I just got back from a 7 day cruise to Bermuda on Holland America's Veendam and I was very pleasantly surprised by the cruise line. I was worried mostly because several friends told me that the ship was mostly for an older crowd. Not this week - sure plenty of elder folks but also a nice mix of families, young couples, a few college kids, etc.

The main reason I chose this ship was because it visited two parts of the island and it docks in Hamilton. This was an excellent decision! If you read no further, take that as my number one tip. Being able to walk off the ship right into the center of Hamilton was awesome. We rode our scooters out to where the mega-ships docked and there is nothing really out there. You would have to take a ferry to get to Hamilton or St George. They are affordable and efficient, but an added, annoying step in my book.

The on-board experience was good. We got a lanai stateroom cabin and really enjoyed it. Well-appointed room, good sized bathroom and our private access to the deck and our reserved deck chairs was great. Read more