of people. The cruise we were on was quite port heavy (3 or 4 sea days for 14) so we were mostly there to experience that part of the world and explore, take photos etc. The ship was beautiful and huge compared to the Ryndam (only other ship I had been on and sister ship to Maasdam). We did see the Maasdam in Quebec City and she looked good, friends of ours were on for a QC to Boston cruise and has a great time! I think you will really enjoy your cruise. The Maasdam will be great! From my 3 cruises with HAL they put forward a fantastic product and I have never had anything major to complain about.

Also, to the above poster about the older ships on this run, the Eurodam was only a year old when we sailed in the fall so I think it may be pure coincidence.

[rdfox]

We are booked on the Maasdam for a New England this summer. I don't think it's the older ships that are scheduled for this itinerary by definition...it's the smaller ships that have to go under the bridges up the St. Lawrence (if smaller means older, than sobeit). We are so looking forward to the trip because of the more intimate Maasdam and also the ports, including Halifax and PEI, and then, of course, Boston and Montreal on each end. Those are two of my very favorite cities in North America. We're going to arrive via Amtrak a few days early into Boston and then staying over in Montreal for a day afterwards. If Montreal still has their Saturday night international fireworks exhibitions, it is a Must See.

[Sea King]

I'm waiting for S7S to answer this thread.

If anyone knows more than her about the Maasdam, I'd be shocked.

I've sailed Maasdam more than a "few times";)

It's elegant .. and the crew is consistently a "9"

The problem for "some" is its size .. about 55,000 tons vs. Vista which gets into the 80,000 ton range or Eurodam which is even larger with multiple alternate restaurants

Canada/New England is a fantastic cruise with great ports

the per diem, however, is higher than many other itineraries including many Eruopean sailings

but, IMHO, to miss Maasdam on the Canada/New England trip is to miss a unique experience

[sail7seas]

<snip> but, IMHO, to miss Maasdam on the Canada/New England trip is to miss a unique experience
Sea King seems to know Maasdam as well as we do. :D But he doesn't have it exactly right ..... Maasdam's crew is a "20" at least.

We LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT.

We positively adore the Maasdam, have sailed her a great many days and have four more cruises booked.

This cruise is a treasure among all of HAL's itineraries. Outstanding ports unlike the Caribbean sun and fun, same old. So much to do. Be active and kayak, do a leisurely bus tour, walk around on your own........ You won't lack for what to do and see. The per diem is higher because it truly is special. The ship only holds about 1260 lucky guests and she almost always goes out full. People are willing to pay more because it's worth it.

Maasdam is an elegant, very beautiful ship full of fabulous art, one of the prettiest formal dining rooms, a great Pinnacle, her fabulous wrap around Promenade, the best Ocean Bar and oh her aft pool...... DH loves it there!

But Maasdam's biggest asset is her crew. There is no better crew at sea IMO Sure, there are other wonderful crews but we've yet to encounter one better than Maasdam's. They work so well together and so hard to do their best for every guest to have the best possible cruise.

I could go on and on but I've written reams about the beautiful Maasdam on this forum. Way more than anyone wants to read. :o
We go back on Maasdam all the way to her Inauguration Parties when she came new from the Shipyard. We can never get enough of her.

[skiron]

Sail7Seas you sound familiar and may have been on one of the 3 cruises that we took on the Maasdam in 2006, 2008 and latest in Oct. 2009. For benefit of those considering the ship, I particularly love the Maasdam over all of the other 6 ships we have been on.
I agree with others that this ship is particularly elegant and the artwork unmatched on other ships. The crew is also unmatched, friendly and you will want to take one home for sure. On a 14 day cruise in 2008 we met some very nice people from Quebec City and have maintained contact despite the woman only speaking French and the husband with much more skilled at English than we on French. Now, for our upcoming cruise on the Eurodam in 2010, they plan to take off 2 days from work, pick us up at the airport and then give us a custom tour of the city and surrounding area for days prior to cruising away from them again.

You WILL make some good friends on the Maasdam because its size and arrangement of public rooms encourage such contacts. The library is particularly wonderful and a place I spend quite a bit of time and lately appreciated the audio system available there.

I must say that the Maasdam does some have aging issues that are typically dealt with quickly by maintenance. Particularly the thermostats have little to no control of cabin temperature so you may want to call the desk as soon as such issues appear.

For a SECRET and last tip, on a quiet and relaxed sea day, go up to the Crows nest and snag one of those chairs by the windows facing forward. I guarantee that you will be asleep in 5 minutes or less on these chairs not reproduced on any of the other ships HAL or otherwise that we have been on.

[30scruiser]

Thanks everyone for your input. We went ahead and booked it. We're super-excited! All of your positive feedback makes us feel really good about the decision. Yay!

[gwenmarie]

It is a wonderful ship now but go before it gets it's new poolette.

[sail7seas]

Maasdam will not get a poolette. :)

[gwenmarie]

This is wonderful news. I thought I just read in these forums that it was scheduled for 2011. Glad I am wrong, I love that ship. This was our first HAL cruise from Costa Rica to Vancouver, BC a repo cruise many years ago and I now plan on sailing on her again with that wonderful aft pool.

[skiron]

Maasdam will not get a poolette. :)

S7S:

What do you mean about a "poolet"? When we were on the Maasdam in October there were still plans to redo the Aft deck, add more cabins and move or eliminate that pool.

[Jade13]

Regarding Maasdam -

Does anyone have recommendations on preferred OV staterooms? Right now we are booked in a C, closest to the gym. However, I am wondering if I would be happier closest to the promenade so I can go out in the morning to walk or take pictures? Can you walk outside from the gym?

Do they open the forward decks in the morning on Massdam as they have done on Westerdam and Noordam on Deck 7? Where are the closest staterooms to an outside location?

[sail7seas]

Depending upon conditions, access to the bow on Maasdam is more frequent than on Vista ships. No access when the ship is sailing full speed but sometimes when just leaving port or entering.

Sorry, Jade. I can't help with cabin selection as we have never stayed in any of those cabins. We've certainly viewed them but I don't know about noise etc

You already know how wonderful walking Promenade Deck is on all HAL ships. It's glorious.

[Copper10-8]

ms Maasdam (1993-present) Built in 1993 as ms Maasdam by Fincantieri - Cantieri Navali Italiani S.p.A., Monfalcone, Italy for Holland America Line. She is the fifth ship to bear the name in Holland America Line’s more than 130-year history. She was named after the river ‘Maas’ and the town by that same name in the Dutch province of Zuid Holland (South Holland), located about 14 km south of the city of Rotterdam, in the municipality of Binnenmaas. Maasdam is the second ship of the four-ship “S” or “Statendam” class. Statendam (1993), Ryndam (1994) and Veendam (1996) are her sisters. At 720-feet, she was designed to carry fewer passengers (1,266) while providing more space for maximum comfort. Many of her staterooms feature ocean views and, for the first time on a Holland America Line ship, have private verandahs.

http://media.shipspotting.com/uploads/thumbs/rw/1060537_800/Ship+Photo+Maasdam.JPG (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/&quot;http://media.shipspotting.com/uploads/photos/rw/1060537/Ship+Photo+Maasdam.JPG&quot;)

The first Maasdam operated for Holland America Line from 1883 until 1884. She was built by Henderson, Coulbourn & Co. in Renfrew, Scotland as a brig-rigged, steel-hulled steamer and was initially named ‘Maas’. On 24 October 1884, while underway from Rotterdam to New York, she caught fire which resulted in all passengers and crew having to abandon her. Maasdam I subsequently sank in the Atlantic Ocean.

