Noordam Review 3/10 to 3/21 Part One

[Trail46]

These boards helped me so much, the least I can do is give a review. Hope it is helpful to others.
First Hal cruise, only fourth overall on three different lines – Cunard, Radisson (now Regent) and Celebrity. We voted HAL number one in passengers – low key, thoughtful, very pleasant, intelligent and polite, well-behaved children. Also # 1 in disembarkation, daily program listing and daily news digest.
We were in the penthouse (a big birthday for both of us) but that’s got limited appeal so if anyone wants to know something specific about it, I’ll be happy to answer a question.
If you’re looking for complaints, read no further. Problems were so minor they don’t need to be mentioned.
SHIP
Thought it was quite beautiful. Was expecting something glitzier and was happily surprised that it was not. Loved the full teak promenade deck lined with teak deck chairs (three laps = one mile). Some posters had mentioned the casino allowed smoking – not on this cruise. Many lovely areas.
DEMOGRAPHICS
As many strollers as wheel chairs. All ages represented.
DRESS
Some gowns, especially on younger women. Three formals, no informals, rest casual The maitre’d explained that HAL feels people were confused by the term informal, when what the line really meant was semi-formal. However, they need to tell their office people that informal has been eliminated already. Several instances of improperly dressed people being turned away on Formal nights. We were happy about that. About 20 -25% tuxes, most of the rest suits and ties. Definitions as stated in daily program: “Formal is suit and tie, tuxedoes suggested. Casual is no shorts, tank tops, swimwear or workout attire.”
FOOD
Loved all bakery products and desserts. We had croissant sandwiches for lunch each day and brought them to our balcony to eat. Delicious!
ENTERTAINMENT
Enjoyed all the musical productions, especially costumes, staging and choreography. Agree with a previous poster that Antonin Scalci was excellent. Check out John Lucerno in the Crows Nest for piano music each evening.
NEPTUNE LOUNGE
If you’re fortunate enough to be in a suite, you are invited to two cocktail parties and one luncheon. We missed the first one, but the second, held in the Explorer’s Lounge, was very nice. If you’d rather have mixed drinks, walk past the wine and champagne trays and you can order a drink of your choice at the end of the room. Don’t miss the luncheon on the last day in the Crow’s Nest – food from the Pinnacle Grill, piano music, open bar.
Coffee machine is great.
MORE TO COME………….

[middle-aged mom]

Thank you; I patiently await the rest of your excellent review! I'm going to be on the Noordam in June; so this is my lucky day:)

[bankerbabe]

Thank you for taking the time to post your review. It's nice to have some fresh reviews, since we are leaving in 20 days!

[seasideny]

Can you tell us what was the best part of the penthouse? We've been trying to decide if it's worth the extra money. We can see that it would be better in terms of space inside and on the balcony - but how much better than our SA?

thanks

[Trail46]

Here’s what we loved about the penthouse:

Fabulous balcony – we spent an hour or two every day on the whirlpool on the deck – can easily fit two
Sound system throughout the room including the balcony – if you bring your own CD’s – heavenly!
Full contingent of Waterford glass (service for twelve) and china for 12. We didn’t know anyone so didn’t get to use them for a cocktail party or dinner, but if you’re traveling with a group or meet new friends – great!
You can open the drapes from your bed without getting up - great for arrivals at islands
Two TV’s, one in living room area, one in bedroom
Living room can seat eight, table has a leaf to seat eight, eight can sit on balcony
There’s a small kitchen – not mentioned in literature – with toaster, convection oven, large refrigerator, etc.
Great storage, including bathroom
Beautiful blonde wood throughout That being said, you have to want the bigger room. The amenities are the same for SA, SB, and SC passengers, although we did take liberties about when we wanted our room cleaned, figuring that with the fortune we were paying, we could!

If we can get our act together, we’ll have photos. You can e-mail me at Trail46@aol.com (Trail46@aol.com) and I’ll send photos.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Thanks for the report.

Aren't PH's great!!!!!???

[seasideny]

Thank you so much - will do. I'm trying to plan a family reunion for my next cruise and the kitchen and dining room sounds perfect.