Holland America Maasdam Ship Review
As I prepared to embark on a long trip through the Alaskan wilderness with Holland America, the ship Maasdam, the proverb “What’s old is new again” came to me. My most recent time on board one of their ships, which was the smallest in their fleet, was in 2012, and it was for a trip to Canada and New England that lasted for ten nights.
Since then, Maasdam had a massive makeover in 2016. I couldn’t wait to see what had been changed and examine the new furniture because I was both excited and inquisitive about it.
Quick Information Regarding the Holland America Maasdam
Inaugural: 1993
Remodeled in the year 2016
Passengers: 1,258
Crew: 569
There are six different dining options available, in addition to an ice cream bar and complimentary room service.
There are three self-service laundromats located on different decks.
Promenade that goes all the way around? One mile is equal to four complete circuits.
Initial Thoughts on the Subject
EMBARKATION EXPERIENCE
Arrive in San Francisco at least a couple of days before the start of your trip, if you ever get the chance (which I hope everyone does). Having said that, keep in mind that San Francisco is known for its extremely high prices. Using the HotelTonight app, I was able to score a discount on a room at the Courtyard by Marriott in Emeryville, which is located on the other side of the bay. The room cost less than $160. A ride in an Uber costing approximately $40, including tip, took approximately 35 minutes to travel from the Courtyard to the ancient harbour.
The simplicity and expediency of the embarkation process is one of the many advantages offered by cruises aboard smaller ships. Today was much like any other day. As I made my way through the bright terminal, the employees at the port were not only helpful but also quite polite. There was no wait to have my luggage scanned, and the line to check in just took about a minute. Within the first 20 minutes of my arrival, I was already on board the ship and settled into my berth.
The Maasdam is an older ship that is held in high regard by its many devoted former passengers. One of the reasons for this could be because the ship gives off an air of spaciousness and comfort while yet maintaining all of the characteristics that experienced cruisers anticipate finding on a ship. You’ll discover that the Maasdam has a straightforward deck plan, a large wraparound promenade, and plenty of elevators, so there is almost never a line for any of these amenities.
The crew, which consists primarily of Filipinos and Indonesians, is welcoming and eager to assist. Evening entertainment features a wide range of performers, such as magicians, comedians, singers, and dancers, in addition to two large production shows. Frequently, well-known performers will board the ship in one port for a performance that will only last for one night, and then they will disembark in the following port.
Club Hal provides supervised care for children ages 3 to 17, including those with special needs. All of the activities at the youth centres, which are separated according to age and range from treasure hunts for pirate loot and arts and crafts for younger children to sports tournaments, Wii, and teen night clubs for older adolescents, are supervised.
There are not nearly as many staterooms with balconies on the Maasdam as there are on older ships in general. In point of fact, balconies are reserved exclusively for suites. There is a peculiar category of guestrooms on the ship known as the Lanai staterooms. Instead of a balcony, each stateroom has a sliding glass door that goes out onto the Promenade Deck.
Fortunately, the glass sliding doors have a dark tint, which prevents outsiders from seeing inside the building…during the day. When darkness falls, it’s a smart move to make sure the shades are drawn.
Maasdam Review: My Oceanview Stateroom
My bedroom, which was located on A Deck, the ship’s lowest deck, was absolute midship and port side number 774. Excellent position, particularly with regard to getting onshore. Just below that was the deck that housed the gangway. During this lengthy voyage, we would have several days spent exploring the ports of call, and it would be convenient to be able to get back to your bedroom without much trouble.
There is an old proverb that goes, “once you’ve had a balcony stateroom, you’re spoiled for life.” Well, to some extent, this proverb is accurate. On the other hand, when you are on a ship where the only staterooms that have balconies are suites, you suddenly do not feel as isolated. I believe that for the majority of the days, I could be found curled up in the arc of the enormous picture window and simply taking in the breathtaking views of Alaska.
Every stateroom is equipped with a DVD/CD player, and the front desk lends out an extensive library of DVDs and CDs for guests to choose from. In addition, a safe can be found in each stateroom.
An additional bonus of being on this low deck was that I was almost at eye-level with passing marine mammals, such as sea otters, Stellar seals, and even the odd whale. This was especially true in Alaska. Excellent positioning within the cabin.
The long desk or vanity space in each of the regular Maasdam rooms is yet another appealing element of these rooms. There is enough of room for both storage and countertops. If you were to share this room with someone else, the privacy provided by the divider curtain in the closet and the bathroom would be appreciated.
Ahhh…a place to soak. There was a time when every stateroom on a Holland America ship was equipped with a bathtub. Unfortunately, unless you have a suite, these are no longer available on the more modern ships.
It took me a few moments, but eventually I jogged my memory about it. The dresser drawer is the location on all Holland America ships, including the Maasdam, where the hair dryer can be found. In addition to that, another makeup mirror.
Dining on Maasdam
The first night, I signed up for late dinner, which started at 8 o’clock and had allocated tables. I’ve been working on a game for quite some time now. I like to name it “Roulette in the First Night Main Dining Room.”
