My wife and I just got back from a seven day one way Alaskan cruise from Seward to Vancouver via the Inside Passage on Holland America Lines' Statendam. We have sailed on three previous ships: NCL Sky, Carnival Celebrity, and RCCL Rhapsody of the Seas. This was perhaps the best overall cruise. Although the dining room service could not match the over-the-top service on the Rhapsody, it was still very good and not a distraction. The food in the main dining room and Lido deck was very good, but not exceptional. The alternative dining in the upscale Pinnacle Grill was fabulous. We had pre appetizers (3 varieties of sushi rolls) and pre desert (various truffles) compliments of the house. The steaks and lamb chops were excellent.

The rooms on the Statendam are large in comparison to the other ships we have sailed on. We had a tub in addition to the usual shower. Closet space was the most we have seen.

The spa is operated by the Steiner group who does all the other ships we've been on. However, we used the spa more than we have in the past and really enjoyed it. I received an aromatherapy massage and a well-being massage. Both were very relaxing. I also got a hair cut and it was expertly done. My wife got a Pedi-cure, an aromatherapy massage, and a stone massage. She swears the stone massage was unbelievably great and says everyone must try it. Read more