Zaandam Hawaii - A Great Cruise aboard a Disappointing Ship

[bepsf]

Hi All - Now that I've settled into the home routine, I thought I'd share some thoughts about my family's recent Hawaii Cruise. A more complete review with my thoughts on the various ports will be posted to the CC Cruise Review section shortly.

This was my family's first-ever trip to Hawaii - so we were looking forward to this trip w/ much anticipation. We went with a group of experienced cruisers - some had cruised to Hawaii before aboard Zaandam, others had been to Hawaii but not aboard a ship, and others had cruised but not to Hawaii.

Our friend and travel agent made the arrangements for our group and also for our shore excursions, pre-cruise hotel, Bon Voyage dinner, Meet and Greet - plus she procured proper HAL luggage tags for our group! Can't say enough good things about her.

Embarcation was fine despite the fact that the Carnival Spirit was embarking on her 8 day cruise the same day - the hotel across the street where we were staying was full and the lines on the pier were tremendous: We were glad to stay at the hotel for a couple extra hours to enjoy breakfast on the terrace and a couple of drinks at the bar as the lines on the pier dissipated.
One thing to note is that HAL no longer takes your CC for the shipboard account on the pier - either you do it online or you must swing by the front office to set up your account: I waited a couple days to go to the desk to do this to avoid the lines.

Service was splendid and the staff and crew were outstanding - I cannot say enough about how wonderful the crew are aboard Zaandam: CD Anthony is the best I've ever experienced. Edy, Geoffrey, Wayou, Rafael, the guys in the Crow's Nest, the Ocean Bar and Lido Bar and our cabin stewards as well as the spa staff and Kris and Iris at the Front Office took really great care of us. The band was good and the activities were plentiful, if one wished to participate - otherwise, there was plenty of time and space to relax and read a good book (for this itinerary I recommend “Letters from Hawaii” by Mark Twain - available thru Amazon) I also cannot say enough good things about our waiter’s conscientiousness regarding my Gluten-Free diet. Scotty and I also caught sinus infections (it seemed to be going around) on the return trip and we both went to the infirmary on separate days - and we were both dealt with kindly and professionally by the staff and the same Doctor we met last year aboard Noordam.

Iris helped us have two Meet and Greets in the Crow’s Nest - which I highly recommend, particularly on a longer itinerary, as folks seem to have so much more to share at the end of the cruise. I was also invited to a tea w/ our HM, Fierman, and GRM, Iris, who asked us group leaders how we felt about the cruise - I thought this was a nice touch and showed genuine concern for our well-being.

The ship did schedule some LGBT unhosted meetings in the Crow’s Nest but they weren’t well attended. Seems that our group was nearly all the LGBT that were aboard and we knew one another already.

The itinerary was wonderful and we saw so much - every Hawaiian port was truly enjoyable. Some highlights of the trip included encountering a huge herd of dolphins mid-ocean westbound who raced to meet the ship in such great numbers as if we were offering free crack in the ghetto. We also saw a great many whales frolicking off the port of Lahaina, Maui all about the ship all day long. Our friend, Mary, rented a van and drove a number of us around Honolulu to Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace and the state government buildings, and afterwards to the Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki for a delightful lunch (I could stay there forever...) Kona is a lovely port just to wander around: much better than Hilo where one must take a taxi or bus to get out of the former Military installation and into town, and Kauai is a gorgeous rustic island which is very much the way I imagined Hawaii to be. I think of my short time in Hawaii, I’d have to say that my favorite ports were Kawai, Honolulu and Kona.

Sadly - Zaandam herself was not up to the standard of what I expected a HAL ship to look like after the recent January drydock (I could see it from my apartment here in SF for two weeks so I know it was there!) The cabins were in good condition, and the dining room chairs were brand new - but other than that, I could not tell you what had been done:

* Hull and Superstructure are in desperate need of paint - Rust streaks are everywhere, the paint was scraped away beneath the bow anchors to such an extent that it appeared more rust than blue (Some painting was done on the portside bow while we were in Kauai - nowhere else) and paint is bubbling and peeling around the windows and hull-doors so that one can easily see the rust streaks on the white superstructure from pier or tender.
* Lightbulbs burnt out all over the place - and of the 6 chandeliers in the MDR, 1 was never lit for the entire cruise.
* Lamps in the Lido were broken or crooked.
* Torn and frayed upholstery in the Lido and certain public rooms on Upper Promenade Deck.
* Broken out windows in the Lido.
* Filthy windows, including the Magrodome itself until after we had had some rain in Hilo and Kauai.
* Decorative decals that wrap around the bulkhead surrounding the opening for the Magrodome are decayed and peeling off in the central areas.
* Ships clocks are unsynchronized, and the TV channel that gives time and date was often wrong. Forward Lido clock under the Magrodome is correct - Aft Lido clock under the Magrodome is off by 3 1/2 hours.
* Scuffs and scrapes in the hard flooring around the Lido bar. (It wouldn’t take a couple hours one night w/ a floor polisher to get rid of those scrapes, says the Old Military man...)
* Cracking and peeling finishes on the wooden tables near the Lido Bar.
* Broken chairs in the Lido Restaurant (I pinched my finger in the loose arm joint of one chair while pulling it beneath me - nearly fell through the broken seat of another...)
* Hair Salon only had one cape to cover clients - the beauticians had to share back and forth while doing Mother's hair and mine. Also, a chair in the salon had broken brakes: After Mom had her hair washed, the ship rolled and she rolled helplessly towards the windows scaring her half-to-death!
* Dirty tile in the Thermal Spa - I could take my hand and wipe the dirt away from the tile around the T-Pool. I really wanted to take a scrub-brush to the place!
* Frayed and poorly laid carpets in the corridors - I could easily see the concrete between the gaps in the cuts!
* Of the 8 lamp standards around the aft pool: 2 had new lamp globes, 4 had yellowed and filthy globes, and 2 had no globes at all!
* Damaged artwork: One of the carved marble sculptures outside the Sports Bar was tied up with rope to hold it together throughout the cruise, and the great circular painting at the top of the midship stairwell had gilding from the frame peeled off from what appeared to be tape that had been applied here & there.
* Broken Lifeboat Davit? Portside-Aft davit was left extended throughout the return trip to California - Didn't notice if it was extended for the entire cruise...
* Broken Granite floor tiles in the elevators and a huge gouge in the door of one elevator.

