If you live in the North West of England, cruising from Liverpool couldn’t be easier. With a compact terminal and hassle-free boarding, you can go from kerbside to cruise ship in just minutes – no airports, no stress.
In this guide, I’ll share the best cruises you can sail from Liverpool, plus everything you need to know to plan the perfect no-fly holiday at sea.
Browse Cruises from Liverpool
Below, you can see the best deals on cruises departing from Liverpool…
If you’d like to see the full range of all cruises from Liverpool, I also have a link to a price comparison site for those below…
I love how convenient it is for people living in the north of England. There’s plenty of cheap parking near Liverpool cruise port and check-in has always been really quick and easy.
Cruise Lines that Depart from Liverpool
In 2021, we saw an explosion in cruises departing from Liverpool. As cruising resumed after the shutdown, many cruise lines shook up their itineraries and began offering UK-only cruises from smaller ports.
Alas, that was not to continue and as cruising got back to normal in 2022 and 2023, cruise lines like Disney and MSC Cruises stopped their Liverpool departures.
The reason for this? Liverpool’s cruise terminal is just not big enough to handle check-ins for thousands of guests. During the pandemic, Liverpool Arena was available to handle the check-in. But now that it already has a packed schedule of events, this is no longer the case.
Unfortunately, despite demand, there are no P&O Cruises from Liverpool – the cruise line only sails from Southampton.
So, in 2025, only a handful of small cruise ships are able to depart from Liverpool. These are.
1. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Fred Olsen cruises from Liverpool have always been popular with over-50s living in the north of England. As well as Liverpool, the cruise line offers regional departures from Newcastle, Rosyth and Dover.
In 2021, the new ship (at the time) Borealis made her maiden voyage from Liverpool. The city is now a permanent base for Borealis with a full schedule of cruises heading to a large variety of destinations all year round.
In 2025, sister ship Bolette is scheduled to offer a number of cruises from Liverpool.
2. Ambassador Cruise Line
Ambassador Cruise Line’s new ship, Ambition, is sailing from Liverpool on a series of cruises this summer.
This relatively new cruise line will begin departures from Liverpool in July and offer a good selection of destinations including Iceland, Norway, Spain and Portugal, as well as cruises around the British Isles.
Cruise Ships That Have Departed from Liverpool in the Past
Here’s some info on ships that have departed from Liverpool in the past but do not have plans to in 2025…
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises from Liverpool took place throughout summer 2021 onboard MSC Virtuosa – one of the biggest cruise ships in the world at the time.
A ship as big as MSC Virtuosa could never usually depart from Liverpool. However, MSC Cruises’ style of cruising around the UK this summer meant that guests joined the ship at Southampton and Glasgow, as well as Liverpool.
There are currently no plans for MSC Cruises to depart from Liverpool in the future.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruises from Liverpool were another great option for families in 2021. Disney Magic usually sails from Dover, so we would love to see a return to Liverpool in the future.
The Best Cruise Destinations From Liverpool
1. British Isles
British Isles cruises from Liverpool call at ports around the UK such as Southampton, Portland, Belfast and Glasgow.
2. Scotland
A variety of Scottish Island cruises from Liverpool are available on Fred. Olsen’s Borealis. Cruisers can visit remote Scottish Islands and see sights such as Ben Nevis and Loch Fyne.
3. Iceland
Iceland cruises from Liverpool often include other destinations such as the Norwegian Fjords, Greenland and the Faroe Islands as part of longer voyages of nine nights or more.
4. Norway
A cruise from Liverpool to Norway during the winter is a fantastic way to see the Northern Lights. Cruises from Liverpool to Norway in the summer may give cruisers the chance to witness the Midnight Sun – an interesting phenomenon where the sun never dips below the horizon at night.
5. Transatlantic
Although the Titanic made her ill-fated maiden voyage from Liverpool to New York, nowadays, cruises from Liverpool to New York are a thing of the past.
Transatlantic cruises from Liverpool to Canada, however, are very much a possibility. You can take a round-trip cruise from Liverpool to Canada with Fred. Olsen.
A Mediterranean cruise from Liverpool would be incredible, but sadly, none are available currently. You can, however, take a two-week cruise to the Mediterranean from Southampton. That’s about how long it takes to cruise to Italy and back.
Mini cruises from Liverpool are so convenient. If you want to get away for two, three, four or five nights on a taster cruise from Liverpool, you can do so with Fred. Olsen.
You can also sometimes take two-night repositioning cruises from Liverpool as ships are relocated to Southampton or Bristol. This can be a great way to try a new ship.
2. All Inclusive Cruises
Cruise ship drinks can be pricey, so all-inclusive cruises offer fantastic value for money with so much included. With both Fred. Olsen and Ambassador, you can purchase a drinks package that will entitle you to unlimited drinks from the bar.
No-fly cruises from Liverpool are available for anyone who can reach Liverpool by car, coach or train. Alternatively, you may be able to fly from Liverpool Airport to join your cruise ship elsewhere.
Liverpool’s Cruise Ship Dock
Cruise ships sailing from Liverpool will depart from Liverpool Cruise Terminal. This is located on Prince’s Dock on Liverpool Waterfront.
The city centre location of Liverpool cruise port, right by the Liver Building, means that it’s very easy to start your cruise from Liverpool. Check out my Liverpool Cruise Parking Guide if you’d like to park your car within walking distance of your ship.
New Liverpool Cruise Terminal Plans
Liverpool’s long-awaited cruise terminal expansion is finally moving forward.
After years of delays due to Brexit and the pandemic, the city council stepped away from managing the port in 2023, handing operations over to Global Ports Holding Plc (GPH) – the world’s largest cruise port operator.
Now under GPH’s leadership, the cruise port is set for a £25 million transformation. Plans include a new floating pontoon that will allow two 300-metre ships to dock at the same time, handling up to 7,000 passengers per day.
A brand-new terminal building is also in the works, complete with retail and hospitality spaces to enhance the guest experience.
This investment will significantly boost cruise capacity and cement Liverpool’s place as a key no-fly cruise hub in the UK. If you’re cruising in 2025, don’t worry – although the work is already underway, construction is being managed carefully and won’t impact current travel plans. Expect smooth sailing, with even better facilities on the horizon.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
A fire broke out this morning on a Princess cruise ship, a day after the vessel departed from New York City.
A passenger on Island Princess sent Cruise News Today a message through their tip line about a fire that broke out this morning on the vessel.
At 6:00 am Halifax time, a general alert sounded on the ship. A few minutes later, the captain announced that there was a fire on Deck 12.
At 6:20 am, the captain said that crew members were putting the fire out with extinguishers and foam and that there was no concern for passengers.
15 minutes later, the Captain told passengers that the fire was out, but another team was going to the area to make sure the fire is completely out. He again reiterated that there was no concern for guests on the ship.
No other details were given and the captain did not say where on Deck 12 the fire took place.
A passenger on the ship, Christina Wandell, posted the following video on Facebook.
She also left a few comments saying the fire was out and that it took place in the galley on Deck 12.
Island Princess is currently on an 18-night cruise to Greenland and Canada from New York City. The ship departed yesterday and is scheduled to return on August 1.
