Thursday, June 26, 2008

The Holland America Zuiderdam - Cruise Ship Review

The Zuiderdam is a series of mid-size ships in Vista class of ships in the Holland America Line. Built in 2002 this was the first of the Vista class of ships. The four vessels in the Vista Class of ships are all representations of the four directions: Zuiderdam (south), Noordam( north), Oosterdam(east) and Westerdam (west). The differences between the Holland America Line vessels and those of other cruise lines is the unsurpassed service and luxury. I truly believe that one must experience this level of comfort at least once in a vacationing lifetime.

When boarding this Holland America Line vessel, the first thing that you will notice is the attention to detail in the decor of the ship. The Zuiderdam's atrium features a Waterford Crystal Seahorse which sets the mood for exquisite pieces of art to be seen throughout this elegant ship. At midship, each side features outdoor elevators which allows you a beautiful view of the ocean while you are in the elevator.

But the true beauty of this ship is its crew. Staff are attentive and polite, more so than on any other ship I have been on. The almost one staff member per two passengers ratio on board ship is the highest of the major cruise lines and it shows. If you require assistance, then assistance will be there. For me, the real elegant touch were the rolled cotton towels in the washrooms, instead of paper towels.

Having a gross tonnage of only 85,000, classifies this ship as a mid-size ship, but it is certainly big on elegance, service and class.

Read also:

Cruising Down Under With Royal Caribbean Cruises
Jewel of the Sea - Luxury Cruise Ships of Royal Caribbean
Luxury Ships Of Holland America

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Monday, May 19, 2008

Luxury Ships Of Holland America

This is one cruise where you get what you pay for. If your luxury cruise will extend to the Greek Isles or the Eastern or Western Mediterranean or Alaska, then this is the ship to be on. You are catered to by an ever present concierge to take care of your every need.

Service is unsurpassable because of the ratio of crew members (one for every two passengers). Each one seems to know what you want even before you ask for it. They cater to your every desire, (there but not intrusive). Relax in the Greenhouse Spa for an experience you will never forget.

Treatments range from exquisite massages, facials, detox wraps and a full service salon (watch for special when in port). If you're not into shore excursions visit the on board Signature Shops for quality prices and a great selection of jewelry, fragrances, cosmetic and souvenirs.

Dining
Main Dining Room: This elegant two tiered dining room with its panoramic view of the ocean replicates any fine grand hotel in Europe with its innovative design. Master chefs will prepare regional specialties, enjoy aged beef, dishes of veal, pork or lamb or freshly prepared seafood and of course fresh baked breads and pastries served with wines from a list to match that of anywhere in the world.

Do not miss the Captains Gala Dinner Party or the Chef's Dinner or Baked Alaska night.

The Lido Café: A daily spread of fresh baked breads and carving stations, complimentary home made ice cream and a 24 hour buffet no tie or jacket required

Pinnacle Grill: Best for grilled seafood, steaks and chops

Terrace: serves burgers and pizzas

Accommodations
Of course your suite has a balcony (with panoramic views) you are and always will get what you pay for on a Holland America Cruise.

They have long been noted for their five star dining, inviting gracious service, premium comfort, luxurious suites that have 25% more space with fresh cut flowers a plush robe, flat screen TV's, DVD's, CD's and a veranda to sit and watch the sunset over the ocean.

So go ahead and live the Life of Your Dream.

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