10 Insider Tips: Holland America Volendam Cruise Reviews

As one of the most beloved cruise lines in the world, Holland America's ms Volendam has been a favorite among travelers for decades. With its rich history, stunning amenities, and exceptional service, it's no wonder why this mid-sized ship has captured the hearts of so many. But what's it really like to sail on the Volendam? In this article, we'll dive into the insider tips and expert reviews to give you the inside scoop on what makes this ship truly special.

Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or just starting to plan your dream vacation, you'll want to know what sets the Volendam apart from other ships in its class. From its impressive dining options to its unique shore excursions, we'll cover it all. So, let's set sail and explore the top 10 insider tips for making the most of your Holland America Volendam cruise.

Insider Tip #1: Choose Your Cabin Wisely

When it comes to selecting your cabin on the Volendam, there are several factors to consider. First, think about your budget and what amenities are most important to you. If you're looking for a luxurious retreat, consider booking a Neptune Suite, which comes complete with a private balcony, concierge service, and access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge.

On the other hand, if you're traveling on a tighter budget, an inside cabin might be the way to go. Just keep in mind that these cabins tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to book early to secure your spot.

Top Cabin Picks:

• Neptune Suites for their luxurious amenities and private balconies
• Oceanview cabins for their stunning views of the ocean
• Inside cabins for their affordability and convenient location

Insider Tip #2: Take Advantage of the Ship's Enrichment Programs

One of the things that sets Holland America apart from other cruise lines is its commitment to enrichment programs. From cooking demonstrations to wine tastings, there's something for everyone on board.

Some of the most popular programs include the Culinary Arts Center, where you can learn how to prepare gourmet meals with the ship's executive chef, and the Explorations Central program, which offers lectures and workshops on topics such as history, art, and science.

Top Enrichment Programs:

• Culinary Arts Center for foodies and cooking enthusiasts
• Explorations Central for history buffs and science enthusiasts
• Wine tastings for wine lovers and connoisseurs

Insider Tip #3: Explore the Ship's Unique Dining Options

When it comes to dining on the Volendam, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. From the elegant Vista Dining Room to the casual Lido Cafe, there's something to suit every taste and style.

One of the most unique dining options on board is the Pinnacle Grill, a reservations-only restaurant that serves up gourmet steaks and seafood in an intimate, upscale setting. Another popular spot is the Tamarind, a pan-Asian restaurant that offers a variety of dishes from across the continent.

Top Dining Picks:

• Pinnacle Grill for its gourmet steaks and seafood
• Tamarind for its pan-Asian cuisine
• Vista Dining Room for its elegant, fine dining experience

Insider Tip #4: Take a Shore Excursion to Remember

When it comes to shore excursions, Holland America offers a wide range of options to suit every interest and style. From snorkeling and diving to cultural tours and historic landmarks, there's something for everyone.

Some of the most popular shore excursions include the glacier hiking tour in Alaska, the wine country tour in Oregon, and the ancient ruins tour in Greece.

Top Shore Excursion Picks:

• Glacier hiking tour in Alaska for adventure-seekers
• Wine country tour in Oregon for wine enthusiasts
• Ancient ruins tour in Greece for history buffs

Insider Tip #5: Relax and Unwind at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon

After a long day of exploring, there's no better place to relax and unwind than the Greenhouse Spa & Salon. This tranquil oasis offers a range of treatments, from massages and facials to manicures and pedicures.

Some of the most popular treatments include the hot stone massage, the aromatherapy facial, and the reflexology treatment.

Top Spa Treatments:

• Hot stone massage for relaxation and stress relief
• Aromatherapy facial for skin rejuvenation
• Reflexology treatment for overall wellness

Insider Tip #6: Attend a Wine Tasting or Mixology Class

If you're a wine enthusiast or cocktail connoisseur, you won't want to miss the wine tastings and mixology classes on board. These interactive sessions offer a chance to learn about different types of wine and spirits, as well as how to mix and pair them with food.

Some of the most popular wine tastings include the wine and cheese pairing, the wine and chocolate pairing, and the whiskey tasting.

Top Wine Tastings:

• Wine and cheese pairing for a classic combination
• Wine and chocolate pairing for a sweet treat
• Whiskey tasting for a sampling of fine spirits

Insider Tip #7: Explore the Ship's Entertainment Options

When it comes to entertainment on the Volendam, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. From live music and theater productions to trivia games and karaoke, there's something to suit every interest and style.

Some of the most popular entertainment options include the Stage Show, the Piano Bar, and the Casino.

Top Entertainment Picks:

• Stage Show for a live theater production
• Piano Bar for live music and cocktails
• Casino for a chance to win big

Insider Tip #8: Take Advantage of the Ship's Shopping Options

If you're looking for a unique souvenir or a special gift, you'll want to check out the ship's shopping options. From luxury jewelry and watches to duty-free liquor and cigarettes, there's something for every budget and style.

Some of the most popular shopping options include the Signature Shop, the Jewelry Shop, and the Liquor Shop.

Top Shopping Picks:

• Signature Shop for luxury jewelry and watches
• Jewelry Shop for unique and elegant pieces
• Liquor Shop for duty-free liquor and cigarettes

Insider Tip #9: Stay Active with the Ship's Fitness Options

If you're looking to stay active on your cruise, you'll want to check out the ship's fitness options. From yoga and Pilates to weightlifting and cardio, there's something to suit every fitness level and style.

Some of the most popular fitness options include the Fitness Center, the Yoga Studio, and the Sports Deck.

Top Fitness Picks:

• Fitness Center for a state-of-the-art workout
• Yoga Studio for a serene and peaceful practice
• Sports Deck for outdoor activities and games

Insider Tip #10: Attend a Sail Away Party or Themed Night

Finally, no cruise would be complete without attending a sail away party or themed night. These special events offer a chance to meet new people, enjoy live music and entertainment, and celebrate the start of your voyage.

Some of the most popular sail away parties and themed nights include the Sail Away Party, the 70s Disco Night, and the Formal Night.

Top Sail Away Parties and Themed Nights:

• Sail Away Party for a festive and fun atmosphere
• 70s Disco Night for a retro-themed dance party
• Formal Night for a elegant and sophisticated evening

With these insider tips, you'll be well on your way to making the most of your Holland America Volendam cruise. From its unique dining options to its exciting shore excursions, there's something for everyone on board. So why wait? Book your cruise today and start exploring the world in style!