HAL Cruise Experience

[cruisethirsty]

The last time I sailed on Holland America was in February, 2019 (Nieuw Statendam) on a 7-night Caribbean cruise. They did not have any cruise staff---only a Cruise Director and an assistant. The result was that there were much fewer activities (especially in the daytime) than I have become used to.

Now I am considering an 18-Night Hawaii cruise on the Koningsdam. Does anyone know what the cruise staff/activities situation is like these days. Since this cruise has so many sea days, I wouldn't take it if there wasn't a more active cruise experience than I had last time.

Any insight from recent HAL cruisers would be greatly appreciated.

 

[LocoLoco1]

Personally, I have seen HAL go from a few to nearly ZERO group activities on long cruises. No crafter/painting classes for the guests, no pool vollyball, no librarian hour, Chocolate nite? Nope. Guest authors, astronomers? Fitness folks. Nope. Cooking? Nope. Myself, I go ashore for activities. Onboard HAL becomes Sun and a Kindle reader for me lately.  Mega-ships for more action maybe?? 

[iceman93]

 I can't speak to a Hawaii cruise in particular, which features lots of sea days in a row.  But on my recent 18-day Nieuw Statendam cruise, my experience regarding cruise activities was similar to what you described from your last HAL cruise.

 

That being said, it was fine for us.  We like trivia, my daughters enjoyed the art classes, and otherwise we were happy to entertain ourselves.  But I suspect you're setting yourself up for disappointment if you book that HAL Hawaii cruise.

[jakers]

I would have to agree with LocoLoco1. Hal Ships are for people who enjoy cruising and sightseeing from the ships. There are no better ships for SEEING Alaska. That being said, Hal ships are like a fancy hotel that you can retreat to after a long day onshore. If you want to stay on the ship and be constantly entertained, they are not for you. 

[rotjeknor]

On our Voyage of the Vikings last July lots of activities other than Trivia and the usual ones : several very good guest lectures, arts classes, Spanish lessons, Bridge instruction etc.

[The-Inside-Cabin]

My blog has copies of the daily programs from our 35 day cruise earlier this year and my current cruise.   You can read them and judge fir yourself.  
 

 

[Mary229]

It depends on the itinerary.  On their grand voyage series they have lots of programming.  On other shorter voyages there is little programming.  On my last Caribbean voyage with HAL it was simply like any other mass market cruise in that is was a fun and sun sailing.  There may be better options for the Caribbean if you are looking for the resort experience with lots of shows.  

[highscar]

I will be on my forth circle Hawaii cruise in January.   Each previous adventure had Hawaiian themed activities every day.   Hawian dance lessons,  lei making, ukulele lessons with instruments supplied and 

you take to your cabin to practice.  Followed by a voluntary performance in the main stage.    Fun fun fun. 

[Gail & Marty sailing away]

You will have a great time. It is a fun ship. And a great crew.

We are on the Rotterdam now for 90 days . And all is good.

Food, service, entertainment, cleanliness. 

[The-Inside-Cabin]

4 hours ago, The-Inside-Cabin said:

My blog has copies of the daily programs from our 35 day cruise earlier this year and my current cruise.   You can read them and judge fir yourself.  
 

 

Here is the current cruise information and daily programs

 

[cat shepard]

I did the Circle Hawaii cruise in October 2019. The Hawaiian ambassadors were on board until Honolulu. They hosted numerous activities on the days leading up to our arrival in Hawaii. 
 

But the activities on the return trip were pretty scarce. Not sure if HAL listened to our feedback, but if they did - perhaps you will have more activities from which to choose. 
 

But the trip is amazing. The Islands are just gorgeous. 

[cruisethirsty]

Thanks to all who answered. I believe that I received enough confirmations of my concerns. Looks like if I want to sail round-trip to Hawaii that I'll have to go with Princess.