Our expectations were low for the soon-to-be sold, frequently disrespected Statendam, but this was a very pleasant 15-day sailing through the Panama Canal. We’ve been on a cruise hiatus for six years, seven since our last HAL booking.
We had a concern about possible service lapses and deteriorating conditions on a ship about to be removed from Holland service. The worry was unfounded.
The ship: Recent reviews have cited justifiable flaws. Many, such as shabby linens or worn carpet, seem to have been addressed. To be honest, I found the Statendam to be in about the same shape as her sister, the Maasdam, when we sailed on that ship in 2002.
These outside cabins on deck 6 used to be more expensive than lower cabins, but now it's a good bargain. I'm guessing people were apprehensive about having a window on a promenade deck, but it wasn't a problem. No one can see in during daylight. The curtains are secure at night. There is a good view. It was a convenient location. A few times at night, we heard a loud scraping sound, but it was rare and not a problem. I would now not consider booking oceanview on a lower deck on this class ship..