This cruise on the Noordam was my 22nd cruise and 1st with Holland America. I chose this cruise specifically for the itinerary and for the ship, which was very-well reviewed in two cruise guides. My husband and I are scuba divers and we loved that this cruise would take us to many great diving destinations. I was somewhat concerned that we would be the youngest people on the ship (I am 47 and my husband is 41) and that would be awkward for us. However, my fears were totally unfounded. We had a great time and want to share our experience for others who may be considering this line, this ship or itinerary.

We flew into Ft. Lauderdale the same day that our cruise departed and arrived at the ship around 3:15 pm for a 5:00 pm departure. We flew Jet Blue from Richmond, VA and were very pleased with the airline, the service and the flight itself. When we got to the terminal, it was empty and we sailed through our check-in. We boarded, went to our cabin, freshened up and took a quick stroll before the muster drill. The muster drill went as they all do, no one listening and people refusing to move an inch for passengers trying to fit into their assigned section. After the drill, we went to the Lido Grill to get a snack. We then went to our cabin verandah to watch the ship depart from port and to unpack. We purchased the unlimited laundry package and immediately sent much of our clothing to be pressed. We then went to explore the ship and get our bearings as to where the casino, shopping, dining rooms, etc. were. I liked the understated elegance of the ship. Although some areas did get a little too close to the New Orleans bordello style of decorating that many lines seem to emulate, the Noordam's interior spaces were usually pleasing to the eye and not

garish or overdone. Read more