Is HAL for us????

[sgttami]

First, we are diehard RCI fans (Diamond) but the last few cruises have been less than exciting due to the number of kids on board. Babies, toddlers, tweens and teens seem to have taken over RCI!!! Sorry, but screaming babies at dinner every night turn me off..(last 2 cruises)

 

I'm 53, DH is 46. We're not into rock climbing, ice skating, disco etc.

 

We enjoy the ports and sea days. If we've been to a port numerous times or simply don't care for a port of call, we enjoy the quiet by the pool when everyone has gone ashore. Pool bar is our favorite meeting spot!! We like a nice dinner, (dining room or alternatives...no buffets)) champagne bar, a little bit of casino (or maybe a lot!!). We enjoy room service breakfast a few times depending on the length of cruise and itinerary and we love our balcony for cocktails and gazing into nowhere. Take or leave the production shows, spas, art auctions. We're not night owls...(maybe once or twice on a cruise, but that's it).

 

My friend just came back from her first HAL (another RCI fan) and said that she and DH (56 and 59) are now looking into another HAL because there were only a handful of kids and they loved the whole atmosphere of a pretty much "adult cruise." (They have 5 children and 8 grandchildren so aren't "kid haters!!) We have one son who just got married.

 

My main question: Are there really that many less children on HAL???

 

Looking into the Noordam for sometime in '07...NY and no flying.

 

A milllion questions but figured I'd start here.

 

Have also done NCL Spirit once (hated it) and Celebrity Century once(it was fine)....

 

Also heard that HAL is an older clientele...I don't care as long as they don't scream and cry at dinner!!!

 

Thanks!!!!!!!

[GMoney]

After 35 RCI cruises, I tried HAL earlier this year and sailed on the Noordam. While I am not a huge HAL fan, they definitely do a very nice job, and the Noordam is a beautiful ship. I'd say I'm a fan of ship more than the cruiseline. We had such a great time we're going again for Christmas.

 

I just don't see how you could go wrong!

[Old As Dirt Mom]

 

Looking into the Noordam for sometime in '07...NY and no flying.

 

A milllion questions but figured I'd start here......

 

Thanks!!!!!!!

 

We took a 7-day Alaska cruise this past August on Zaandam, and there were 140 kids on board between the ages of 3-17 (the CLUB HAL age groupings. CLUB HAL is Holland America's program for children/teens).

 

We will be on Amsterdam for two weeks over Christmas/New Year's. As of two weeks ago, there are 71 kids booked on our cruise.

 

So yes, compared to RCI, I would say there are considerably fewer kids on HAL cruises. But HAL does offer a year-round structured kids' program, so they do cater to families, just not on the same scale as RCI. If you really want to make sure the numbers of kids are low, then the usual rule of thumb applies: pick itineraries longer than 7 days if possible, and don't travel during summer, Christmas/New Year's, and spring break times.

 

Guess what? I'm a mother, and I prefer to travel on a cruiseline that has fewer children. It's better for my own children that way!

 

Karin

[RuthC]

If you liked Celebrity then you would like HAL. They're considered fairly comparable.

And listen to Karin: cruises longer than 7 days outside of school breaks will have the fewest number of the little darlin's.

[newmexicoNita]

 

We took a 7-day Alaska cruise this past August on Zaandam, and there were 140 kids on board between the ages of 3-17 (the CLUB HAL age groupings. CLUB HAL is Holland America's program for children/teens).

 

We will be on Amsterdam for two weeks over Christmas/New Year's. As of two weeks ago, there are 71 kids booked on our cruise.

 

So yes, compared to RCI, I would say there are considerably fewer kids on HAL cruises. But HAL does offer a year-round structured kids' program, so they do cater to families, just not on the same scale as RCI. If you really want to make sure the numbers of kids are low, then the usual rule of thumb applies: pick itineraries longer than 7 days if possible, and don't travel during summer, Christmas/New Year's, and spring break times.

 

Guess what? I'm a mother, and I prefer to travel on a cruiseline that has fewer children. It's better for my own children that way!QUOTE]Karin, compared to most lines 140 or ever 240 kids during family holiday time is nothing. NMnita

[newmexicoNita]

 

We took a 7-day Alaska cruise this past August on Zaandam, and there were 140 kids on board between the ages of 3-17 (the CLUB HAL age groupings. CLUB HAL is Holland America's program for children/teens).