The second Maasdam was launched on 4 July 1871 as the Republic for UK-based Oceanic Steam Navigation Co. She was purchased by the Holland Amerika Lijn on 15 June 1889 and, after a refit in Rotterdam, named Maasdam. After plying the Atlantic for HAL for thirteen years, she was sold to Italy-based Fratelli Bozzo in March 1902. She was ultimately sold for scrap and, as Citta Di Napoli, broken up in 1909.

Maasdam III was launched on 21 October 1920 at the Rotterdam-Feijenoord yard, the Netherlands as an 8,800 grt cargo-passenger vessel. She could carry 14 passengers in First Class accommodation, 174 in Second Class plus 800 in Third Class. She was initially operated by HAL on their Mexico run. After a refit in 1934, she was used between Rotterdam and New York. After the Netherlands were invaded and occupied by Germany in 1940, Maasdam III was operated by the British Ministry of War Transport. On 26 June 1941 while sailing from Halifax, NS to Liverpool, England, she was attacked and torpedoed by the German Kriegsmarine (Navy) sub U-564. She sank as a result of this attack with two loss of life among her crew.

Maasdam IV was built at Dok en Werfmaatschappij (Dock and Shipbuilding Co.) Wilton-Feijenoord in Schiedam in the Netherlands during 1952. She and her two-year older sister Ryndam were known as HAL’s ‘Economy Twins’. At 15,000 grt, they could carry 854 passengers. The fourth Maasdam was used on the transatlantic liner service between Rotterdam and New York (with some voyages to Montreal, Quebec), on cruises to Bermuda and on some trips to Australia. She was eventually sold to the Polish Ocean Lines in 1968 who renamed her Stefan Batory. After additional owners and periods of layup, she met her end at the scrap yard of Aliaga, Turkey where she was broken up in 1999

Maasdam V’s keel was laid down at Monfalcone on 4 April 1991. After running technical trials in the Adriatic, she was handed over to her owners on 30 October 1993. She then commenced a transatlantic crossing, with crew but without passengers, to Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. under the command of Captain Coenraad Menke, with Holland America Line since 1956. After a christening and naming ceremony there by her godmother, actress June Allyson, on 3 December 1993, she sailed her inaugural/maiden voyage, a ten-day Caribbean cruise. Since then, she has sailed to the Caribbean, Canada/New England, Europe, the Panama Canal, Central and South America, Alaska, Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. In 1994, she conducted her first World Cruise. On 10 May 1996 she along with her fleet mates (except Veendam) switched from a Bahamian flag and registration (Nassau) to a Dutch one (Rotterdam).

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The four ships of the class are just about identical, having only minor changes in their internal layout. However, each one has a different decorative theme. Maasdam features a theme of Dutch worldwide exploration (more specifically, the Dutch East and West India companies of the 17th through 19th centuries), with more than $2 million worth of art and artifacts displayed throughout the ship.

When launched, Maasdam came out with a Java Café coffee bar, Explorers Lounge, Piano Bar, Ocean Bar (a HAL trademark), Crow’s Nest (observation lounge by day/nightclub by night), Leyden Library, Puzzle Corner, Card room, Hudson room, Half Moon room (the latter two can be combined into one room for meetings and private parties), the 249-seat Wajang (movie) theater (also used for lectures, meetings and religious services), Photo Gallery, Shopping Arcade (plus Kiosk and Boutique), Casino, Ocean Spa and Gymnasium, Lido (buffet) Restaurant, the 657-seat two-level Rotterdam dining room connected by a pair of sweeping, curved staircases with shiny brass railings, a ceiling canopy made from Venetian glass and an antique marble fountain from Argentina, two small and private dining rooms known as the Queens and Kings rooms and two outdoor swimming pools (one that can be closed off with a magrodome), two Jacuzzis and a small wading pool. The “S” class ships were all designed with somewhat of a novelty at sea, a pair of public escalators that could be used by embarking passengers on Main deck to reach their cabins on Lower Promenade deck while getting a glimpse of the ship’s atrium. That atrium, three-stories high, showcases Italian artist Luciano Vistosi’s “Totem”, a monumental sculpture consisting of nearly 2,000 pieces of (mostly green) colored glass modules. At the forward end of Maasdam’s Lido Pool there is a 12-foot high cast bronze sculpture of five leaping bottlenose dolphins created by the British artist Susanna Holt. The 600-seat Rembrandt Theater/show lounge forward on both Promenade and Upper Promenade Decks commemorates Dutch 17th century Master Rembrandt van Rijn.

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In November 2003, Holland America Cruise Line announced a U.S. $225 million program of up-scaling their cruise ships, cruise line image and passenger cruise experience called the 'Signature of Excellence program'. This enhancement program included stateroom amenities (Premium Plus Euro-style mattresses, 100% Egyptian cotton bed linens, waffle-weave bathrobes and extra-fluffy Egyptian cotton towels to all cabin categories); new massage-type showerheads and professional-grade hair dryers in all bathrooms; new flat-screen LCD televisions, magnifying make-up mirrors with halo lightning, fresh flowers and complimentary fruit baskets in all cabins; bed duvets, fully-stocked mini-bars, personalized stationary, DVD players and access to a well-stocked DVD library for all suite-category staterooms; a Culinary Arts Center (inside the Wajang Theater) presented by Food & Wine magazine with plasma video screens and on-stage kitchen for gourmet cooking demonstrations and interactive classes; a Wine Tasting Bar’ a Gourmet Shop; a 66-seat Pinnacle Grill alternate restaurant (none of the four “S” class ships were built with one); a casual dinner option inside the Lido Restaurant; an Explorations Café, a combination internet café, coffee shop and library; a private Neptune concierge lounge for the exclusive use by Deluxe Verandah and Penthouse suite occupants; a refurbished Crow’s Nest; an expanded Greenhouse Spa and Salon offering thermal suite treatment, a hydrotherapy and thalassotherapy pool and heated ceramic lounges; an early embarkation program (as early as 11:30 am) and the extension of the fitness facility/gym, out and above the bridge. In addition, changes were made for non-adults, including newly expanded youth (toddler and tween) facilities within the "Club HAL" program and the creation of the interior “Loft” and exterior “Oasis” for teens. For Maasdam, this refit meant the disappearance of her Java Café, Leyden Library, Puzzle Corner, Card Room and Kristal Terrace.

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As a result, Maasdam paid a visit to the Grand Bahama Shipyard at Freeport, the Bahamas in April 2006 for a three-week makeover that incorporated the major SOE part 1 enhancements. Another one of the changes during the ship’s dry-dock was that the her Lido Buffet was upgraded to feature separate food stations instead of the two long buffet lines on each side, similar but due to physical lay-out, not the same as those found on the four Vista’s and on Eurodam. In order to install the PG alternative restaurant on Maasdam and her three “S” class sisters, HAL had the private Kings dining room as well as the small 'Video Arcade' gutted and converted that space into a Pinnacle Grill restaurant with 'ocean views’. On the “S” class ships, the PG is located on Upper Promenade Deck starboard side in between the main dining room and the Explorers Lounge.

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In August 2008, HAL announced further enhancements to, as well as new features on, five of the line's ships as part of its ongoing Signature of Excellence program. Over the next five years the four “S” sisters as well as the lead ship of the 'R' class, ms Rotterdam, will undergo extensive dry docks to create new venues, new staterooms and new decor. The 18-month, $200 million program began when Veendam entered dry dock #3 on 2 April 2009 at the Grand Bahama Shipyard at Freeport, the Bahamas.

On 30 January 2009, Maasdam gained a Digital Workshop program by Microsoft which is comprised of complimentary classes led by a Microsoft-trained “techspert”. As part of the program, located in the Queen’s Room, her passengers can learn to use computers to enhance photos, produce and publish videos onto a DVD and create personal web pages or blogs. In addition, one-on-one coaching, called “Techspert Time” is available for more than 20 hours each week.