When I asked the Captain during one of his talks what happens during a drydock, he mentioned that there’s quite a lot of maintenance that goes on - cleaning the hull, polishing the propellers, etc - which is all well and good. I later asked our kind Hotel Manager, Fierman, about the poor condition of the ship to which he replied, “I know”. He did say that many ports prohibit painting and window-washing nowadays - but again, one would think that the floors and tiles could have been scrubbed, lightbulbs could have been changed and a good coat of paint could have been slapped on the ship as she sat in the drydock for two weeks, don’t you? Yes, it’s a 10 year old ship, but it’s not going to make it another 10 years unless Seattle puts some time and effort into the condition of this ship - Ryndam and Statendam were in better condition last fall than Zaandam today! IMO, who cares about new showroom furniture, rearranged cocktail lounges and shops and the sliding glass door staterooms that are being installed on the ships when the basics go ignored?

Would I go to Hawaii again? In a heartbeat.

Would I take a Hawaii cruise again? I believe that seeing Hawaii by ship is probably the best way to go - I wouldn’t know which island to go to first and think that I might get bored had I been on only one island. However, I honestly don’t think that it’s worth the time away to only spend 4 days in port and not 5 - All those days at sea got to be a bit much on the return trip that a mere 4 ports just wouldn’t be worth it unless an overnight were planned someplace like Honolulu. I’d either book the one 15-day cruise in January 2011 that still includes Kona or the 30-day Polynesian/Pacific Cruise that includes Hawaii - but I wouldn’t do the 14-day Hawaiian cruise from San Diego.

Despite the wonderful staff and crew and the great itinerary - until HAL gets its act in order and cleans up the ship and does the necessary maintenance I wouldn’t book any cruise aboard Zaandam, as the sad condition of the ship was the most disappointing aspect of the entire cruise.

[Bill S]

Hi Brian!

Thank you for the comprehensive review of your cruise and especially about the unfortunate condition of the Zaandam. It is sad to read of that "wear and tear" items were not all resolved during dry dock and that they are so noticeable. We did the same cruise on the Zaandam in 2008 and she was in pretty good shape then. Of course, she has been in constant use since that time up to drydock. It is good news about the crew and staff. Glad, too, that you had a great time. Please give our regards to your folks and Scotty.

[RuthC]

Thanks for your report, Brian. It saddens me that basic maintenance of the ship was apparently ignored in favor of improvements.
It doesn't matter how grand the house is. If the foundation is not poured correctly, it will all fall down.

[RevNeal]

Dear Brian,

Thank you for your comprehensive report. May I suggest that you send a version of your review, with your critical remarks about the ship, to Seattle? Have Scotty hand deliver it. :)

Some of what you noticed I noticed. Other things I either missed or are damage done since i was aboard her.

[RevNeal]

Would I go to Hawaii again? In a heartbeat.

Would I take a Hawaii cruise again? I believe that seeing Hawaii by ship is probably the best way to go - I wouldn’t know which island to go to first and think that I might get bored had I been on only one island. However, I honestly don’t think that it’s worth the time away to only spend 4 days in port and not 5 - All those days at sea got to be a bit much on the return trip that a mere 4 ports just wouldn’t be worth it unless an overnight were planned someplace like Honolulu. I’d either book the one 15-day cruise in January 2011 that still includes Kona or the 30-day Polynesian/Pacific Cruise that includes Hawaii - but I wouldn’t do the 14-day Hawaiian cruise from San Diego.

Likewise, I adore the 15-day Itinerary to Hawaii round trip out of San Diego. I've done that cruise 3 times, now, and have loved it every time. I'd do it again, if HAL offers it at a time that I can go. However, it is more likely that the next time I cruise to Hawaii it will be in conjunction with one of HAL's wonderful 30-day Polynesian/Pacific Cruises.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Welcome home.

Thanks for taking the time to write your review.

Sorry to read about the sad conidition of the Zaandam.

The last time we were on her 2002 -- one set of lights in the dining room didn't work then. Wonder if it could be the same lights?

[EbayCruiser]

This is what I have been waiting for .... I feared that there were problems with the Zaandam since our cruise is evidently not selling very well. There have been two price drops recently and I expect more before final payment.

I still do want to go because it is Hawaii and my DH has never been but I wish they were using another ship. At least this itineary does include Kona and has 5 stops in Hawaii.

Does anyone know why they do not take a Vista class ship? Are they too large to navigate around the Hawaii islands? Would love to see the Eurodam or Noordam do Hawaii.

Vickie

[EbayCruiser]

Oh, .... forgot to say "Thanks Brian". I look forward to your formal review on the CC board. There has not been one there since Feb.

[Sage]

Thanks Brian for your report. I agree that the ship was in a sad state of repair. I too commented that I would not sail on the Zaandam again and took a lot of heat for it. I would also love to see a Vista class ship, especially the Noordam for this sailing. And I would love to see them bring back the overnight in Honolulu docked at the Aloha Tower. Thanks again Brian.

[jbhcw]

Thanks for your review..we board her in the am. Looking forward to your complete review also..

Really hoping we have no major problems with our cabin, and from what you said sounds like the crew did a wonderful job.

I really love the smaller older ships..so it's sad to hear that they are not being maintained as they should.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Thanks, Brian, for your fair critique of your cruise. I heard something very similar about Veendam's recent drydock. I wish someone could explain why they're doing the little cosmetic facelifts and letting way more important stuff go.

But overall you had a great time and that's the main thing. Still, hope someone is Seattle is listening and they give some serious thought to keeping these older ships in better condition for those of us who love this class ship.

We cruised French Polynesia on the Wind Song many years ago and it was, without question, the greatest experience in our lifetimes. I highly recommend it and what could be better than an extended cruise to include it all. Still, once you've been to Bora Boar(for me), you ache to return forever.