 

We will be on Amsterdam for two weeks over Christmas/New Year's. As of two weeks ago, there are 71 kids booked on our cruise.

 

So yes, compared to RCI, I would say there are considerably fewer kids on HAL cruises. But HAL does offer a year-round structured kids' program, so they do cater to families, just not on the same scale as RCI. If you really want to make sure the numbers of kids are low, then the usual rule of thumb applies: pick itineraries longer than 7 days if possible, and don't travel during summer, Christmas/New Year's, and spring break times.

 

Guess what? I'm a mother, and I prefer to travel on a cruiseline that has fewer children. It's better for my own children that way!QUOTE]Karin, compared to most lines 140 or ever 240 kids during family holiday time is nothing. NMnita

[jes2245]

My wife and I just returned from a 10 day cruise on Volendam; great ship, great ports and very few children. We found the crew to be one of the most friendly we have had (21 cruises), ship was mostly spotless and the passengers were our age group or older(or close- 54 and 55) We would go again on this ship in an instant- well worth your checking out.

[sgttami]

Yes, we'd be doing longer than a 7 day...one of the 10/11 day itineraries from NY...actually we're looking at January '07. We never cruise during summer, spring breaks (well, maybe we did once!!) or holiday season.

 

Karin...I know what you mean !! Years ago I took my son out of school to go to Disney. He met a few kids his age, it wasn't crowded and we had a great time.!! 71 kids..that's fine......but 700 or more....UGH!!!!!!!

 

G Money...after 35 RCI cruises I'm sure you have noticed that the amount of children weren't like the "old days"...on my first RCI cruise in '92 I don't think we saw a dozen kids...now, it's overwhelming.

 

RuthC...I liked Celebrity Century..the ship was a year old and it was a 7 day charter that went to St Maarten for 4 days..(when I worked in law enforcement)..wasn't a traditional cruise. More like a "drunk cop at sea cruise!! Fun, absolutely!!! ( I was younger and single then but I do remember there were a lot of things I liked better than RCI)

 

On another note, we're thinking we're ready for a change. Diamond status on RCI is OK but what do you really get???

 

The discounts on suites/balconies is nice but the only coupons we use are internet, free drink, photo and casino. We don't need any more tote bags and picture frames!!! Concierge is usually so crowded, (on Voyager class) that we don't bother...

 

SOOOOOOOOOOO....it just might be HAL for the next trip!!! With being able to drive to the port, it's a definite plus!!

[sgttami]

I guess you were posting while I was but thanks also!!!

 

Another positive.........

 

Thank you!!

[Old As Dirt Mom]

 

Karin, compared to most lines 140 or ever 240 kids during family holiday time is nothing. NMnita

 

Hi Nita:

 

Yes, I know. :) That's why we picked HAL for our family. I have no desire to ever cruise with 500+ kids on a ship, as I've read elsewhere, thank you very much. My daughters got plenty of positive attention and care from the crew and staff of Zaandam, and that would not be the case on a ship with a large percentage of children/teens onboard. IMHO.

 

Karin

 

Sgt. Tami:

 

Best of luck to you in your search.:)

[FIRELT5]

I guess you were posting while I was but thanks also!!!

 

Another positive.........

 

Thank you!!

 

 

Hi Pam

 

Try to use the "Community Appreciation Fair" Promo YC-1 on the Noordam.

We used it to book the 3-10-07 11 nighter on the Noordam r/t out of the City. We saved about 1K with this promotion off the online price with HAL and transfered the booking to our T/A. We sailed with you on the EOS on 10/20, but unfortunately did not meet !!

 

Ken

This is a sample Link, which is not updated !!!

 

http://crm.hollandamerica.com/broadbaseema/HA3129/pdf/2006/9-22-06/15849-FX_Comm_App.pdf

[sgttami]

Yes, unfortunately, we didn't meet after months of chatter on the boards...and since you are a NJ neighbor down the road, felt even worse about that!!