Maasdam is scheduled to enter dry-dock in Freeport, the Bahamas from 4-24 April 2011 for the first phase of her SOE part 2 enhancements. During that dry-dock she will receive:

- “Mix”, a multi-themed new bar concept with three separate areas where either Martinis, Champagne and/or Spirits & Ales are served. Mix will come with computer table games as well as a dude (or dudette) playing the piano. In order to accomplish this, Maasdam’s original Piano and Casino Bars will be gutted.

- “Showroom at Sea,” a new Jazz nightclub-style show lounge taking the place of the current main show lounge, where a new slate of shows will be performed at night.

- “Canaletto”, a complimentary casual-style Italian restaurant for dinner. Canaletto, named for the famous 18th century Venetian artist, which debuted on the ms Eurodam in 2008, will come to life for dinner nightly between 5:30 and 9:30 pm when a section of the ship’s Lido restaurant is transformed into the Italian restaurant. Canaletto's menu begins with an antipasti plate that changes nightly, followed by soup choices, salad, four pasta dishes and entrees like Veal Milanese, Chicken Marsala Scaloppini, Osso Bucco and Cod Putanesca. Canaletto is open for dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 pm.

- The addition of “Merabella”, an exclusive luxury jewelry boutique and adjoining viewing room on Upper Promenade Deck in between the Explorers Lounge and “Mix”.

- The refurbishment of the Ocean Bar.

- The addition of a canopy and windscreens to create additional covered seating for the Lido Restaurant.

- The upgrading of all existing staterooms with new decor, modern wall sconces, carpeting, drapes, pillows and bed runners, resurfaced desks and vanities, and new vanities and cabinetry in the bathrooms.

Maasdam’s first Cruise after that 2011 dry-dock will be a 13-day Canada/New England from Fort Lauderdale, Fl to New York, NY on 24 April 2011.

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The ship is scheduled for the second phase of SOE Part 2 in yet another visit to the Freeport dry-dock in the fall of 2013. During that dry-dock she is scheduled to receive:

- “The Retreat”, a new resort-style pool area on the aft of the Lido deck. The Retreat’s pool is divided into three main sections separated by low, curving walls running the length of the pool. The middle section is 16 inches deep so guests can sit on built-in benches in the water. The two side sections feature forty-four lounge chairs in eight inches of water. Water falls and spouts were added to enhance the overall decor and located at the aft end of the pool a hot tub was installed.

- “Slice”, an upscale pizzeria, serving signature pizzas, whole pies and slices to order. Tables and padded chairs under a sunscreen will provide a place to dine al fresco. In order to provide live music, a stage will be added near the pool, while for additional entertainment, a large LED screen and sound system will be integrated into the ship's superstructure, providing both movies and video to The Retreat.

- Her aft end lengthened to accommodate the addition of a prefabricated block of 32 verandah staterooms, and a smaller number of inside staterooms.

- The creation of thirty-eight new Lanai staterooms on Deck 6/LP whose large sliding glass doors will provide direct access to the walk-around teak promenade. Each Lanai room will offer its passengers two reserved teak lounge chairs just outside the cabin, and their glass doors will have a one-way-mirror coating to ensure privacy.

- The creation of a total of fifteen (twelve outside with verandahs and three inside) new Spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa on Verandah Deck with earth-toned decor and a variety of in-room spa amenities including a exclusive spa treatments and a spa room service menu.

[Lizzie1213]

We love the Maasdam. We went on a 10 day Carribean cruise April 2007. My daughters,12 and 10 at the time really enjoyed Club HAL. In fact, they still keep in touch with some of the kids they met. The ship herself really reminded me of a stately old ocean liner. The food was great and the staff was wonderful.

[sail7seas]

We have been told Maasdam will never get the Poolette :) and we pray that is true. Our source is 'excellent'.

Correction...... Sources. Heard it from more than one person.

[Copper10-8]

Only time will tell! Mark December 2012 on your calendars. That's when Statendam is going into dry-dock at Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport for the second phase of SOE Part 2. Unless we all hear from Seattle before that time

[skiron]

Copper 10-8

Wow...........some history. Thank you as this tells me to book a 4th Maasdam cruise after the first phase of the modifications in 2011 and before the more annoying changes in 2013

[skiron]

Jade:

There is a door on the left side when you walk inside the gym that allows you to go to the deck in front of the gym windows..............also, there is a stairway that goes down to the Navigation deck just under the bridge windows. These accesses are available all the time but quite windy at sea.

On the Maasdam for a Category D cabin I would recommend the Main Deck but we have previously stayed in a C cabin on the Lower Promenade. I personally think the Lower Promenade is noisier the closer you get to the Atrium when you pick up noise from the Ocean Bar at night. However, wife liked the Lower Promenade for exactly the reasons you stated...........be careful to pick a cabin at least 3 or more cabins away from the outside exits which sometime can slam in high winds.

[Seavoyage]

Hi Copper 10-8-
Thank you for all of the info on the Maasdam! I have always wanted to sail on her!!!
Do you happen to have a close up version of the aft - I am trying to see the balconies of either 220 or 205 and what may be on the aft side of those cabins or next to those cabins...thank you - any help really appreciated.

[Copper10-8]

Hi Copper 10-8-
Thank you for all of the info on the Maasdam! I have always wanted to sail on her!!!
Do you happen to have a close up version of the aft - I am trying to see the balconies of either 220 or 205 and what may be on the aft side of those cabins or next to those cabins...thank you - any help really appreciated.

Hi Seavoyage; not sure if these help you:


http://media.shipspotting.com/uploads/thumbs/rw/260221_800/Ship+Photo+Maasdam.jpg (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/&quot;http://media.shipspotting.com/uploads/photos/rw/260221/Ship+Photo+Maasdam.jpg&quot;)


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[Jade13]

Jade:

There is a door on the left side when you walk inside the gym that allows you to go to the deck in front of the gym windows..............also, there is a stairway that goes down to the Navigation deck just under the bridge windows. These accesses are available all the time but quite windy at sea.

On the Maasdam for a Category D cabin I would recommend the Main Deck but we have previously stayed in a C cabin on the Lower Promenade. I personally think the Lower Promenade is noisier the closer you get to the Atrium when you pick up noise from the Ocean Bar at night. However, wife liked the Lower Promenade for exactly the reasons you stated...........be careful to pick a cabin at least 3 or more cabins away from the outside exits which sometime can slam in high winds.

Thanks. Any idea if the forward deck doors are left open when not sailing on Deck 9? On the Vista Class Westerdam and Noordam on Deck 7 these were open every day.

Thank you for the tip on the stairs to the Navigation Deck. You mean from the Observation Deck outside and in front of the gym, correct?

Hmm, now I am wondering if we can walk outside from forward Deck 9 (Verandah Deck) and walk right up to the Observation Deck (as well as gym on Deck 11)?

[Cruising Gal]

Hello!

Thanks for all this information! I'm also considering this cruise, however have never sailed on a HAL ship and worried about the bathroom as I heard there is a large step one has to take to use the shower. With my elderly mother, I wonder if they have showers that are walk-in on an Oceanview stateroom.

[skiron]

Hello!

Thanks for all this information! I'm also considering this cruise, however have never sailed on a HAL ship and worried about the bathroom as I heard there is a large step one has to take to use the shower. With my elderly mother, I wonder if they have showers that are walk-in on an Oceanview stateroom.
The "step" is the tub and my wife for example finds it quite challenging with her bad hip. You can go online and see the deck plan for the Maasdam and there is a symbol for cabins that have only showers.............I don't see such cabins in the Maasdam on Decks A, Main or Lower Promenade. We just reserved a shower only cabin on the Eurodam and maybe this is a feature of only the newer ships.

