Cruise review: Holland America Veendam

We took the Veendam from Boston to Bermuda in June 2016. It was our first time trying a Holland America cruise. We fell in love with the ship, the crew and Holland America. The Veendam is not one of the mega-ships. as a matter of fact, it is probably one of the smallest ships we have ever sailed on. That is part of what we loved, we were never lost.

Check in

Check in was flawless, Because there are not 6,000 people trying to board the ship, we found it very easy and totally stress-free. We had little or no wait time to get our boarding documents.

Accommodations

We chose an interior cabin and while it was small, it was perfect for what we wanted. It was clean and well equipped and the bed was comfortable. The closet was a good size and easily held our clothes and our suitcase. The bathroom was not overly small. Our friends had a balcony room and it was a very nice balcony with a chaise lounge. 

Dining

Since we booked last minute, we were not able to get a guaranteed early seating. Having said that, we managed to dine early any time we tried. We dined 3 out of 7 nights in the dining room the other nights we ate buffet and were happy to do so. The food at the buffet was the best we have ever had on a cruise ship. They have a salad bar that is excellent. Food was very high quality.

We went to tea several days in the afternoon and it was wonderful. It is not always traditional English tea either which kept it exciting. 

Staff

I have never seen happier staff. We made several friends among them and it was the most fun we have ever had on a cruise. They went out of their way to please on every occasion. 

Entertainment

I have to say, the evening entertainment was pretty lame. We went to two shows and then skipped it. But honestly, it really didn't matter to us at all. 

Spa

We loved the spa. We bought a package that allowed us to use the relaxation room anytime we wanted to. It had a mineral hot tub and heated tile lounges and steam rooms. My friend and I had a massage as well and it was an excellent massage. There was a little pressure to buy more services and products but that is quite normal. 

Activities

I loved the cooking demonstrations that they offered. Also, the computer classes. We did play trivia once or twice and I actually won the chocolate one. We didn't do too many things, we were more interested in relaxing. 

Even exiting the ship was enjoyable and flawless. I love this ship and can't wait to take it again, I don't even care where it is going.