[RevNeal]

Thanks Brian for your report. I agree that the ship was in a sad state of repair. I too commented that I would not sail on the Zaandam again and took a lot of heat for it. I would also love to see a Vista class ship, especially the Noordam for this sailing. And I would love to see them bring back the overnight in Honolulu docked at the Aloha Tower. Thanks again Brian.

Dear Sage,

I guess the critical difference would be the following from Brian's report:

.... until HAL gets its act in order and cleans up the ship and does the necessary maintenance I wouldn’t book any cruise aboard Zaandam

One must remember that none of these ships are static: always sick or always malfunctioning or always broken down, etc. Also, I've seen Vistas with severe mechanical and cosmetic problems, so it's not that the newer ships are always wonderful, either. HAL ships are like living creatures ... they are dynamic, evolving critters that are always being touched and maintained by a diligent, loving crew. For some WEIRD reason the latest dry dock didn't provide the time to address some of these problems, and/or it could be that some of the work done was sub-standard?? Who knows? The engineering and deck crew will take care of most of these over the next few months. I've seen them do so in the past and on different ships. In short, the Zaandam will not be in this sorry state forever. I would imagine that special steps will be/are being taken to address many of the problems Brian outlined. HAL has a very long operational history and they know how to take care of their ships, do in-cruise and between-cruise maintenance and repair, etc. It may take several months, but I would expect that between now and the end of the Alaska season the Zaandam will have seen significant repairs and improvements to the noted issues. That's just the way HAL does things. They don't let their ships "go to pot."

I certainly understand one's hesitance in booking another cruise aboard the Zaandam, and share that hesitation myself. But I would never consigner her to the depths of "never book again." The problems outlined are correctable, and I cannot imagine that HAL won't correct them.

[Mary Ellen]

Thank you, Brian. I too really love the smaller older ships, so it is sad to hear that this one is not being maintained as she should. I certainly would not cast aspersions against ALL the older HAL ships (in favor of the Vistas and Signature ships) because of the condition of this one ship. I've had (or seen) problems on the newer ships too.

It will be interesting to see what my FIL notices, he boards her tomorrow.

[sassyredhat]

This is sad to hear about our favorite ship.

We took that same cruise, first on Statendam, then in 2008, on Zaandam. In 2008, everything was fine.

Still, I would take the cruise agian.

Pat

[rkacruiser]

Thanks for an interesting report!

One possible important key to explaining the condition of at least part of the ship was the comment made by the Hotel Manager concerning some ports not allowing exterior maintainence to be done when the ship is in port. In his blog concerning the Prinsendam's recently completed South American Grand Voyage, Captain Albert made the same comment. The inability to do proper maintainence when in port was of a concern of both the Chief Officer, who is responsible for this area, and Captain Albert. That does not explain, however, the defects observed in the ship's interior. Seems to me the Chief Housekeeper needs to be more "on the ball".

[aliaschief]

Brian, thanks for the comprehensive review.

[EbayCruiser]

Brian, I read your review on the CC Review page and couldn't help but notice that you stayed in 7086 the "secret room". We have this same room booked for our Oct. '10 cruise. How did you like the room? Seems it would be a great value for the money. Did you feel alot of motion in your stateroom during the sea days?

I do hope Rev. Neal is right and the Zaandam gets some special attention this summer. If things do not get better, we may have to rethink this cruise. :rolleyes:

[Taxguy77]

Great review!
I was amazed to hear of some of the problems which could and should be corrected such as burned-out lightbulbs. There is no excuse for that much lack of maintenance.
My first TA was many years ago on a small Jap freighter (long before containers) Every day you could see sailors on deck cleaning or painting areas. The Engineer gave 4 of us a tour of the engine room, and except for a slight mist of oil in the air, you could eat off any surface. Two or 3 seaman were attending to the room and all of them had a cloth in the pocket or hand.
I have put stores on board many freighters and found most to have little visible rust where it could be reached while at sea. If working freighters can keep up a ship, I would expect an upscale cruise line to be sparkling.

[Petronillus]

Thank you, Brian, for sharing your perceptions. Our first cruise, way back in the last millennium, was aboard NCL's Norway (formerly, the France). She was at the time the largest (not to say the grandest) cruise ship afloat. But gosh, did she ever show the wear and tear. Many of the things you've noted on the Zaandam match my recollections of the old Norway. In the end, it put me off on cruising altogether for some years.

My prior experience with the Norway made me apprehensive about how we might find the Zaandam on our Alaska cruise in May 2009. I was pleasantly surprised at the condition of the ship at that time. To my wary eyes she looked to be in tip-top condition. At one of the ports we were back to back with the Ryndam. The stern of the Ryndam was streaked all over with dripping rust spots. I was appalled -- very bad "curb" appeal! The next chance I got in port I walked around to view the Zaandam from the rear, and felt relieved that she looked spic and span.

We've recently returned from our Mexican Riviera cruise on board the Oosterdam. Again, the ship looked a great condition. No threadbare traffic lanes or stair risers, burnt out bulbs few and far between, and the staff ubiquitously evident varnishing, painting, and polishing.

Overall both of our HAL experiences, aboard the Zaandam and the Oosterdam, were "once in a lifetime experiences" for us. In some ways, the thermal suites being one notable example) we preferred the Zaandam over the Oosterdam. But it will be awhile -- until we start hearing favorable reports on this board -- before we book on her again.

As Rev. Neal so wisely observed a few posts ago, ships are living, breathing things; it's easy to anthropomorphize them. We've all experienced that each one seems to have it own distinct spirit and personality. I look forward to the day when Zaandam will be restored to her erstwhile glory. (Nice message for Easter!)

You have built up such credibility, Brian, with your postings over the years that readers of this board must take your observations seriously, knowing that you are well disposed to HAL and have no ax to grind.

[DRWhit]

The part about your mother rolling around the salon made me laugh out loud. Glad no one was hurt!

[mek]

Wow, I was on the 3/2 Zaandam sailing and with the exception of the Thermal Spa and the salon, I was in all of the public areas you mentioned and never noticed any of the issues you listed with the exception of some rust on the hull of the ship. A few CC members were not happy with the condition of the furnishings in their cabins, but ours was in very good shape. My only complaint with the ship was it was dead by 11pm, unlike our Veendan cruise last year that offered a late movie that we could go to after the 9pm show.

