Oosterdam, just returned-1

[PaulaJK]

from the 12/26 sailing.

-For those who follow the board, I finally rec'd my documents mid-day on 12/24.
What a mess! No 'good thoughts' about HAL's home office.
-Upon arrival at West Palm, walked the long luggage area 2 times round trip...no HAL agent...finally spotted a woman cuddling both Costa & HAL paddles to her chest w. her clipboard. Identified ourselves. Oh, you're a big group. Wrong! We were 2. She seemed confused, diskabobolated. Told us to find luggage and lug it to her, about half way down aisle again. No porterage w. HAL? She wanted to group us w. the other waiting folks who shouted out that they were Costa.
I sensed that they had been dealing with her. We hired a car and left on our own for the ship.
-Embarkation was neither a breeze nor disaster. We were about 5th in line but it took about 20-30 min because one family was there the entire time w. looked to be document problems.
-Greeted on board and shown to elevator. Got off on 7, saw the sign re: white glove escort service, but saw no gloved folk, so found own cabin...no problem
-7087 is a large room, nicely appointed, w. lots of closet & drawer space
The verandah is large but seems to be a wind tunnel.
-Our pleasure in at least arriving in our room was quickly halted. There were food particles and dust clearly visibile, smeared mirrors and it didn't look too clean. I found a note on the mini bar door from the last cruise/pax...then
I FOUND A PAIR OF USED, MEN'S UNDERWEAR in the bedside table. I lifted
same w. the tissue paper I was unpacking and reserved them. I wrote a letter to the hotel manager. Apparently he received it as the next day our cabin
steward apologized and that afternoon, he supervisor appeared to explain that he had been at immigration "all day". I feel that less of that explanation and a return letter from the hotel manager would have been quite appropriate.
-We decided to muster on and not let this ruin our cruise. However, mother nature did dent it with lots of chilly winds. The Capt announced that they were gale force [1 day]. This sorely limited sitting on deck, a main
pleasure.
-The day time activities consisted of games such as Cranium, Trivia,
Scattergories. Recent movies played a few times daily. Pool games were cancelled due to weather.
-The bars, including the lovely Ocean, were rather quiet at night w. few dancing. Crow's Nest was mostly empty after 11 pm. We couldn't understand where all the people had gone!

[PaulaJK]

-Casino was busy...also noisy
-Shows consisted of a comedian [poor], a magician [fair but unexciting],a singer [very good] and a piano Yanni-type Antonio Salci[ excellent]. The ensemble
did 2 shows; they were weak and the productions unimpressive.
-We had 4 ports, 3 of them by tender. We arrived in Grand Cayman at 8am and they were still calling tender numbers until 12:30pm! People seemed to
enjoy Half Moom Cay the most; it was our first nice enough weather day, which helped.
-Food: You won't go hungry! The Lido, with its Italian, Wok, Deli ,Bistro, and Sweet stations is very popular for lunch. Unfortunately, the diningroom is closed on port days so it also becomes your only choice. Since I prefer seated service to cafeteria style, this did not thrill me. There was variety and quality, but I didn't find it overly interesting. Lido breakfast also was popular
w. scrambled eggs predominating. Only 1 station served eggs to order
and 1 station offered pancakes and french toast. I agree w. other posters re: the coffee. Themed late night buffets were also held there....no decorations or style. The hamburgers and hot dogs [a grill] weren't very appetizing.
Didn't try the taco bar.
We had 8:30 dinner...our confirmed table of 8 was 4. The menus were formulaic. We found app limited...soups good...just 1 salad offered @ night..
meats varied from good enough [rib of beef] to tasteless [venison]..desserts were poor, no matter where you went. I agree that water was rarely refilled...and whatever coffee,etc you took, never reappeared the next night.
Before you throw eggs, I appreciate that we can disagree about all of these items...I'm just reporting my experience/opinions.
-Room service...broader choices pre 10pm. After 10pm, rather limited but the club sandwich was good. The "45-60 minute" wait seemed excessive
for such a ltd menu. The amn who took the order could barely speak english, making everything more complicated.
-Crew....pleasant, smiling, greeting in the hallways. I didn't sense any negative attitudes, discontent,etc which some other posters have addressed.
I found it strange that cabin and table steward never introduced themselves.
-Neptune Lounge...a nice idea, like a club room in a hotel. We had 2 excellent concierges [Beng & Stephanie]. The breakast,tea and pre dinner snacks never vary, rendering it rather dull. I really couldn't comprehend the 3 mature women who appeared there in their pjs and robes to grab breakfast snacks or a the man who walked barefooted!

l

[PaulaJK]

In fact I found the dress rather unusual at times. The diningroom clearly did not enforce it's no shorts policy. Many, many people just ignored the dress code.
New Year's Eve was formal. However, I saw several men in open neck
casual shirts at dinner. After dinner, the party was swamped with people who appeared to have changed into casual attire [shorts, tees, rubber thongs]

New Year's Eve was a MAJOR disappointment...few decorations, minimal balloons, hat but no streamers, horns or noise makers....held on the covered portion of Lido deck, the wonderful Vista orchestra played but there were no tables or chairs. A minimal countdown and a glass of champagne later
we proceeded to the 'Resolution buffet' which was nothing special.

