Just Got Cabin Assignment

[gunnywife]

We booked the Zuiderdam a week ago for the Apr. 30 cruise. Since it was so late we got a guarantee VF veranda. Just got our documents and cabin assignment and we're in the aft section, starboard side on the Navigation Deck.
Since we've never sailed with HA I'd appreciate some input. Is this really considered an upgrade and is it a good part of the ship?

We really are looking forward to our first cruise on HA. Having sailed on RC, Carnival, Princess and Renaissance we'll have a lot to compare it with.

Also, we're still waitlisted for early seating and will have to talk to the dining people when we get aboard ship to see if we can change from late to early. Has this been a problem for any of you? And, last but not least, should we try to get reservations in the specialty restaurant? Is it worth the extra $$?

Since we live in FL we're trying the bus service from our area to the ship. Has anyone had any experiencee with that?

My husband is so anxious to go he already has his stuff out, ready to go into the suitcases. We are looking forward to the trip.

[LMHSRN]

We have used the Cruise Connection about 10 times. If you live in Florida, that is the only way to go. They pick yu up at a central location, handle your luggage on the buss, off the bus to porter. When you return from the porter to the bus and off the bus. They drive you right up to the boarding doors and pick you up at the same place. You even get to see a full lenght movie if your trip is greater than 1 1/2 hours in lenght.

You will enjoy the ride. A chance to relax before you arrive and it is hassle free!

[JDee]

I have been wait listed a few times for early seating and always lucked out. Believe your chances are pretty good for changing. Seems like HAL always holds back a certain amount of those tables.

Most HAL cruisers are happy with Pinnacle & would suggest advance reservations....If you can handle the first night, it's only $10.00 pp, otherwise $20.00 pp. Dress code for Pinnacle is exactly the same for whatever the dress code is that night.....

Happy cruising....

[Ziggy7]

We havent ever been in the aft section but have heard it was enjoyable but has lots of vibrations from the engine. You might want to ask about your cabin for more info on "Cabin Selection Tips" at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=207

[mountainmare]

We were in the aft section on the upper promenade deck on the Oosterdam, 4 decks lower than you. We heard no engine noise and loved the cabin. Yes, I would consider this an upgrade. The big plus is that you are really close to the food in the lido and the pool area ( and after the food you can bop down to the gym)