Maasdam vs. New Amsterdam

[lightsleeper]

Have sailed on Princess several times.
trying to finalize decision between Massdam and New Amsterdam
I realize they are different classes, the Maasdam is older and the Amsterdam is a flagship,
What would I be missing if I chose the Maasdam?
If anyone has been on both, would HIGHLY appreciate comarison.

thanks in advance

[Bill S]

It's been a few years since we sailed on the Maasdam and we have sailed twice on the Amsterdam. We enjoyed the Maasdam and would sail on her again, but we liked the Amsterdam more.

The Amsterdam is a bit larger than the Maasdam, but so much so as to make a big difference, However, on the Amsterdam, there is an extra staircase/elevators, amidship that makes transiting her a bit easier. Probably the major difference between the two is the decor. I think the Amsterdam's decor is for lack of a better term, more "stately" or "refined" ---- albeit, decor, like food is a fairly subjective topic. The Amsterdam is a newer ship-she entered service in the fall of 2000, IIRC and has azipods versus a rudder and conventionally driven propellers.

We like both ships but have grown to like the Amsterdam more, again a subjective opinion. Hope this helps!

[jtl513]

We haven't been on the Maasdam, but have been on the Veendam which is essentially identical. We also prefer the Amsterdam, but can't really put a finger on why! :) As Bill S said, the center staircase eases getting from the stern to the center of deck 5 without going all the way to the atrium and back. Maybe it's the decor. We just like the "feel" of it better. Maybe it's just because it was our first HAL ship, which got us hooked! :D

[fann1sh]

Maasdam went into drydock after my 2005 cruise to fix issues which included air conditioning problems. Unfortunately, I'm heard some grumbles that a/c problems are back.
Please note I'm one of those penguins that thinks a/c should be able to cool to 68 Farenheit. YMMV