-Pinnacle Grill...A European maitre d' and one helper and Indonesian staff...
very solicitious but not terribly polished. [e.g. our roll was placed on bread plate upside down!] Took folks advice and had that wonderful Porterhouse steak. My friend enjoyed her fillet mignon also. Creamed spinach and sauteed mushrooms were good. Salad ok. Didn;t care for the crabcakes.
My chocolate volcano may have erupted before I ordered it for it was very dry. [the molten chocolate cake in the DR was far superior...surprising!]
Grill is now open for lunch for an additional fee!
-There are fews attached to quite a few things where I am not used to them...yoga class, cardiofitness class,etc. and along w. coke cards and wine pkg there is an air of nickel diming that makes the cruise seem slightly seedy vs elegant.
-Disembarkation was smooth until the bus boarding.

[Renorita]

Sorry your experience was not a good one. This is a real bummer for us as we recently booked our first HAL Cruise on the Oosterdam for next October. There were so many negatives that it really put a damper on our enthusiam. I have read on other threads about people who described their cruise from "hell", but they mentioned things like, serious plumbing problems that resulted in not being able to use the water, extreme heating or airconditioning issues, Blocked view from their Verandas due to crew members working on their balcony, loud and continuous noise outside the cabin, large discrepencies in their charge bill which took forever to straighten out, are among some of them. However I got a little suspicious of your expectations when you said "our roll was put on our butter plate upside down!" I mean that would sure ruin my cruise! :D I won't throw any more "eggs" as you mentioned in your post, but couldn't resist just this one.
Seriously though I would be very interested in hearing of any others who were on this same cruise/ship that may of had a more positive experience! There were SO many negatives that it makes me wonder if we should cancel and reschedule with another Cruiseline and or ship. Really don't want to do that.

Help someone! :confused:

[thulewx]

desserts were poor, no matter where you went.
then
the molten chocolate cake in the DR was far superior... :confused:

Shame that you didn't try the Taco Bar - you could have had one more thing to complain about... :rolleyes:

[barefootguy]

Sounds like a different ship than the one we were on only two months ago...

[irishmom]

We were on the "O" for 2 weeks last month and it sounds like we were on a different planet, much less a different ship -- my only complaint was that we had to get off! Sorry your cruise wasn't up to your expectations.

[HeatherInFlorida]

First and foremost, Renorita hopefully you have read other reviews of the Oosterdam that don't even come close to this one. Also, the reviews of major malfunction were not about the Oosterdam. I don't know if you read my review in November, but I wish you would along with all the others I have seen that will give you a much more positive feel. Certainly don't even consider cancelling your cruise based on one review EVER!!!

Paula, I'm so sorry it was so bad for you. From what I can see there was practically nothing you liked about anything. Truthfully that always makes me a bit suspect. Having just been on the Oosterdam and defiitely criticized it to some degree, I know for a fact it's not as bad as you say.

My heart went out to you for all the problems you had before getting on this ship. I think you had one bad experience after another so I honestly don't think there's anything HAL could have done to make you happy. And in many ways I don't blame you.

You definitely have some legitimate criticisms of your cruise experience and I'd never deny that. But overall this review is unfair. You just hated it and that's that. I don't know what you're looking for, but I think you'll be hard pressed to find it. As to not seeing that there was any kind of negative attitude amongst the staff, how could anyone have appeared more negative than you were? That's not a criticism. It's just you were so obviously unhappy.

Everyone here who knows me also knows I'm more of a Celebrity fan. So this is no great tribute to HAL. I just know it could not have been as bad as your description. Even with the criticisms I had on our cruise only a couple of months ago, we had an absolutely fabulous time on this ship. It could not have gone downhill that much in such a short amount of time.

All that said, I am so sorry for your overall experience and luck was simply not on your side this go 'round.

[doone]

I have to say that everyone's cruise experience is different. I remember I had booked the Volendam for the first time a few years back. The negatives that I read about that ship were incredible. I was going to cancel it they were so bad (alot worse than this posters experience on the Oosterdam), but I didn't. I sailed on the Volendam as scheduled. After boarding her, within minutes, I knew my concerns were totally unfounded. The Volendam soon became one of our favorite ships and we had an almost flawless cruise (hey, nothings perfect). We enjoyed the Volendam so much we have booked her again for this March.

Read the reviews here with a grain of salt, everyone's cruise expectations are all different.

Go and enjoy your cruise.

[KMiller]

I have been reading the CC board off and on for about the past 4 years now, and it never ceases to amaze me how different people on the same cruise (same ship, same week) will have two totally different experiences and opinions. We were getting off the "O" when Paula was getting on (12/26). Did we have some disappointments our week on the Oosterdam 12/19-12/26? Yes, but did we have more wonderful experiences and a great vacaton? Yes! When my review in the Community Member Review section of this board is posted, I'll let you know.

[OCruisers]

Paula .... Thanks so much for taking the time to write your review! You mentioned several times that it was "just your opinion". Also, you told us what you didn't like and why! Gosh, it's all I ever expect from anyone.

Happy Sailing! OCruisers :)

[Gregg20]

"Read the reviews here with a grain of salt, everyone's cruise expectations are all different."

That's exactly right Doone! Some people's expectations are just way too high, not realistic. I've never been on a bad cruise. Has every little thing always been perfect...no...but overall pretty darn good.

[localady]

This review confirms what I have always believed:

If you get on a Ship, any Ship, with the idea that you are going to hate it, you WILL find ample reasons to do so!! We have all experienced fellow cruisers who got on the cruise with that expectation, and their resultant experience usually confirms their belief!!:eek:

Sorry you didn't enjoy the cruise, I believe your problems with the air portion of your cruise had already put you in a mindset that you were going to hate the cruise. I am not sure what the crew could have done to change that initial perception.

