Is Holland American and the Volendam "for us"?

[Bluewake]

Although we've been on 30+ cruises, none have been on Holland America.  In the past few years, we've primarily sailed on NCL, Celebrity, and MSC.  We are looking at a 14-nt Caribbean cruise on Volendam because of the extraordinary itinerary but the size of the ship (about 60K tons) is preventing us from going forward with the booking.  It would be the smallest ship on which we've sailed since an early 1990s cruise on RCCL Nordic Prince and memories of that tiny vessel bouncing up and down on the way to/from Bermuda still haunt us!   In fact, we didn't cruise again for about a decade.  For us, the itinerary is the main reason for booking a cruise.  Shipboard activities aren't very important to us...we have little interest in floating water parks, production shows, casinos, game shows, or hairy leg contests. We do appreciate speakers, stopping by the onboard stores, listening to music, and maybe a meal in a specialty restaurant.   With that said, we'd really appreciate learning how others who have sailed on Volendam as well as on larger ships on HA or other lines compare those experiences.  Did you find Volendam to be "too small"?   Was there an appreciable difference in the scope of services and amenities between HA and those other lines?  Was there a discernible feeling of movement of the Volendam?   Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.

 

 

[Andi Land]

I really love HALs small ships and was not impressed with the larger Pinnacle class the first time I sailed one. Now, I really love the Pinnacle class too. I’m back on a small ship in August (Zaandam) for the first time since 2018.  So, it’ll be interesting to compare and contrast. I’ve looked at the itinerary you are considering and it looks fantastic. I’d book it. The ship has a great space to passenger ratio and the rooms are generously sized compared to the bigger ships. That 14 day itinerary is port intensive so I think the ship is truly the means of travel and not the destination.  

[Mary229]

For those that have never sailed HAL and plan to sail the Volendam I would ask “where are you going?”    I like the smaller ships but they do come with fewer amenities.  

[dawei]

We sailed on the Volendam (first time) for 2-1/2 months in Jan., 2020 ( around South America and Antarctica), and had no problem with the size of the ship or motion issues. We found it comfortable, with a nice library, and didn't mind its somewhat limited entertainment/ dining venues compared with HAL's larger ships. Like Andi Land's impression, HAL's remaining smaller ships do have larger cabins than the 3 Pinnacle class ships. Early this year, we sailed on the Rotterdam for the first time and couldn't believe how small the cabin was on this newest Pinnacle class ship. We later learned that most every feature we like was tucked into that small cabin, so not as large an issue as first impression.

Like you, we have no interest in the floating water park style of ship, so HAL should suit you there. A very favorite ship of ours (and of lots of others) was the Prinsendam, smaller than the Volendam. For us, one of HAL's very top features is its wonderful crew members, people who really care about providing great service.

I can't offer comparisons with the other lines you have sailed on, since we've been cruising on HAL for awhile, only going to Carnival a few times for our kids, years ago.

 

David

[cowmilker]

We were also on Volendam for the Grand South America 2020 trip.

It's fine.  We've sailed on Koningsdam and liked it, but we liked Volendam too.  No particular motion issues and we sailed through some of the most treacherous water on earth.

I wouldn't put my foot on an MSC ship if it was free.  I still can't decide if my aversion is due to a pure hatred of MSC or if we just abhor those mega ships (specifically the Meraviglia).

All those bells and whistles are useless if the available public space is so crammed with human beings you can barely move.

Honestly, I can't say enough nice stuff about HAL.  Our other cruise experience (apart from the Cruise From Hell on MSC) has been with Norwegian on the Star. We liked that too, but we're not interested in NCL's big ships.

[Torquer]

@BluewakeI would be more concerned if/when Volendam will actually be sailing again.  If you have not already, you should read other posts on this topic.  Search for Volendam on the HAL forum and you will find several posts like this one since she began housing refugees since May.

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2864532-volendam-status-wuzzup

 

[Florida_gal_50]

17 minutes ago, Torquer said:

@BluewakeI would be more concerned if/when Volendam will actually be sailing again.  If you have not already, you should read other posts on this topic.  Search for Volendam on the HAL forum and you will find several posts like this one since she began housing refugees since May.

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2864532-volendam-status-wuzzup

 

Absolutely, that’s a larger issue for sure.