Wife sits on edge of tub and rotates into the tub (or step as you called it). There is also a real step into the bathroom area but I didn't think that was what you mentioned but if it was that is not a problem at all.

[RuthC]

With my elderly mother, I wonder if they have showers that are walk-in on an Oceanview stateroom.
You would have to look at the Vista or Signature class ships to find this. Some of the outside cabins on these ships have showers; most have tubs as high as at home.
The outside cabins on the S- and R-classes have very high-sided tubs. (The baths were to have been redone on the Veendam and Rotterdam. I don't know if the tubs were replaced with some with lower sides.)

[gwenmarie]

Hi Copper 10-8-
Thank you for all of the info on the Maasdam! I have always wanted to sail on her!!!
Do you happen to have a close up version of the aft - I am trying to see the balconies of either 220 or 205 and what may be on the aft side of those cabins or next to those cabins...thank you - any help really appreciated.

We were in this cabin on another ship of this same class a few years ago on a cruise from Seattle, WA to the Amazon and onto Tampa, Fl. It was a wonderful cruise and the cabin was perfect. I choose that cabin for the larger deck and easy access to the aft pool the next deck up. The outside deck on this floor had a nice overhang perfect for afternoons when you wanted a bit of shade and nice lounge chairs to read or watch the ocean go by. The cabin is great but some have be changed to HC status due to the larger cabin deck.

[mamaofami]

Does anyone have any information on the D cabins on the aft? Think it's deck 5. Air conditioning issues ? Thanks.

[ilovcruisesm]

the reviews are so "polarized" because the maasdam and other older HAL ships are not such big crowd pleasers but are a bit more specialized. use these questions to figure out if the maasdam is for you:

1. would you rather pig out at the buffet or eat gourmet duck a l'orange and lobster? the maasdam is more of the latter, although the buffet is also very good.

2. are you a past hal passenger? certainly not required (after all, there's gotta be a first time!) but hal has great perks for repeaters

3. would you rather participate in a wet t-shirt contest or a lecture on the history of navigation? (all hal ships are definitely more the latter!)

4. how does reading a good book while reclining on a leather chair with a great sea view and listening to free music on headphones sound?

5. do you like your coffee strong?

6. would you rather see old world wood carvings or modern paintings?

7. do you like going to the movies and getting popcorn?

8. would you rather see a single show then off to bed or dance the night away?

9. would you rather sail on a nice ocean liner or stay in a vegas resort?

10. and, most importantly, is your opinion of good service friendly, personal, and attentive?

i, for one, loved the maasdam, but you might not. i hope these questions are helpful.

[Cruising Gal]

Thanks for your advice regarding the shower/tub situation. I called HAL and was disappointed that the only way we could get a shower only outside cabin on our sailing date was to take the last available wheelchair accessible cabin. As much as we would like an outside cabin, we couldn't, in good faith, take one of the precious few wheelchair cabins when my mother isn't in a wheelchair. It's a shame that there are not more shower only cabins on this ship as it seems to be a concern with many people. As for the veradah cabins, it also seems that we would have to take a cabin away from someone who might actually need a wheelchair cabin. So, it looks as if we'll take an inside cabin. No view, however no guilt.

[RuthC]

So, it looks as if we'll take an inside cabin. No view, however no guilt.
You're doing the right thing. Good for you.

Might I suggest an inside cabin on Lower Promenade, just aft of the atrium. It's larger than the outsides across the passagway, and handy-dandy to the largest veranda on the whole ship! Turn the TV on to the View From the Bridge channel, and have a great time!

[30scruiser]

the reviews are so "polarized" because the maasdam and other older HAL ships are not such big crowd pleasers but are a bit more specialized. use these questions to figure out if the maasdam is for you:

1. would you rather pig out at the buffet or eat gourmet duck a l'orange and lobster? the maasdam is more of the latter, although the buffet is also very good.

I'm a pescetarian (only fish and vegetarian food - ovo-lacto) but I would definitely prefer a nice gourmet meal in moderation (hopefully!) than pigging out at a buffer.

2. are you a past hal passenger? certainly not required (after all, there's gotta be a first time!) but hal has great perks for repeaters

Yes, once 7 years ago, although the really good perks don't seem to kick in until you've been on for 30 days (according to what I saw on the website)

3. would you rather participate in a wet t-shirt contest or a lecture on the history of navigation? (all hal ships are definitely more the latter!)

Definitely a lecture (or a cooking class :) )

4. how does reading a good book while reclining on a leather chair with a great sea view and listening to free music on headphones sound?

sounds perfect

5. do you like your coffee strong?

I'm not much of a coffee drinker, but it's important to DH

6. would you rather see old world wood carvings or modern paintings?

both actually

7. do you like going to the movies and getting popcorn?

yes!

8. would you rather see a single show then off to bed or dance the night away?

probably a single show (and then maybe a nightcap after that or a stroll around the deck)

9. would you rather sail on a nice ocean liner or stay in a vegas resort?

definitely a nice ocean liner

10. and, most importantly, is your opinion of good service friendly, personal, and attentive?

yes!

i, for one, loved the maasdam, but you might not. i hope these questions are helpful.


Hi Molly,
Thanks. This was very helpful. We already booked the cruise on the Maasdam, but this helped to reinforce that we are definitely in for a great vacation!

[Cruising Gal]

Hi Ruth,

Thanks for the tip! Are you talking about K395-L423? Is there excess noise from being under or over anything?

Thanks again!

[skiron]

You're doing the right thing. Good for you.

Might I suggest an inside cabin on Lower Promenade, just aft of the atrium. It's larger than the outsides across the passagway, and handy-dandy to the largest veranda on the whole ship! Turn the TV on to the View From the Bridge channel, and have a great time!
I agree that Ruth has a great solution/suggestion. The outside cabins on the lower promenade are smaller than similar cabins on Decks A or Main because of the "handy dandy verandah" ie. the promenade. I would go for this suggestion but wife insists on a window...............says she wants to know when it is morning (??)............easy, look for me and IF I am gone then it is morning and I am on the outer deck of the Lido having my coffee, V8 juice and some smoked salmon!!
Now this is getting to me and want to be on the Maasdam again.

Ruth, do you know "Gary" the guy that has been on the Maasdam more than a dozen times (at least)?

[RuthC]

Hi Ruth,

Thanks for the tip! Are you talking about K395-L423? Is there excess noise from being under or over anything?
I was thinking more along the lines of J-340-J-364. Those cabins are under a quiet area, and are mid-ship. I'm in those whenever I'm on an S-class ship. The K-395-L-423 look like they'd be fairly quiet, too, as they're under the lower level of the dining room. I think there might be some noise when breakfast starts, though, and they would be a bit bumpier in rough seas.

Take a look at Main Deck, cabins K-560-K-622, also. One deck down from Lower Promenade, so it's still easy to get outside. Between two cabin decks, so it's quiet. Nicely mid-ship.

[RuthC]

Ruth, do you know "Gary" the guy that has been on the Maasdam more than a dozen times (at least)?
A passenger named Gary? No, I don't recall anyone by that name.

Or a lounge steward by that name. I do know a Gary from several years ago on the Rotterdam, and may have been on the Maasdam, too. He was with another lounge stewardess, named Richel. I think they got married. He was very tall. That Gary?

[innlady1]

Question for you, Ruth:

Am I to interpret your posts as meaning the insides on the Maasdam all have showers instead of tubs? I've booked a D on the stern, but with my hip issues, I really enjoyed the veranda stateroom with the shower on the Noordam this time around.