Cruise Fever reached out to Princess Cruises and will update this article when we hear back from the cruise line.
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Cruise bar prices can be steep, so it’s no surprise many passengers consider bringing their own booze onboard. Whether it’s a bottle of wine for dinner or a few beers to enjoy in your cabin, the savings can add up.
But how closely do cruise lines check? With bag scanners, manual inspections and strict policies, sneaking alcohol onboard isn’t as simple as it sounds. Before you try to outsmart security, here’s what you need to know about how cruise ships detect alcohol – and what happens if they catch it.
What Cruise Scanners Can Actually Detect
Cruise ship scanners can’t outright detect alcohol, but they can detect liquids. The security team will check every bag scanned, and if they see a liquid container, they are likely to open it up and check what’s inside.
The scanners are the same as those you’d find at the airport, and both your checked bags and your carry-on bags will be put through them. They use x-rays which can penetrate into your bags and show an outline of everything inside.
However, they also cause liquids to appear as a dark colour, so they can quite easily spot any bottles of liquid. Once they see liquid, they will normally open it up to check what the liquid is.
So in short, no, they can’t detect alcohol, but they can detect any liquid – and they’re pretty vigilant about checking what that liquid is. Whether it’s alcohol or something more sinister that could be used to create an explosive, they’ll want to know!
What Else Cruise Scanners Can Detect
Cruise scanners will detect all kinds of objects – because they use X-rays, they’ll show a clear outline of everything inside your suitcase or bags. The security team are also highly trained to look for items disguised as other things, so they can easily spot contraband.
The security teams, both portside and on the cruise ship, are experts in their jobs – this isn’t something they do for an hour before picking up their ‘main’ responsibilities elsewhere.
Think about how many thousands of bags they have scanned in their career – they know the kinds of things to look out for. So if you were thinking of taking any banned items onto your cruise ship, you should expect a high likelihood of it being found.
Depending on the severity of the item found, the cruise line may treat you differently. If you’re caught trying to sneak an extra bottle of wine onto the ship, you’re likely to just have it confiscated.
But try to bring something like drugs or a weapon onboard and you’ll not only be refused the chance to board, but you’ll be handed over to the local authorities as well. So don’t try to sneak drugs onto your cruise ship!
After all, cruise lines are businesses and they need to make money. They want you to either pay for their drinks packages or buy your drinks individually.
Letting you bring as much booze onto the ship as you want would undermine that and cause a bit of a hit in their profit margins.
Here’s a look at which cruise lines permit you to bring alcohol onto your cruise, as well as guidelines on limits for non-alcoholic drinks too:
Cruise Line
Alcohol allowance (per person)
Non-alcoholic drinks allowance (per person)
Carnival
One bottle of wine
12 x 330ml cans or cartons
Celebrity
One bottle of wine (two per stateroom)
No limit
Costa
Not allowed
Water only permitted for medical needs
Cunard
One bottle of wine
No limit
Disney
Two bottles of wine or six beers
No limit
MSC Cruises
Not allowed
Water only permitted for medical needs
NCL
Unlimited wine – $15 fee per bottle
Water only permitted for medical needs
P&O Cruises
One litre of wine or Champagne
No limit
Princess Cruises
One bottle of wine for free. $15 per additional bottle
No limit
Royal Caribbean
One bottle of wine
12 x 500ml bottles, cans or cartons (per stateroom)
If you try to bring more than you’re allowed onto the ship, and you’re caught, you’ll still be allowed to keep the permitted amount of alcohol, but the rest will be confiscated.
Cruise lines’ official policies vary on guests who try to sneak alcohol onboard – some say they will confiscate the alcohol, while others reserve the right to refuse guests boarding. In reality, the alcohol is usually confiscated and sometimes returned at the end of the cruise.
However, let me be clear – I am not saying that it will be fine if you do try to sneak alcohol onto a cruise ship. Especially with cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, which do say they may refuse boarding, there is a chance it could happen.
I can’t find any stories of someone being refused onto the ship, but all it takes is one security guard deciding to take a harder line and you might end up missing out on your cruise.
And because you had willingly broken the terms of your cruise contract, you wouldn’t be able to ask for a refund either.
So, in most cases, what tends to happen?
If you have alcohol in your carry-on luggage or it’s found on your person, then security will ask you about it, and if they find out that it is alcohol, they will take it from you.
If this happens port-side, it’s likely that you won’t see the alcohol again, because they don’t tend to have storage facilities for your contraband.
However, if your extra alcohol was in your checked luggage, things vary.
On some cruise ships, you might have your suitcase delivered to your room as normal, but with the alcohol missing.
On others, you may be asked to go and collect your luggage yourself, where you’ll be asked about the banned alcohol.
This video shows what happens. Bear in mind it has an explicit language warning:
That video also shows the alcohol being logged with tickets, so that the passengers could collect the bottles at the end of the cruise.
If your alcohol is taken from your suitcase, you’ll receive a letter explaining what happened. And again, sometimes you may be able to collect it at the end of the cruise, but at other times you won’t.
In that video, the passenger receives a letter which states:
“With the exception of all liquor, beer, and other forms of alcoholic beverages canned or bottled, your items will be stored in a secure location and returned to you on debarkation morning in the…
…All liquor, beer, and other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages canned, bottled, or in cartons, will be discarded and no compensation will be provided.”
So you need to be aware that, if you take the risk, you might end up having your alcohol removed permanently and you won’t be reimbursed.
How Cruise Ship Security Checks for Alcohol
There are a couple of ways that security on your cruise ship will check for alcohol. Obviously, they will use the scanners to look for liquids, but then how do they know whether something is alcoholic?
If the liquid is in an opaque container, or it’s not a clear liquid, usually the security team will open it up and smell it. Even if the bottle is sealed, their priority is making sure you aren’t sneaking alcohol onboard, so they’ll break the seal and smell what’s inside.
But if the water is clear, and there’s a chance it’s just water, there’s a really simple trick that they will use.
When water is disturbed – tapped or shaken – the bubbles that form inside are quite large and will rise to the top quickly.
With alcohol, the bubbles are smaller and much slower.
Body Scanners on a Cruise
You will go through a body scanner when you board a cruise ship, but this is typically a metal detector instead of a more complex scanner, so it won’t be able to detect alcohol if hidden on you.
This means that, if you did want to sneak alcohol onto a cruise ship, a wearable might be a better option – there are bras and fake bellies that you can use!
However, the security staff are pretty savvy. If they suspect anything about you when you come onto the cruise ship, you may be patted down. And if they find you trying to sneak alcohol onto the ship using a wearable, the consequences are likely to be more severe than if you’d tried to sneak it through in your bags.
That’s because it shows a real dedication to breaking the rules to try and use a wearable like this, and so the security team will be concerned about what other dangers you might pose to the ship.
Rum-runners
Rum-runners are flasks for alcohol that are not bottle-shaped – they tend to be flat, which can make it harder for cruise ship security to spot them on the scanners. However, it is not impossible, as the X-ray images still show the darker liquids, and security staff are trained to look for rum-runners.