[Bluewake]

I really appreciate all of your respective thoughts.  If the Volendam can go around Cape Horn and not be bouncing too much, I think that addresses my concerns about the size and stability of the ship.  The cruise I was looking at is in April 2023.  Reading the thread about the contract to house Ukrainian refugees does raise questions as to whether Volendam will be back in service at that time although the letter from the HAL President does appear to offer some assurances. Perhaps another ship will replace the Volendam on that itinerary.  

 

 

 

[Florida_gal_50]

16 minutes ago, Bluewake said:

I really appreciate all of your respective thoughts.  If the Volendam can go around Cape Horn and not be bouncing too much, I think that addresses my concerns about the size and stability of the ship.  The cruise I was looking at is in April 2023.  Reading the thread about the contract to house Ukrainian refugees does raise questions as to whether Volendam will be back in service at that time although the letter from the HAL President does appear to offer some assurances. Perhaps another ship will replace the Volendam on that itinerary.  

 

 

 

What is he going to say?  Go ahead and book but that cruise will never see the light of day.  Job one is to make money and keep shareholders happy.  Sad but true.  I do think there  is a possibility of a ship switch.

[Tbay]

5 hours ago, cowmilker said:

We were also on Volendam for the Grand South America 2020 trip.

 

6 hours ago, dawei said:

We sailed on the Volendam (first time) for 2-1/2 months in Jan., 2020 ( around South America and Antarctica),

We are booked on the GSA 2023.  Did you have the yellow fever vaccination? If not, did you have any trouble? Thanks

[sergel02]

1 hour ago, Bluewake said:

I really appreciate all of your respective thoughts.  If the Volendam can go around Cape Horn and not be bouncing too much, I think that addresses my concerns about the size and stability of the ship.  The cruise I was looking at is in April 2023.  Reading the thread about the contract to house Ukrainian refugees does raise questions as to whether Volendam will be back in service at that time although the letter from the HAL President does appear to offer some assurances. Perhaps another ship will replace the Volendam on that itinerary.  

 

 

 

 

1 hour ago, Florida_gal_50 said:

What is he going to say?  Go ahead and book but that cruise will never see the light of day.  Job one is to make money and keep shareholders happy.  Sad but true.  I do think there  is a possibility of a ship switch.

I was reading this article the ship is going back to passenger sailings, so I’m a bit confused why the possibility of an April 2023 sailing seems unlikely.

https://www.cruisehive.com/holland-america-confirms-ship-will-return-to-service/76102

[Florida_gal_50]

9 hours ago, sergel02 said:

 

I was reading this article the ship is going back to passenger sailings, so I’m a bit confused why the possibility of an April 2023 sailing seems unlikely.

https://www.cruisehive.com/holland-america-confirms-ship-will-return-to-service/76102

No reason to be confused. The proof will be if it happens. 

[LocoLoco1]

Maybe go with the KONINGDAM or newer. Volendam is getting a bit ‘mature’

[dawei]

Tbay-- For our GSA in 2020, we did not have Yellow Fever vaccinations, but we had letters of exemption from our primary care stating that this vacc. was not medically recommended for us. She wrote the medical exemption letters because there can be issues with this particular vacc. with elderly folks.

Meanwhile, we had no trouble related to this issue of Yellow Fever vacc. during the entire cruise. Can't recall if the subject even came up during pre-embarkation.

[Tbay]

Thank you so much dawei.  This is what we plan to do. Our doctor said he would not get it himself. And is willing to write us an exemption letter. But when I read what regulations are in place for certain countries I got nervous. So thank you for your experience. We are looking forward to this cruise and have our fingers crossed that it isn’t cancelled. 

[sergel02]

4 hours ago, Florida_gal_50 said:

No reason to be confused. The proof will be if it happens. 

That could said for any cruise, that’s why I’m confused why you’re saying “that cruise will never see the light of day.” if the ship is back in regular service. 

[kazu]

2 hours ago, LocoLoco1 said:

Maybe go with the KONINGDAM or newer. Volendam is getting a bit ‘mature’

 

I am kind of smiling at this.  Our favourite ship was the oldest ship in the fleet.

 

our first cruise on the Prinsendam I approached with much trepidation knowing how old she was (much older than the Volendam).  Turned out to be our favourite ship in the fleet with the best itineraries offered.

