After a very disappointing cruise on the Carnival Conquest last October it was most refreshing to be on Holland America again. This was my thirty second cruise overall and my fifth with Holland America.
The Tampa Port was good and embarkation was a breeze. We arrived at the pier at 11:00 AM and were having lunch in the Lido by 11:30. The Veendam, though showing her age, was clean and the staff appeared to be happy to see the new guests.
I was traveling with my new bride and an old cruising friend with much cruise experience (27 cruises for him) our cabins were ready by three and the luggage was in the rooms by four PM.