[Mrs B]

Same cruise...different opinion. We had a great week. The food was consistently great. The only day that the dining room was not open for lunch was in Grand Cayman. All other days we had wonderful lunches in the dining room. The only slight negative was our fault - we booked a verandah stateroom (4004) and it was much too small for three people. Our son is 18 - it would probably be fine for a family with a small child though. The stateroom was also right by the elevator and the hall noise was pretty intrusive.

New Year's eve was great in the dining room. They had the entire ship decorated - very festive! Grand Cayman and Cozumel were packed - 10 ships in Cozumel! Key West was Key West - what can I say? Probably interesting for those who have not previously been there.

We cruise the O again July 2nd to Alaska. Hopefully, I can lose a few pounds that I gained on the terriffic food prior to that cruise!

[Renorita]

Thanks everyone you talked us into it, we will definitely go! :) I guess I just have a really hard time understanding how some people can find so much negative in one sailing. We are not totally new to cruising, as we have been on Song of Norway, Holiday, Sun Princess and most recently the Legend of the Seas. And we even had a great time on the Holiday, which is considered pretty far down on the popularity scale.

Have to tell you an interesting story, I will try to make it short. We were on an all-exclusive in Curacao, and 7 of us were on a snorkeling trip with two of the guides from the resort. Anyway we were heading back and ran out of gas. Well there was no place for the boat to dock, so we all had to swim to this rocky area in fairly choppy water. The guides managed to get get the boat pulled in, but we were stuck there and it was late afternoon. One guide finally climbed up this steep rocky bank and was going to make his way back to the Resort. We were there after dark and were wondering if we were going to have to spend the night there. It was getting a little cool and there were no soft places to lay down. The other guide was very worried for us and for his job as he was not suppose to run out of gas. Finally a bigger boat came, which was lucky as he was the last boat not to have gone home, and it was lucky that he had stayed later then usual or we would have spent the night. Anyway, we had to swim out to the boat and I scraped my leg pretty good on the rocks and it was bleeding as we got into the boat. The man running the boat was so angry at the young guides, and I am sure they got a good reprimand by their bosses. But you know what, our group was not angry. I kept laughing though the whole experience, trying to reassure the guide not to worry, that this just added to our excursion and gave us a good story to tell. Not too short was it. :D Sorry but my point is, we made the best out of it and did not go back complaining about our horrible excursion.

Heather - I know those major things did not happen on the "O", I was just trying to make a point to the op about the comment regarding the upside down roll. Always enjoy your comments! :)

KMiller - Will be looking forward to your review!

[PaulaJK]

...that I did say that this was only my experience and opinion.
I respect that we can differ. I will not respond endlessly but offer a few addenda--
-I cannot factor in how much the ticket situation influenced us,
but we board determined to enjoy.
-The less-than-clean cabin was clearly a negative for us.
-Our cabin did have a leak when the shower/tub were run,
but otherwise was in good repair. We had no annoyances
from crew working.etc. We had a quiet location and slept
blissfully in those comfprtable beds & pillows.
-I have not been on a bevy of HAL ships and hence didn't try to
comment on Vista vs other HAL ships. I found the "O' attractive
and commodious w. lots of nooks for reading, sitting & conversing,etc.
-I commented on the 'crew' as so many posters had previously spoken
about discontent; I didn't note any. I found them polite at all times.
And most certainly,I didn't "hate" them. What a silly idea. Can't I post
less-than-positive opinions without hating someone?!
-We had no problem w. our statement/bill.
-Maybe we went to different DR, but it was closed in Key West and GCM
and HMC; and I think I recall, in Cozumel although I could be in error here.
If you went to the DR on those days, I'd genuinely be interested so I could figure out how we went wrong. Unfortunately, I did not save the daily papers.
-I have cruised over New Year's for approx 20 yrs and thought that this ship offered the least in way of party and decorations.
-I would NOT cancel a cruise on the O...but I would hope to have a little better experience than we did. Many other people seemed to. Historically,HAL
has had a very good onboard product & I hope that they are not
declining under Carnival's mantle.

[JDee]

Don't believe the HAL has been Carnivalized, but then it has not been Crystalized either.

There certainly a lot of happy campers on Carnival and that thread seems to imply that Carnival is now a much better product than compared to many years ago. The Miracle sailing from Tampa seems to be a good example of that.

Quote: "My chocolate volcano cake must have erupted before I ordered it." Cute, good for a chuckle. I can relate to that having had the same experience. Guess I'm in a distinct minority on the Pinnacle. Don't regret doing there, but once was enough....

Happy cruising.....

[DFD1]

What with the women in Pj's and the guy walking around barefoot looking for breakfast, sounds like the neighborhood up around the Neptune Lounge has gone to hell in a handbasket...

Glad you had such a good time. If you're looking for real refinement, try going in for breakfast over on Carnival. Me thinks you'd have heart palpatations......LOL

[LAFFNVEGAS]

I can relate to that having had the same experience. Guess I'm in a distinct minority on the Pinnacle. Don't regret doing there, but once was enough....

Happy cruising.....
JDee, Our first HAL cruise was on the Zuirderdam and we went to the Pinnacle and also was not impressed. We thought that maybe it was because we had so many fine dining options here in Vegas that the Pinnacle was that special so figured we would not try it again.(like you) Well, we decided after hearing so many more comments that we would give the Pinnacle another try when we were on the Ryndam. WOW am I glad I did:p It was like night and day. We had fantastic service, the food was truly one of the finest meals I have ever had. Both DH and I could not get over the huge difference. I am so glad we tried it again. I think. I think our first experience they may have just had a bad night or possibly we were not having a great day and it reflected on how we felt. I am actually looking forward to dining again in the Pinnacle in March. This last time I did not have the Volcano cake but had the Creme Brulee" Trio:D It was wonderful!!!!!

