Zuiderdam Review

4.0 / 5.0
1,028 reviews

Fantastic cruise on the Zuiderdam

Review for the Panama Canal & Central America Cruise on Zuiderdam
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pennst8mom
10+ Cruises • Age 70s

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Sail Date: Mar 2011
Cabin: Deluxe Ocean-View Verandah Stateroom

We arrived at the pier around 11:00. It took about an hour to board the ship, and soon we were at the Mariners' luncheon in the Vista dining room. This was great, because we didn't have to find a seat or stand in line in the Lido. We just sat down and were served - a wonderful way to begin our cruise.After lunch, we went to check out our cabin, and our luggage had already arrived. We quickly unpacked. The room felt spacious and had plenty of storage. HAL provides shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap, and a shower cap in the bathroom. Also, there was fresh ice daily. Our room steward, Wulan, and his assistant, Dwi, were happy to supply anything we could ask for. We did order breakfast one morning, and it was delivered on time and exactly as ordered.The ship is very clean and well-cared for. The dining was fantastic. Some of the items we ate: filet mignon, lobster, crab legs, shrimp, fish, chicken, duck, lamb, veal and steaks. Everything we ordered was top of the line and delicious. Our waiter, Denny, and his assistant, Eka, were so kind and considerate. We were very happy dining!We attended all of the shows in the evenings. We felt that all of the talent was top-notch. We also played various games such as trivia and name that tune that were very enjoyable. We also attended the enrichment series offered by Lance. He was very knowledgeable about our ports of call, and provided excellent information about best spots for viewing the Panama Canal.Our first port was Half Moon Cay. The tender service was prompt and fast. We ate at the barbecue and liked it. We spent the day on the beach. What a gorgeous place!Our next stop was Aruba. We did a little shopping there, then took the local bus ($1.30 one way) to Palm Beach. Next was Curacao. We booked our own private tour (off the ship), and our guide gave us a three hour tour of the capital and surrounding countryside. The next stop was Colon, Panama, but before reaching Colon we went through the Gatun locks into Gatun Lake. Going through the locks was a fabulous experience! Colon was considered a "service call" rather than a "port of call." We walked around a little, but didn't venture outside the port area.Our final stop was Puerto Limon, Costa Rica. We booked a private tour with Eduardo, of Your Lucky Tour. We did a six and a half tour in the Veragua Rain Forest. It was super, and the highlight of the cruise.Our cruise was coming to an end. We chose expedited disembarkation and were off the ship by 8:00 AM. This cruise was wonderful! The food, the service and the kindness of the staff have made this a very memorable cruise.

Cabin Review

Deluxe Ocean-View Verandah Stateroom

Cabin VA

We were in cabin 5061, a VF category. My sister was in cabin 5075, a VE category. There did not appear to be any difference at all. The cabin was located mid-ship, and was very quiet at all times. There was a small balcony with 2 chairs and a table.

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