It was unfortunate that hurricane Igor prevented the cruise going to Bermuda but these things happen. At least HAL offered immediate compensation in the form of a $50 per passenger room credit and a 25% credit towards a future HAL cruise. However, there were other aspects of this cruise that were very disappointing. Of the 4 cruises we have taken so far, this was the least enjoyable.
First the good things. The cruise included a stop at St Georges (if we had ever got to Bermuda). That's why we chose HAL. (Most other cruise lines go straight to Hamilton.) The food was of good quality and varied. The entertainers were all first rate - much better than we've seen on previous cruises. And the announcements were much less intrusive and discrete than on some cruises. (Our last cruise on RCL was spoiled by the Cruise Director who seemed to be on the PA every half hour). On the Veendam, there were plenty of quite places to sit and read or rest. Also, there was less of the "sell, sell, sell" than we've experienced previously with RCl and Princess). The captain and cruise director were very visible, approachable and articulate. And, of course, the Philippine and Indonesian staff were friendly and helpful .
On the other hand, despite being refurbished in 2009, the ship is aging. Rust stains are clearly visible in many areas, including around the windows. The windows are generally dirty and the grout and caulking in our bathroom needed serious attention.
Quiet but not a good layout for a cabin with an ocean view. Impossible to sit (or even stand) and look out of the window.
Bathroom tiles grungy.
Lack of space for suitcases.