idalia

HAL website lists gratuity for non-suite guests as $16 (see below). This is in US dollars. Since OP is from Canada...FYI, pre-paid crew appreciation for my upcoming trip came out to $145.60 (CAD) pp for a 7 day cruise (non-suite). https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/faq.html > Under 'Shipboard Life' Crew Appreciation is a daily (adjustable) amount added to your onboard account and pooled in order to recognize the many team members throughout our fleet who contribute to the guest experience. The daily Crew Appreciation charge is $16.00 per guest per day for non-suite stateroom guests and $17.50 per guest per day for suite guests. The charges are subject to change without notice. The Crew Appreciation charge is paid to Holland America Line team members and represents an important part of their compensation. An 18% service charge is automatically applied to all beverage purchases, bar retail items, specialty restaurant cover charges, all for-purchase a la carte menu items, and all Spa & Salon services. Local sales taxes are applied where required.

According to this recently updated 'Our Ship at a Glance', Kids Club is available on all ships. https://www.hollandamerica.com/content/dam/hal/inventory-assets/ships/at-a-glance/hal-ships-at-a-glance-04-03-2023.pdf The legend/fine print says: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard

No, you are not dreaming. 😊 https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2905016-new-tvs-on-zaandam-they’re-here/

The mini-fridge would also take up the only outlet available in the room. Cruise Critic - Zaandam - Cabin Review Notably, inside and outside cabins do not have mini-fridges, though all other cabins do; ask for ice if you need anything chilled. You can rent a mini-fridge for $2 per day, but it will be stored under the desk, take up the lone outlet and might not be as cold as you'd need for medication or baby's milk.

I will be going on my first HAL cruise at the end of April. When I look at the Navigator app under itinerary, it is currently showing 'Smart Casual' for all 7 nights. Does this means no gala attire at all (which I would be totally cool with), or if there is any likelihood that this will change before or at the time of sailing? This is on Zaandam, if that matters. Thanks!