I may check into switching out (and saving some $$$...not a bad thing!). I was concerned with your post saying the sides of the tubs on the S class are higher than average.

[RuthC]

Sheila, with the possible exception of the Prinsendam (I don't know on that ship) every inside cabin in the HAL fleet has a shower. And it's a generous size, too.

On every S- and R-class ship, the tubs in the outside cabins (except for handicap, of course) have extra high sides. They are very hard to climb in to when you're limber, and worse when you're not. And they are even harder to get out of since the floor is lower than the bottom of the tub.

[innlady1]

Sheila, with the possible exception of the Prinsendam (I don't know on that ship) every inside cabin in the HAL fleet has a shower. And it's a generous size, too.

On every S- and R-class ship, the tubs in the outside cabins (except for handicap, of course) have extra high sides. They are very hard to climb in to when you're limber, and worse when you're not. And they are even harder to get out of since the floor is lower than the bottom of the tub.

Thanks very much for the info, Ruth. That could make me change my mind! I've never done an inside but after seeing yours on the Noordam last year, I thought it was so spacious and cozy. I've jotted down the J's you've mentioned. Are those larger than the others on the Maasdam or just in a better location?

We loved the shower on the Noordam this time around and if I recall correctly, it had three grab bars.

[RuthC]

Sheila, I'm not sure that you understand that the cabins on the S- and R-class ships are totally different than those on the Vistas/Signature. In the same category, the S- and R-classes have larger cabins. But, the J-cabin I had on the Noordam was a Main Deck cabin, and much, much larger than most large insides.

I like the size of the large inside on the S- and R-classes, but would not like the usual large inside on the Vistas. I get the J-category on Lower Promenade for the location.

[Cruising Gal]

Thanks Ruth!!!

[Y's Owl]

At the cc cabin crawl on my November 2009 cruise we saw an outside main deck cabin with shower. It was the cabin closest to the bow. It was set up differently because of the curved shape of the ship here. The bathroom
door was in the cabin rather than being in the hallway as you enter. The cabin was wider but not as deep and instead of a picture window it had two round portholes.

I am in my 50s so the step into the tub wasn't an issue for me. I loved my cabin which was D597.

[gohabsgo]

We are booked on the Maasdam for a New England this summer. I don't think it's the older ships that are scheduled for this itinerary by definition...it's the smaller ships that have to go under the bridges up the St. Lawrence (if smaller means older, than sobeit). We are so looking forward to the trip because of the more intimate Maasdam and also the ports, including Halifax and PEI, and then, of course, Boston and Montreal on each end. Those are two of my very favorite cities in North America. We're going to arrive via Amtrak a few days early into Boston and then staying over in Montreal for a day afterwards. If Montreal still has their Saturday night international fireworks exhibitions, it is a Must See.


Yup , from June 12th to August 14th, every Saturday at 10 Pm.

[skiron]

Innlady1: Good question for Ruth because I interpreted her comment just like you did and am also very interested in her reply.
Yes the tubs are very high as Ruth commented elsewhere and are particularly a problem to get out because the floor of the bathroom is lower than the floor of the tub..........forgot that Thanks Ruth..........wife with a bad hip has particular difficulties and usually sits on edge of tub particularly to get out.

[Lizzie1213]

the reviews are so "polarized" because the maasdam and other older HAL ships are not such big crowd pleasers but are a bit more specialized. use these questions to figure out if the maasdam is for you:

1. would you rather pig out at the buffet or eat gourmet duck a l'orange and lobster? the maasdam is more of the latter, although the buffet is also very good.

2. are you a past hal passenger? certainly not required (after all, there's gotta be a first time!) but hal has great perks for repeaters

3. would you rather participate in a wet t-shirt contest or a lecture on the history of navigation? (all hal ships are definitely more the latter!)

4. how does reading a good book while reclining on a leather chair with a great sea view and listening to free music on headphones sound?

5. do you like your coffee strong?

6. would you rather see old world wood carvings or modern paintings?

7. do you like going to the movies and getting popcorn?

8. would you rather see a single show then off to bed or dance the night away?

9. would you rather sail on a nice ocean liner or stay in a vegas resort?

10. and, most importantly, is your opinion of good service friendly, personal, and attentive?

i, for one, loved the maasdam, but you might not. i hope these questions are helpful.

Those are good points!

[chain saw]

My husband and I are thinking about booking a Canada/New England cruise for this summer on the Maasdam. The ports look amazing, and I went on HAL once with my grandparents and really liked it. I think it will work well for me and my husband, because even though we are in our early thirties, we are not stay up all night partying people, especially on vacation. We like to see new places and have some time to relax.
My hesitation is that when I read the reviews, people seem to either love the Maasdam or hate it. This is a lot of money for us on a vacation (we usually take road trips, but our honeymoon was an Alaskan cruise and we had an amazing time) and while we don't expect things to be perfect, we certainly don't want to be sailing in a dilapidated ship with no activities and bad service, which is the impression I got from some of the reviews.
Can anyone who has been on the Maasdam weigh in on why the reviews seem so polarized?
Thanks!

One reason some popel hate it is that there is always sickness on board this ship which effects everyone. we just returned from the Panama canl trip, 1 day at sea and everything was closed up and we were served everything.

I am 59 and felt like a teen ager on board, 2 days before the the end of the cruise the entire crew start to barage you with how well they looked after everyone and that we have to fill in the survey and mark the crew 9's which is the highestes mark. Over the PA system they are constantly telling everyone how well the crew looked after everyone and we should remember that.

I know from working with seniors that this is how they get the positive memeorys flowing.

In short, the food when we could get it was good, the service in the stateroom was good, air conditioning went out 2 or 3 times. Hot tub was shut down after 2 days never opened again.

A shore visit was canceled due to waves etc captain came on and said that we would ahve a full refund for the shore taxes we were charged, made it a really big deal, it turned out to be $1.26 ya a buck twenty six. Big deal.

If you know anything about seniors complexes, they are always ridden with the norwalk virus, consider the HAL cruise line as a giant seniors complex, that is why almost every cruise has sickness.

[sail7seas]

Just to give a fair perspective and to point out all cruise lines cope with Noro like viruses, the following post is on the front page of CC thread list today. It is in the thread entitled: Happy I Decided to Stay with HAL. Every college dorm, school, hospital, nursing home, day care, hotel etc have bouts of noro virus. We just hear about it more on ships because cases can and have to be counted and reported. What hotel ever reports how many cases they have? Or even ever admits they've had a single case? Guests come and go and no one knows if they had a 'stomach bug'.





Glad I decided to stay with HAL


Hundreds of passengers are sick from an intestinal bug on a Celebrity Cruise ship's third straight trip from South Carolina.
Cruise line spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez said Monday that 350 of the 1,829 passengers on the Celebrity Mercury got ill during the latest cruise, which left Charleston on March 8.
The line announced it was canceling a Monday port call in the British Virgin Islands and returning to Charleston on Thursday, a day earlier than scheduled.
The ship has been undergoing cleaning at sea and will be cleaned again in Charleston.
Officials say more than 400 passengers and crew got sick during a cruise that returned to Charleston on Feb. 26. On the next sailing from Charleston, 182 people took ill.

This little blurb was in the the Sun Times today.
We had considered cancelling The Noordam cruise we just returned from after going through a code red sailing on the Zuiderdam. We would have been on the March 8 Mercury voyage.
There was no sign of Noro on the Noordam.






WASH YOUR HANDS

IF YOU BECOME ILL, QUARANTINE YOURSELF AND THINK OF SOMEONE BESIDES YOURSELF BY NOT SPREADING IT ALL OVER THE SHIP


WASH YOUR HANDS

[EbayCruiser]

We sailed on the Maasdam last fall '09. If I had it to do all over again, I would have chosen the Eurodam.