 

We sailed on her whenever we could and were saddened when she left the fleet.  Wonderful crew - wonderful service and IMO that ship upped the game compared to many of the others.

 

The Volendam, like the Prinsendam won’t have all the bells and whistles of the newer ships.  If you want bells and whistles you won’t find them on this ship.

 

What you might find instead is an incredible itinerary, great crew and a good time.  By the way, we went around Cape Horn on the old Rotterdam (same class of ship) and weren’t bounced around - enjoyed that sailing very much.  Keep in mind Cape Horn is also subject to King Neptune but the smaller ships can have more maneuverability than the larger ships - but that’s just my experience.

 

whatever you decide, have a great cruise! 

[Florida_gal_50]

13 minutes ago, sergel02 said:

That could said for any cruise, that’s why I’m confused why you’re saying “that cruise will never see the light of day.” if the ship is back in regular service. 

IF the ship is back in service, meaning it has paying passengers, I could definitely see it happening. That’s not what I said.  My point is,  I believe it will still be housing refugees,  and that’s why I believe it will not see the light of day.  I would take little faith in what is being said.  I’ve worked for publicly traded companies most of my career and I find executives tend to bend the truth more often than not, to serve a purpose, not just for giggles. Hal just finished a celebration sale to celebrate ALL their ships being back in service.  The volendam is not in “service” so that speaks volumes to me.  Like I’ve said before, I’m not afraid to admit I’m wrong but only time will tell.

[Hlitner]

20 hours ago, cowmilker said:

We were also on Volendam for the Grand South America 2020 trip.

It's fine.  We've sailed on Koningsdam and liked it, but we liked Volendam too.  No particular motion issues and we sailed through some of the most treacherous water on earth.

I wouldn't put my foot on an MSC ship if it was free.  I still can't decide if my aversion is due to a pure hatred of MSC or if we just abhor those mega ships (specifically the Meraviglia).

All those bells and whistles are useless if the available public space is so crammed with human beings you can barely move.

Honestly, I can't say enough nice stuff about HAL.  Our other cruise experience (apart from the Cruise From Hell on MSC) has been with Norwegian on the Star. We liked that too, but we're not interested in NCL's big ships.

Interesting comment about MSC :).  We are 5 * Mariners and have also cruised a few times on MSC,  We describe our MSC experience as being on two separate and distinct cruise lines while on the same ship.  There is the Yacht Club (which is the only way we will cruise on MSC) and everything outside the YC.  To us, the YC is one of the best values in all of cruising and blows away HAL in terms of service and facilities.  It is truly a ship within a ship with its own restaurant, modest outdoor buffet, expansive lounge with a snack buffet, and pool deck with plenty of loungers (but not enough shade).  But once you go outside the YC (separated from the rest of the ship by electronically activated doors) it is like being on Carnival or RCI.  Deck chairs are packed like sardines and venues can be crowded.  But outside the YC you also have numerous entertainment options.  Consider that while HAL has zero production shows on MSC you will have a major production show every night!  You will also be able to choose from multiple live music venues all evening long.  Want Country you will likely find it, want smooth jazz it will be somewhere, rock.,,,no problem.  In the private YC lounge (with a beautiful bow view) there will usually be some kind of classical duo every evening.   

 

When friends ask us about MSC we tell them to only consider the Yacht Club and not to be sucked-in by the much lower prices outside of the YC.

 

Speaking of the Yacht Club, consider that a normal YC Suite (which is more like a deluxe balcony cabin) comes with tons of amenities including the private part of the ship, private restaurant, private pool deck, private lounge, unlimited high speed Internet, unlimited drinks, butler, 24 hour room service, etc.  There is nothing comparable on HAL.  I guess some would say that Celebrity's Retreat suites have much of the same amenities (although not contained in one section of the ship) as does NCLs Haven Suites.

 

So we now look at HAL and their suite program.  Think of all the wonderful amenities we get with a Signature Suite!  Hmmm.  Nothing!

 

Hank

[Navybikermom]

54 minutes ago, kazu said:

 

I am kind of smiling at this.  Our favourite ship was the oldest ship in the fleet.

 

our first cruise on the Prinsendam I approached with much trepidation knowing how old she was (much older than the Volendam).  Turned out to be our favourite ship in the fleet with the best itineraries offered.

