We wanted a change from the usual cruise ports. Also was hoping to see the leaves change color. We have sailed on a Holland America ship before (Noordam) so I knew what to expect. I was sorely disappointed in the Veendam. Even though it supposedly have been refurbished in 2014 it looked worn. Numbers on the elevators were worn off. Also a change of carpet in the photo gallery was in progress during the voyage. I don't know it that would have affected anyone due to glue.

In addition the staff at dinner needs further training. One evening we ate at the buffet for dinner and requested that our wine be delivered there. The next night it could not be found in the main dining room. To their credit I was given 2 glasses of wine while they looked for it. My bottle did not show up until the last night. It had not been returned to the main dining room. Also the lobster evening- the waiter asked if I'd like drawn butter with the tail. I replied in the affirmative, but it never showed up The last night I was served my tea with desert but without sugar or cream. I ended up going to another table and was in the process of asking to borrow theirs when the waiter came with it.

The staff was nice and accommodating as far as other areas are concerned. Read more