[bulgargirl]

I so appreciate reviews that can give an honest, and even critical opinion, while still point out the positives.

Ones that are all negative or hopelessly positive make me wonder..... Good to know!

Thanks.

[bepsf]

Thank you for your thoughtful and kind remarks everyone.

Here is the longer & somewhat more complete version with the link to my thoughts on the various ports we visited: http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=65331

EBayCruiser--

Yes, we were in 7086 - one of the aft inside/outside staterooms.
This was my third time in this cabin (First two times were aboard Amsterdam and Volendam)

It's an odd duck: It's shaped like Utah.
The "panhandle" is the seating area where the sofa faces the back wall of the bathroom - about 20 inches away from the front of the sofa - which is why I say it's about useless for anything but storing luggage.
Otherwise, the beds are on the inside wall facing the 3 wardrobes and the desk with 3 drawers. It's perfect for one person traveling alone - it's tight for two. (And downright cramped when you pack like I do!!!)

But you'll be quite pleased with your stewards - They do a fantastic job considering the pair have 20-some-odd staterooms on both sides of the ship to take care of.

I probably shouldn't share this hint - but I will anyway:
If you ever need anything and can't find the steward - the steward's closet is just ahead of your stateroom - about 2 doors forward. Towels, Ice, Laundry tags, etc. are in there. Just don't be surprised if one of them comes through the door from the opposite side and cries out in surprise because he didn't expect to see anyone in his storeroom! ;)

[PathfinderEss]

Thanks for your honest appraisal of your cruise and the conditions of the Zaandam bepsf.........

[Sea King]

just one question Brian

were you on vacation or on an inspection tour:rolleyes:

[jhannah]

Glad your cruise was enjoyable. I'm sorry the ship was missing some beats in the maintenance area. She was a fine vessel a few years ago when we sailed her.

I like Kona, too. Great place to walk around and soak in the beauty.

[bepsf]

just one question Brian

were you on vacation or on an inspection tour:rolleyes:

Yes. ;)

I'm detail-oriented in my work and I'm interested in & write about interior design at home - When I'm at a land-based hotel, restaurant, store or even in my office at home, I notice these types of things.
It's no different while on vacation.

[Sea King]

Yes. ;)

I'm detail-oriented in my work and I'm interested in & write about interior design at home - When I'm at a land-based hotel, restaurant, store or even in my office at home, I notice these types of things.
It's no different while on vacation.


truly commendable

don't know of many people who go on vacation (land or sea) and make lists of interior or structural deficiencies of their accomodations

just 1 question: did you turn your list over to the HotMan before you posted it on CC .. may have been more beneficial

but maybe Zaandam got lucky: imagine if you had ever gained access to the engine room:eek:

[DRWhit]

but maybe Zaandam got lucky: imagine if you had ever gained access to the engine room:eek:Ha - funny you should mention that. I just returned from a cruise on Celebrity, where I was fortunate enough to get a tour of the engine control room. It was interesting to see a washer hanging from a string as their fail-safe stability indicator. Also they had garlic cloves sitting on the control board to ward off evil spirits, just in case things got really bad.

(Actually they were pretty tongue-in-cheek with these items and kept a nice, very technologically advanced, control room.)

[Sea King]

Ha - funny you should mention that. I just returned from a cruise on Celebrity, where I was fortunate enough to get a tour of the engine control room. It was interesting to see a washer hanging from a string as their fail-safe stability indicator. Also they had garlic cloves sitting on the control board to ward off evil spirits, just in case things got really bad.

(Actually they were pretty tongue-in-cheek with these items and kept a nice, very technologically advanced, control room.)

please tell us how you gained entry to the engine room

in all seriousness, the odds of getting into an engine room on HLA are "0" and "0" .. no exceptions

a tour of the bridge is "difficult"

engine room: impossible since 9/11

[DRWhit]

please tell us how you gained entry to the engine room

in all seriousness, the odds of getting into an engine room on HLA are "0" and "0" .. no exceptions

a tour of the bridge is "difficult"

engine room: impossible since 9/11It was the engine control room, not the actual engine room. I asked at the guest services desk, and they set me up. We didn't get to see the engines themselves, only a tv monitor image, since you as you noted this is not allowed post 9-11. But we did get to go see the control room for the engines. That's where the engineers manipulate the controls for the engine and for most every pump and valve on the ship. The two engineers on duty showed us around the room and answered our questions about the engines. In this case, they had two propeller shafts that could be turned by various combinations of diesels. They had 4 diesels for propulsion that were grouped into two sets, with 2 diesels for each set. They called one the Father (it was the larger of the two) and the other the Son. It was a clutch setup for engaging the selected diesels to the shafts. Constant rpms with power controlled by varying propeller blade pitch. They showed us the computer control system, talked about jacket water cooling, electrical power, etc. Then they asked if we wanted to join another group for a tour of the bridge. It was a nice morning.

[innlady1]

just one question Brian

were you on vacation or on an inspection tour:rolleyes:

Actually, Brian is a very fair person who pays attention to detail...as do I. I see nothing unusual about that, and think your post is rather snarky.

Rev Neal...while on the Noordam, I noticed those paint chips you found February '09 on the gyroscope still have not been addressed!

We've been on the Noordam four February's in a row, the first two, 10 days each; the last two years, the 210-day Collectors Cruise. I was always amazed at how many times they varnished the railings and cleaned the plexiglass on the verandahs.

This year, over the 20 day span, they didn't clean the plexiglass once! I was shocked...and chuckled to myself that by the end of the cruise, we may as well have had the metal enclosures instead of the plexiglass.

