My husband and I have cruised before but not with Holland America. We were kinda apprehensive to book this cruise because everything we read about Holland America was that it was geared for the 60+ age range. That was all but true. We are in our 20's and we had things to keep us busy all the time. If it was a daily trivia competition or a show after dinner we were always busy. Holland America is really trying to work on not being dubbed with the 60+ age group only. We left from Seattle, WA and embarkation was a breeze. We arrived around 11:30 and was on the ship 15 mins later. Tip- Make sure you register online before to arrive.

The Noordam is a beautiful boat with contemporary art along all the open areas and walls. The boat had many bars and intimate places to be alone or mingle with other guests. The Observation deck was the place to be since we were in Alaska. That was the only place on the boat that I ever felt crowded. I guess that is to be expected when 1500+ people want to see the same thing you want to see. The Crow's Nest, one of the many bars, is also a great place to see the scenery if you do not want to venture outside. Make sure to check out the glass elevators (mid-ship) on either side of the ship they are a great way to see scenery while making your way up to wherever you are going. Onto the food- The food on Lido Deck was great overall but at times was the same-old-same-old. My husband tells me it is because I do not branch out!! Make sure to check out the Omelet Bar and the Sandwich Bar ( they are located at the same station). The guys got to know me there by the end of the week! My husband LOVED the sushi bar as he had sushi on a daily basis. It is hard to find a window seat as people tend to get there early that morning and enjoy reading their book instead of moving and letting someone else enjoy the scenery. That is my only complaint.

The Dining Room food was tasty and displayed very well. I wish that there had been more variety on some nights but overall good. Make sure that you try the chef's selections as they tend to be the best! The service in the dining room was lacking from our previous cruise. The servers seemed hurried. I believe that could be fixed by adding additional staff. Read more