Remember, these people know what they’re doing, and so while there’s a chance you might get lucky on a larger ship where thousands of bags are being scanned, the security teams know what rum-runners look like.
Just like how they’re wise to people using mouthwash bottles for liquor.
I can’t tell you how likely you are to succeed using a rum-runner – cruise lines are hardly going to post those statistics, are they? But while there are plenty of success stories:
There are also plenty of failures:
Final Word
While the consequences of smuggling alcohol onto your cruise ship don’t tend to be too drastic, it’s a risk you’re taking since some cruise lines could decide to stop you from boarding.
If you do try to sneak alcohol on cruise ships, and you do get caught, don’t argue or cause a fuss. That’s going to massively amplify your risk of being kicked off the ship!
I’d recommend sticking to the guidelines and avoiding smuggling altogether – that’s the best way to make sure you’re not stressed on check-in day and you don’t need to have any awkward conversations with security staff.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Cruise ports are often bursting with things to see and do – from historic landmarks to local markets and once-in-a-lifetime excursions. But with limited time ashore, it’s important to know how long you’ve got to explore.
Whether you’re planning a jam-packed day or just want to avoid being the person sprinting back to the ship, understanding typical port times will help you make the most of every stop. Here’s what you need to know.
How Long Cruise Ships Stay in Each Port
The time you spend in a port varies. The least amount of time is typically four hours, while the longest may be up to 36 hours for overnight stays. The average visit to a port lasts around 8 hours.
There are a lot of factors that determine how long a ship stays in port. Typically, shorter port visits are where you have a busy itinerary, or your next port of call is a long distance away, and you need to ensure you depart to reach it.
It can also depend on just how interesting the port is. If it’s a beach port, you’ll tend to stay longer as relaxing on the beach can be done all day, but for urban ports, it depends on how much there is to see or do.
Plus, not every port is situated right next to the main attractions. The port for Rome – Civitavecchia – is actually about 80 miles from the capital city, so you need a longer port visit to give you time to get there and back, as well as see the sights.
Itinerary planners for cruise lines take all of this into account and will try to give passengers the most amount of time to explore a destination without compromising the rest of the itinerary.
Overnight Stays
There are some ports that tend to be favoured more for overnight stays. Mediterranean cities like Florence or Ravenna, the beautiful city of Porto, and northern European destinations like Amsterdam and Rotterdam are some examples.
This gives passengers the opportunity to see both sides of the city, during the day and at night, where the atmosphere is often very different and the nightlife is considered a key attraction.
Other times, it may be beach destinations or cruise line private islands that host overnight stays for cruise ships, giving the cruise line the chance to arrange beach parties and unique experiences while the sun sets on the horizon.
Azamara and Celebrity Cruises are two of the primary cruise lines for arranging overnight stays in ports. Otherwise, it tends to be left to the ultra-luxury cruise lines such as Silversea and Regent Seven Seas.
Two Ports Per Day
Rarely, cruise lines will visit two ports in a single day – one in the morning, and one in the afternoon.
Celestyal Cruises does this often. This Greek-owned cruise line offers cruises around the Greek Islands, and since they’re so close together you can enjoy a packed itinerary.
Overnight cruise ports work just like a hotel would. You are free to come and go from the ship as much as you want, with no set time that you need to return. You can explore during the day, come back to the ship to get changed, and then head out into the early hours.
When you return to your ship, you’ll just walk on as normal through security and then head to your room. In the morning, if your ship isn’t departing yet, you’re able to disembark again for more exploration.
Typical Times You Can Get Off the Ship in Port
Most of the time, cruise ships arrive at each port in the early hours, as early as 4 am, but there will be a wait until passengers can disembark.
The earliest disembarkation may start at 6 am, but it is usually between 7 am and 9 am. Your ship can arrive later, too, and 10 am or even 11 am disembarkation is not a total rarity.
You will find that with late morning disembarkation, there can be a large queue to get off. I’ve had to wait in line for almost an hour to disembark, with a queue that looped around two decks of the ship!
However, when disembarkation is permitted earlier in the morning, you can usually just walk straight off as people naturally choose different times to get off the ship after breakfast.
When you book a cruise, you’ll be given the details of your itinerary, including the expected arrival times and departure times, so keep those handy and you’ll know when you’re able to leave the ship.
How Long It Takes to Get Off a Cruise Ship at a Port of Call
How long it takes to get off a ship at a port of call depends on whether you’re docked or anchored offshore.
If you are docked, you can usually walk straight off, though sometimes there may be a queue of 10-15 minutes. If you need to tender, it can take longer, as long as 90 minutes in very busy situations.
Usually, if there’s a long wait for tender boats, you will be given a ticket number. You can then go and relax on the ship until your group is called. In this situation, it can be worth getting a ticket before you’re ready to leave, as you know that there will be a wait.
Most of the time, it will take you between 30-45 minutes to get ashore once you head to the tender departure point on your cruise ship. Also, remember that if you do need to tender, then the last tender back will be around 30 minutes earlier than the ship’s departure time, so make sure you get back for it.
If you miss the last tender but the ship hasn’t left, call the ship – they might be able to arrange to get you onboard before the ship departs.
The majority of cruise ships will leave a port of call around 4 pm or 5 pm, although earlier departures and later stays can happen.
On one of my cruises, on Anthem of the Seas in Norway, the ship left at 3 pm. Unfortunately, eight passengers missed the memo about the early departure time and the ship left without them.
On another cruise in Northern Europe on Iona, the ship often didn’t leave until as late as 10 pm. It’s important to check, as the time will vary depending on the individual port, and you don’t want to be late.
There is a chance that, if your itinerary is busy, you may be asked to return to the ship by the early afternoon, so always carry around your daily programme so you know when to get back.
And please, make sure that your watch is set to the local time!
Cruise Line Policies on Late Passengers
Cruise ships will typically wait around 30 minutes beyond their scheduled departure time if passengers have not returned to the ship, but otherwise, they will leave people behind. If you are late, you can call the ship to ask them to wait, but it isn’t guaranteed that they will.
If the ship knows that you are on your way in a taxi, they’re much more likely to wait than if they haven’t heard from you.
When you’re on a cruise, you’ll know if guests are late back, because you will hear their names being called over the public address system. This is to check if they have somehow boarded without scanning their cruise cards.
Cruise lines have a strict schedule to adhere to – they need to make sure they leave with enough time to reach the next port. And it’s not fair to other passengers if the cruise is delayed because someone is late back.
How often do cruise ships leave passengers behind? It’s rare, but like I say, I’ve seen it happen!
Pier Runners
Once a cruise ship has made the decision to pull away from the dock, it won’t reverse. So, even if you are standing on the pier shouting and waving, within touching distance of the ship, you won’t be allowed to board.
People who just miss their cruise ships are known as pier runners. Take a look at some of the funniest, saddest, and most embarrassing pier runner moments in this video:
What to Expext if You Miss the Ship
You should always take the daily programme of the ship with you on excursions because it’ll have the ship’s phone number. Call them if you are running late, and they might be able to wait.
If you do miss the ship, you’ll need to try and find the cruise line’s port agent, and failing that, call the cruise line for help. You’ll have to arrange to meet the ship in the next port, or just fly home. If you fly home, the cruise ship will arrange for your belongings to be delivered to you.