I basically just follow the waiter as I’m escorted to the table, and on the way, I walk past other tables that are already occupied by folks who I believe might make interesting tablemates. When I finally make it to the table that’s been reserved for ten people, I nearly always find that there are only four or five other people seated there. Even when people squeeze closer together at a table of that size, the din of the dining room makes it difficult to carry on a discussion without almost resorting to shouting.
The first night in this location was the same as those spent on prior adventures. I said “Excuse me” as the waiter approached our table and reached for my chair, and then I deftly repositioned myself so that I could make a hasty getaway to the Lido Buffet. The other people sitting at the table for 10 were a family of three, which meant that I would be the only individual sitting there alone. I’d give it another shot some other night.
Where to Get a Meal
On Maasdam, you can choose from one of these six restaurants that offer table service:
• Included in the price is the dining room, also known as the main dining room
• Complimentary access to the Lido Buffet
• Pinnacle Grill – $39pp
• Rudi’s Sel de Mer Pop-up – $49pp
• Canaletto Italian – $19pp
• Dive-In Is Included In the Price
• Complimentary 24-Hour Room Service is Always Available
• The Explorations Cafe charges money for their artisan coffee and tea, but provides free appetisers.
• Pizza Bar – Included
• There will be ice cream included.
In The Dining Room, the traditional service begins at 5:45 p.m. and continues until 8:00 p.m., and there are two fixed seating times available. I like that there is plenty of time for the people in the first seating to enjoy their supper without feeling as though they are being rushed through the experience.
Flexible Open Dining is available between 5:15 and 9:00 p.m. for guests who would like adhere to their own timetables. In the event that your dinner time is not predetermined, you can either make dining reservations over the phone while you are on board or go to The Dining Room when it is open for service.
Evaluation of Maasdam with Regard to the Various Accommodation Options
The decision of where to stay aboard the ship is not overly difficult because there are only seven different categories of staterooms to choose from. As I was saying before, the one-of-a-kind Lanai cabins include a sliding door that opens out onto the outdoor deck of the Lower Promenade. This door, which is reminiscent of older ships, provides direct access to the deck. Included are two teak reclining chairs, one of which can only be used by visitors staying in the Lanai. During the day, the stateroom’s windows are covered with a tint that prevents outsiders from looking inside.
• INSIDE: Choose between the Standard Inside and the Spa Inside
• OCEANVIEW includes Fully Obstructed, Standard Oceanview, Spa Oceanview, Porthole, Partial Oceanview, and Standard Oceanview
• LANAI
• VISTA SUITE: Standard Vista Suite, Spa Vista Suite
• NEPTUNE SUITE
• SUIT WITH PINNACLE DETAILS
On Deck 10, high above, you’ll find the Vista, Neptune, and Pinnacle Veranda Suites in addition to the spectacular 1,273 sq. ft. Pinnacle Veranda Suite. ft. Presidential Suite. The Neptune Lounge is a private refuge that only guests staying in suites on higher levels are permitted to enter. It is maintained by a concierge and offers complimentary refreshments and light meals.
In 2016, Maasdam had a restoration that resulted in the addition of Spa suites as well as cabins that offer a choice between an interior view, an oceanview view, or a balcony. A yoga mat, an iPod docking station, and a specialised countertop water carafe are some of the amenities that can be found in spa accommodations.
Staterooms located on the ship’s interior are spacious, well-lit, and pleasant, with plenty of closet and drawer space. The bathrooms aren’t particularly large, but they are clearly well constructed and have adequate space for the countertops.
The magnificent Signature Dream Beds, plush Egyptian cotton sheets, flat panel TVs, and DVD/CD players are all part of the ship-wide makeover as well. The front desk offers free CD and DVD rentals, and both options are available there.
Even though Maasdam is a smaller ship, that does not imply there is a lack of public places or activities on board. In spite of the fact that the trip lasted for twenty-one days, I was not able to visit each and every one of the ship’s many amenities, including its six bars and lounges, its full spa, its workout rooms, and even its library.
There is, of course, the typical glittering casino, but there didn’t appear to be all that many people playing the slot machines or the tables. This is typically the case on cruises that are longer, have more port stops, and focus more on culture.
The Maasdam is one of the few ships in the world and one of just six in the fleet of Holland America that still has a cinema theatre that is completely separate from the rest of the ship. On this particular cruise, in addition to the movies that were shown on port days and sea days, the enrichment lectures were also given in those venues.
Entertainment
This particular voyage aboard the Maasdam was one of the In-Depth Cruises offered by Holland America. Each of these journeys has a central focus and overarching theme, with this one’s destination being Alaska, of course. The talks covered a wide range of topics, from whales and other marine creatures to Native American culture and accounts of exploration and the Gold Rush. Eventually, there was no more room available other than for standing.
Throughout the duration of the voyage, the MainStage and WorldStage Theaters hosted production shows. Performers would board the ship in one location and then disembark in the following. The first night might feature a concert pianist and violinist, the second night might feature a comedian, and the third night might feature a musical production put on by Holland America, and so on.
