HAL to Alaska?

[MaryEllen1952]

Anyone have comments on HAL cruises to Alaska?

[Krazy Kruizers]

We did the Ryndam 3 times in Alaska - love the smaller ship.

[fllcruiser]

I did Amsterdam roundtrip from Seattle two years ago and loved it, so I booked another Alaska cruise on Hollands Ryndam in June, Vancouver to Seward.

[jcrandle]

We did the Statendam in 2003, and loved it, although DD was 21 and asked never to be booked on HA again, as she had few other youngsters to hang out with. As long as the older crowd (combination of HA and Alaska) doesn't concern you, I think you'll have a great time.

[RuthC]

Been to Alaska three times---twice on HAL. Once I did a HAL land tour before the cruise, and once I toured on my own for a week after the cruise. Excellent!

I'm planning to go again next year with my (will-be then) 15 year old grandgirl.
Looking forward to the round-trip from Vancouver very much.

[Budget Queen]

Just an excellent line for their round trip Vancouver and one way with Seward. Round trip Seattle is lacking for too much outside passage sailing. But overall- excellent deck viewing space and good service.

[tiffnco]

LOVED our trip on the Zaandam two years ago...and we're in our 30's. Never thought the crowd was too old...

The one thing I loved was the access to the bow. That was the best place to view Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm...I know several other lines don't provide that type of access.

Would go again in a heartbeat!

[dakrewser]

WEW loved Alaska on the Nieuw Amsterdam a few years ago when we sailed from Vancouver to Seward then drove to Talkeetna. Pics and diary are here (http://vquill.com/gallery/Diary.html).

[kruzkeen]

Just an excellent line for their round trip Vancouver and one way with Seward. Round trip Seattle is lacking for too much outside passage sailing. But overall- excellent deck viewing space and good service.
I agree with Budget Queen. The scenery and route from Vancouver is better than the one out of Seattle. More views of mountains, trees and little islands etc. Whatever you do try to get a cruise that visits Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm if possible.

It may cost a little more to fly into Vancouver. Vancouver and Victoria are beautiful cities, so try to have a few days there before or after the cruise. I think that the CAD$ is still a bargain.

[Bill S]

Alaska is great, probably on any cruise line, but we have been twice, both on HAL, both inside passage out of Vancouver. We like it so much that we are going a third time, in May, on the Oosterdam from Seattle. We know it will not be the same as the inside passage, but that is OK, since we have done that already. GO! ENJOY ALASKA! TRY HAL! :)

[cruznon]

Dave,
Thank you for the photos. I'm trying to convince DH that an Alaskan cruise would be great....He's a warm-weather type of guy and doesn't think ANYTHING associated with snow and ice (except in a cold drink) could be fun. I'm making headway and these pictures might do the trick. :)

[dakrewser]

Dave,
Thank you for the photos. I'm trying to convince DH that an Alaskan cruise would be great....He's a warm-weather type of guy and doesn't think ANYTHING associated with snow and ice (except in a cold drink) could be fun. I'm making headway and these pictures might do the trick. :)

Those pix are from July when it was warmer in Anchorage & Juneau (didn't check in other ports) than it was in San Francisco on that same day. The only time I wore anything over my short-sleeved shirt was on formal night in the DR and in Valdez where it was raining!

[RobnBarb]

Just an excellent line for their round trip Vancouver and one way with Seward. Round trip Seattle is lacking for too much outside passage sailing. But overall- excellent deck viewing space and good service.

DW and I are considering the Seattle trip. First time to Alaska, first time on Hal. We loved balconies in the warm weather cruises. What is the though on balconies on the Alaskan trips? Are they worth it or is it better to be up on deck anyway?
Also which side of the ship is it better to be on?

[Without Tessa]

We are going to Alaska in May on the Zaandam and were told that we HAVE to get a balcony (we were anyway because we had a balcony last time and it's too hard to go back!).
Also, we are booked on the right side of the ship as I heard that this is better for viewing from our balcony. Some have said that they try and turn the ship when viewing glaciers so everyone can see, but I have also heard that you clearly get more viewing opportunities on the starboard side.