Just so you know, you’ll have to pay for everything if you’re late – your own travel to meet the ship or return home, the cost of shipping your belongings, the cost of replacement documents, etc. – and those costs aren’t cheap. So don’t be late!
The Bottom Line
You should always have enough time to tick off most of the things you want to see in a port of call, but due to time pressures, you may need to prioritise sights.
Cruise lines will always aim to give you as much time as possible, but if you can’t see everything in one day, you’ll just have to book another cruise!
Don’t push your luck with timing – always aim to get back to the ship early, so you don’t risk missing the deadline and being left stranded. That’ll be an expensive mistake you won’t repeat.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Towering waterfalls, steaming volcanoes, and glaciers that take your breath away – Iceland is like nowhere else on Earth. And the best part? You don’t need to brave the icy roads or hop between hotels to see it all – cruising is one of the easiest and most unforgettable ways to explore this stunning country.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cruising to Iceland – including the best cruise lines, departure ports, must-see sights, and tips to make the most of your adventure.
Cruising to Iceland
Travelling by cruise ship is a popular way to take a holiday to Iceland, particularly for anyone who prefers not to fly. In 2019, 84 different cruise ships visited Iceland on 190 visits, carrying a total of 188,630 passengers.
Iceland is a popular cruise destination for people of all nationalities. In 2019, people from 121 different nations enjoyed cruises to Iceland. Of those passengers, 25% were German, 20% were American and 19% were British. [Source]
What Makes Iceland a Perfect Cruise Destination
There are so many reasons to visit Iceland, as it offers so much to see and do. Here are the top five reasons why you simply must explore Iceland at least once in your lifetime…
See the Midnight Sun in summer or the Northern Lights in Winter
Bathe in Iceland’s hot springs and toasty geothermal pools
See whales, dolphins and puffins in the wild
Experience harmless earthquakes and volcanic eruptions
Go snorkelling between tectonic plates
Cruise Lines That Sail to Iceland
You can cruise to Iceland with most of the mainstream cruise lines including:
AIDA
Azamara
Carnival
Celebrity Cruises
Costa Cruises
Cunard
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Hapag-Lloyd
MSC Cruises
P&O Cruises
Princess Cruises
Royal Caribbean
As well as the mainstream family-friendly cruise ships, Iceland is a popular port of call for ultra-luxury cruise lines like Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea and Viking and expedition cruise lines such as HX, Aurora Expeditions and Lindblad.
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Where to Start Your Iceland Cruise
Located in the North Atlantic Ocean between the UK, Greenland and Norway, you can reach Iceland on cruises departing from various countries. Many Iceland cruise itineraries will also include stops in Norway, Ireland and Scotland.
Let’s take a look at some of the best Iceland cruise itineraries for 2025…
Cruises to Iceland From the UK
Most Iceland cruises from the UK depart from Southampton, but you may also be able to find occasional regional departures from other UK ports such as Dover and Liverpool.
Cruises to Iceland From Southampton
There are several round-trip no-fly cruises from Southampton to Iceland each year. These last between 12 and 30 nights.
Round-trip cruises to Iceland from Southampton are currently on the following ships:
Princess Cruises – Caribbean Princess, Island Princess & Sky Princess
Cruises to Iceland from Dover
If you’re aged over 50, you can take a 12-night round-trip cruise from Dover to Iceland with the over-50s cruise line Saga. Family-friendly options will also be available with Carnival.
There are also a series of cruises with Holland America Line, for those who prefer a more upmarket experience, or Seabourn if you want a luxury Iceland cruise.
Cruises to Iceland from Liverpool
You can cruise to Iceland from Liverpool on board Fred Olsen’s ship, Bolette. There are several itineraries available this summer.
You can cruise to Iceland from London Tilbury with Saga and also with Ambassador Cruise Line, depending on your age and budget. The ultra-luxury Silversea ship, Silver Wind, also has a cruise from the London Tower Bridge to Reykjavik.
Cruises to Iceland From Scotland
Departing from Leith, Edinburgh, you can cruise to Iceland on a selection of luxury cruises with Windstar Cruises and also with Oceania Cruises.
Cruises to Iceland from Newcastle
There are several cruises to Iceland from Newcastle that you can book with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
Cruises to Iceland from Hull
The cruise line Cruise & Maritime Voyages used to offer cruises from Hull to Iceland. However, since the company went out of business in 2020, there are no more cruises to Iceland from Hull scheduled at this moment.
Cruises to Iceland from the US
If you live in the United States, it’s possible to cruise to Iceland without flying. However, most cruises to Iceland from the US are one-way trips. It may actually be easier to fly to Europe and cruise from there.
Cruises to Iceland from Boston
There are several cruises to Iceland from Boston, Massachusetts. These are available with Holland America Line onboard their ships, Volendam, Zaandam, and Zuiderdam.
Cruises to Iceland from New York
It’s not possible to take a round-trip cruise from New York to Iceland. However, you can cruise one-way from New York to Iceland as a segment of a world cruise, as part of a transatlantic crossing to Southampton or on a one-way cruise from New York to Reykjavik.
There are several cruise lines to choose from, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea and Oceania Cruises, all cruising one-way from New York to Iceland in 2025.
Cruises to Iceland from Europe
People travel from all over Europe to cruise to Iceland. When choosing a cruise ship that departs for Iceland from mainland Europe, you should take care to ensure that your language will be spoken on board. Although the German cruise lines welcome English speakers, you may struggle to get by if you can’t at least read signs and menus in German.
Cruises to Iceland from Germany
You can cruise to Iceland from the German ports of Hamburg, Kiel and Bremerhaven. These cruises are all with the German cruise line AIDA, so you may need to brush up on your understanding of the German language for this option.
Cruises to Iceland from Holland
There are several cruises to Iceland from Amsterdam available. You can choose from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line and itineraries between 12 and 21 nights. If you don’t mind flying to Amsterdam to start your cruise, this could be a good option to consider.
Cruise Ship Ports in Iceland
Iceland has 17 ports, but most of these aren’t big enough for cruise ships to dock. There are just three cruise ports in Iceland where medium and large cruise ships can dock. These are Akureyri, Reykjavik and Isafjord.
Some of the smaller ports in Iceland can be visited by small cruise ships, most of which offer an adults-only ultra-luxury or expedition cruising experience.