[ekerr19]

Paula - I appreciate your review. Not everyone has a great experience - we won't go back on the Zui, no matter what. I got flamed for my negative review of it as well - people seemed to think I was purposely negative - one poster said I must have been "lying" because she loved the Zui... go figure.

Sorry folks, but if I found dirty undies in the drawer I'd be more than P.O.'d! In my mind, there is NO excuse for this. The HM should be ashamed and so should HAL.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Paula, just in case it was my post you misunderstood I never said you "hated" any person ... I said it appeared you hated the cruise. But now I'm happy to read there were things you liked about the cruise. In your original review you didn't mention anything you liked so I had the impression you hated everything about it.

If there's any doubt in your mind, I was being very sincere when I said I felt badly about your experience. I still think HAL owes you an explanation for the mess up front and the dirty/messy cabin was inexcusable. Like I tried to say, you have a lot of legitimate gripes. I just couldn't imagine going on a cruise and not finding something positive about it.

I just hope I've cleared all that up.

[JDee]

JDee, Our first HAL cruise was on the Zuirderdam and we went to the Pinnacle and also was not impressed. We thought that maybe it was because we had so many fine dining options here in Vegas that the Pinnacle was that special so figured we would not try it again.(like you) Well, we decided after hearing so many more comments that we would give the Pinnacle another try when we were on the Ryndam. WOW am I glad I did:p It was like night and day. We had fantastic service, the food was truly one of the finest meals I have ever had. Both DH and I could not get over the huge difference. I am so glad we tried it again. I think. I think our first experience they may have just had a bad night or possibly we were not having a great day and it reflected on how we felt. I am actually looking forward to dining again in the Pinnacle in March. This last time I did not have the Volcano cake but had the Creme Brulee" Trio:D It was wonderful!!!!!My experience was on the 3/04 Zaandam cruise on the 1st nighter $10.00 special. Prior to dinning, did make a 2nd reservation for another night, as the place was impressive compared to the old Marco Polo. Didn't want to hurt anybody's feeling to cancel on the way out, but phoned the next day to cancel. The service, steaks, surprise trouffles, one of the veggies, and the dipping oils were excellent. Was disappointed in cold bread, frozen butter, lukewarm baked potatoe & salads that we really couldn't handle. The Not So Baked Alaska was also a bummer.

During a prior Zuiderdam cruise, meant to try the Pinnacle (that was before the Zaandam cruise). The place certainly looked impressive. The first two nights in the main DR foods & service were so very good just never got around to it. May do like you say & try it again on next HAL cruise. Glad your second try was so successful.....

Happy cruising.....

[kygal]

Paula...
Thanks for your review!!..We recently returned from a 15 day cruise on the Statendam...and were with several other couples from CC. We have delayed posting our review..because..it simply not something we wish to "fight" about!
(On this forum ..anyways!)..And unlike some of the reviews of the Statendam...ours would NOT be anything similar to those written..does that mean WE are lying?..NO!!...as this was our first cruise..our expectations were few..do we have valid complaints...I think so! But we will let Holland America address those issues..I have sent a letter and my TA has sent emails..and we have yet to hear from them (this doesn't surprise me) And yes..I agree IF I had found dirty underwear in my stateroom...I would have been making my 100th trip to the Front Office..there is NO excuse for that...none!

[Tatka]

Paula...
Thanks for your review!!..We recently returned from a 15 day cruise on the Statendam...and were with several other couples from CC. We have delayed posting our review..because..it simply not something we wish to "fight" about!
(On this forum ..anyways!)..And unlike some of the reviews of the Statendam...ours would NOT be anything similar to those written..does that mean WE are lying?..NO!!...as this was our first cruise..our expectations were few..do we have valid complaints...I think so! But we will let Holland America address those issues..I have sent a letter and my TA has sent emails..and we have yet to hear from them (this doesn't surprise me) And yes..I agree IF I had found dirty underwear in my stateroom...I would have been making my 100th trip to the Front Office..there is NO excuse for that...none!
What happened during your cruise...?

[dakrewser]

Paula...
Thanks for your review!!..We recently returned from a 15 day cruise on the Statendam...and were with several other couples from CC. We have delayed posting our review..because..it simply not something we wish to "fight" about!Oh gee, and here I thought the excuse you were giving for not posting the review was the mysterious "finger injury" you suffered. Still, that hasn't stopped you from dropping into multiple threads, mentioning how horrible your cruise was and threatening/promising to give a full review. It's all getting a bit tiresome, now. I'd suggest you put up, or....

[kygal]

Dave
First of all..I don't find my injury..or ANYONE'S injuries..no matter how big or small....something to make light of....

I have NEVER been rude here....and I will never.."put up or"..the last time I checked..you were neither my boss, OR my Daddy...:D
My review is as tiring to you ..as your silly suspenders are to me :D ..i choose to ignore them:rolleyes:
Thanks again for proving my point Dave..people don't want to hear the bad things that happen on these cruises.
As far as my "dipping" into threads goes...last time I checked you were neither my Daddy or my boss..and I still live in America....and I do enjoy my Freedom of Speech!!
Have a great day Dave!

[ekerr19]

Well, I had hoped to hear more about kygal's mis-adventures... sounds like there were numerous problems for them on the cruise.

