This was our 6th cruise and first experience with Holland America. The Noordam is a lovely ship that caters to a somewhat older clientele. Efficient boarding though the terminal is typical New York. The room (a suite) was above average. Library and Computer center were also above the norm which we enjoyed.
Open dining the first night a fiasco...we requested late seating and spoke to a horde of people who were given open dining instead. Beepers on a cruise ship! No Way! We didn't try for seconds and bought ourselves into the upscale Pinnacle Grill for the remaining 9 nights of the cruise. Lovely and alot more personal contact. Expect to give an extra tip at the end of the cruise...it's worth it!
Food and Wine seminars fun. We took them all (3) with Robert the chef. A certificate of attendance would have been a nice touch.