A list of the top Icelandic cruise ports and the number ships scheduled to call there in 2025:
Reykjavik – 279 cruises
Akureyri – 169 cruises
Isafjordur – 164 cruises
Seydisfjordur – 78 cruises
Heimaey – 78 cruises
Grundarfjordur – 63 cruises
Djupivogur – 55 cruises
Husavik – 35 cruises
Grimsey – 27 cruises
Patreksfjordur – 19 cruises
Siglufjorour – 19 cruises
Eskifjordur – 10 cruises
Things to See on an Iceland Cruise
Here are some of the top sightseeing attractions to visit in the main ports of call in Iceland…
Top 5 Things To Do in Akureyri on a Cruise
Take an excursion to Lake Myvatn to visit the Nature Baths
See the 12-metre tall Godafoss Waterfall
Take a whale-watching cruise from Downtown Akureyri
Take a horse riding tour of Akureyri
Experience the festival of arts and culture in July and August
Top 5 Things To Do in Reykjavik on a Cruise
Ride on the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus
Take a coach tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle sights
See the ‘Game of Thrones’ filming locations
Bathe in Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon
Visit the Thingvellir National Park for a close-up view of a glacier
Take a boat tour to the island of Vigur to see puffins
Take a thrilling 4X4 sightseeing tour of the Svalgovar Circle
See the Duynjandi Waterfall and the stunning landscapes of the Westfjords
Visit the Maritime Museum
Take a whale-watching boat trip around Isafjardardjup Bay
What to Pack for an Iceland Cruise
Iceland enjoys a milder climate than its name might suggest, with the weather in Iceland averaging 14°C (57°F) in July, although it can be as warm as 25°C (77°F). Almost all Iceland cruises take place between May and September, so there’s really no need to pack snow boots and thermals for your cruise.
When you’re in Iceland, you’ll probably hear the joke ‘If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes’. Iceland’s weather changes many times each day due to the combination of warm air coming in on the Gulf Stream from the Caribbean and cold Arctic air from the north.
Packing light layers is the key to staying comfortable on your Iceland cruise. You’ll also want to make sure that you have a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Celebrity Cruises has a good packing list for Iceland.
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To Conclude
Iceland is a wonderfully scenic destination to visit on a cruise, so you’ll probably want to upgrade to a balcony cabin if you can afford to. Most cruises to Iceland include two, three or four ports of call in Iceland as well as some other destinations like Norway or the British Isles.
With so much to see and do in Iceland, it’s a good idea to plan your trip in detail before you go, booking guided excursions either with your cruise line or with a trusted company such as Viator.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Nearly two weeks after Nice’s mayor Christian Estrosi attempted to expel Voyager of the Seas from the Villefranche-sur-Mer harbour, a French administrative court has blocked the local restrictions he tried to impose.
The dramatic standoff, which saw Estrosi approach the Royal Caribbean ship by boat to hand-deliver a last-minute order to the captain, has now been undercut by a legal ruling stating the mayor overstepped his authority.
On Sunday 13th July 2025, the court ruled in favour of Prefect Laurent Hottiaux, suspending Estrosi’s 9th July order that aimed to ban large cruise ships from Nice and strictly cap visits to Villefranche-sur-Mer.
“Only the prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes can, as part of his water police powers, organize the entrances, exits, and movement of ships,”
Court statement
Estrosi’s order would have barred ships carrying more than 450 passengers from docking at Nice and limited Villefranche-sur-Mer to 65 large ship visits per year, with no more than one per day.
National vs. Local Jurisdiction
While the mayor has argued that the limits are essential for environmental protection, sustainable tourism, and heritage preservation, the court found his unilateral actions “tainted with several illegalities” and a potential violation of public and individual freedoms.
The suspended order would have immediately affected five cruise calls to Nice in 2025 and 15 in 2026, from a total of 176 scheduled visits. For Villefranche-sur-Mer, the restrictions could have disrupted 12 calls this year and 53 more in 2026, affecting over 200,000 cruise passengers.
Reacting to the court’s ruling, Estrosi said the French government must now “assume its responsibilities” if local authorities are not permitted to regulate cruise visits independently.
The Voyager Incident
The legal case follows a tense confrontation on 3rd July 2025, when Voyager of the Seas anchored near Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Estrosi boarded a port police vessel and approached the ship, attempting to present his newly signed order to the captain.
However, in keeping with maritime law, the captain refused to accept the mayor aboard, as he lacked the appropriate credentials or authority to board the vessel during active operations.
Footage of the incident quickly circulated online, sparking criticism from cruise industry advocates and local officials alike.
“Access to ships in operation is strictly limited to registered passengers and crew members, visitors with pre-approval, and officials with proper authority,”
Philomène Bouchon, CLIA’s Director of Strategic Communications.
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) also released a formal statement denying that any actual cruise ban had been put in place, emphasizing that Voyager of the Seas had been properly authorised by the very metropolitan authority chaired by Estrosi himself.
Bouchon called the mayor’s stunt “deeply regrettable” and warned it could damage cooperation efforts on sustainable tourism.
Cruise Calls Continue
With the mayor’s order now suspended, cruise operations continue as planned at both Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer.
On Bastille Day, Celebrity Equinox and Queen Victoria both made scheduled calls to the Côte d’Azur, with several more visits on the horizon, including Explora II, Marella Discovery, Silver Whisper, and Celebrity Ascent through August.
It remains to be seen whether Mayor Estrosi will appeal the ruling or seek national legislative backing to reintroduce stricter cruise limits in the future.
For now, however, the court’s intervention ensures normal port access continues for the region’s summer cruise season.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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While most people save money by skipping lattes or cancelling subscriptions, one couple took cost-cutting to a whole new level: they sold nearly everything they owned and made cruise ships their permanent home.
Monica and Jorell decided to leave behind their traditional lifestyle – jobs, house, and all – to become full-time cruisers.
Since setting sail in early 2023, they’ve completed 36 cruises, visited over 45 countries, and you won’t believe what they say about the cost of the lifestyle…
It Started With A Crisis
For Monica Brzoska, the decision to leave land wasn’t just driven by a desire to travel – it was sparked by a personal turning point.
In 2022, during her father’s serious health battle that required a liver transplant, a heartfelt conversation with her mother left a lasting impact. Her mum told her, “Don’t wait for retirement to follow your dreams. Do it now.”
That advice stuck. The couple already had a weeklong Caribbean cruise planned for March 2023, but what began as a getaway quickly evolved into a complete lifestyle transformation.
Monica recalled her mum suggesting, “Instead of coming back, why not keep booking consecutive cruises for as long as you can afford to?”
By the time they boarded that first ship from Miami, Monica and Jorell had resigned from their jobs, sold off most of their belongings, and committed to a life at sea – with a carefully planned budget in hand.
More Than Just Vacation
Cruising full-time isn’t just about exotic ports and sunset views. For Monica and Jorell, it’s also about freedom from everyday responsibilities.
“All my meals are cooked by chefs, and staff change my bedding,” Monica said. “I haven’t stepped into a kitchen or touched a washing machine in over a year.” That’s a pretty sweet exchange for giving up the daily grind.
Their days are filled with activities like trivia, live shows, crafts and spa time. Evenings often mean dressing up for dinner and enjoying their ritual date nights.
Credit: Instagram/@life_by_any_means
Jorell can usually be found chatting to new people or catching live performances on board.
It’s Surprisingly Affordable!
At first glance, cruising full-time might sound like a luxury only the ultra-wealthy can afford. But Monica and Jorell say it’s more affordable than many assume.
Back in Memphis, their monthly costs – rent, groceries, utilities, commuting – added up quickly.
By contrast, cruise living offered them lodging, meals, entertainment, and travel, often for less. Thanks to their status with Carnival from past cruises, they scored significant loyalty discounts.
Their strategy? Book the most economical cabins and take advantage of their pandemic-era savings.