 

We haven't committed to a date yet. I'd rather wait till March and your date sounds better than January. My sister is the one that wants to go after Christmas..Another RCI fan!!!

 

Time will tell....we might meet after all....

 

 

Pam

[FIRELT5]

Yes, unfortunately, we didn't meet after months of chatter on the boards...and since you are a NJ neighbor down the road, felt even worse about that!!

 

We haven't committed to a date yet. I'd rather wait till March and your date sounds better than January. My sister is the one that wants to go after Christmas..Another RCI fan!!!

 

Time will tell....we might meet after all....

 

 

Pam

 

I emailed you the paticulars about the promo !!! it's worth looking into.

 

Better than the $300 Diamond Balcony Discount !!!

[OceanFantasys]

Hi , we just got back from our first HAL cruise and have previously sailed RCI AND Princess.. We loved our cruise on the Westerdam. I only saw 6 kids the whole trip but I am sure there were a few more. The staterooms are much larger than RCI line. Since you like the dining room food and not the buffets, I think you will be very pleased. As for age, I saw all ages. My dh is 55 and I am 50. We felt right at home and everyone was so friendly.. Give HAL a try.. We will definately be sailing with them again. :)

 

Rhonda

[Atomica]

There are indeed fewer kids, and you'll find the ones on there are generally well behaved. Never seen any kids running around in and out of elevators etc. like you hear about so much.

[Davofayvo]

We are trying HAL, basically because our friends booked with Hal for their frist time cruise and talked us into going with them. We are all in our mid 40's and I get the impression that we may be the Kids on the ship.

 

There are many that say Hal and X are very simular, so I will relate that on our Feb. 2002 sailing on Zenith there were less than 20 kids, well behaved and not a problem. On the Milli in Feb. 2003, there were about 200 kids, most were no problem, but about 6, 11 to 12 year olds on this sailing, should have been put ashore at Camp X-Ray:eek:

[xpcdoojk]

First, we are diehard RCI fans (Diamond) but the last few cruises have been less than exciting due to the number of kids on board. Babies, toddlers, tweens and teens seem to have taken over RCI!!! Sorry, but screaming babies at dinner every night turn me off..(last 2 cruises)

 

I'm 53, DH is 46. We're not into rock climbing, ice skating, disco etc.

 

We enjoy the ports and sea days. If we've been to a port numerous times or simply don't care for a port of call, we enjoy the quiet by the pool when everyone has gone ashore. Pool bar is our favorite meeting spot!! We like a nice dinner, (dining room or alternatives...no buffets)) champagne bar, a little bit of casino (or maybe a lot!!). We enjoy room service breakfast a few times depending on the length of cruise and itinerary and we love our balcony for cocktails and gazing into nowhere. Take or leave the production shows, spas, art auctions. We're not night owls...(maybe once or twice on a cruise, but that's it).

 

My friend just came back from her first HAL (another RCI fan) and said that she and DH (56 and 59) are now looking into another HAL because there were only a handful of kids and they loved the whole atmosphere of a pretty much "adult cruise." (They have 5 children and 8 grandchildren so aren't "kid haters!!) We have one son who just got married.

 

My main question: Are there really that many less children on HAL???

 

Looking into the Noordam for sometime in '07...NY and no flying.

 

A milllion questions but figured I'd start here.

 

Have also done NCL Spirit once (hated it) and Celebrity Century once(it was fine)....

 

Also heard that HAL is an older clientele...I don't care as long as they don't scream and cry at dinner!!!

 

Thanks!!!!!!!

 

Welcome to wonderful world of HAL from another RCI sailor!

 

Yes, it sounds as if HAL would be an excellent fit for you and hubby. My DW and I are both 47 about to be 48. We had a wonderful experience on the Rotterdam last year in South America, and I would not hesitate to sail HAL again.

