Nieuw Amsterdam Alaska: Opinions?

[alj1208]

We are considering an Alaska cruise (inside passage) on the Nieuw Amsterdam this summer. We are a couple (late 40's) with one child, age 9. Is this a good choice for us?

[kitkat343]

In Alaska during the school year, there will be plenty of children and families. Generally, it is recommended to take a Panamax ship through Glacier bay, which both HAL and Princess offer as options.

 

Have you been on any previous cruises? Can you tell us what your most important aspects of cruising or vacationing are and we'll be able to better advise you.

Edited January 31, 2016 by kitkat343

[phxbne]

We cruised Alaska on HAL Volendam when my daughter was 7. We all loved the excursions - whale watching and dog sledding were the highlights. The rangers who came on board offered some kid-friendly things.

It was our first non-Caribbean cruise, and we enjoyed the excursions much more than days at the beach (we love the beach, but prefer to stay there0

[cb at sea]

Alaskan cruises are all about Alaska...and not so much about the ship! If the ship you choose goes to the things you want to see, that's all that matter! HAL is a good cruise line...you will have a fine time!

[c-cruise]

I can definitely recommend the Nieuw Amsterdam as a great choice for Alaska. One nice thing about HAL ships is they all have a covered pool area so the kids can swim even if (when) the weather is lousy. Their kids club (Club HAL) isn't flashy, but our kids have enjoyed it on many HAL cruises.

 

The Nieuw Amsterdam does the best round trip Alaska itinerary out there. Hits the big 3 ports plus both Glacier Bay and Tracy arm. Better scenery sailing round trip out of Vancouver vs. Seattle as well.