The result: they managed to line up eight months of cruising for under $10,000. Some cruises were fully paid upfront; others required only small deposits.
To supplement their lifestyle, they kept ownership of their Memphis home and began renting it out – providing a steady stream of income while they sailed.
How They Stretch Their Budget
While their lifestyle may sound extravagant, Monica and Jorell insist it’s rooted in smart planning and frugal choices.
They often skip pricey excursions, opting instead to explore cities on foot or by public transport. Onboard raffles have even won them spa treatments, jewellery, and shore activities – just for participating.
Their loyalty status with Carnival Cruise Line has also paid dividends, offering perks like onboard credits and exclusive discounts that help them save even more.
To them, this is more than travel – it’s a sustainable, intentional way to live.
It’s Not Always Smooth Sailing
Life on a cruise ship isn’t without its downsides. Monica and Jorell are candid about the challenges.
Being away from family is the toughest part. They miss birthdays, holidays, and ordinary moments. Still, knowing they can catch a flight home in an emergency offers some comfort.
There are also occasional stretches of boredom or feelings of homesickness. But as Monica puts it, “We don’t know how long our money will last, but in the meantime, we’re making the most of every minute.”
A Life Filled With “Glimmers”
Before they set sail, Monica and Jorell would talk about catching “glimmers” – those fleeting moments when life feels truly magical.
Now, Monica says, their life is full of them.
With no daily chores or deadlines, they’ve found a deeper sense of peace.
Each day brings new places, new faces, and more opportunities to simply enjoy each other’s company. Their marriage has also grown stronger thanks to uninterrupted time together and shared adventures.
Is Life at Sea for You?
Monica and Jorell’s journey isn’t just about travel – it’s about rethinking what life can look like. They traded a conventional routine for a floating lifestyle filled with spontaneity, simplicity, and joy.
It’s not a path for everyone. But for those dreaming of more freedom, fewer possessions, and richer experiences, it just might be worth considering.
After all, you don’t need to be rich to live richly – you just need a plan, some flexibility, and a willingness to step outside the norm.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
The amount of money that some people spend at the cruise ship casino is scary.
Each to their own, of course – and for some, the casino is the main reason they want to sail, and they often enjoy a ton of perks because of that.
But if you’re inexperienced with the whole world of gambling onboard a ship, there are some things you need to know before you start. Otherwise, there’s a chance you could end up ruining your entire getaway…
1. The Odds Aren’t Always As Good As They Are On Land
Cruise ship casinos don’t always offer the same odds as land-based venues – so it’s important that you know your odds of winning might be reduced.
Games like blackjack may pay 6-to-5 instead of the standard 3-to-2, which gives the house a bigger edge.
Slot machines also tend to have lower return-to-player (RTP) rates. Since cruise casinos operate under the laws of the ship’s flag state, they may not be subject to the strict regulations you’d find on land.
It’s worth doing a bit of research on typical payouts before you sit down to play.
2. The Rules Might Be Different To What You’re Used To
Each cruise line – and even each ship – may have different house rules for the same games.
Blackjack might have limited doubling options (important if your tactic is to double your bet when you lose), or poker tables may use auto-shufflers.
Minimum and maximum bets vary too, so it’s a good idea to scan the table signage or ask the dealer before joining in.
Familiarising yourself with the rules avoids confusion and can help you make smarter betting decisions once you’re playing.
3. Many Cruisers Swear By Casino Loyalty Programmes
Most cruise lines offer casino loyalty schemes that reward you for time and money spent playing.
Royal Caribbean has Club Royale, Celebrity Cruises has the Blue Chip Club, NCL has the Casinos At Sea Rewards programme, Carnival has the Carnival Players Club… The list goes on!
The more you play, the more perks you earn – from free drinks and cabin upgrades to discounted or even complimentary cruises.
The most popular schemes for big spenders give you a combination of free cruises, free casino credit and free drinks pacckages.
These benefits usually apply to your next cruise. However, on some ships, you can earn small perks that you can use right away on your current cruise.
I enjoyed playing the machines on Costa Smeralda because they had a bar that would fill up as you bet. Once it’s full, a free drink is added to your account. I got free drinks in the casino every night. Sometimes I would play for five minutes just to get the drink, then walk out and take it with me!
Also, the general cruise loyalty system might include a couple of (small) casino perks too – maybe a small free bet. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society members get a $2 FreePlay if they’re Gold status, up to $6 for Emerald and above.
4. Casinos Only Open When The Ship’s At Sea
Cruise casinos typically close when the ship is in port, due to local gambling laws. They usually open once the ship is in international waters – often around 12 nautical miles offshore.
This can mean odd opening hours, especially if your itinerary includes lots of port days.
Check the cruise line’s app or daily schedule to see when the casino is open. Planning around those hours means you won’t miss a chance to play.
5. If You Play On Land, Take Advantage of Status Matching
Already a member of a land-based casino loyalty scheme?
Some cruise lines offer status matching, giving you similar perks onboard based on your existing membership elsewhere.
This could mean free drinks, VIP access, or even free cruises without having to start from scratch.
Just be sure to ask in advance – status matching usually requires you to contact customer service before your trip and provide proof of your current tier level. It’s not often advertised, either – but no harm in asking, right?
6. Look Out for Casino Promotions
Cruise ship casinos regularly offer limited-time promotions – things like free slot play, match-play vouchers, raffles, or prize draws.
Sometimes just being in the casino at a certain time can enter you into a lucky draw. These offers are often advertised through the app, flyers, or during announcements.
Taking advantage of these bonuses can stretch your playing budget and even boost your chances of winning something special.
7. Sometimes The Casino Is Smoky
Many cruise ship casinos still allow smoking, either throughout the venue or in designated areas.
If you’re sensitive to smoke, this might impact your enjoyment. Some ships offer smoke-free casino nights or non-smoking sections.
Policies vary not only by cruise line, but also by individual ship, so it’s worth checking before you sail.
For example, the newer Norwegian Cruise Line ships have designated the main casinos as smoke-free, but have smaller secondary casinos that have an enclosed, smaller section for smokers.
Whereas on the biggest Royal Caribbean ships, expect the main casino to have smoking and non-smoking sides, but with dedicated sections also for non-smokers.
It’s easy to get carried away in a casino, especially when you’re using a cruise card instead of physical cash.
Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend overall – and perhaps even daily – and treat it like part of your entertainment budget.
Many experienced cruisers suggest separating your casino money from other spending. When it’s gone, it’s gone.
That way, you enjoy the thrill without the financial regrets.
9. Quit While You’re Ahead
If you’re lucky enough to hit a big win, don’t fall into the trap of feeding it all back into the machine.
Set a goal: if you double your money, maybe cash out half and play with the rest. Cruise casinos pay out manually, so you’ll need to visit the cashier.
Some players even stash their winnings in the cabin safe so they’re not tempted to gamble it all away later.
10. Don’t Forget To Cash Out At The End Of Your Cruise
If you forget to visit the cashier on the last night of your cruise, you’ll lose all your winnings! You can’t do it remotely and the casino will be closed on the morning of disembarkation.
You might be lucky enough to be able to hold onto a winnings slip until another cruise, but that won’t always apply – and also, what if you weren’t sailing with that cruise line again?
