Questions about HAL MS Westerdam- Alaska Cruise

[jhs205]

Going to book a verandah cabin on MS Westerdam RT from Seattle on an August 2014 sailing. Just wondering which side of ship is best (Port or Starboard) or doesn't it really matter? This will be our first time cruising on HAL and first time to Alaska. Any tips, comments, suggestions, advice, etc. most welcome! Four of us traveling together - all in early 60s. Thanks!

[CruiserBruce]

The side of the ship doesn't really matter. The scenery is 360 degrees, and you aren't locked in your cabin.

[RuthC]

If your cabin is on the side of the ship, what you miss on the way up, you'll see on the way back. If you have a stern cabin, then you get an expansive view when seated near the railing.

The best views are from an outside public deck, though, so plan to spend at least some time outside.

As for tips: bring gloves! Pack them in your jacket pockets when you are packing your suitcase. That way you'll have them handy when you need them (and you will need them ;)).

[NoobCruise]

I highly recommend booking aft facing on the very back of the ship. Then you can see both sides at once and you get the same views as the bow but in reverse. You'll also be protected from the icy cold wind on the sides of the ship. And watching the wake churn up behind you is very relaxing.

[Krazy Kruizers]

We have done this Westerdam Alaskan cruise a couple of times.

Now -- this is not ground in stone - but our captains kept the port side of the ship facing the glaciers the longest time.