[Huckelberry cruiser]

The first cruise we every took was on the Volendam " inside passage " two years ago. We had picked an outside cabin guaranty , turns out we had a view of the Promanade deck AND DIDN'T KNOW FOR THREE DAYS PEOPLE COULD SEE IN OUR CABIN !!!!!:eek: . :) :p :rolleyes: . IT WAS OUR SECOND HONEYMOON:cool: . Anyway. I/we have never had a better experience in our life on vacation. The ship was wonderful and the scenery was always breathtaking. It sold us on HAL eversince. We recommend that you find some sort of shore excursion in Skagway. We decided to explore on our own and didn't find much. The highlight was the shish kabobs being sold for a volunteer fire department fundraiser. (They really were awesome!)

[Mary Ellen]

We also agree with Budget Queen that r/t Vancouver is better than r/t Seattle. We've cruised Alaska 4 times with HAL.

The third time was r/t Seattle with my family who live there. It was to be a 'one time only' trip - they went because they were basically tired of hearing me telling them they should go. We cruised in August and ended on a Saturday, as soon as the TA opened the next week, we were ALL booked for the next May as the 'parental units' (father & step-mom) couldn't wait to go again. They even brought another of my half-sisters the second time. Step-mom is claustrophobic (she doesnn't do well on drives over half an hour)and even agreed to the drive to/from Vancouver for the better scenery.

My half-sisters (one did both was 30/31, the other was 26 when she cruised) LOVED the cruise. I had warned them not to expect a lot of people their ages (and there weren't) but they weren't looking to meet people, they just wanted to have a good time - which they did.

We're back to Alaska on the Volendam in May for #5. This time with friends, not family.

[CruiseDreamer28]

We cruised the Oosterdam r/t from Seattle last May and loved it! The weather was decent (about the same as Seattle) so even though I tried to convice my hubby to go somewhere warmer I was very happy that we chose Alaska. I didn't really expect it to be as nice (weather-wise) as it was. We had an inside cabin so we made use of the ample deck space to enjoy the breath-taking views and didn't feel cheated at all by that although I'm sure we would have loved a balcony. We spent a lot of time in the Crow's Nest, it's wonderful! The Captain "paced" the glaciers so I believe both sides of the ship got equal viewing time. As far as the ages of the other passengers, I think WAY too much time is spent on that topic! We're 34 and were not bothered, nor did we pay very much attention in fact, to the ages of the other passengers. I can safely say that there were a number of passengers both older and younger and not once did either of us trip over a scooter!

If you choose Alaska you will never regret it!

[Budget Queen]

We are going to Alaska in May on the Zaandam and were told that we HAVE to get a balcony (we were anyway because we had a balcony last time and it's too hard to go back!).
Also, we are booked on the right side of the ship as I heard that this is better for viewing from our balcony. Some have said that they try and turn the ship when viewing glaciers so everyone can see, but I have also heard that you clearly get more viewing opportunities on the starboard side.


Sorry to disagree- but way superior for glacier viewing is the front full deck. Side viewing has cut your sights by at least half. On deck you can have a constant view. :) So consider out on deck at least part of your glacier sailing day. :)

[Mary Ellen]

Sorry to disagree- but way superior for glacier viewing is the front full deck. Side viewing has cut your sights by at least half. On deck you can have a constant view. :) So consider out on deck at least part of your glacier sailing day. :) Once again ITA with Budget Queen. Our last two times we had balconies - due to needing to be near claustrophobic step-mom, who required outside access. I can honestly say that I don't think we watched the glaciers for even a minute - on both trips combined from a balcony. Viewing is MUCH better from up on deck and/or the Crow's Nest. This next time we've booked a regular outside cabin - quite a change from the 'S' suite last time.

[dakrewser]

Sorry to disagree- but way superior for glacier viewing is the front full deck. Side viewing has cut your sights by at least half. On deck you can have a constant view. :) So consider out on deck at least part of your glacier sailing day. :)

And I'll disagree with you. Standing on the foredeck with a few hundred (or more) pushing, shoving passengers is not my idea of "great" viewing. Sitting on the verandah with either a cold drink or a warm cup of coffee is far better. It also means you aren't constantly eyeing the glacier (which isn't moving all that fast) but spend time watching the shoreline - a great opportunity for wildlife viewing.

