Which one would you choose?

[dfoote]

Ok needing some help form you experienced HAL cruisers ;) We are planning an Alaskan Cruise in June and are trying to decide between the Oosterdam and the Golden Princess. Have olny cruised with RCL and Carnival (Carnival i will never do again!!!). Just trying to figure out which one will be best....I have only been on older slightly smaller ships so i am a bit "scared" of the Golden Princess...yet I have some hesitations about Hal being for an older crowd...we are in out mid 30's not into the party scene but do like some action. Any help would be appreciated!!

[jtl513]

I suggest you read this thread: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=523636

:)

[dfoote]

Thanks for the information...although I am even more confused now :(

[tompeter]

I think action is a relative word when talking about Alaska no matter what ship yoou are on as it attracts an older clientele. That being said you will love Alaska, it is incredible.

In regards to the ship question, we have done Grand Princess (Golden sister) and done the Zuiderdam (O sister). Our choice in ship design and overall service is HAL. Not by a large margin but better.

No matter what you choose you will enjoy Alaska. Good Luck.

Tom

[RuthC]

I'm one of those "the ship is the destination" people who just as soon stay up all night playing. Even I think the ports are important when in Alaska, and you need to call it a night relatively early so you can be up and at 'em when you dock.
Don't want to miss a minute in The Great Land.

Alaska in June is also one of those multi-generational cruises. Children, parents, grandparents, in all sorts of combinations are likely to be aboard.

The Oosterdam is plenty large enough to give you a nice selection of activities while not making you feel lost in a very large crowd.
Go and have a great time!

[dfoote]

Thanks Tom and Ruth....I know that Alaska will attract an older crowd no mater what, so I think from what I have heard I will stick with HAL. I guess I got a little scared as I looked at the daily newsletter that said what's going on for the day and HAL didn't seem to have much happening. But a cruise is what you make of it and now that I think of it we are in port all but one day so I am sure we will be plenty busy! Again thanks!!!!