Zaandam Review
Really enjoyed the land/sea cruise that was very well organized by HAL
Rating by category
Additional details
We had already done the inside passage but knew we wanted to do the Alaska land portion as well. We really lucked out with the weather - we may have felt differently about our experience if the weather had been bad. As it was we had some beautiful sunshine on the land portion and only one really rainy day in port at Ketchikan.
The organization of the land portion of the cruise was very well done and the experience was great. Onboard the Zaandam was good too. Have to admit we like HAL - not everyone's favourite but suits us well. The cooking and computer workshops are worthwhile attending. Food very good as was the entertainment. We chose a window cabin this time as the balcony a bit more than we could afford. Weren't really keen on being on deck one but it was absolutely fine - accept for a bit of an odour in the hallway which I hope they deal with. Found the movement of the ship on this deck especially aft very limited. Felt more motion on the upper decks on previous trips.
Cabin Review
Large Ocean-View Stateroom
We liked this cabin. More closet space than a balcony cabin we've hade in the past. However lighting could be much improved also the outlets - only one to charge devices which is pretty poor. The smell that seemed to always be in the hallway did seep into our cabin one night which was disconcerting but we never had to mention it to the staff as it dissipated. First time in a window cabin but really didn't mind it and very little motion or noise for us anyway. Found it a good location to move around the ship too. Elevators to restaurant just around the corner - only thing you had to remember is if you want anything on the 4th deck, walk to the elevators in the centre of the ship and use them. It was just that easy
Port Reviews
Glacier Bay
Always nice to visit the glaciers - standard for all the ships in this region
Haines
We liked this town and it was good weather. Took the free shuttle around the town. Stopped at their lovely library to use the internet. Tried to take a hike a little bit up from the port but as there were just the two of us, gave it away fairly soon as evidence of bears and the hike in of 1.7 miles didn't have anyone else visible so turned around. Would have done it had there been others around and sure the viewpoint would have been good. One kind lady driving by before we got to the trailhead, offered us a ride there which was very thoughtful but we wanted to walk.
Juneau
Have been here before and done the glacier excursion so just took the tramride up to Mount Roberts then walked on up to the cross for view which were good. Also did the free shuttle around town and again they have a great library here where we used the internet.
Ketchikan
It rained - again! Same as last time we were here. Walked around the town especially the old part but didn't stay off the ship very long.