[Mary Ellen]

One of things we like about HAL for Alaska is the open deck space. What with the Sky deck, Sports deck, Lido deck, bow area, area in front of the gym AND the wrap around Promanade. I don't think we're ever had anyone standing next to us while viewing out on deck - let alone "a few hundred (or more) pushing, shoving passengers". Some other lines that sail Alaska have very little open deck space and I can imagine crowding the rail happening on them, but we've never seen it on 4 times we've sailed. Last time we had an 'S' suite and used the balcony very little, usually in the early am or late in the day.

[c-cruise]

Personally would never sail to Alaska (or anywhere else) without a balcony. I am not a big fan of cold weather so I really enjoy the convenience of being able to duck back into my room and warm up for a few minutes before heading back out on my deck. It is also convenient to have a place to leave your camera, video camera, bincolars etc. and not have to carry them all out onto the promenade or some other public deck. Another consideration is that sometimes you arrive at the glacier early in the morning and it is nice to be able to walk out onto your balcony to view the scenery without having to get all ready to go out on deck.

Not to say that it certainly isn't worth it to go out to the sky deck or to the bow, but we always find ourselvs spendind most of our time viewing from our balcony.

[dakrewser]

One of things we like about HAL for Alaska is the open deck space. What with the Sky deck, Sports deck, Lido deck, bow area, area in front of the gym AND the wrap around Promanade. I don't think we're ever had anyone standing next to us while viewing out on deck - let alone "a few hundred (or more) pushing, shoving passengers". Some other lines that sail Alaska have very little open deck space and I can imagine crowding the rail happening on them, but we've never seen it on 4 times we've sailed. Last time we had an 'S' suite and used the balcony very little, usually in the early am or late in the day.


actually, it was the Nieuw Amsterdam I was thinking of. Limited verandahs, so most people were on deck and most of those were on the Promenade deck forward...

[tiffnco]

We had a suite on our Zaandam trip to Alaska and I think I practically lived out there. I had my tripod set at all times and it was great...with the lounge chairs and blankets.

Did venture out to the bow a couple times but it was crowded (Glacier Bay) and it was a pain lugging my camera gear around (I had tripod, lenses, etc...so not just a camera...then it wouldn't be too bad).

While there was no pushing or shoving for deck space...it was crowded and once you found your spot...you didn't move.

Another plus to having the S was we hosted afternoon tea for all our CruiseCritic friends...and had a blast!

[Thoth]

DW and I are considering the Seattle trip. First time to Alaska, first time on Hal. We loved balconies in the warm weather cruises. What is the though on balconies on the Alaskan trips? Are they worth it or is it better to be up on deck anyway?
Also which side of the ship is it better to be on?
I've been to Alaska twice, both on HAL> In 2003 from Vancouver on the Statendam and last year from Seattle on the Oosterdam.
I will disagree with some others and state that I persoanally enjoyed the Seattle roundtrip just as much as Vancouver. And for me at least, Seattle was much easier to get into and out of flying wise. Much better airport experience from my point of view.
I had a balcony last year and an inside room in 2003. My opinion only.....but save your money and go on the public decks which provide a greater panorama. I take many photos and had better shots on public areas.

[MaryEllen1952]

Every posting I have read about going out of Vancouver states that the scenery is much better. And you spend more time on the cruise rather than the extra day on the ship traveling from Vancouver to Seattle.
I've been traveling around the world (not by cruising) so I am very accustomed to airport delays - that is a fact of life if you travel very much. I doubt it any worse in Vancouver than other parts of the world.
I booked a cruise going out of Vancouver.
I still think Vancouver is the best choice especially after reading other peoples' postings on this board. I'd rather be spending the additional hours crusing around the coast rather than being in a Vancouver for a short period and then going to Seattle - I've already done that route via auto.

[TITISSA]

Hi Mary Ellen, I'm thinking of taking the Oosterdam R/T from Seattle in the beginning of August 2006. I have 2 teenagers, 14 & 12, and was told that the Oosterdam is the best HAL ship for teenagers. I am also looking into booking a S Deluxe Verandah Suite so we can fit our family of 4 in one cabin with enough comfort. From your experience, do you think the extra $ is worthy? And what about the ship itself, is it teens oriented? Thanks for any info.

