Our 16 night repositioning cruise to Singapore started at Sydney airport where we were transported to the ship by our pre-booked transfer. Boarding was quick and efficient. The VeriFly app which we had been encouraged to use was a bit of a waste of time and not taken seriously by the check-in personnel.

The Westerdam is tastefully decorated with almost no signs of wear and tear. A big bonus is the wrap-around promenade deck which allows a complete circuit of the ship and was very popular. The ship has only a very small central atrium.

Breakfast in the dining room was always good but dinner was disappointing, and no side dishes are offered. It was often closed for lunch. We expected better from HAL. Specialty dining is offered in Canaletto and Pinnacle. Canaletto was excellent, although being located in a sectioned-off area of Lido Buffet gives it the feel of a pop-up restaurant. The food in Pinnacle was also very good but the service was sub standard and very slow. Afternoon tea is a joke with tiny portions and no refills - one time was enough. Room service was fine and delivered in an acceptable time. Read more