HAL - Veendam - July 2 2019 - Rome to Venice

New to HAL, we were excited to have this cruise booked because it matched the itinerary we wanted. Have been reading all the negative posts about the problems encountered with this ship but have faith that HAL will live up to its reputation and we won't be disappointed.

We are flying into Rome early for a few days of sight seeing , we won't be able to board until 6PM, how long do you think it will take to get our suite ready ? Will the bars be open so we can have celebratory drink before we sail off ?

New to HAL, we were excited to have this cruise booked because it matched the itinerary we wanted. Have been reading all the negative posts about the problems encountered with this ship but have faith that HAL will live up to its reputation and we won't be disappointed.

We are flying into Rome early for a few days of sight seeing , we won't be able to board until 6PM, how long do you think it will take to get our suite ready ? Will the bars be open so we can have celebratory drink before we sail off ?

I think you need to revise your plans. The Veendam is scheduled to leave port at 6PM :confused::confused::confused: Embarkation usually starts at approximately 11 o'clock or shortly thereafter. Your suite should be ready immediately after boarding and most bars will be open for business; certainly the Lido Bar and the Bar at The Retreat will be open.

I think you need to revise your plans. The Veendam is scheduled to leave port at 6PM :confused::confused::confused: Embarkation usually starts at approximately 11 o'clock or shortly thereafter. Your suite should be ready immediately after boarding and most bars will be open for business; certainly the Lido Bar and the Bar at The Retreat will be open.

Totally agree, except boarding won't start before 11:30...probably a little after. You will need to be on board no later than 4pm.

Oops meant leave a 6PM not board, would not miss this trip so looking forward to it. thanks for your help !

We always like to get to the ship early.

HAL tries to have all cabins ready by 11:30.

Definitely the Ocean Bar, Lido Bar and Sea View Bar will be opened by 11:30.

New to HAL, we were excited to have this cruise booked because it matched the itinerary we wanted. Have been reading all the negative posts about the problems encountered with this ship but have faith that HAL will live up to its reputation and we won't be disappointed.

We are flying into Rome early for a few days of sight seeing , we won't be able to board until 6PM, how long do you think it will take to get our suite ready ? Will the bars be open so we can have celebratory drink before we sail off ?

Joining you with my family on this cruise. We are looking forward to the itinerary! It has been many years since we have been on HAL. We are also staying in Rome 3 nights prior to the cruise and 1 night after in Venice before we return to California.