Highlights of our Prinsendam 25-Day Spring Discoveries cruise

• Intimate Size. It’s a breeze to get around the ship, lines are short and it is easy to get to know your fellow passengers and crew.
• Itineraries. We enjoyed unique ports such as Cartagena, Spain that you don’t hear much about but turn out to be terrific places to visit. Plus, the ship always changes itineraries so you can stay on or keep returning while experience new places.
• The Captain and Hotel Manager. Captain Christopher Turner and Hotel Manager Francois Birarda are professional, pleasant and approachable. They are well-liked by both the guests and the crew, which makes for a highly enjoyable cruise.
• The Java Café. Headed by lead bartender Mydel (who rates five stars!), this is the social center of the ship. It is a great place to enjoy a complimentary espresso or cappuccino while catching up on CNN or reading a newspaper from the library next door.
• Cruise Staff. During the sea days, the staff fills the days with a wide variety of imaginative activities from trivia to moose tossing. Sparky and Melissa were always around the ship with a smile and friendly hello.
• Onboard Elegance. Bingo and other annoying promotional announcements over the public address system were practically non-existent while the captain and cruise director provided informative announcements as needed. The floral arrangements made by on-board Dutch florist Linda were always stunning. The crew is always gracious and helpful when you needed something, and unobtrusive when you didn’t.
• Sommelier Ferdinand. In addition to supervising the wine staff (and the duties of the assistant bar manager) Ferdinand put on several informative wine tastings where he demonstrated the art of opening a Champaign bottle with a saber (Sabrage) . He also co-hosted with the Pinnacle Grill chef Ani a special dinner at the Pinnacle Grill which had 5 courses paired with perfect wines.
• Pinnacle Grill. The ms Prinsendam has the most elegant Pinnacle we’ve experienced in Holland America’s fleet. Gorgeous wood-paneled décor and exceptional service staff managed by Iona. Two special wine and food pairing sommelier’s dinners were incredible. Chef Ani also gave insightful and entertainment cooking demonstrations.
• Room Steward. Always a strong area for Holland America, our steward Dedi is a notch above all stewards we’ve had before. He would mysteriously appear when ever we left the room, and was nearby to open our door when we returned. He is always working and always cheerful, and efficient in handling requests.
• The Food. Executive chef Pedro Lontoc’s food is always good and a step above other ships. Varied, even throughout 25 days.
• The Library. Small but filled with a wide selection of top books, and section of shared books from other guests. Well-staffed by the cruise staff and the source of daily Sudoku, USA Today and crossword puzzles.
• Guest Relations Manager Gary Mangahas. Under Gary’s direction, the front desk staff was friendly and helpful. If they didn’t know the answer, they got back to you quickly. Gary set this tone, and was always pleasant, even when dealing with difficult customers.
• Dining Room Manager. Sander Vogtlander is always on hand to greet guests as you enter the dining room. He organized an endless array of dinner themes throughout the cruise complete with elaborate decorations and costumes. His professionalism was apparent by the high caliber of the dining staff.
• Port Lecturer. Frank Buckingham was both entertaining and encyclopedic in his knowledge of the ports. His sail away commentary made scenic cruising informative and interesting. Plus, he offered guests detailed advice on ports (and even unrelated topics like how to tie a men’s bow tie.)
• Other guests. We met many well-traveled fellow guests with diverse interests that made the cruise all the more memorable.

The Prinsendam is not the ship for everyone, particularly if you are looking for:

• Active nightlife.
• Children (very few although there is CLUB HAL staff)
• Heated thermal chairs in the spa