We like the Vista class ships better than the smaller ships. There is more to do on the ships.

On the Maasdam a few of the things that we did not care for:

. It was older and needed refurbishing
. Motion was terrible and the sea was not rough
. Lido is small with not as many food choices as Vista

As far as the motion, I even asked the crew about it and they stated that you feel the motion more on a smaller ship. Our room was on the aft and our bed was rocking from side to side most nights and if not for the Bonine, I would have been very seasick.

You pay premium money for this New England cruise and we chose the Maasdam because of the itineary. We wanted to cruise up the St. Lawrence.

Some posters are crazy about the Maasdam .... but we were not!!

[mamaofami]

Sheila, after your hip surgery, you should be Ok with the tub, especially if you can sit on the side to get in and out. I'been doing it the last few days in the hotels and no problem.

[Aruba]

I've been away for a while so perhaps this has already been addressed elsewhere.
My favorite part of HAL ships (one of many favorites) is the Piano Bar. I was there every night on the Ryndam and before that on the Veendam. Daryl was the pianist -- he was very talented and an absolute pleasure. He called those of us who became regulars the "Daryl-icts" (get it?).

Anyway... I'm not sure I like the idea of the self-contained Piano Bar being dismantled and replaced with "Mix" when Maasdam goes into drydock. I think it would take away from the special intimacy that the Piano Bar generated. We'll be on Maasdam in July 11 for Voyage of the Vikings, a couple of months after it gets out of drydock.
Any thoughts about the Piano Bar being replaced by Mix?

[Jade13]

If you know anything about seniors complexes, they are always ridden with the norwalk virus, consider the HAL cruise line as a giant seniors complex, that is why almost every cruise has sickness.

Which cruise were you on, ship and date?

That is your opinion. We have been on two from Rome and demographics very different.

[Jade13]

You pay premium money for this New England cruise and we chose the Maasdam because of the itineary. We wanted to cruise up the St. Lawrence.

Some posters are crazy about the Maasdam .... but we were not!!

Does the Maasdam cruise through the St Lawrence this year as it is not mentioned on the itineraries from Montreal, but is in 2011. Maybe that is the only way to go. I am just curious why the itinerary appears different in 2010? Thanks.

You are right that you pay a premium for this itinerary and ship. On a 7 day trip the price difference for the most expensive OV to least expensive Verandah is $1,000pp or $2,000 for the stateroom. My DH said no way so I hope I am not setting us up for disappointment. We just left a PH on Azamara Quest - 14 nights (we didn't use that Verandah either).

[sail7seas]

<snip>

Anyway... I'm not sure I like the idea of the self-contained Piano Bar being dismantled and replaced with "Mix" when Maasdam goes into drydock. I think it would take away from the special intimacy that the Piano Bar generated. We'll be on Maasdam in July 11 for Voyage of the Vikings, a couple of months after it gets out of drydock.
Any thoughts about the Piano Bar being replaced by Mix?


There is no one who loves Maasdam more than DH and me and we think her great just the way she is but everything I have read about MIX sounds very positive and we're not displeased it will be added to Maadam. I think it will be an enjoyable, fun upgrade that we're looking forward to. Just our opinion but I think it might be nicer than you expect. :)




Does the Maasdam cruise through the St Lawrence this year as it is not mentioned on the itineraries from Montreal, but is in 2011. Maybe that is the only way to go. I am just curious why the itinerary appears different in 2010? Thanks.





St. Lawrence is the only way to go by ship from Boston to Montreal and return.

[tomtal]

Jade - My intinerary says " Day 9 - cruising the Gulf of St Laurence....... today it will deliver you to majestic landscapes, ricj (?) acquatic life and multiple species of whale that feed at the St Lawrence Estuary". Apart from the 'ricj' (perhaps a strange Canadian term?!), I hope this answers your question.

[tomtal]

Aah. Have just noticed that the ricj was meant to be 'rich'. Makes sense now!

[Y's Owl]

Overview
The St. Lawrence River and Seaway is of vital geographic and economic importance to the Great Lakes system, connecting the lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and providing navigation to deep-draft ocean vessels. Approximately 800 miles (1,287 km) long, the St. Lawrence River can be divided into three broad sections: the freshwater river, which extends from Lake Ontario to just outside the city of Quebec; the St. Lawrence estuary, which extends from Quebec to Anticosti Island; and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, which leads into the Atlantic Ocean.

The St. Lawrence River drops 226 feet between Lake Ontario and Montreal, Canada. To allow vessels to pass through the river and in and out of the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, a massive American-Canadian navigational project, was begun in 1954 and completed in 1959. The Seaway created the final link in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River system, connecting Duluth, Minnesota, some 2,340 miles (3,766 km) away, with the head of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, through a complex system of lakes, rivers, deepened channels, locks, and canals.

Check out the map at http://mapsof.net/canada/static-maps/png/golfe-saint-laurent-tide-amplitude-fr

[sail7seas]

A quick glance at a map will show the route. Ship has to sail St. Lawrence. :)

I don't know how to post an image from elsewhere here or I'd post the map showing the route from Boston around Nova Scotia, Sydney, Prince Edward Island down the St. Lawrence River to Quebec City and Montreal. :) It's a beautiful 'ride'.

[Jade13]

[/B]





St. Lawrence is the only way to go by ship from Boston to Montreal and return.




Ok, thanks!

[Jade13]

A quick glance at a map will show the route. Ship has to sail St. Lawrence. :)

I don't know how to post an image from elsewhere here or I'd post the map showing the route from Boston around Nova Scotia, Sydney, Prince Edward Island down the St. Lawrence River to Quebec City and Montreal. :) It's a beautiful 'ride'.



Can't wait!

[Jade13]

Does the Maasdam cruise through the St Lawrence this year as it is not mentioned on the itineraries from Montreal, but is in 2011. Maybe that is the only way to go. I am just curious why the itinerary appears different in 2010?


This was why I was asking as this year the itinerary just shows Quebec City and than "At Sea".

But I understand the ship has to go through the St Lawrence River.

Btw, how long does the St Lawrence river cruising take?

Day Date Port Arrive Depart 0 28 Aug 2010
Montreal, Quebec, CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YUL&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 05:00 PM 1 29 Aug 2010
Quebec City, Quebec, CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YQB&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 07:00 AM 05:00 PM 30 Aug 2010

At Sea

3 31 Aug 2010
Charlottetown, Prince Edward CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YCH&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 08:00 AM 05:00 PM 4 01 Sep 2010
Sydney,Canada (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YQY&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 08:00 AM 04:00 PM 5 02 Sep 2010
Halifax, Nova Scotia, CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YHZ&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 08:00 AM 04:00 PM 6 03 Sep 2010
Bar Harbor, Maine, US (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=BHB&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) TR 08:00 AM 05:00 PM 7 04 Sep 2010
Boston, Massachusetts, US (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=BOS&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 07:00 AM

And last year and next year itineraries specifically state "CRUISING THE GULF ST. LAWRENCE" instead of "SEA DAY".

7 03 Sep 2011 Montreal, Quebec, CA 07:00 AM 05:00 PM
8 04 Sep 2011 Quebec City, Quebec, CA 07:00 AM 05:00 PM
9 05 Sep 2011 CRUISING THE GULF ST. LAWRENCE SE
10 06 Sep 2011 Charlottetown, Prince Edward CA 08:00 AM 05:00 PM
11 07 Sep 2011 Sydney,Canada 08:00 AM 04:00 PM
12 08 Sep 2011 Halifax, Nova Scotia, CA 08:00 AM 04:00 PM
13 09 Sep 2011 Bar Harbor, Maine, US TR 08:00 AM 05:00 PM
14 10 Sep 2011 Boston, Massachusetts, US 07:00 AM

[sail7seas]

Gulf of St. Lawrence and St. Lawrence River the whole time after leaving Charlottetown, PEI en route to Montreal and, of course, the same in reverse headed from Montreal to Boston.

