We took the 11-day South Caribbean Wayfarer Cruise on Holland America Noordam from November 5 to 16. This was our second cruise on Holland America, and we love the vista-class ships. Not too small, but not so big that you lose the "personal touch" from the ship staff.

We chose this cruise because we wanted to go to Barbados and because, like the Zuiderdam, the Noordam has the hydropool and thermal suite, which we feel is the best kept secret in cruising. No crowded hottub outside, just a large hot pool mostly to yourself, because most people don't know it's there and don't pay for it. Very relaxing!! We did the online pre-boarding, so embarqation went smoothly and quickly.

Although we don't need it, our travel agent ended up getting us into a handicapped varandah room instead of the regular verandah. This gave us a slightly larger room and a HUGE verandah that angled toward the front of the ship as well as running straight down the side of the ship. Ronald and Danang, the room stewards were fantastic and friendly, greeting us by name the first time they saw us. Read more