Did the finger injury have to do with negligence on HAL's part? I don't think I ever saw a post relating to what happened there... :confused: unless i just missed it.

kygal - I'm sorry you did not enjoy your first HAL cruise.

[dakrewser]

First of all..I don't find my injury..or ANYONE'S injuries..no matter how big or small....something to make light of....And I didn't say you had. What I said was that you've implied that the "injury" kept you from posting a review and (rather more subtly) that it was somehow HAL's fault.

I have NEVER been rude here....and I will never....the last time I checked..you were neither my boss, OR my Daddy...Nor did I accuse you of being rude. Just which post are you responding to?:rolleyes:

My review is as tiring to you ..as your silly suspenders are to me I don't know if your review will be tiring or not - since you haven't posted it yet! Suspenders? Which suspenders are those??

Thanks again for proving my point Dave..people don't want to hear the bad things that happen on these cruises.Most people here want to hear about all of your experiences on the cruise. That's all I'm asking for - stop generalizing "It was an awful cruise" and tell us about it!!

As far as my "dipping" into threads goes...last time I checked you were neither my Daddy or my boss..and I still live in America....and I do enjoy my Freedom of Speech!!You do, as the first amendment to the US constitution says: "Congress shall make no law...freedom of speech..." But, as far as I know, the congress doesn't control the rules on this message board, do they?

[DFD1]

To quote the Admiral in "Hunt For Red October"...."This is getting completely out of hand. Somebody's gonna' get killed around here."

Enough already.

[AmyinVail]

Dakrewser is just a huge trouble maker. He ripped me to shreds by completely misinterupting a post I made. Take it with a grain of salt....unhappy communication is usually a tell tale sign of an unhappy person. I hope you're well and will let us know your experiences the moment you can!

[ekerr19]

Wow! Dave a troublemaker? He is one of the nicest guys on these boards... I must have missed something. :confused:

I think he has a couple of valid points here. If kygal doesn't want to share her cruise experience fine, personally I'd like to hear about it, but she has no obligation to do so. I think Dave makes his point - tell us why it was so horrible instead of generalizing on so many different threads - we'd really like to hear about it.

kygal - I don't think you are being attacked here, though Dave could have worded one of his posts a bit more tactfully (in my opinion) I don't think he meant it be personal, more tongue-in-cheek, but I suppose I could be wrong.

DFD1 - good point. :)

[dakrewser]

Dakrewser is just a huge trouble maker. He ripped me to shreds by completely misinterupting a post I made.
1) I wasn't the only one to "misinterpret" your remarks, but maybe we're all just a bunch of sourpusses, eh?

-dave

[dakrewser]

Wow! Dave a troublemaker? He is one of the nicest guys on these boards... I must have missed something. :confused:
kygal - I don't think you are being attacked here, though Dave could have worded one of his posts a bit more tactfully
Gee, Laura, you'll make me blush :o

It is true, though, that I've never been a paragon of tact.....

:) -dave

[gizmo]

Paula thanks for taking the time to write your review. I enjoyed reading it.

What I got from your post were your expectations were not met. It appears you may have cruised on Crystal prior to Hal. Since I haven't cruised on Crystal I cannot comment on what Crystal does different.

A couple of comments related to want I interpret as expectations.

I don't believe Hal ever provided porters in the airport. I have seen the reps hanging around with signs but the people using Hal's transportation pull their own luggage. (Prior to 911, your luggage got pulled automatically if tagged properly, when using Hal's transfers)

It is not uncommon to be paired on the bus with others under the CCL umbrella. You were better off with your own transportation, since many times you wait around the airport for more flights to arrive.

I have never seen shorts in the dining room for dinner, but you didn't mention if you meant dinner or lunch/breakfast. Shorts are allowed for breakfast and lunch but if people had them on at dinner, they should have been turned away.

Themed late night buffets do have a "theme" related to the type of food being served but Hal never decorated the Lido. Maybe you expected more, but those grand buffets have been long gone for years.

The nickle and diming is common on most cruise lines these days. Hal is no different and in many cases, they have less of this then some cruise lines.

A couple more comments.

New Years Eve sounded kind of dull. I would have expected something "grand" myself.

The cabin not being cleaned should never have happened. The excuse of being at "Immigration" all day is a disgrace. The manager should have seen to it the cabin was cleaned properly.

Dining room service, well, much has been written on this by many. My opinion is the staff has been cut and those left are over worked, leading to poor service.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com./images/smilies/biggrin.gif LOL at the comments on the Neptune. One of the top posters on this board, claimes to go to the Neptune in a robe. I guess if people want to stroll around in PJ's and robes all I can say is "Each to their own !!!".
Barefeet, Guilty As Charged !!!

I did not read your review as being "Negative" but only pointing out your disappointment in certain areas. There were positive comments also.Thanks again for taking the time.http://boards.cruisecritic.com./images/smilies/smile.gif

[HeatherInFlorida]

Dave ...EKerr ... actually Kygal did post Part 1 of her review. Oddly, it didn't stay at the top of the Boards for long ... maybe no one saw it with the holidays and all. I think her injury kept her from continuing the review. Here's the link: Cruise Critic Message Boards - Statendam Review-12-06-04 to 12-21-04 (part 1) (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=113187)

[LAFFNVEGAS]

I agree with Laura, Dave is really a very sweet and generous person.He is always there with his wonderful pictures, sentiments and kind words. I sometimes think you have to be on these boards a long time to get the feel of differing personalities. Yes, Dave may have been blunt but I think we are often that way in real life. It just sounds harsh in word, if you were seeing the person eye to eye it would not seem that way.

