Holland America vs Celebrity

[MalvernJez]

Earlier this year my partner and I did our very first cruise on Celebrity Equinox. We loved the whole cruise experience and have decided to do another one next year. Due to timing our best option for our wanted itinerary is on HAL Noordam. From what I have read, I expect HAL to skew slightly older and quieter (we are mid 40s) which is fine by us. What I would like to know is how HAL compares to Celebrity in terms of gereal experience - dining, staterooms, service ,vibe and tone. A bit vague I know but any input would be appreciated. (Also, one of my reservations is what appears to be a most vivid colour scheme which looks a little offputting....). I know this topic has come up before but would love to hear if anyone has been on the two recently. Thanks!

[Keith1010]

You may also want to visit the HAL site and read what people have to say about what they like and don't care for about HAL and more specifically the Noordam.

 

Keith

[navybankerteacher]

I've sailed Noordam three times - as well as other HAL ships, and will soon take second Celebrity cruise. If you liked Celebrity, you will love HAL - a somewhat more traditional approach - teak decks, mahogany deck chairs with blankets, fresh orange juice in morning, lots of fresh flowers,etc. The rest is more subjective, but I believe cabin size and comfort, food quality and service quality generally to be a cut above Celebrity.

[dobiemom]

I haven't sailed on Celebrity (yet!) but Laffinvegas (who usually sails HAL) was on the Celebrity Solstice in September 2010. She did a "Live from" and her review is post #257: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1273431&page=13

Hope this helps!

[mr green]

I have only traveled Celebrity the one time. IMO the ship and staff did NOT live up to all the hoopla that I read prior to the cruise!

 

john