Considering 4/21/05 Maasdam E. Caribbean from Norfolk...a few questions

[Bookish Angel]

When is a good time to purchase this cruise? Will prices go down? We live in Richmond so we don't need airfare or paid transportation to the port.

What's a good, quiet cabin location with a balcony? Neither hubby or I have ever gotten seasick on a cruise so part of ship wher cabin is located is not critical.

My husband and I are 39 and 44 respectively. We don't party or shop. We prefer self-guided walking tours, museums and other historical sites and quiet beaches on which to read a book and take a dip. Any suggestions?

Does the Maasdam have a good salad bar and/or veggie entrees other than the ubiquitous "Tofu Surprise?" Is the pool large enough for swimming laps? Not a big concern but I love to swim.

What should the weather be like in the E. Caribbean in latter April? Very humid? I have only been to Bermuda and that was hot in June, but still wonderful - was wondering if the weather might be similar in April.

Are there any cultural activities onboard this cruise such as language classes, local art or history lectures, etc?


Thanks to anyone who has some tips! Happy Cruising!!!

Bookish Angel

[RuthC]

The best time to book is as soon as you decide you want to take this cruise. It is then that you have the widest choice of cabins. If the price goes down before final payment your TA should be able to get it for you. (You will probably need to keep track yourself, "then reach out and touch" when the price drops.) If the price drops more than 10% after final payment you are also entitled to the decrease.

Haven't sailed the Maasdam (yet! next July!), but have sailed her 3 sisters: the Lido pool and aft pool are each long enough to swim laps, but not long enough to get breathless doing so.

If you plan to book a specific cabin I suggest you study the deck plans above and below your cabin choice just to be sure you won't be disturbed by anything in the public areas (e.g. casino, music from lounges, etc.).

There will be a salad bar in the Lido at lunchtime. It's good enough.
There is a vegetarian menu for dinner, if that's what you're asking about.

I hope this helps a bit. I'm sure others can answer some of your other questions.
Have a great cruise!

[Krazy Kruizers]

There will not be any cultural activities on board. No language classes, history or local art lectures on board either.

Have sailed on the Maasdam several times. The salad bar doesn't change much from day to day - but it is adequate.

The temperatures for the Caribbean in April are great - not much - if any - humidity.

We pick a suite as far forward as possible so as not to be disturbed by the chairs and tables being moved around the Lido pool.

Don't wait too long to to book as the majority of the good cabins go fast.