Westerdam 8147?

[BillMD]

Hi, we're going on our first cruise, and I'd appreciate some guidance.

 

We signed up for a Deluxe Verandah Suite (SB 8147) on the Westerdam. How does it compare to the other DV suites directly below it on Decks 7, 6, and 5?

 

 

Do you have privacy when on the deck or do people above have a full view?

 

Is the suite a good size? Should we ask to be upgraded to a different one? We want a large verandah and choose the SB on the corner b/c of that.

 

Does anyone have any pictures they could share of the cabin or the Westerdam or that corner?

 

Any advice on how to fully maximize the amenities associated with the Deluxe Verandah suites?

 

Thanks in advance for your help!!!!

 

BillMD:D

[cp556]

Welcome to Cruise Critic!

 

Not to duplicate, but look at

 

http://travel.webshots.com/album/567270377IFAjpx?start=24

 

for photos of Westerdam 8147 from October 2008; 15 day Panama Canal cruise.

 

You'll see from the photos that all the stern cabins are visible from above, except Deck 5 which has an overhang from above ... the verandah there is mostly covered.

 

Deck 8 has some of the least privacy, IMO, simply because the Lido Deck above is RIGHT THERE and people leaning on the rail can carry on a clear conversation with you. But that depends on the # of people at the rail at any given time. Given a choice, we probably would choose an SB on Deck 7 because of that, and because it's the same deck as Neptune Lounge, making it easier to pop down there for morning coffee or treats.

 

We make our first stop onboard the Neptune Lounge to introduce ourselves to the concierges. They usually already know us, because when a suite passenger checks in, their photo is transmitted to the Neptune's concierge's computer. More than once we've entered to be greeted with "Hello Mr and Mrs ____". Shocked me till I determined how that had happened.

 

Read the full list of suite amenities on the HAL site (Staterooms/Deluxe Verandah Suites) to see what the benefits are. We've never needed to approach the front desk because the NL concierges handle it all for us ... changing bills, making spa/Pinnacle/shorex reservations, answering inane questions, setting up in-suite parties. And they are always pleasant and happy to help you!

 

The two amenities I personally enjoy most are (a) free laundry & dry cleaning, and (b) breakfast in the Pinnacle Grill each morning (a Deluxe Verandah suite amenity and a very civilized way to start the day....).

 

Just get ready to be spoiled. Once you've been in a Deluxe Verandah Suite, there's no going back...