[EbayCruiser]

We did cruise the St. Lawrence but it was a night so you didn't really get to see any scenery.

But ... it was great seeing Quebec City and Montreal. Both beautiful cities.

[Jade13]

We did cruise the St. Lawrence but it was a night so you didn't really get to see any scenery.

But ... it was great seeing Quebec City and Montreal. Both beautiful cities.

Ok, so they are showing the Sea Day as the "Gulf" of St Lawrence?

[Jade13]

This was why I was asking as this year the itinerary just shows Quebec City and than "At Sea".

But I understand the ship has to go through the St Lawrence River.

Btw, how long does the St Lawrence river cruising take?

Day Date Port Arrive Depart 0 28 Aug 2010
Montreal, Quebec, CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YUL&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 05:00 PM 1 29 Aug 2010
Quebec City, Quebec, CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YQB&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 07:00 AM 05:00 PM 30 Aug 2010

At Sea

3 31 Aug 2010
Charlottetown, Prince Edward CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YCH&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 08:00 AM 05:00 PM 4 01 Sep 2010
Sydney,Canada (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YQY&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 08:00 AM 04:00 PM 5 02 Sep 2010
Halifax, Nova Scotia, CA (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=YHZ&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 08:00 AM 04:00 PM 6 03 Sep 2010
Bar Harbor, Maine, US (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=BHB&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) TR 08:00 AM 05:00 PM 7 04 Sep 2010
Boston, Massachusetts, US (http://www.hollandamerica.com/find-cruise-vacation/CruiseDetailsPort.action?cruiseDetailPortCode=BOS&durationCode=&noOfFlexibleMonths=1&portCode=&shipCodeSearch=MA&flexibleMonths=false&pageNumber=1&voyageCode=M041&destCode=&dateCode=8_2010) 07:00 AM

And last year and next year itineraries specifically state "CRUISING THE GULF ST. LAWRENCE" instead of "SEA DAY".

7 03 Sep 2011 Montreal, Quebec, CA 07:00 AM 05:00 PM
8 04 Sep 2011 Quebec City, Quebec, CA 07:00 AM 05:00 PM
9 05 Sep 2011 CRUISING THE GULF ST. LAWRENCE SE
10 06 Sep 2011 Charlottetown, Prince Edward CA 08:00 AM 05:00 PM
11 07 Sep 2011 Sydney,Canada 08:00 AM 04:00 PM
12 08 Sep 2011 Halifax, Nova Scotia, CA 08:00 AM 04:00 PM
13 09 Sep 2011 Bar Harbor, Maine, US TR 08:00 AM 05:00 PM
14 10 Sep 2011 Boston, Massachusetts, US 07:00 AM

Please confirm if the first formal night is usually the second night (from Quebec), or on the third night which is a sea day/Gulf of St Lawrence? I am trying to figure out a Pinnacle Grille reservation and over the years realized that HAL usually has better food in the dining room on a formal night.

Are shows for main/late dining still at 10:00pm or 10:15pm as they have been on all of our HAL cruises? Thanks.

[sail7seas]

My memory is first formal night is the sea day on the Montreal to Boston route. But I think there have been a few times when not. That can vary by Hotel Manager and Maasdam has a new one this year.
That sea day is very busy as it is the only one and they have to have Mariner's Lunch, On Deck for the Cure and all other customary activities held on that single sea day. It is odd to have Mariners Party so early in the cruise but they have no choice.

[Jade13]

My memory is first formal night is the sea day on the Montreal to Boston route. But I think there have been a few times when not. That can vary by Hotel Manager and Maasdam has a new one this year.
That sea day is very busy as it is the only one and they have to have Mariner's Lunch, On Deck for the Cure and all other customary activities held on that single sea day. It is odd to have Mariners Party so early in the cruise but they have no choice.

Thanks!

[jolivia]

<snip>
Sea King seems to know Maasdam as well as we do. :D But he doesn't have it exactly right ..... Maasdam's crew is a "20" at least.

We LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT.

We positively adore the Maasdam, have sailed her a great many days and have four more cruises booked.

This cruise is a treasure among all of HAL's itineraries. Outstanding ports unlike the Caribbean sun and fun, same old. So much to do. Be active and kayak, do a leisurely bus tour, walk around on your own........ You won't lack for what to do and see. The per diem is higher because it truly is special. The ship only holds about 1260 lucky guests and she almost always goes out full. People are willing to pay more because it's worth it.

Maasdam is an elegant, very beautiful ship full of fabulous art, one of the prettiest formal dining rooms, a great Pinnacle, her fabulous wrap around Promenade, the best Ocean Bar and oh her aft pool...... DH loves it there!

But Maasdam's biggest asset is her crew. There is no better crew at sea IMO Sure, there are other wonderful crews but we've yet to encounter one better than Maasdam's. They work so well together and so hard to do their best for every guest to have the best possible cruise.

I could go on and on but I've written reams about the beautiful Maasdam on this forum. Way more than anyone wants to read. :o
We go back on Maasdam all the way to her Inauguration Parties when she came new from the Shipyard. We can never get enough of her.

Thank you so much for this wonderful review. I can not wait for my granddaughters 11/15 to experience this wonderful ship. Like you mentioned the islands are beautiful but "been there done that" My girls will be on they're first real cruise. The ports are what attracted me to this ship, I only hope I come away loving the ship also. I have been on one other HAL ship and that was the Amsterdam to Alaska, had an inside cabin which was huge. Thanks again for the review

[Davidson Duo]

Just got off the Maasdam 2 days ago. I am confused as to why there are so many who think she is so run down. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip and were actually impressed with how good she looks in comparison to some other ships we have been on.

We were on a Princess ship last year that had way more mechanical issues (plumbing, heating, etc.) and looked dirty and worn. On the Maasdam, we found that unless you start looking for signs of wear, they aren't readily noticeable. She is due for a refit this next spring, and it will only enhance her charm - not fix something that is broken as we don't feel she is.

We did not have any heating issues (our cabin was very comfortable for the 28 days we were in it), the ship was kept extremely clean, and HAL hygiene standards are far superior to other lines we have been on. There was a red zone in effect when we boarded, but the captain was quick to outline the efforts they were going to and the expectations for the next couple of days so it would be cleared up. We were not inconvenienced by the controls in place, and all crew members were dedicated to getting the red zone lifted. By the third day we were all clear and pampered beyond belief.

ALL cruise lines as well as many schools, churches, hospitals, and - yes - private homes - experience this same virus. It is just more reported when it is on a contained environment like a cruise ship. If people would just be more diligent in practicing good hygiene, there would be less incidents, but I still observe people leaving restrooms without washing their hands, trying to reach buffet line food with their hands, and just generally using poor judgment. It is NOT the fault of the cruise line or ship, they just have to deal with the results and aftermath.

The Maasdam crew were outstanding, public areas were enjoyable and spotlessly clean, and the entertainment was varied and of good quality. There were at least one dozen kids on board who seemed to be enjoying themselves a lot and there was a good representation of all age groups from young adults to the older seniors.

We did not experience excessive ship movement and we had a few days with some pretty rough seas and heavy wind. We actually commented on how smooth she was sailing considering the conditions. So I guess ship motion is another one of those things that depends on your own reaction and sensitivity. We all have different opinions and you can not take someone else's experience as what yours will be like.

