This is our second outing with Holland America, first being the Oosterdam. We were so pleased with our voyage on that ship, we booked another short cruise ( this time on the Noordam )to recreate the last.
Embarkation: After a very quick taxi ride from LAX to Long Beach, we arrived at the Port. The signage was not very good at embarkation, but once we found the proper line for Suite guests, we were whisked through and on the ship in moments.
The Noordam is a beautiful ship! The public spaces are wonderful, with beautiful antiques as well as paintings.The few things that have been changed from the Oosterdam are really nice. The Pinnacle Bar, the exceptional library area and the Culinary Center were welcome additions. The Cabin: Our Deluxe Verandah Suite was very nice ( although with the new ship, they seem slightly smaller in size that the Oosterdam ). All the amenities were there and greatly used; from the DVD player, to the bathtub! Our cabin steward, Ramses, made us always feel at home each day. The Neptune Lounge, which was only feet from our cabin, is always a great reclusive spot to have an afternoon cappuccino and to read or use the internet. The staff, led by Jessica, was wonderful, remembering our names each time that we came in. They were very attentive in making our Pinnacle Grill reservations.