 

As far as kiddies go, I am in complete agreement with you, but that is really problematic. If you sail on any line except the very most expensive lines at a time when kids are out of school and on a short 7 day or less itinerary there are going to be a bunch of kids on board. Now, I think even on their Vista class ships the percentage of kids is a bit less than RCI, but if you cruise at spring break I am afraid there is no escape from the little "darlings". On our 16 day Rotterdam sailing over thanksgiving last fall there was exactly zero children on board. On our 2003 16 day RCI Legend of the Seas sailing over Spring break to New Zealand and Tahiti there were 3 school age children and a handful of pre school infants. So, if you don't want to be on a sailing with a bunch of kids, take long cruises. I do enjoy the extra activities on RCI, for example if I was on a 7 day cruise, I might climb the rock wall one time. I would play mini golf everyday at sea. On HAL we played shuffleboard or Ping Pong or arcade games everyday at sea. It is all good. I just am not a sit by the pool getting hammered sunning myself kind of guy.

 

jc

[vpoopsy]

 

We will be on Amsterdam for two weeks over Christmas/New Year's. As of two weeks ago, there are 71 kids booked on our cruise.

 

 

Karin

How do you find out how many kids are on your cruise?

[Old As Dirt Mom]

How do you find out how many kids are on your cruise?

 

Vpoopsy:

 

You call ship's services at 1-800-541-1576, and ask them to give you the number of children onboard.

[cruzjunkie22]

Howdy...

Me and a friend of mine are looking into HAL as well for next year. I'm 38 and she is early 40's, but we are not party animals. Usually in bed by 11! I have cruised NCL, RCL and Princess. From what I have read on this thread so far, sounds like it could be a good fit.

But she has a ?, do they offer Corona's on HAL? When we did Princess last month, she was sorely disappointed. I'm a wino, so I have no worries. I tried checking their website, but they had no mention of what type of beers are offered.

Thanks for the help!

[djallar]

Howdy...

Me and a friend of mine are looking into HAL as well for next year. I'm 38 and she is early 40's, but we are not party animals. Usually in bed by 11! I have cruised NCL, RCL and Princess. From what I have read on this thread so far, sounds like it could be a good fit.

But she has a ?, do they offer Corona's on HAL? When we did Princess last month, she was sorely disappointed. I'm a wino, so I have no worries. I tried checking their website, but they had no mention of what type of beers are offered.

Thanks for the help!

Yes, The bars have plenty of Coronas, from what I could see. I saw people enjoying Coronas on the Lido Deck, the Casino and the Crow's nest.

[constructiondude]

Hi. I'm cruising on the Oosterdam on a 7 day Mex Riviera the 1st week of January. Kids are supposed to be back in school by this time so I expect fewer children than during the prime holiday period (Christmas through New Years Day). Does that sound like a safe assumption?

 

I got no problem sailing or even dining with children if they behave as well as the handful that were on my last cruise: no running up/down halls, no playing in elevators. They were even dressed up for formal nights.

[cruzjunkie22]

Yes, The bars have plenty of Coronas, from what I could see. I saw people enjoying Coronas on the Lido Deck, the Casino and the Crow's nest.

 

Thanks for the quick response!!!:) :D :)

[dznygrl]

I posted this elsewhere, but it seems to fit this thread better!

 

"This will only be our 2nd cruise together, we have done caribbean/mexican/hawaiian resorts in the past. We really wanted an adult oriented cruiseline that wasn't too snooty or old fogey (or unaffordable!). So far it seems that HAL really fits the ticket.

 

Did the Disney Magic a few years ago - ship was absolutely gorgeous and service/entertainment was impeccable, but wayyyyyy too many parents let their kids run rampant and unsupervised - we couldn't figure out why, when the cruiselines have such fantastic kids' programs. Shoot, WE wanted to be in the Oceaneer Club! After having a lady change her baby and leave the dirty diaper next to us on the bar at the adult pool :eek: , screaming kids racing outside our cabin at 3am several nights in a row, and my getting knocked down some stairs by a pack of preteens, I was a nervous wreck. We expected and were fine with having lots of children onboard (it was a DISNEY cruise), we weren't idiots, but we were unprepared for the lack of parental discipline.

 

Everything we have read and heard about HAL and the Noordam sounds wonderful and we are so excited."

[vpoopsy]

Vpoopsy:

 

You call ship's services at 1-800-541-1576, and ask them to give you the number of children onboard.

I called and there are on 30 kids from 3 to 17 on our cruise!! Awesome.

 

Thanks for the phone number. They were very nice.