Zuiderdam Review

Another Really Good Cruise!

Review for the Panama Canal & Central America Cruise on Zuiderdam
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6-10 Cruises • Age 60s

Rating by category

Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
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Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service

Additional details

Sail Date: Apr 2016
Cabin: Signature Superior Verandah Suite

For our background we are in the late 50s/early 60s age category and this is our third HAL cruise with four cruises on another line. We like the peaceful nature of 10 day sailings, the teak wood promenade, and the superior service.

Embarkation was pleasant. It was organized and a smooth transition. We were onboard and lunching in the Lido by noon and rooms were ready shortly thereafter. The condition of the ship is obvious, as others have reported. We both agreed that the service that we receive will be more important. However, repairs on the ship were performed on the entire journey and we were subjected to banging, blow torches, and chemical fumes. Work was being performed on the promenade and kept us from using it often. The air conditioning in the public rooms varied. Bring extra sweaters, Ladies! There was also a ceiling water leak in the Queen's Lounge. It is a small, personal venue and with a band like the BB King Blues performing, (it was standing room only!) and one booth was unusable.

We had a Signature Suite on the Upper Verandah deck which was fantastic! It was the largest cabin we ever had and loved it. We ate in both Canaletto and the Pinnacle Grill both were great. Unfortunately we were never able to access the Digital Workshop as the room was filled every time we attempted. We did not attend the production shows but the guest entertainers, a magician, comedian, and Latino electric harpist were very good. The highlight of entertainment, for our opinion, was the BB King Blues All-Star Band. Each musician and the two singers rocked the Queen’s Lounge. Very talented and so entertaining. I must also mention Anika, our pianist and vocalist. She performed a concert under the stars which was so refreshing! It was a beautiful night and she has a beautiful voice.

Cabin Review

Signature Superior Verandah Suite

Cabin SS

Great cabin! It was the largest cabin we ever purchased. Well cared for by Wibi and Fendy.

Port Reviews

Puerto Limon

Unless you are taking an excursion, be careful.

Colon (Cristobal)

Great tour through HAL. Informative, scenic, and relaxing!

Curacao

Excellent tour and great value. It was just what we were looking for!

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

Fort Lauderdale will always be my first choice for departures.

Half Moon Cay

This beach needs more cleaning! Its a nice location and the barbecue was good. It was our second visit and I found it dirty.

Aruba

Shopping! and more Shopping!

17 Helpful Votes
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