This cruise was a repositioning of the Statendam from Asia back to Alaska for the upcoming season. It began in Osaka/Kobe, ended in Vancouver and immediately departed to Alaska on its subsequent voyage. We selected the cruise because of the diverse ports offered and to give HAL a "sea trial". We're not veteran cruisers and, having been on Royal Olympic (now defunct), Oceania, Crystal, and "X", are trying to discover our favorites. In summary, we were pleasantly surprised by the experience and will sail HAL again.

I had some pre-cruise questions, and polled Cruise Critic in an attempt to clarify two issues so as to avoid potential disappointments or problems. The members were helpful with their information. The issues:

1. AYWD: We prefer open seating, chose this in favor of fixed seating, and were pleased at how well it has been implemented. The burden of open seating fell upon the capable shoulders of Robert, the Maitre d'. This billet has to be one of the most difficult on the ship but he handled it with great skill and grace. We just walked down each evening after the early show (along with everyone else exiting the show) and were seated with charming and interesting folks within two minutes. Robert knows how to pair people and it will be difficult to replace him when he gets promoted. Read more