Which dam ship?

[robntawn]

We would like to take a Caribbean cruise in 2006. Which ship would be the best for an active couple in their late 30's/early 40's?

As far as itinerary, I'm open to suggestions. The Eastern route looks nice for shopping, but the Western route would be nice for scuba diving (Cozumel, Grand Cayman Island)

Finally, what time of year is best? I was looking at April, but am unsure regarding hurricane season and temperature.

[jhannah]

Just remember that HAL is pulling out of the Caribbean this summer. The Zuiderdam is moving to Alaska for the season. I think you would like the Zuiderdam. It's one of their larger vista class ships and you'll probably find it a little more "lively" than the typical Holland America vessel. Good luck!

[wwinfl91]

We really like the HAL's Maasdam/Veendam/Ryndam class of ships. They are a great size for easily learning your way around the ship and yet have plenty of room and things to do. By April you are well out of Hurricane season. It runs from June through early Fall.

We have done both the western and eastern as well as the southern routes. All offer different things to do and see. Actually the southern routes that go to Aruba, Bonaire, Barbados and often includes Grand Cayman might be a good one to look at.

Have a great next cruise.

[Himself]

All the dam ships are pretty darn good. Try the OOSTERDAM or WESTERDAM and see if you like the Vista Class ship

Himself

[Knox]

JHannah,
The Zuiderdam is remaining in the Caribbean this summer. I show iterneraries alternating between the east and the west in 2005. However, I do not see any Caribbean cruises scheduled in Summer 2006.

[Oceanwench]

I hear there's going to be a real rowdy bunch on the Westerdam on the
10/29/06 sailing.

[KAJOKG]

You are safe from hurricanes in April. Hurricane season in the south and in the Caribbean is officially June through November. The riskiest time of year to plan a Carib. cruise would be from August through mid October. That said, there have been some pretty bad storms in the Carib. as early as June. Last year four Category 4 hurricanes struck the Caribbean and Florida in September.

[robntawn]

Thanks for everyone's input. We have decided to join the group cruise on 1029/06 for an Eastern Caribbean itinerary. Hopefully we can get 5186/5187 Aft S!

[shuttle-c]

Usually by the end of October you are pretty well through Hurricane problems. We live in Florida and book cruises in late October or November. I wouldn't go from August - mid October unless you don't care if your ports of call get changed.

[willowoodf]

We have Cabin 5187 booked on the Westerdam for December 3, 2005! This is our first cruise and we are very excited!!!