Alaska Trip - Zaandam Room Preference ?

[May07]

Hi-
I planning a cruise to Alaska next year on the ms Zaandam and was wondering if there is any room preference for the (port/left) side or (starboard/right) side for the southbound run. (Starting from Alaska going to Vancouver.) Are the sunrises better than sunsets? Are the rooms too hot cold depending on the sun position. Are there better veiws on one side vs. the other?

Also, are the room window views obstructed on the Promenade deck (e.g. C3320 to C3373)? Is privacy a problem?

Thanks

[Bill S]

May07: If you have booked the same cruise (May 9, 2007) or same itinerary as we have, beacause it is a round-trip cruise, in theory you will get potentially decent views half of the time.

We have booked a Cat C guarantee and IIRC, all Cat C cabins have unobstructed views. The cabins on that deck with obstructed views have a different category designation, once again, IIRC. Bear in mind that your window/view could be/may be obstructed by fellow guests trying to get a good view, or merely walking by. In the day time, it is very difficult for anyone to see inside your cabin from the outside-the windows are heavily tinted and reflectorized. To see inside, some one would have to put their face right up against the window. At night time, it is very different story, however. At night the window is no different than a normal window-curtains are mandatory for privacy.

At least with a Cat C, it is easy to get outside and look around. I prefer going up to the Crow's Nest for really good viewing or outside out by pool area.

Hope this helps! Are you on the May 9 Zaandam sailing?

[robntawn]

I would highly recommend room 7086 or 7083.

[May07]

Hi -

Thanks for the input. I was looking at the Land Tour/Cruise on the 27th. The entire tour is 11 days starting in Alaska. The cruise part is 4 days at the end and is southbound ending in Vancouver. So room side may be important in this case - as it wouldn't be in a round trip as you pointed out.