First time cruisers, will definitely cruise again, though probably not with Holland America. We chose Alaska because if we did not like cruising the scenery and shore excursions would more than compensate. We arrived at Vancouver International Airport, where we were to be met and transported to our Vancouver Hotel (Pan Pacific Canada Place, Excellent hotel, brilliant location) by HAL's local agent. Sadly no one to meet us however, HAL had provided us with a telephone number for their agent. Called the number and were informed someone would be sent straight away to meet us, after 45 minutes recalled agent only to be connected to an answer phone, called again 30 minutes later again only an answerphone. Decided to get a taxi $37.00 very quick and good value.
Embarkation at Vancouver onto the Noordam was both quick and efficient. We had an outside cabin which was roomy, clean, lots of storage with a well equipped bathroom. The balcony was a good size and provided excellent views. The two stewards appointed to our cabin provided us with superb service as did in all the rest of the crew with whom we came into contact. The Noordam appeared to us to be well equipped and maintained. We ate in all four of the restaurants: the Lido(self service) large variety of cuisines through breakfast, lunch & dinner. The Vista (split level formal dining room) a more limited menu though the food was well presented and excellently cooked. The Pinnacle Grill, Noordam's signature restaurant was top class and well worth the additional charge. The Canaletto the Italian themed restaurant was like a fish out of water and just did not work. The menu was limited and the cooking was the poorest we encountered on the ship. I understand on HAL's newest ships the Caneletto has been dropped for an Asian themed restaurant.
The two pools one covered one outdoor were well equipped with supporting hot tubs, the weather, more Californian than Alaskan, probably accounted for more use than normal. The Gym was well equipped offering superb views ahead.
Excellent location at rear of ship, good size with lots of storage, nice bathroom with both a bath and shower. King size bed very comfortable, the veranda was a good size with a table and two chairs