I was on the 9-day Zaandam cruise from Ft. Lauderdale to Montreal, and just read all the interesting comments. First, it was good to be back on the Zaandam, and I thoroughly enjoyed the cruise. Next, to add a few things that have not been mentioned: (1) The Lifeboat Drill has been modified. We are to check in with a person at a certain time at your assigned lifeboat station. Then, watch the instructions on the TV in your cabin. (I think it is channel 26) Supposedly, the TV is locked and will NOT show any other channels until you watch the instructions. Outlets - I saw only one outlet in the cabin, other than the outlet for hairdryers in the bathroom). Thus, you either have the TV plugged in OR you use the outlet for chargers. I could NOT find any music stations on the TV during that cruise. They may be added later. Excursions Tickets - They are no more. You find your ticket on the Navigator (Wallet) or show the Tour Guide your room key before boarding the bus. No Newspapers. I missed them a lot. No Final paper bill on leaving the ship. It is on the Navigator. (My cabin was an ocean-view on the main deck - midship). The cabin had a new shower put in, although I saw tubs in other cabins towards the front of the ship. The one Fitness Manager is James Mason - with the same name as the popular movie actor. I was in the gym each night. He is excellent, and I noticed he devoted a lot of time talking with passengers on a one-to-one basis. The Awards Program - Sadly, I was not aware, nor invited to the awards program. I am well in the 5-star category, sans a gold medallion. Maybe on the next cruise in November. (I don't know why I am constantly overlooked) Towel Animals - They were mainly extinct, which is okay. However, one was there the "last night" of the cruise.
I was very glad to see a number of familiar crew members, especially Ian. He walks with a limp but gave "EXCELLENT" presentations on "The History of Holland America", and "Highlights of Canada". The auditorium was packed each time. The presentations were excellent and informative. The Lido - I ate all my meals in the Lido, and enjoyed "most" meals, including the famous bread pudding. Again, I thoroughly enjoyed the cruise. Captain Smit, and his assistants did an excellent job. That was my 47th cruise with Holland America. It is good to be back. Now, to look forward to the 11-day cruise on the new Rotterdam to the Caribbean this November.