Brian...are you still doing the Maasdam 02/11? I trust your word and am hoping the Maasdam and Veendam are in better shape than the Zaandam! Welcome back, BTW! :D

[cruisun]

Dear Sage,

I guess the critical difference would be the following from Brian's report:



One must remember that none of these ships are static: always sick or always malfunctioning or always broken down, etc. Also, I've seen Vistas with severe mechanical and cosmetic problems, so it's not that the newer ships are always wonderful, either. HAL ships are like living creatures ... they are dynamic, evolving critters that are always being touched and maintained by a diligent, loving crew. For some WEIRD reason the latest dry dock didn't provide the time to address some of these problems, and/or it could be that some of the work done was sub-standard?? Who knows? The engineering and deck crew will take care of most of these over the next few months. I've seen them do so in the past and on different ships. In short, the Zaandam will not be in this sorry state forever. I would imagine that special steps will be/are being taken to address many of the problems Brian outlined. HAL has a very long operational history and they know how to take care of their ships, do in-cruise and between-cruise maintenance and repair, etc. It may take several months, but I would expect that between now and the end of the Alaska season the Zaandam will have seen significant repairs and improvements to the noted issues. That's just the way HAL does things. They don't let their ships "go to pot."

I certainly understand one's hesitance in booking another cruise aboard the Zaandam, and share that hesitation myself. But I would never consigner her to the depths of "never book again." The problems outlined are correctable, and I cannot imagine that HAL won't correct them.

We were on the Zaandam in February 09 and all noticed all of the things the OP mentioned and 14 months later they are still not resolved. The Zaandam was in the worst condition of any ship I have sailed including older ships on other cruise lines

[bepsf]

Actually, Brian is a very fair person who pays attention to detail...as do I.

Brian...are you still doing the Maasdam 02/11? I trust your word and am hoping the Maasdam and Veendam are in better shape than the Zaandam! Welcome back, BTW! :D

Thanks Sheila - And Yes, still planning on joining you and Fred aboard Maasdam!
:)

[bepsf]

just 1 question: did you turn your list over to the HotMan before you posted it on CC.

Yes, on Day 4 of the cruise when the group leaders were asked to a tea and chat w/ the HM and GRM to see how the cruise was going, I inquired after these issues.

A few days later - while we were anchored off Kona - he left the ship to attend HAL's Hotel Manager conference in Las Vegas.

One might reasonably expect that some relatively minor things like replacing lightbulbs, cleaning certain windows and scuffed floors could be accomplished while at sea given the proper supplies and equipment are aboard.
Other issues such as broken chairs, torn upholstery, damaged artwork, cleaning the Upper Promenade Deck Windows, touching up much of the exterior paintwork and replacing missing or broken equipment simply cannot be accomplished at all in the midst of the Pacific Ocean.

[flamingogal]

Well we just came off the Zaandam today and I can attest to some of the deficiencies Brian noted. The windows are still not cleaned. The Lido window is still broken (covered w/ plywood), and the statue is still held together w/ string (at first I thought it was part of the sculpture, but I reconsidered). There were some complaints w/ bathrooms out of order near the Crow's Nest and some of the elevators had issues throughout the cruise. There was a plumbing problem on Deck 6 which resulted in a potty flood and two rooms reassigned for a night.

So, yeah, there are some maintenance problems to be taken care of and hopefully HAL will take care of them. But overall, the Zaandam is a beautiful ship with a wonderful crew and that usually makes up for anything that is below a "10". (but i wish the cabin stewards would wash the glass on the balconies more often. just my pet peeve).

Jeanne

[refman]

are you kidding me. sounds as though you spent more time inspecting the ship then enjoying the cruise itself. we just got off the eurodam last week and although a newer ship than the zaandam i can`t remember spending a second looking for a burnt out light bulb or a crooked lamp shade. also the same people praising your overly critical review would normally blast any other poster and most of them would say exactly what i am asking and that is when did you find time to not work and enjoy the vacation!!!!!

[Boatdrill]

Well we just came off the Zaandam today and I can attest to some of the deficiencies Brian noted....The Lido window is still broken (covered w/ plywood)....There were some complaints w/ bathrooms out of order near the Crow's Nest...There was a plumbing problem on Deck 6 which resulted in a potty flood and two rooms reassigned for a night.



just wanted to add that many times for a spec window such as in the Lido to be replaced, it must be ordered, then shipped from the manufacturer, brought onboard in San Diego (ship is there very two weeks or 11 days when doing Mexico/Sea of Cortez), and then installed. Just as when in your home something needs to be repaired/replaced, sometimes it takes awhile to get the exact item.

Also, 90% of toilet problems on ships come from someone putting something down the toilet that does not belong, and backups throughout the system can occur.

just things to keep in mind :)

[Copper10-8]

.............. he left the ship to attend HAL's Hotel Manager conference in Las Vegas.

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

Senior Management conference in San Diego;)

[Sea King]

Senior Management conference in San Diego;)

which is not only for Hotel managers but also for Captains, Chief Engineers and Chief Officers in addition to (of course) senior HAL Management

a little appreciated fact is that senior management conference also afford captains, hotel managers and others to see and speak with each other .. very seldom do they actually meet face to face during the year unless they are sharing a port

[Copper10-8]

which is not only for Hotel managers but also for Captains, Chief Engineers and Chief Officers in addition to (of course) senior HAL Management

a little appreciated fact is that senior management conference also afford captains, hotel managers and others to see and speak with each other .. very seldom do they actually meet face to face during the year unless they are sharing a port

Plus Environmental Officers;)

[Sage]

With cruise ships becoming more and more like floating hotels, should they not act like a hotel and have things in working order or be prepared to move a guest to a cabin that works? Passengers have been taught to "settle". Would you be so complacent to stay with a rental car that had no lights, or had an oil leak that had to tended to every so many miles? Of course not, but you will pay top dollar for a cabin that doesn't work. Hmmm. Cruise passengers are not very good consumers.

Brian came back giving a very accurate discription of the things wrong with the ship. He was kind in not mentioning that several members of our group had problems with phones, toilets, and a/c problems. The crew was incredible, but they can only do so much.

[sail7seas]

Sage,
I am sure the ships would love to have the luxury of moving a guest from a cabin that has considerable malfunctions but seeing the ships almost always go out full these days, they have lost that option.

Years past, they often held a few cabins for just that reason. Today they need every bit of revenue possible to keep the prices to the low level most cruisers demand.

[Sage]

Sail, I understand that things have changed, but perhaps they could hold the chronic problem rooms out of the inventory.

