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Q: Has anyone sailed on Holland America Maasdam lately?
If so, can you give me an overview of the dining facilities, particularly, the open dining concept. How was the entertainment? How was the tipping handled? We are going 2 weeks from Ft. Lauderdale to San Diego through the Panama Canal in February.
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Submitted by: katz, winnipeg - United Kingdom on 19th Sep 2009
Subject: Holland America Cruises MS Maasdam Panama Canal Cruises Dining
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Answer by Luszas, Wolfsburg (29 Sep 09 14:24) to a QUESTION by katz (19 Sep 09 21:42)
To make it short, HAL belongs to one of the best cruise lines. The service is just perfect, as every thing else too. We cruise since 15 years with HAL and not one complain. Dining - from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM is the Lido restaurant open for an informal Dinner too, and we can recommend it, for some one like it with a nice view of the dark ocean.
Answer by Morton, UK (20 Sep 09 07:59) to a QUESTION by katz (19 Sep 09 21:42)
You lucky things. We looked at that itinerary last Feb. Still might do it but will wait for better pricing. Not been on Maasdam but been on a few other Dam ships and are so happy with HAL that we're reluctant to venture another line. We take fixed 2nd dinner but As you Wish Dining seemed to work fine. There is a small desk outside the Lido restaurant at breakfast [and maybe main as well] where you can book dinner. Never seemed crowded or saw any queues in the evening. Entertainment? Hmm. HAL is def. not noted for outstanding shows etc. Individual acts are usually good and there are excellent pianists and quartets in the bar and in nooks and crannies around the ship. As for tipping, we always leave the gratuities on our final bill and in addition, tip our cabin steward as well. Wonderful atmosphere with congenial fellow passengers, spotless ships, good food, smiling helpful staff...how I envy you.
Comment by Hirst, Salisbury (20 Sep 09 08:35) about an ANSWER by Morton (20 Sep 09 07:59)
I'll go along with everything Morton says about HAL although we found with As You Wish Dining on formal nights there could be a short wait for a table (15-20 minutes). I, too, am green with envy! Have a wonderful cruise.