Westerdam or Zuiderdam..help?

[cruisejunkie]

I am in charge of selecting a cruise for several couples. Most are first time cruisers (this will be my 20th 2 on HAL). Which one would you seasoned Mariners suggest? I loved the Volendam but thought the Veedam was a little worn. Thanks for you help.

[krewzin]

What are the ports and/or itineraries?

[jimbug]

On ship alone, I would go for the Westerdam, simply because it is newer, has a more appealing color scheme, and gets better reviews overall. That said, the Z is certainly not a bad ship, and I will be on her in 3 weeks! First and foremost, I would choose based on itinerary and price because the ships are sisters and are more or less the same. Have fun!

[cruisejunkie]

Prices are the same. Westerdam leaves on a Sunday. Grand Turk, Tortola, St Maarten, Half Moon Bay. Z leaves on a Saturday. Grand Turk, Tortola, St. Thomas, Half Moon Bay.

[FlorenceItaly]

in December 2005, in fact, but I agree with Jimbug, I would choose the Westerdam. We had a fabulous time on the Zuiderdam, near perfect cruise, but the Westerdam is getting fantastic reviews lately. Rocks did a b2b, 1st week Zuiderdam, 2nd week Westerdam, so perhaps she'll see your post and give her feedback. My vote is for the Westerdam :).

 

Marie

[jimbug]

Okay, so you are more or less choosing St. Thomas or St. Maarten, as far as itinerary goes. Not having been to either, I can't really help you there...but I do know that they both offer a ton of family-friendly activities. I don't think you could go wrong either way.

[Krazy Kruizers]

We loved the Westerdam better than the Zuiderdam.

[cruisejunkie]

Thanks for your help. We are sick of St. Thomas and have only been to St Maarten once, so I guess we are leaning toward the Westerdam.

[satchiesmom]

I can't say anything about the Zuiderdam as far as cruising on her, but I did do a ship inspection last Sept. and the decor was a bit much for me. Having just gotten off of the Westerdam on Jan 29th, I can say that I think she's a great ship as did all 5 of the others in our group. Our expectations were exceeded in every way possible, and we have booked another cruise on her for next Jan. Good luck with your choice.

 

Susan

[capnjoe]

well you all have me even more excited about my upcomming Westerdam trip! If she is half as nice as the old W im sure I will be thrilled:D