Marnier of the Seas - RCI - Feb. 2004
Carnival Victory - Carnival - July, 2004
Seabourn Pride - Seabourn - Sept. 2004
Disney Wonder - Disney - Dec. 04/05
Star Princess - Princess - Feb. 2005
Jewel of the Seas - RCI - April, 2005
QM2 - Cunard - July, 2005
Norwegian Dawn - NCL - August 2005
Constellation - Celebrity - Feb. 2006

[dakrewser]

I am also looking into booking a S Deluxe Verandah Suite so we can fit our family of 4 in one cabin with enough comfort. From your experience, do you think the extra $ is worthy? And what about the ship itself, is it teens oriented? Thanks for any info.


I wouldn't try to put 4 people (esp. 2 adults, 2 teens) in anything smaller than an "S" especially if you'll be spending any time in the cabin.

No ship I know of is "teen oriented" but the O'dam certainly has activities for teens. This is much less important on an Alaska cruise than most others, though, as even non-port days are filled with sight-seeing and natural wonders...

[kruzkeen]

Also, we are booked on the right side of the ship as I heard that this is better for viewing from our balcony.
The conventional wisdom is that the starboard is the better side for the Inside Passage as there are views of mountains on the coast of British Columbia and Alaska.

I do not think the starboard side is of much advantage sailing from Seattle. As it has been stated before you sail on the west side of Vancouver Island and there is no land view to speak of.

As many posts have stated in Glacier Bay the ship moves around as there are several glaciers to view.

[dakrewser]

The conventional wisdom is that the starboard is the better side for the Inside Passage as there are views of mountains on the coast of British Columbia and Alaska.

Northbound, though, the port side gives you a dazzling view of glorious sunsets, as well as mountainous (well, hilly) islands.

I do not think the starboard side is of much advantage sailing from Seattle. As it has been stated before you sail on the west side of Vancouver Island and there is no land view to speak of.

Well, the island is closer to the ship then Asia :rolleyes:

Of course, this all only applies to a one-way cruise. On a R/T, you get to see both sides....

[TITISSA]

Thanks Dave, I'll go for the "S" Deluxe Suite. Have to wait until May though to book Alaska. Happy Sailing!

[JohnQ]

We sailed on the Statendam for our first trip to Alaska in 2002 and loved the ship, the open decks, the crew and service, as well as the intinerary. We chose the Summit last Sep for same reason, mostly itinerary, something different and ISP, four ports and long port days. After having mechanical trouble all cruise, we lost about 14 hrs of port time and some were at less desirable times, but we still had as much as we did on HAL. I would chose HAL over Celebrity, depending on where they go and time in ports.

[BJane]

We will be taking our 12th Alaskan cruise this July. I am a warm weather person, but I have never been "really cold" up there. We've had inside, outside and balcony cabins over the years. The balcony cabins were okay but I found that the glass doors can be quite cold during the night. Try not to get a bed near them! I did not use the balcony very much. I prefer to be outside for a full view of the scenery as photography is one of my hobbies. We've taken all the itineraries and don't really have a preference. As long as I'm in Alaska I'm happy.

[RobnBarb]

Thoth,

Thanks for your input. With free air to Seattle it sure is tempting.
Having had balconies before, it is hard to go back, but I think I would want to be up top anyway.
Interesting. Either way it beats working. I need a vacation.

[Thoth]

Thoth,

Thanks for your input. With free air to Seattle it sure is tempting.
Having had balconies before, it is hard to go back, but I think I would want to be up top anyway.
Interesting. Either way it beats working. I need a vacation.
A cruise ship does indeed beat having to work! Hopefully I am of some help.
As for balconies are not, that is up to each person's desires. I'm the type who spends virtually all their time outside the cabin.
Good luck!

[englander]

We are going in May also......on 5/21. What kinds of clothing did you take? How are the evening shows in the theater?

[nkpeeps]

Hi Alaska on HAl was our first cruise, and after 12 more is still our favorite. There was always land and something to see outside. The weather was brisk and the glaciers were breathtaking. In our 40s we were some of the youngest people on board, but still had a great time. The entertainment was geared to toward trips down memory lane, but good none the less. After a cruise with the rowdies on Carnival , we realized how good it was

Eric and Nancy