Go with an open mind and a positive attitude and I am sure you will enjoy your cruise. Like any other adventure, it will be what you make of it, and we chose to start out with an open mind and discovered our 28 days on the Maasdam turned out to be one of the best cruises we have been on.

[Copper10-8]

.............. There was a red zone in effect when we boarded, but the captain was quick to outline the efforts they were going to and the expectations for the next couple of days so it would be cleared up. We were not inconvenienced by the controls in place, and all crew members were dedicated to getting the red zone lifted. By the third day we were all clear and pampered beyond belief.

.....................

HAL has instituted a new policy fleet-wide recently affecting food service in the Lido restaurant during the first 48 hours of a cruise. As part of these more stringent food service guidelines, the center beverage stations on each side are not self-service. There are plastic-gloved stewards posted there behind velvet-roped stanchions who will serve you coffee, tea, ice tea and water. Same for the food stations where a steward will hand you your silver wear/utensils wrapped in white cloth napkins. As you move down the line, the Lido asst. chefs will serve you your fruit and cold cuts (stuff you could get yourself before by reaching in underneath the sneeze guards). Stewards are also posted at the “cold stations” that serve milk, chocolate milk, juices and yogurts, and at the pastry stations. This is a preventive measure instituted to lessen the changes of a large number of pax contracting Norovirus during its 48-hour incubation period.

[Cruisin'Lady]

Maasdam will not get a poolette. :)
I am soooo relieved to hear that! She is the only ship we have sailed on HAL and love her dearly they way she is! Were going to try the Rotterdam which supposidly use to be like the Maasdam..but no longer I guess.

John that sounds like a really good move that HAL has implemented. I agree it should help with lowering viruses spreading that were brought on board...good move HAL!

[sail7seas]

Davidson Duo.... Thanks so much for your wonderful review. It's great to read you enjoyed Maasdam so much and particularly how complimentary you are about her crew.
Welcome Back.

[RockyMountainCruiser1]

. There were at least one dozen kids on board who seemed to be enjoying themselves a lot and there was a good representation of all age groups from young adults to the older seniors.



As the parent of one of those kids, (the baby learning to walk) I'm glad we didn't bother you. With a mostly older crowd, we were worried about our 15 month old girl disrupting the enjoyment of others.

Glad you enjoyed the cruise. We sure did. I second everything you said about the wonderful crew. Wilbur at the dessert stand and the two Indonesian ladies serving food at the Lido were always smiling and extrodinarily polite. Now the travel guide, Nancy, on the other hand, wasn't exactly a flowing fountain of information on the ports, but maybe she hadn't been to any of the stops previously. And the situation with the late night fire alarms going off, (with crew members running down the hall), could have been communicated faster and more effieciently, but things happen. Overall, I loved, loved, loved this crew.

[robertmnch]

Hello!

Thanks for all this information! I'm also considering this cruise, however have never sailed on a HAL ship and worried about the bathroom as I heard there is a large step one has to take to use the shower. With my elderly mother, I wonder if they have showers that are walk-in on an Oceanview stateroom.
The last time I was on the Ryndam (2009), my favorite Cabin is L500. I believe it has a Shower without the "step" in order to get in the shower without tripping. The Ryndam and Maasdam are "Sister Ships", so I would think both Cabins would be the same!:)

[PathfinderEss]

We have been told Maasdam will never get the Poolette :) and we pray that is true. Our source is 'excellent'.

Correction...... Sources. Heard it from more than one person.


Sails if the Maasdam is not going to get the poolette (and I have my fingers crossed it never happens to any of the rest of the "S" class ships) , what will they do with the back of the ship, add the cabins they want, get rite of the navigation pool, what? Any information on that?

[G&G]

Thank you SO MUCH for your post. We were on the Maasdam 10/09 Montreal-Ft. L. and had many problems. The thermostat was impossible to regulate and a water pipe burst leaving many cabins without water and when we did get water, of course it was not hot.
We've been on 28 HAL cruises and never had these problems before. Took the "older" ship because of the itinerary which was great.

It was good to read your review as we are booked on her again (and longer this time!) on the Voyage of the Vikings roundtrip Boston 7/17/10 35 days. Hoping we won't encounter these problems again but who knows??? Also thinking about the eruption in Iceland although our cruise is a few months off. Guess we'll just keep our fingers crossed.

Thank you again for your post.

[G&G]

Should have made this post in response to "Davidson Duo." Sorry.

['The Bear']

'Sail' --- I soooo hope that you are correct about the 'poolette' issue; I, like your DH, practically live back there ----- with Emmerson, my favourite bartender, of course !! ;)

[sail7seas]

I hate to be excited about our upcoming Maasdam cruise as I know so many are stressing about their European cruises but we will be on Maasdam VERY soon and I shall verify with anyone who stands still long enough about the 'poolette' situation for Maasdam.

Last I heard from two people who have good info that by the time Maasdam (scheduled last) is supposed to get her added cabins and 'poolette', they won't do it. Maasdam was saved at the last minute, so to speak. She was supposed to be first for this round of SOE because she was last for the other SOE. Only because they didn't have all the necessary materials was she rescheduled and Veendam went first.

DH cannot wait to plant himself in his favorite spot at aft pool and let the tanning begin. :) I wouldn't dream of naming a favorite bartender...... so many of them we've known for so long, I'd never select one over another. :D Crew has been moved around a bit lately though.

[Stakeout]

<snip>
Sea King seems to know Maasdam as well as we do. :D But he doesn't have it exactly right ..... Maasdam's crew is a "20" at least.

We LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT.

We positively adore the Maasdam, have sailed her a great many days

I'll second exactly what sail7seas said...

we love the Maasdam.. for us it's the 'right size ship'...we've sailed over 130 days on her... will be back on the end of next week--again-- for 14 more.. plan on going back in the fall for 21 more days on her...

[Stakeout]

I hate to be excited about our upcoming Maasdam cruise as I know so many are stressing about their European cruises but we will be on Maasdam VERY soon and I shall verify with anyone who stands still long enough about the 'poolette' situation for Maasdam.

Last I heard from two people who have good info that by the time Maasdam (scheduled last) is supposed to get her added cabins and 'poolette', they won't do it. Maasdam was saved at the last minute, so to speak. She was supposed to be first for this round of SOE because she was last for the other SOE. Only because they didn't have all the necessary materials was she rescheduled and Veendam went first.

DH cannot wait to plant himself in his favorite spot at aft pool and let the tanning begin. :) I wouldn't dream of naming a favorite bartender...... so many of them we've known for so long, I'd never select one over another. :D Crew has been moved around a bit lately though.

according to what we were told in Dec on our Christmas and New Years cruises on her.. as well as what they said on our Feb-Mar Maasdam Canal cruise.. the 'poolette' has been scrubbed.. they finally.. thank God--hopefully.. realized the errors of their ways in screwing up on the Veendam big time with major plumbing problems encountered with the 'Retreat (poolette) pool leaking down into the new Balcony cabins... a major mess.. amongst other screwups.. think the Rotterdam has the same problems...

hopefully they'll only do minimal upgrades and no 'poolette'.. we'd miss 'our hangout-spot' looking down from the Lido deck at the Seaview pool if they went thru with them.. if it ain't broke.. leave it the heck alone... but I guess 'corporate misfits' just can't see that.. all they see on paper is $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ signs ....I try not to get started about that so I'll cut if off at that

[sail7seas]

Hope to see you aboard Maasdam, Stakeout. We, too, board soon.
We already booked our 2011 Canada/New England b-to-b despite we haven't sailed it 2010 yet. :)
Right now we have 53 days booked for upcoming cruising on the beautiful Maasdam. Never enough! :)