In my mind, there are two highlights that jump out and are undeniably important enough to include in this ship evaluation. The BBC Earth Experience is #1 on the list, and it has remained my top pick throughout the years. As part of its collaboration with BBC Earth, Holland America presents remarkable films with a focus on the natural world, complemented by live orchestration performed on stage. Because it only happens once during each trip, this is one show that you definitely do not want to miss out on.
Outdoor Spaces, as well as Swimming Pools
There are no water slides that go at breakneck speeds or aqua parks that are vividly coloured where you are. Relaxing in a lounge chair under the sliding dome that covers the pool is an alternative option that is available regardless of the weather.
Cruise Maven Loves:
• Artwork on board that is of the same calibre as that found in museums.
• The employees from the Philippines and Indonesia are usually helpful, pleasant, and eager to assist clients who may have mobility issues.
• The Neptune Lounge is reserved exclusively for guests staying in the Deluxe Veranda Suite and the Presidential Suite.
• A showcase of talent from either the Philippines or Indonesia will take place once during each trip.
• The Lido lunch buffet has Holland America’s trademark bread pudding, which is served with vanilla sauce. Yum!
• Canaletto, a restaurant within the Lido Buffet that specialises in Italian cuisine
• The Pub Crawl, of course! Even if you don’t drink much, it’s still worth the money simply to come along for the ride.
• Self-service launderettes.
• A movable dome that can be placed over the Lido pool, allowing people to swim and relax even while they are in Alaska!
• Aboard the Zodiac boats (for use in warmer climates)
Where Can Children Play and Learn?
On this cruise, I seriously doubt there were more than five children at most. Because the EXC In-Depth cruises are designed for adults, Club Hal was not open during those excursions. On the other hand, the following is what you may anticipate from “normal” cruises.
At sea and in port, youngsters and teenagers aged 3 to 17 can participate in a variety of activities offered by Club HAL. Potty training is required for the younger children in order for them to take part. Club HAL is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on port days. When you sign up in advance, we’ll provide lunch for the group.
Club HAL After Hours costs $5.00 per child, per hour and is open from 10pm to 12am. In-cabin childcare may be available during sea days outside of Club HAL’s regular business hours. Make your inquiry at the reception desk. Children with special needs are typically placed in classrooms with children of the same chronological age.
The HAL Kids Culinary Workshop provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the kitchen. In the Culinary Arts Center, an emphasis is placed on both cooking techniques and the proper handling of food. There is no additional charge to take part in this activity that lasts for an hour.
Review of the Maasdam Ship: the Nuts and Bolts
My review of the Maasdam ship would have to come to a close with the statement that those passengers who are looking for a remarkable cruise experience that does not include a lot of screaming announcements, drink-hawking, or wet-t-shirt contests might consider sailing aboard the Maasdam. If you go with one of the EXC In-Depth trips, the shore excursions cover a wider variety of topics and include a few more strenuous and active outings.
The Main Dining Room maintains a high level of patronage thanks to the popularity of its time-honored main and second seatings. On lengthier port days, having the “As You Wish” meal option available on Holland America was a pleasant perk. At least once during each and every cruise, the Pinnacle Grill is transformed into Rudi Sodamin’s Sel de Mer, a specialty restaurant that is exclusive to Holland America.
You are going to absolutely adore this ship (as well as an EXC In-Depth cruise) if:
• You prefer more intimate vessels that have a vintage flavour.
• Instead of participating in belly-flopping competitions in the pool, you are most interested in having a genuine cruise experience.
• Traveling with senior citizens who are worldly, well-traveled, and unassuming passengers
• The fact that there are just three restaurants to choose from is not a significant limitation.
Why You enjoy walking, and the surrounding promenade is spacious and includes signs to point you in the right direction.
Maasdam isn’t for you if:
• A suite is out of your price range, but you have to ensure that you have access to a balcony.
• It is required that your stateroom have a very large television screen.
• You are looking forward to late-night pool parties with elaborate themes that can become a little rowdy.
On board ships of a certain size, the Atrium Bar is sure to become your go-to watering hole.
• You’ve made it onto the Party Town train. Around 11 o’clock at night, the carpet is rolled up here.
Tips and Tricks from a Cruise Expert
• If you want to ensure that you get a computer station at one of the many Windows-based Digital Workshops, arrive 15 minutes before the workshop begins.
• To ensure that you get a table at your preferred time, make your reservation for the Specialty Restaurant on the day before you embark, or even before your cruise.
• If you like to take naps in the afternoon, you should try to avoid renting a cabin that is immediately across from a laundry room. However, if you value your time, this is not the best spot.
• Some of the aft cabins located on the lower decks could potentially be affected by engine vibration.
• The Lido Buffet requires guests to exercise patience. The serving is done by the restaurant crew on board your ship. Recommended behaviour to reduce the likelihood of sickness spreading.
• An all-vegan OR vegetarian supper menu is available upon request.
• Keep an eye out for deals on dry cleaning and other services around the middle and end of your voyage.
Maasdam is an excellent option for experiencing modern cruising on a smaller ship in a way that feels a little bit more traditional, regardless of the route that you select.
