The selection of the cruise ship is critical because there are many different kinds. If you prefer old school elegance with a minimum of screaming rug rats, Holland America is the absolute best. If you cruise to Bermuda and if you really love Bermuda, the Veendam is the best for two important reasons. Number 1 is that Holland America offers the maximum amount of Bermuda time. The other cruise lines like to keep you and your money on their ship and stretch out the "to" and "from" time. Holland America is the only line that gets you there and back with a total of only 2 full days at sea.

Number 2, they have the only major cruise ships small enough to tie up on Front street in Hamilton. This is the best location for those of us who know Bermuda well. The Dockyards are a great place for the average visitor but some of us prefer to step off the ship and immerse ourselves in the heart of Bermuda. The Veendam also offers a unique variety of cabins. I've been in 2 and loved both of them. One important factor is which side of the ship your cabin is on. For both of my cruises, starboard put you on Front street and port had you looking out into the bay. Both have their own specific appeal but personally I prefer the Front Street side.

The relatively new Lanai cabins are reasonably priced and give you the rare front door and back door to your cabin. Your back door is a sliding glass door to a very nice open deck where you can visit with your neighbors while lounging on your deck furniture or take a nice walk around the ship. On this particular cruise I'm reviewing I sailed in a Neptune Suite. Not cheap but so worth it. This is not a ship for children, the Holland America Veendam is for folks who appreciate teak decks, sophistication and charm. This cruise is for people who want to step off their ship into the heart of Bermuda. As for the tours the line advertises to include in your package price. I advise you deal directly with the locals. My personal choice will always be Arthur Wade. He has a Facebook page Arhur's Bermuda. He can show you a Bermuda you never imagined.