 

We sailed on her whenever we could and were saddened when she left the fleet.  Wonderful crew - wonderful service and IMO that ship upped the game compared to many of the others.

 

The Volendam, like the Prinsendam won’t have all the bells and whistles of the newer ships.  If you want bells and whistles you won’t find them on this ship.

 

What you might find instead is an incredible itinerary, great crew and a good time.  By the way, we went around Cape Horn on the old Rotterdam (same class of ship) and weren’t bounced around - enjoyed that sailing very much.  Keep in mind Cape Horn is also subject to King Neptune but the smaller ships can have more maneuverability than the larger ships - but that’s just my experience.

 

whatever you decide, have a great cruise! 

I agree! Prinsendam was my favorite, so now since she’s gone, the Zaandam is now my favorite. I have two cruises coming up on Zaandam and am really looking forward to it. I haven’t been on the Pinnacle ships, and the only reason I would want to is to experience the Dutch Cafe. I’ll stick with the little guys for now…

[Mary229]

2 hours ago, Navybikermom said:

reason I would want to is to experience the Dutch Cafe. I’ll stick with the little guys for now…

Some of the Dutch cafe specialties might be showing up on other ships.  Some of the cookies were available on the Zaandam 

[Navybikermom]

33 minutes ago, Mary229 said:

Some of the Dutch cafe specialties might be showing up on other ships.  Some of the cookies were available on the Zaandam 

Hopefully they have the almond cookies! 

[cowmilker]

19 hours ago, Tbay said:

Did you have the yellow fever vaccination?

Yes. We are old.  We did it anyway.  We went to a travel clinic and consulted a physician.  She explained all the risks involved.  She did NOT try to talk us into it or out of it.  She just gave us the facts.  Took us about three seconds to decide.

Our reasoning was that the risk is extremely small, we aren't getting any younger, and what if we want to travel to another yellow fever prone place in the future. The risk from contracting yellow fever is really dire (it's very often fatal).

We had no, repeat, no side effects from the vaccination at all. Not even a sore arm.  And we never have to have it again.

It was also very expensive.

[cowmilker]

3 hours ago, Hlitner said:

on MSC you will have a major production show every night!

Sounds great.  BUT you have to make a reservation to attend, and when we did, they were seating people on the steps in the aisles.  We left after the first ten minutes or so and had to fight our way out.  The situation wasn't even safe.

Go to the buffet.  You can't imagine what an awful place that is. Hordes of people pushing and shoving to get to the food.  They put out a platter of french fries and they were gone in a matter of seconds.  A ten minute or longer wait for another platter, also gone in seconds.

And I watched the wait staff clear tables and use the dirty napkins to wipe the table down.  Literally.  Never any further cleaning.  We abandoned the buffet for that reason alone.

The only experience we had on that ship that was even slightly pleasant was dinner each night.

To give you an idea of how bad it was, we docked in Marseille during the trip for the day. We'd already been there, so we literally got off the ship, went to the terminal, paid for internet access for several hours and hung out in the terminal just to be off the ship. 

It was a 7 day trip and after the first couple of days, the only time we left our room was to leave the ship in the morning, without coming back until the last minute and then to go to dinner.  We considered jumping ship and just taking a train back to Civitavecchia (where we were booked on a TA on NCL), and finally opted to just tough it out.

I am not typically a picky person. I don't complain about much.  I read a lot of the comments on CC and get a serious case of eye roll because we're generally just happy to be traveling. We are happy as clams in an inside cabin.  But that cruise was really bad.

BTW, I am not going to pay extra to be in some isolated part of a huge ship when I can simply pay the regular fare with a different line and have a much better experience at much less cost.  MSC was NOT cheaper than HAL.  It was about the same price.

I know you think it's wonderful -- I've seen you comment about it before, but our experience was just horrible, and it wasn't just us.  Our tablemates at dinner felt the same.

I am open to the idea that perhaps it was simply that we don't like mega ships, and that we wouldn't like ANY of them, regardless of the cruise line.  I'll never know because I'll never, ever do either one again (MSC or a mega ship).

[Tbay]

@cowmilkerThank you for your input.  Not sure that we would do any other cruise we would need the vaccination for.