Set an alarm reminder on your phone if you’re worried that you might forget!
11. Don’t Skip the Casino Orientation
On embarkation day or the first evening, cruise ships often hold a casual casino orientation session.
These are great for beginners – you’ll learn how the games work, meet the staff, and maybe even score a free play voucher or raffle ticket.
It’s a relaxed way to get your bearings before jumping into a table game or slot machine. Even experienced players might pick up useful tips about ship-specific rules or promotions.
12. Follow the (Unwritten) Etiquette
A little courtesy goes a long way in the casino.
Don’t touch other players’ chips or cards, and try not to distract the dealer or others during a hand.
Tipping the dealer for good service or a win is customary and appreciated. Keep your phone use discreet, and remember to be patient – some fellow players may be learning.
In terms of playing slots, things get a little murky. If you need to visit the bathroom, you can leave a note on the machine if you don’t want anyone to play it, and ask someone to watch it for you.
Once, someone left credit in the machine and walked away (but left a note and asked someone to keep an eye). Someone walked up, ignored the warnings and started playing – and then got angry with the returning player before a brawl broke out!
I also heard a story of a woman who asked two other women to mind her machine while she went to the bathroom. She also left her purse on the chair, which contained $1,000 cash! When she returned, the two women, and her purse, were nowhere to be seen. And unfortunately the ship’s CCTV didn’t cover that area.
Respecting casino etiquette makes the experience better for everyone. Be nice.
13. Don’t Forget About Tax Rules
If you win big – especially over $1,200 USD – your winnings may be taxable depending on your nationality and where the ship is registered.
For UK players, cruise ship wins aren’t taxed, but US citizens and residents will likely need to report them to the IRS.
You may be asked to complete forms for larger wins. Check with your cruise line or a tax advisor if you’re unsure – it’s better to be informed than surprised later.
14. Pick the Right Game For You
Despite their size, cruise ship casinos pack in a surprising variety of games: slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, and more.
If you’re new to gambling, slots are simple and entertaining. If you’re more strategic, blackjack or poker might suit you better.
Some ships even run tournaments with prizes like free cruises. Think about your skill level and comfort zone – choosing the right game not only improves your odds but also makes the experience far more enjoyable.
While some people love the social aspect of standing around a roulette table, others hate the interaction and feel more comfortable at an electronic roulette machine – I’m the second one!
15. Remember – It’s All About the Fun
Whether you’re spinning reels or sitting at the blackjack table, the casino should be about enjoyment, not stress.
Think of it like a night out – you’re paying for entertainment, and any winnings are a bonus.
Don’t chase losses or gamble with money you can’t afford to lose. Cruise casinos can be exciting and social – win or lose, if you’re having a good time, you’re already ahead.
Final Word
It might look like a long list of things to bear in mind, but don’t let this guide put you off visiting the casino if you want to.
If you want to try the casino as a newbie, then absolutely give it a go – and don’t be afraid to ask the crew if you’re unsure of anything.
But generally, just make sure you understand the rules before you play, and that you’re respectful of others, and you should have a fun time. Don’t get carried away, though!
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
So, you’ve found a great cruise deal – but before you start dreaming of cocktails at sunset, make sure your wallet’s ready for what’s not included.
Cruise fares often look like a bargain at first glance, but hidden costs can quickly add up if you’re not prepared. From sneaky service charges to surprise transport fees, these extras can catch you off guard and eat into your holiday budget fast.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through all the extra costs you might face on a cruise, especially if it’s your first one. And while seasoned cruisers may know a few of these already, plenty are easy to overlook unless you know what to watch for.
The good news? Many of them are totally avoidable – if you plan ahead.
1. Taxes and Port Fees
On every cruise, you’ll be paying taxes and fees. These are extra charges that are applied to the cruise ship when it travels to different ports and countries, which are passed onto guests.
On most cruise lines, especially British cruise lines, the fees and taxes are just incorporated into the advertised fare. But on others, like Carnival and Royal Caribbean, the taxes and fees are only added on when you see the final total – the cruise fare advertised is without those extra charges.
You have to pay these – there’s no way around it. But make sure you budget for your cruise based on the final quote, and not on what you see when you first start browsing, as that price may be without the taxes included.
Want to get online during your cruise, either to keep tabs on your emails or to say hello to friends and family back home? Free WiFi is a rarity on cruise ships, and normally you’ll have to pay.
And on most cruise lines, you have to buy a package that lasts the duration of the cruise, rather than just paying for what you use.
It might be better to just switch off for a week, or to try and find free WiFi when you’re in port. Just be careful to only use your mobile data if you have a plan that covers roaming charges.
3. Room Service Delivery Fees
Some cruise lines offer room service items for an à la carte price, while others will give you room service food for free. However, there might be a one-off delivery charge instead, and if you’re not aware of it, then it can sting a little, especially if you only order one small plate.
Royal Caribbean’s a good example, where continental breakfast is free, but if you order cooked items – even just two sausages – you’ll pay $7.95.
4. Drink Costs
If you’re completely new to cruising, you might not be aware that drinks aren’t included in your cruise fare, and you’ll need to pay for these separately.
Cruise lines will typically have a small selection of free drinks – tap water, and maybe juices, teas and coffees at breakfast – otherwise, you’ll be asked to pay for each drink.
You can usually get a drinks package, though some are quite expensive (often as costly as the cruise itself) so you need to decide whether they’re worth it for how much you will drink.
5. Beverage Gratuities
It’s not just the cost of drinks that can sting you on a cruise – many also charge a mandatory gratuity for the drink, which is typically between 15% and 18%. This will be advertised on the menus, but sometimes in small print, and it won’t be included in the listed price for a drink.
So be careful, as those $15 cocktails might actually be costing over $17.50, and that extra $2.50 each time can quickly add up to a hefty sum by the end of your cruise.
If you get a drinks package, the gratuity is typically covered too.
6. Corkage Fees
Looking to bring your own alcohol onto your cruise, to save a bit of money? It’s a good idea, and most cruise lines will at least let you bring one bottle of wine with you.
However, if you want to drink it in a public area of the ship, such as with dinner, then you’ll be charged a corkage fee, which is usually around $15. It’ll still be cheaper than buying a bottle of wine outright on the ship, but you might want to stick to drinking your wines in your stateroom or cabin to keep costs down.
Or, just pour yourself a glass of wine in your stateroom and then walk out the door with it. They’ll never know…
One last point on drinks – some cruise lines will advertise included teas and coffees, either as part of your regular cruise fare or with a drinks package. But depending on your package, speciality coffees may not be covered.
It’s important to always check what’s covered. Luxury coffees may be charged separately, and any branded coffee stores (Starbucks on Royal Caribbean, or Costa on P&O Cruises) will also incur additional costs.
8. Adult-Only Area Access
Some cruise ships have adults-only areas that have upgraded amenities, designed to offer a little bit of respite away from the bustling crowds where the kids are being louder.
Sometimes these are included, but sometimes they require a pass to allow you to enter with day passes costing anywhere between $50-$100, and some that only allow you to pay for the duration of the cruise.