[bepsf]

Senior Management conference in San Diego;)

Thanks for the correction, John

[bepsf]

sounds as though you spent more time inspecting the ship then enjoying the cruise itself.

Well, on a 15 day itinerary where only 5 of those days are in port one does end up spending quite a bit of time on the ship - and one does inevitably notice things during all those sea days that one could easily overlook on a shorter and/or more port-intensive itinerary.

For example - Last fall while I was aboard Ryndam in Alaska, I can honestly say that I only walked through the Lido Pool area once, never went to the aft pool and didn't avail myself of the spa facilities.

Some of the issues I noted aboard Zaandam could have existed on Ryndam as well, but I'd have never noticed them due to the port-intensiveness and shorter length of the cruise.

[peaches from georgia]

Holding back a few cabins for emergency use may end up being cost effective if it prevents having irate pax who are in what can be unliveable cabins if even for only a day or two.

[Sea King]

Well, on a 15 day itinerary where only 5 of those days are in port one does end up spending quite a bit of time on the ship - and one does inevitably notice things during all those sea days that one could easily overlook on a shorter and/or more port-intensive itinerary.

For example - Last fall while I was aboard Ryndam in Alaska, I can honestly say that I only walked through the Lido Pool area once, never went to the aft pool and didn't avail myself of the spa facilities.

Some of the issues I noted aboard Zaandam could have existed on Ryndam as well, but I'd have never noticed them due to the port-intensiveness and shorter length of the cruise.

sounds like Ryndam got lucky:D:D

[refman]

Well, on a 15 day itinerary where only 5 of those days are in port one does end up spending quite a bit of time on the ship - and one does inevitably notice things during all those sea days that one could easily overlook on a shorter and/or more port-intensive itinerary.

For example - Last fall while I was aboard Ryndam in Alaska, I can honestly say that I only walked through the Lido Pool area once, never went to the aft pool and didn't avail myself of the spa facilities.

Some of the issues I noted aboard Zaandam could have existed on Ryndam as well, but I'd have never noticed them due to the port-intensiveness and shorter length of the cruise.
good point

[Mary Ellen]

Thank you for being so observant, Brian. I don't understand how some can go on vacation and not notice their surroundings. JMO, but why bother leaving home? It is their vacation however and they can spend it as they wish, just as you can. I don't see the reason for them to criticize you. :rolleyes: Thanks again, B. :D

[Petronillus]

are you kidding me. sounds as though you spent more time inspecting the ship then enjoying the cruise itself. we just got off the eurodam last week and although a newer ship than the zaandam i can`t remember spending a second looking for a burnt out light bulb or a crooked lamp shade. also the same people praising your overly critical review would normally blast any other poster and most of them would say exactly what i am asking and that is when did you find time to not work and enjoy the vacation!!!!!

Brian does not deserve to be flamed. Some people are like seagulls: they swoop in, take a dump, and fly away. That does not describe Brian. He has a track record, and those who follow the HAL board know how well disposed he is to the cruise line and its ships. That's what gives him his credibility. I for one am grateful for the benefit of his discriminating eye.

[fridayeyes]

Brian does not deserve to be flamed. Some people are like seagulls: they swoop in, take a dump, and fly away. That does not describe Brian. He has a track record, and those who follow the HAL board know how well disposed he is to the cruise line and its ships. That's what gives him his credibility. I for one am grateful for the benefit of his discriminating eye.


What Bob said!

[yogi2929]

please tell us how you gained entry to the engine room

in all seriousness, the odds of getting into an engine room on HLA are "0" and "0" .. no exceptions

a tour of the bridge is "difficult"

engine room: impossible since 9/11

Carnival has a Behind the Scenes tour on all of their ships. Bridge, engine control room, galley, laundry room, environmental, liquor storeroom, I95, etc

***

Thanks for the review. I hope that most of these issues are taken care of by the time we board in 2 weeks.

[liketraveling]

Brian did a very objective review and hit the nail on head. I was on the cruise, and was having a hard time coming up with an objective review.

I posted that I had a great time. I knew things wern't perfect and was having ahard time coming up with an objective review. I still had a good time but there were inperfections.


I hadn't heard about the plumbing problems still Sage posted here and I sure hope that HAL gave Sage credit on that. I didn't use the Spa Facilities and only went out to the AFT pool twice.

I was on the Ryndam last year and thought that that ship was in worse condition than the Zaandam. As the Zaandam the Crew were great and this was out of their area.

The only problem I had with any of the Crew was one person in the Casino. There were a bunch of sitting at the table playing black the day after we were in Kona. We were laughing having a good time. One of the floor monitors was walking around looking at the dealers. One person at the table asked very politely. 'How Often due you change the cards'?
The response from the floor person was 'Dam You!' and than was told a few seconds later they hadn't been changed. We all ended up leaving the table. I work in Customer Service and her 'Damm You' response was totally unaceptable. The rest of the Casino staff that I encourntered were great.

The 14 day itenary is not appealing to me. If you want to see Pearl Harbor there would be chance that you not get in to see it as the Ship does not get into Port until 10:00 and the tickets could be sold out.

Princess is adding more ships to their Hawaii Itenary but they are also 14 days.

My Dad really wanted to take this cruise ,it was My Mom and his favorite. He is three for three missing the Kileua (sP) Volcano. Things like that happen. I want to go to Barcelona when it doesn't Rain. Been there twice and it has poured twice. It is one of those crazy things of Traveling.

Brian & Bev it was nice meeting you on the cruise! Brian thanks for doing a great objective review.

Gail

[Bill HaHa]

Just off the Zaandam yesterday (4/6) Is this the same Zaandam?. I thought she was in great shape I am not as picky about lots of things as most people are. So, I apparently overlook a lot of things that others might find objectional. I am there to enjoy my cruise That is just me.

[awhcruiser]

Did you have any time to enjoy the cruise? Some of these things I see as very nit picky. Does it really matter if all the clocks are not in sync?

Hi All - Now that I've settled into the home routine, I thought I'd share some thoughts about my family's recent Hawaii Cruise. A more complete review with my thoughts on the various ports will be posted to the CC Cruise Review section shortly.