I think if there would of been more to Kygal's review we might understand more.

I think all situatations may it be cruising, work, home our attitude going in makes a difference to what our experience is going to be. Yes, some of these problems were definitely something HAL should of looked out for, someones leftover underwear is definitely a problem. Unfortuately I have heard of this happening in 5 star hotels. Life is not always perfect but Life is also way too short to keep finding fault. If something is not as we hoped we just chalk it up to experience and may or may not do that again. I hope this does not stop you from cruising, I hope that all your future travels go as planned.

[PaulaJK]

for your thoughtful reply.
-We usually take our own transportation from FLL or MIA to ship; guess we were thrown by doing so from West Palm...considerably more expensive of course
due to the greater distance.
-I agree with you that DR staff seemed stretched. They were hustling all
of the time and white jacketed supervisors were helping to serve. We were
so involved in conversation that the bustle didn't bother us.
-We had 8:30pm seating, so had no need for the midnight buffet. I was just surprised that they didn't do something special for 12/31 as that has been my experience on other lines.
-Guess I should have read the board more closely....simply wasn't expecting to see people in their jammies in the Neptune.
-The dirty underwear and less-than-clean cabin was disconcerting although not, as some would think, a deal breaker. When the supervisor explained about immigration, he also added, "He's not a good cleaner." Because we were interested in having a good time, we considered the matter settled
without further jaw boning and did not talk about the incident during the cruise. We did not growl at the cabin steward. I was a little surprised
that the hotel manager did not send a note.
-From reading recent postings re: ROV experiences and post cruise
HAL arranged travel, I suspect that HAL has some front office inadequacies
that they need to explore/correct. After all, this web site doesn't pull
all HAL pax and there are quite a few similar notes mixed in with the more positive experiences.
-I agree that mental set can influence your cruise. We still enjoyed it. And we might sail HAL again...however, a few of our experiences [less so, the onboard product] would cause us to think it over carefully .

[dakrewser]

Heather - I did see Pt. 1 of the review, but we never did see the "rest of the story"..


Lisa - thanks for those kind words. I do tend to take what I read as summing up the intention of the poster, especially when there's no previous experience of the person's style. Probably comes from having to spend hours each day reading email & on-line notes from people I've never met - many of whom have an ax to grind (i.e., they're in Press Relations :rolleyes: )

-dave

[RevNeal]

Yikes! :eek:
What a disappointment.
I'm a little nervous, again, about my upcoming cruise on the Oosterdam next month.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Yikes! :eek:
What a disappointment.
I'm a little nervous, again, about my upcoming cruise on the Oosterdam next month.
Greg, You know better than to be nervous,:D you will have a wonderful time. We thought the Oosterdam was just as good as the Ryndam and vise versa.
The only unknown with be the weather and the seas. I wish I was sailing with you but then only 5 weeks after you leave we will be heading to FLL to board the Westerdam.:p

[HeatherInFlorida]

Dave, I meant to post that I like you, too!!!:D And you've come down on me a bit a couple of times. I didn't think you were out of line here either, though maybe just a teeny bit rough;) , but I think someone who doesn't know your style could be offended.

Greg, you don't have to worry! You of all people! You know HAL so well ... what could disappoint you? If you recall, I was critical of the Oosterdam to some degree, but we had a magnificent time nonetheless. We always have to bear in mind there are almost 2000 people on that ship. Something is going to happen to a percentage of them that's hugely disappointing ... there's no avoiding that.

[the2ofus]

PaulaJK,
From our own experiences on several HAL cruises, plus your comments and several other threads recently, I have to conclude that Front Office follow-through is a major issue on many HAL ships. We find the Front Office staff very pleasant to deal with. However, they seem to not know how to make sure that things they promise to take care of actually do happen. They seem to lack a sense of empowerment.

Examples from our own cruises:
Error on the bill that was corrected for three days and then reverted to error for the remaining days.

Request at FO for extra hangers had to be repeated two days in a row before our steward brought them. (Our steward was very efficient, kept our cabin neat as a pin but we could never locate him, so left request with FO.)

Written message to shore ex staff that was left with FO because Shore Ex office was closed. Shore Ex claimed never to have received. Couldn't tell who dropped the ball there.

Request to exchange champagne prize for wine as we don't care to drink champagne. FO staff did not know who to check with or what to do.

When I pointed out at FO on one 14 day cruise that the fresh flower arrangements were all dying or dead and looked terrible, she didn't know who she should report it to. When I pointed out the the fresh flower arrangement at her elbow was dead and dried out, she did nothing about it and it was still there days later. Seems it could have been removed and discarded by the FO staff without having to check with someone else.

Still, I think HAL service in general is great. Ten cruises with HAL and such small complaints!

[JDee]

PaulaJK,
From our own experiences on several HAL cruises, plus your comments and several other threads recently, I have to conclude that Front Office follow-through is a major issue on many HAL ships. We find the Front Office staff very pleasant to deal with. However, they seem to not know how to make sure that things they promise to take care of actually do happen. They seem to lack a sense of empowerment.Some good illustrations provided on lack of final resolution. However, don't think that the FO has the resposibility to follow up on every pax request for a resolution of a particular problem. If A/C, plumbing problem, cleaning, etc., FO staff would refer that problem to the appropriate division for resolution & that would normally be the end of FO involvement. To follow up on each an every problem for a satisfactory resolution would be just mind boggling.

Certainly would agree that FO should be knowledgeable enough to know where to refer the problem to.

