We choose the Prinsendam as we had sailed on Holland America before and we wanted a relaxing vacation combined with interesting ports. This itinerary was scheduled to visit nine interesting Caribbean ports. Additionally, this cruise sailed on December 22, 2010 and returned on January 5, 2011, which allowed us to spend both Christmas and New Years on the cruise!

Boarding the ship was fast and within a few minutes we were onboard. The ship is small by todays standards and even though it is an older ship it is for the most part well maintained. Holland America is consistently updating the ship and during our cruise window coverings were changed. The contractors informed us that carpets were scheduled to be replaced as well. The ship is the perfect size and is not a giant ship like some of the others we have sailed on. The Prinsendam carries about 800 passengers which allowed us to get to know other people on the cruise, something that does not happen on the giant ships.

The staff is for the most part hard working and really attempt to please the passengers. The staff in the Lido dining area are always helpful and strive to make every breakfast just perfect for each passenger. The room stewards are excellent and strive to get the rooms cleaned up in rapid manner and are always smiling and friendly. The front office staff are helpful, especially John who went out of his way to assist us. Read more