This was my family's first-ever trip to Hawaii - so we were looking forward to this trip w/ much anticipation. We went with a group of experienced cruisers - some had cruised to Hawaii before aboard Zaandam, others had been to Hawaii but not aboard a ship, and others had cruised but not to Hawaii.

Our friend and travel agent made the arrangements for our group and also for our shore excursions, pre-cruise hotel, Bon Voyage dinner, Meet and Greet - plus she procured proper HAL luggage tags for our group! Can't say enough good things about her.

Embarcation was fine despite the fact that the Carnival Spirit was embarking on her 8 day cruise the same day - the hotel across the street where we were staying was full and the lines on the pier were tremendous: We were glad to stay at the hotel for a couple extra hours to enjoy breakfast on the terrace and a couple of drinks at the bar as the lines on the pier dissipated.
One thing to note is that HAL no longer takes your CC for the shipboard account on the pier - either you do it online or you must swing by the front office to set up your account: I waited a couple days to go to the desk to do this to avoid the lines.

Service was splendid and the staff and crew were outstanding - I cannot say enough about how wonderful the crew are aboard Zaandam: CD Anthony is the best I've ever experienced. Edy, Geoffrey, Wayou, Rafael, the guys in the Crow's Nest, the Ocean Bar and Lido Bar and our cabin stewards as well as the spa staff and Kris and Iris at the Front Office took really great care of us. The band was good and the activities were plentiful, if one wished to participate - otherwise, there was plenty of time and space to relax and read a good book (for this itinerary I recommend “Letters from Hawaii” by Mark Twain - available thru Amazon) I also cannot say enough good things about our waiter’s conscientiousness regarding my Gluten-Free diet. Scotty and I also caught sinus infections (it seemed to be going around) on the return trip and we both went to the infirmary on separate days - and we were both dealt with kindly and professionally by the staff and the same Doctor we met last year aboard Noordam.

Iris helped us have two Meet and Greets in the Crow’s Nest - which I highly recommend, particularly on a longer itinerary, as folks seem to have so much more to share at the end of the cruise. I was also invited to a tea w/ our HM, Fierman, and GRM, Iris, who asked us group leaders how we felt about the cruise - I thought this was a nice touch and showed genuine concern for our well-being.

The ship did schedule some LGBT unhosted meetings in the Crow’s Nest but they weren’t well attended. Seems that our group was nearly all the LGBT that were aboard and we knew one another already.

The itinerary was wonderful and we saw so much - every Hawaiian port was truly enjoyable. Some highlights of the trip included encountering a huge herd of dolphins mid-ocean westbound who raced to meet the ship in such great numbers as if we were offering free crack in the ghetto. We also saw a great many whales frolicking off the port of Lahaina, Maui all about the ship all day long. Our friend, Mary, rented a van and drove a number of us around Honolulu to Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace and the state government buildings, and afterwards to the Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki for a delightful lunch (I could stay there forever...) Kona is a lovely port just to wander around: much better than Hilo where one must take a taxi or bus to get out of the former Military installation and into town, and Kauai is a gorgeous rustic island which is very much the way I imagined Hawaii to be. I think of my short time in Hawaii, I’d have to say that my favorite ports were Kawai, Honolulu and Kona.

Sadly - Zaandam herself was not up to the standard of what I expected a HAL ship to look like after the recent January drydock (I could see it from my apartment here in SF for two weeks so I know it was there!) The cabins were in good condition, and the dining room chairs were brand new - but other than that, I could not tell you what had been done:

* Hull and Superstructure are in desperate need of paint - Rust streaks are everywhere, the paint was scraped away beneath the bow anchors to such an extent that it appeared more rust than blue (Some painting was done on the portside bow while we were in Kauai - nowhere else) and paint is bubbling and peeling around the windows and hull-doors so that one can easily see the rust streaks on the white superstructure from pier or tender.
* Lightbulbs burnt out all over the place - and of the 6 chandeliers in the MDR, 1 was never lit for the entire cruise.
* Lamps in the Lido were broken or crooked.
* Torn and frayed upholstery in the Lido and certain public rooms on Upper Promenade Deck.
* Broken out windows in the Lido.
* Filthy windows, including the Magrodome itself until after we had had some rain in Hilo and Kauai.
* Decorative decals that wrap around the bulkhead surrounding the opening for the Magrodome are decayed and peeling off in the central areas.
* Ships clocks are unsynchronized, and the TV channel that gives time and date was often wrong. Forward Lido clock under the Magrodome is correct - Aft Lido clock under the Magrodome is off by 3 1/2 hours.
* Scuffs and scrapes in the hard flooring around the Lido bar. (It wouldn’t take a couple hours one night w/ a floor polisher to get rid of those scrapes, says the Old Military man...)
* Cracking and peeling finishes on the wooden tables near the Lido Bar.
* Broken chairs in the Lido Restaurant (I pinched my finger in the loose arm joint of one chair while pulling it beneath me - nearly fell through the broken seat of another...)
* Hair Salon only had one cape to cover clients - the beauticians had to share back and forth while doing Mother's hair and mine. Also, a chair in the salon had broken brakes: After Mom had her hair washed, the ship rolled and she rolled helplessly towards the windows scaring her half-to-death!
* Dirty tile in the Thermal Spa - I could take my hand and wipe the dirt away from the tile around the T-Pool. I really wanted to take a scrub-brush to the place!
* Frayed and poorly laid carpets in the corridors - I could easily see the concrete between the gaps in the cuts!
* Of the 8 lamp standards around the aft pool: 2 had new lamp globes, 4 had yellowed and filthy globes, and 2 had no globes at all!
* Damaged artwork: One of the carved marble sculptures outside the Sports Bar was tied up with rope to hold it together throughout the cruise, and the great circular painting at the top of the midship stairwell had gilding from the frame peeled off from what appeared to be tape that had been applied here & there.
* Broken Lifeboat Davit? Portside-Aft davit was left extended throughout the return trip to California - Didn't notice if it was extended for the entire cruise...
* Broken Granite floor tiles in the elevators and a huge gouge in the door of one elevator.