Happy cruising....

[wblynch]

Thanks for the review.

We have been considering the Oosterdam for the Thanksgiving 2005 M.R. cruise but I have been nervous about HAL.

Mainly because I have always had the impression that HAL ships are stuffy and snooty.

Now I have read several HAL reviews here and other places that make me very hesitant to try.

I can't afford a bad cruise because time off and funds are always limited. For those that say, "there is no bad cruise", I differ in that opinion.

We still have a bit of time to decide, but as of now I believe that we will not be taking the chance on HAL or the Oosterdam.

Thanks, Bill

[dakrewser]

Greg, You know better than to be nervous,:D you will have a wonderful time. We thought the Oosterdam was just as good as the Ryndam and vise versa.
The only unknown with be the weather and the seas. I wish I was sailing with you but then only 5 weeks after you leave we will be heading to FLL to board the Westerdam.:p
If your DH is still stuck in San Diego, you might want to switch to a Mexican Riviera cruise! I'm on the 22nd O'dam and Greg is on the Feb 5th ...

:) -dave

[LAFFNVEGAS]

If your DH is still stuck in San Diego, you might want to switch to a Mexican Riviera cruise! I'm on the 22nd O'dam and Greg is on the Feb 5th ...

:) -dave
Dave, I am hoping he will be home this Friday evening, unless he finds a way to sneak on the Statendam today;) But thanks for the invite:)

Actually I would love to join you and Greg but I think I will wait to revisit the Oosterdam in October. In the mean time I have just over 9 weeks till the Westerdam:D

[Oceanwench]

I was on the Oosterdam in November and enjoyed the cruise immensely.
My biggest complaint was the slow service [and sometimes lukewarm food] in the dining room. But I could tell the staffers were overworked -- in comparison to my HAL experience on the Zui in 2003 -- and problems are bound to happen in such a situation.

Our room was clean, our cabin steward was outstanding. Food in the Pinnacle was good. We had no major problems and would sail on the O again.

But, as has been said many, many times: Everyone has different levels of expectations; some people let small things disappoint them. Some experience big problems and yet find a way to still enjoy themselves.

It's like going to a major central Florida theme park: Some people have a magical vacation. And some come home and complain about the lines, the ticket prices, the rude people, the crowds, the mosquitoes, the cost of food, the humidity ...

I would nver let one bad review influence my choice of a cruise ship.

[dakrewser]

Dave, I meant to post that I like you, too!!!:D And you've come down on me a bit a couple of times. I didn't think you were out of line here either, though maybe just a teeny bit rough;)
Moi? Rough around the edges? Mr. sandpaper personality? Don Rickles in a beard? The old curmudgeon? [these are all references the DW has made about me at one time or another:) ]

Could be....

****************

All the references to the "front office" - I don't think it's like the front desk in a hotel. In fact, I still refer to the facility facing the stairs in the atrium as the "purser's office" - it's where money matters are handled. Housekeeping issues should be taken up with the housekeeper's office, dining issues with the maitre d' followed by the F&B manager, etc. I do think people should take the time to register complaints, request services and bestow kudos - but these things do need to be addressed to the proper person.

[RevNeal]

Greg, you don't have to worry! You of all people! You know HAL so well ... what could disappoint you? If you recall, I was critical of the Oosterdam to some degree, but we had a magnificent time nonetheless. We always have to bear in mind there are almost 2000 people on that ship. Something is going to happen to a percentage of them that's hugely disappointing ... there's no avoiding that.

True. Still ... this is my first time to try out a Vista ship. I'm really partial to the R-class, and love the S-class, so I'm automatically a little concerned about how I'll like the Vista series of ships. Still ... it's only 7 days. if I don't like it, I can certainly tolerate it for that long.

And, frankly, I tend to be more forgiving than some people ... so ...

[Renorita]

Thanks for the review.

We have been considering the Oosterdam for the Thanksgiving 2005 M.R. cruise but I have been nervous about HAL.

Mainly because I have always had the impression that HAL ships are stuffy and snooty.

Now I have read several HAL reviews here and other places that make me very hesitant to try.

I can't afford a bad cruise because time off and funds are always limited. For those that say, "there is no bad cruise", I differ in that opinion.

We still have a bit of time to decide, but as of now I believe that we will not be taking the chance on HAL or the Oosterdam.

Thanks, Bill
Well, we are scheduled for the Oosterdam on 10/20/05 and are definitely going to go. I had some concerns too (see my previous posts) and even Greg who according to laffnvegas "knows better then to be nervous" seems a little wary. But of all the negatives, I did not see anything about HAL being "stuffy or snooty" I may have missed it if it was on this thread, and I am sure someone at sometime has made that comment, but I don't believe it. You will find those kind of people on any cruise, but the majority of people are very nice. :) The "bad cruises" if any, have to be very rare.

If you have had the perfect cruise on a particular ship, then I would stay with that ship. I think your expectations may be too high if you are focusing your concerns on the attitudes of a small majority of people. Just a suggestion, but you are not going until Nov. so you could make your deposit, and wait until Greg gets back from his trip next month, for his Review!

Okay Greg, the pressure is on now on you! :D

[HeatherInFlorida]

Yes, Greg, I agree ... I much prefer the "S" class ships. But I think you'll have a good time. As you say, it's only 7 days (really 6 when you think about it;)) . I'm really looking forward to hearing what you think.

Renorita, of all the things I might say about HAL (which for me was strictly related to food and service), I would never say the passengers were "stuffy" or "snooty". There may be some passengers with an attitude (aren't there always?), but I didn't run into them.

