First off, we chose this ship because it docks in Hamilton. Having stayed on the island several years ago for a week and cruising there three other times, the Veendam was the obvious choice. However, choosing this ship meant it would require us to fly to catch the ship and we did. If the ship going out of Baltimore had docked in Hamilton, we would have chosen it. We could have driven to Baltimore and not gone through the hassle and added expense of flying.
While boarding, the ship and staff made a good impression as one would expect. However, that impression soon changed when I began comparing it to my previous experiences on Celebrity, RCCL, Princess, Carnival and Norwegian. I generally give everyone the benefit of the doubt, but with this sailing being my 27th cruise, I gave up by day three. Not bragging, but I don't want anyone to think this was my first cruise.
On day one, we took a tour of the gym, sauna and steam room areas as we do on every cruise. The facilities were limited due to the size of the ship which would be expected. However, this ship required you to pay extra for use of the steam room. Really?? Unless this is a "new thing" implemented since last Halloween, no other cruise ship I've sailed on imposes a charge to use the steam room. I've always had unlimited use of all three areas with no additional charge. Needless to say, we did not pay nor use their precious facilities.
Clean, well maintained cabin.
We expected a cruise ship terminal, instead it was an open warehouse with folding chairs. Very surprising in a negative way.
Perfect location for a cruise ship to dock! Easy access to shops, eating, ferry terminal and bus terminal.