When I asked the Captain during one of his talks what happens during a drydock, he mentioned that there’s quite a lot of maintenance that goes on - cleaning the hull, polishing the propellers, etc - which is all well and good. I later asked our kind Hotel Manager, Fierman, about the poor condition of the ship to which he replied, “I know”. He did say that many ports prohibit painting and window-washing nowadays - but again, one would think that the floors and tiles could have been scrubbed, lightbulbs could have been changed and a good coat of paint could have been slapped on the ship as she sat in the drydock for two weeks, don’t you? Yes, it’s a 10 year old ship, but it’s not going to make it another 10 years unless Seattle puts some time and effort into the condition of this ship - Ryndam and Statendam were in better condition last fall than Zaandam today! IMO, who cares about new showroom furniture, rearranged cocktail lounges and shops and the sliding glass door staterooms that are being installed on the ships when the basics go ignored?

Would I go to Hawaii again? In a heartbeat.

Would I take a Hawaii cruise again? I believe that seeing Hawaii by ship is probably the best way to go - I wouldn’t know which island to go to first and think that I might get bored had I been on only one island. However, I honestly don’t think that it’s worth the time away to only spend 4 days in port and not 5 - All those days at sea got to be a bit much on the return trip that a mere 4 ports just wouldn’t be worth it unless an overnight were planned someplace like Honolulu. I’d either book the one 15-day cruise in January 2011 that still includes Kona or the 30-day Polynesian/Pacific Cruise that includes Hawaii - but I wouldn’t do the 14-day Hawaiian cruise from San Diego.

Despite the wonderful staff and crew and the great itinerary - until HAL gets its act in order and cleans up the ship and does the necessary maintenance I wouldn’t book any cruise aboard Zaandam, as the sad condition of the ship was the most disappointing aspect of the entire cruise.

[awhcruiser]

My thoughts exactly........

just one question Brian

were you on vacation or on an inspection tour:rolleyes:

[jhannah]

Does it really matter if all the clocks are not in sync? If you're depending on the ship's clocks to get you to an event on time or if you're setting your watch to a ship's clock so you'll get back to the ship before it sails away, then yes ... it matters greatly. All the clocks should read the same.

[innlady1]

Brian does not deserve to be flamed. Some people are like seagulls: they swoop in, take a dump, and fly away. That does not describe Brian. He has a track record, and those who follow the HAL board know how well disposed he is to the cruise line and its ships. That's what gives him his credibility. I for one am grateful for the benefit of his discriminating eye.

Ditto, Bob! We've cruised with Brian...a kinder person would be difficult to find. Personally, I'd trust his opinion always. And, it's so rude to do as you've said: Swoop in like seagulls, take a dump and fly away. :eek:

[innlady1]

Brian,

No wonder Fred and I didn't see him on the Noordam this winter! He was such a nice guy. Was the same nurse there, too? As I recall, he is an ER doc in the SF area.

[innlady1]

Well we just came off the Zaandam today and I can attest to some of the deficiencies Brian noted. The windows are still not cleaned. The Lido window is still broken (covered w/ plywood), and the statue is still held together w/ string (at first I thought it was part of the sculpture, but I reconsidered). There were some complaints w/ bathrooms out of order near the Crow's Nest and some of the elevators had issues throughout the cruise. There was a plumbing problem on Deck 6 which resulted in a potty flood and two rooms reassigned for a night.

So, yeah, there are some maintenance problems to be taken care of and hopefully HAL will take care of them. But overall, the Zaandam is a beautiful ship with a wonderful crew and that usually makes up for anything that is below a "10". (but i wish the cabin stewards would wash the glass on the balconies more often. just my pet peeve).

Jeanne

Guess it's a pet peeve of mine as well. I was shocked that this year, on our 20 day Noordam cruise, the plexiglass on the verandahs wasn't washed once!

[Williebill]

I hate to hear the Zaandam is in such bad condition. You would think the crew on board could take care of some of the conditions that you mention.

[Tamaracboy]

Yes. ;)

I'm detail-oriented in my work and I'm interested in & write about interior design at home - When I'm at a land-based hotel, restaurant, store or even in my office at home, I notice these types of things.
It's no different while on vacation.


are you kidding me. sounds as though you spent more time inspecting the ship then enjoying the cruise itself. we just got off the eurodam last week and although a newer ship than the zaandam i can`t remember spending a second looking for a burnt out light bulb or a crooked lamp shade. also the same people praising your overly critical review would normally blast any other poster and most of them would say exactly what i am asking and that is when did you find time to not work and enjoy the vacation!!!!!


Brian does not deserve to be flamed. Some people are like seagulls: they swoop in, take a dump, and fly away. That does not describe Brian. He has a track record, and those who follow the HAL board know how well disposed he is to the cruise line and its ships. That's what gives him his credibility. I for one am grateful for the benefit of his discriminating eye.

Brian,
Truly appreciate your review for more than one reason.
And if the 3 or 4 Flamers had spent any time reading these boards, they would know that your word is not to be taken lightly !
I too am a very (sometimes overly) observant person.
And, once one thing catches my eye, everything associated just pops out.
This is without even trying to look for things.
And I am not even in your field where this would be a professional advantage.
I guess some people are naturally observers and others just naturally oblivious.
You made it UBER clear that these defects did not interfere with you and your group's enjoyment of your vacation.
Each and every comment was in the vein of "constructive criticism".
Which, if I were running any business much less a cruise line, I would be over joyed to receive the feedback.
The one thing I can still remember from Business 101 a gazillion years ago is that "the most valuable customer is one that will take their time to offer you advice"
And, if HAL should listen to anyone, you'd be at the top of their list.
Since HAL does not employ "secret shoppers" or undercover quality control (due to wanting to sell the space), you have actually provided them with an incredibly valuable service.
To me it is incomprehensible how many "routine maintenance" items were blatantly ignored during a 2 week dry dock.
These dry docks really cost the company serious money and one would think they would take fullest advantage of them (the carpeting, chairs, painting, etc.) while so many of your items could (should) be taken care of under way.
PLEASE keep us posted of any response you get from HAL corporate (which I assume has been forwarded a copy).
Thank you again,
Reuel