[wblynch]

Well, it seems to be more than one bad review and many "mediocre" reviews. Even your report of lukewarm food and slow service indicate that I may want to avoid this ship, or the line.

An overworked staff is an indication of poor management. I see it as cost cutting that effects the vacation.

I don't expect too much and I'm relatively easy to please. But if I'm going to spend hard earned money and PRECIOUS time, I do at least expect hot food and cordial service.

Thanks, Bill


I was on the Oosterdam in November and enjoyed the cruise immensely.

My biggest complaint was the slow service [and sometimes lukewarm food] in the dining room. But I could tell the staffers were overworked -- in comparison to my HAL experience on the Zui in 2003 -- and problems are bound to happen in such a situation.

Our room was clean, our cabin steward was outstanding. Food in the Pinnacle was good. We had no major problems and would sail on the O again.

But, as has been said many, many times: Everyone has different levels of expectations; some people let small things disappoint them. Some experience big problems and yet find a way to still enjoy themselves.

It's like going to a major central Florida theme park: Some people have a magical vacation. And some come home and complain about the lines, the ticket prices, the rude people, the crowds, the mosquitoes, the cost of food, the humidity ...

I would nver let one bad review influence my choice of a cruise ship.

[wblynch]

...But of all the negatives, I did not see anything about HAL being "stuffy or snooty"...

...Just a suggestion, but you are not going until Nov. so you could make your deposit, and wait until Greg gets back from his trip next month, for his Review!...


Thanks Renorita.

You make a great suggestion about booking now and making the deposit. Our final payment would not be due till late August or early September. I will probably do that.

The "stuffy and snooty" image may just be leftover from earlier days. I understand it may not be fair or even applicable.

I guess I like things in the middle, not too fancy yet not too casual. Especially not snooty.

P.S. -- did you really mean to say, "the attitudes of a small majority of people" ?? ;)

Thank you all !!!

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Bill and Jane, I think you will find that the HAL cruises are extremely friendly. I have made some wonderful friends on all three of our HAL cruises. What I like about HAL is that for the most part you do not have a bunch of youth running up and down the halls screaming and playing, nor do you have the party hardy crowd. Instead you have a some what low key group of people from all walks of life that are really friendly with just a bit of feel of sophistication. We have been on to Royal Caribbean cruise I liked them but did not feel like it would always be home. We have been on 3 HAL cruise and each one just keeps getting better. Yes there were a few times where things were not perfect, such as a drain stopper that would not unplug in the bath tub or water leaking from a ceiling light. but everything was always resolved and quickly. I guess over the years I have learned to not let things bother me on vacation I am there to be relaxed and have a good time and by golly that is what I am going to do.:D

[diddy02]

I too went on this cruise and had a wonderful time. Our cabin was clean and although small was perfectly formed. The cabin boy was very friendly and kept it in tip top shape throughout the cruise!

True there were people at lunch in swim wear but who cares. If I looked as good as some of them I would prance in my bikini. When I am hungry nothing puts me off my food.

We also had 8.30 sitting for evening meal and found the service fabulous although slightly slower New Years Eve due to all those bottles the stewards had to open. I myself saw no body under dressed and for those who went more casually thats their choice I am still putting on my fancy frock and dancing shoes.

Considering most of the crew were from areas that were affected by the Tsunami and were worried about families and loved ones I think they did a wonderful job. Hats off to them all!!

[Renorita]

Thanks Renorita.

You make a great suggestion about booking now and making the deposit. Our final payment would not be due till late August or early September. I will probably do that.

The "stuffy and snooty" image may just be leftover from earlier days. I understand it may not be fair or even applicable.

I guess I like things in the middle, not too fancy yet not too casual. Especially not snooty.

P.S. -- did you really mean to say, "the attitudes of a small majority of people" ?? ;)

Thank you all !!!Well so much for proof reading! :D Glad you are going to wait awhile, because it looks like we will have Dave's review to look forward to also. And we have heard how outspoken HE is! :D I will be anxious to hear what they both have to say, as we can still back out from our late Oct. cruise, but sure hope we won't have to.

[bonnyweed]

Paula, I enjoyed reading your review. Also, I think you did note some of the positives in the original post. I was on Ryndam in December and my cabin was somewhat dirty upon my arrival as well. 3 pairs of socks in various places. Sand around the bed......sort of like a private beach! Also, the limited evening activities were disappointing. I think HAL has a good product but not
premium.
You certainly have a right to express your opinion of your experience. Hope you won't let the Saint HAL posters get you down.

[dakrewser]

Glad you are going to wait awhile, because it looks like we will have Dave's review to look forward to also. And we have heard how outspoken HE is! :D I will be anxious to hear what they both have to say, as we can still back out from our late Oct. cruise, but sure hope we won't have to.
It will be interesting to compare and contrast, won't it? :D

[Renorita]

Gee, Laura, you'll make me blush :o

It is true, though, that I've never been a paragon of tact.....

:) -dave
Lets hope you are a paragon of "Fact!" :D Looking forward to an interesting review!

[CLapple]

True. Still ... this is my first time to try out a Vista ship. I'm really partial to the R-class, and love the S-class, so I'm automatically a little concerned about how I'll like the Vista series of ships. Still ... it's only 7 days. if I don't like it, I can certainly tolerate it for that long.

And, frankly, I tend to be more forgiving than some people ... so ...


Will look forward to your report, when you get back. We also have never been on a Vista class. Thinking about in, for Christmas this year.