Cruise Ship Review: The Ms Westerdam

Holland America's ms Westerdam is very good choice of cruise ship. The only drawback to the ship might be Holland America's tendency to cater to the senor end of the cruise industry. Younger guests who are seeking non-stop parties may be disappointed by the Westerdam. You will not have a bad cruise. It might just seem a little tame.

The ms Westerdam is an elegant ship.

If you are not impressed by the gorgeous atrium that surrounds you as you enter the ship for the first time, the outside glass elevators may do the trick. Rising to the upper decks of the ship with a tremendous view of the harbor and ocean extending to the horizon, it is a great way to start the cruise. The beautiful artwork and antiques that are evoke a museum quality to the internal decor of the ship.

Your cabin will have a few extras not found on most cruise ships.

The bathroom on the Westerdam is slightly larger than a standard cruise ship facility. This extra room allows for a small bathtub to be included along with the shower that is found on all cruise ships. For those who like a good soak now and then, this tub will be a welcome sight. When you first step into your stateroom, you will see a bowl of fresh fruit has been provided. While not a big deal, it is something that you do not generally see on cruise ships. This bowl is refilled daily for your convenience.

Music is common on the Westerdam.

In the evening, the public spaces will be filled with classical, jazz, and big band music being played live. It is common to see people dancing to these old tunes. While there are a few clubs where the music gets a little heavier, it is nice to have some music that is easy to enjoy while waiting for supper or the evening show.

Most of the regular cruise offerings are available.

The Westerdam has a casino for those who choose to play games of chance. It has a small library and Internet area. There is a smoking lounge that caters to the cigar smoking crowd. The duty free shops are always open and available for business during the day and evening hours. You can attend seminars, art auctions, and bingo games.

The evening entertainment is similar to other cruise ships.

Live shows are offered twice each evening in the main theater. These can feature either specialty acts like comedians and magicians, or a musical production. Karaoke is offered a few times during most cruises. Of course, there are bars and party nights.

The ms Westerdam sets up the midnight chocolate buffet at 3 pm.

A highlight of most cruises is the midnight buffet. They always feature ice sculptures, food carvings, extravagant desserts, and lots of chocolate. Because Holland America tends to lean toward the old generation, this is provided to guests at the 3 pm tea time on the day it is created. By the way, there is tea time daily.

Your evening dining experience will be formal and elegant.

The food is presented extremely well on the plate. A meal or two did not measure up to expectation as far as taste and texture, but overall the evening dining was an enjoyable experience. As always on cruise ships, the evening meal is a great time to experiment with things that you would not normally order in other circumstance.

The barbecue on the private island was a outstanding.

When the Westerdam dropped anchor at Half Moon Cay, it was a great time. The guests were tendered to shore on the life boats. If you have never been aboard a life boat, be prepared to be shocked. This "little" boats hanging on the side of cruise ships are huge. With several of these running, it only took a short time to get everyone to shore carrying about 70 or 80 at a time. The beach was great, and the barbecue was tasty. Overall, it was a very pleasant way to spend the day.