If you really don’t like the crowds, just search the ship – there are usually quieter spots to enjoy. And then, on port days when most guests head ashore, you can explore the parts of the ship that are usually busier.
On a cruise, you’ll always get a selection of included dining options with no extra charge – the main dining room, the buffet, and usually some snack bars or other specialist restaurants.
But there will be speciality dining restaurants that incur a charge – either a fixed fee, or that will have a la carte pricing.
You also need to be careful with the menu in the main dining room, as while most items will be free, some cruise lines have premium options that cost an extra fee.
Plus, it used to be that you could order as many main courses/entrees as you want, but several cruise lines are introducing charges for second or third meals at the same sitting, so make sure you ask your waiter if you aren’t sure.
10. Spa Passes
Most cruise ships have a spa, where you can enjoy a range of massage and beauty treatments, and these will all have individual prices. But the spas will sometimes have other facilities that guests can use, like a thermal spa, and the charges for these vary.
Sometimes they’re free, or you might need to pay for a day pass. You might also get access depending on the type of stateroom you book, such as Celebrity’s AquaClass staterooms, but don’t assume you can use the spa facilities without a charge otherwise.
11. Attraction Fees
Typically, the onboard entertainment and facilities on a cruise ship are free to use. Things like the FlowRider on Royal Caribbean, or the waterslides on any ship that has them, won’t cost a penny extra.
But some attractions will cost extra. Arcades, for example, work in the same way as arcades on land, while bigger attractions like NCL’s go-karting tracks or the Bolt roller coaster at sea on Carnival ships have a one-off cost. Both of those are $15, but prices for other attractions will vary.
12. Fitness Classes
Attending the gym on a cruise is free, but if you want to take part in organised classes with an instructor, there may be a cost involved. It’s usually low – expect to pay around $12 for a half-hour or hour-long class, but it’s something else to bear in mind.
13. Bingo
Bingo is a really popular pastime on cruises during the day and as part of some evening entertainment, depending on the cruise line. Some games may be free, with basic prizes, but most of the time you’ll pay to play and you’ll win the pot of money collected.
If you want to play bingo, look out for special offers where buying multiple cards gets you additional free ones.
14. Casino Gambling
I’m sure it’s no surprise to you that gambling in the casino isn’t free on a cruise ship, but it’s still worth mentioning as a ‘hidden’ cost because, if you don’t budget for it properly, it can be very easy to rack up a large bill that you have to pay at the end of your cruise.
With various table games and jackpot slots, many passengers spend thousands on a cruise gambling. And while those passengers will likely get rewarded with free drinks and potentially even free cruises, that doesn’t mean you should just spend what you like.
Just like with any holiday, you need to make sure you budget for souvenirs when you travel on a cruise, and the onboard shops often charge high prices for the items they sell.
Some of them are luxury jewellers or clothing retailers, but even the stores selling branded cruise merch aren’t exactly cheap. So, if you are likely to do some shopping onboard, set aside a limit you’re happy with.
16. Babysitting Charges
Cruises are more family-friendly than ever, with many ships now catering to guests of all ages. But you might still want some time to relax without the kids in the evening, so look out for cruise lines that offer a babysitting service.
Expect to pay between $6 and $10 per hour for group babysitting in the onboard kids’ clubs with cruise lines like Celebrity, Carnival, Disney, MSC and Royal Caribbean, with some also offering in-cabin babysitting if you’d prefer, though expect to pay a much higher hourly rate.
On the majority of cruise lines, you need to pay daily gratuities for the crew on top of the fare you’ve paid. Only a handful of cruise lines, including the British ones like P&O Cruises and Marella Cruises, don’t ask guests to pay these tips.
They’re added to your account automatically, and you can either prepay before you cruise or pay them off when you clear your account on the last day. You can technically ask for them to be removed, but it’s not a good idea, since it takes away money that the crew have worked hard for.
When you arrive at a cruise port, your bags will be taken away by porters or baggage handlers, and you won’t see them again until they’re left outside your cabin door later that day.
If you’re cruising from the US, it’s customary (and usually a good idea) to tip these baggage handlers. As a guide, aim for $2 to $5 per bag, or a round figure of $10 for the family’s luggage.
Another cost that isn’t really ‘hidden’ but that you might not expect if you’ve never cruised before – shore excursions in each port typically have an associated cost. Booking through the cruise line tends to mean you’ll pay more, too, though you get the guarantee that the ship will wait for you if anything happens to delay you while you’re ashore.
It’s cheaper to book your excursions through a third party or to avoid booking them altogether and just hop off the ship to explore, although check your itinerary as you may dock far away from the main town/attractions.
20. Food and Drink Portside
One thing that people often forget to budget for is their food and drink when they’re on a port day and exploring. You may be able to carry drinks off the ship with you, but you can’t take food.
You could return to the ship for lunch, but if you plan on eating out, factor that into your spending budget before you travel.
21. Laundry Services
You might want to make use of the laundry services on a ship if you prefer to pack light, or if you’re on a particularly long sailing. Prices vary by cruise line and whether the machines are self-service or if you need to use a managed laundry service instead.
It’s cheaper to just pack as many outfits as you need, though this will also depend on any airline luggage allowances if you’re flying out to meet your ship.
Cruise ships tend to have one or two photographers onboard, who will capture moments around the ship and offer a formal photoshoot service on formal nights.
If you want to take these precious memories home with you, be prepared for fairly high prices, even if you buy a package deal on the ship. It may be better to just work on your own photography skills instead, and ask other guests to snap a quick pic of your family when you’re all dressed up.
Not cruising from your home country? Then you’ll need to factor the cost of flights into your cruise. If you book with a travel agent, then they’ll arrange it for you and include the cost in what you pay them; otherwise, you’ll need to source your own flights.
You can also book fly-cruise deals directly with cruise lines, but these may be more expensive. Some of the more expensive ultra-luxury cruise lines, such as Regent Seven Seas and Silversea, will include your flights as standard.
24. Transfers
When putting together your own cruise package, don’t forget that it’s not enough to fly to your embarkation port – you also need to get from the airport to the cruise port.
You can book transfers, or private taxis, or try public transport if you’re confident, but you will need to budget for it regardless.
25. Hotel Stays
A top tip when cruising, especially when travelling from a foreign embarkation port, is to book a hotel the night before you sail. You don’t want to risk delays on your departure day, because if you’re late, then the ship will leave without you.
A hotel stay might add a larger amount to your budget, but it’s worth it to avoid the stress of rushing on your first cruise day.
26. Cruise Parking
If you’re driving to the cruise port, you’ll need somewhere to leave your car. Cruise terminals will have parking services, but they can be pricey – sometimes £15 ($20) or more per day.
It’s possible to find free street parking in some instances, but that’s quite the risk – better to research cheaper parking alternatives that are secure, especially if they include free transfers to the port afterwards. Hotels with cruise parking are a great combination if you want to stay the night before as well.
If you are travelling to your port city the day before, or if your return flight after your cruise is late at night, you might want to look into activities to entertain you before or after you sail.
Especially in larger cities like Miami, where the airport is easily accessible and late-night flights back to the UK are common – there are so many things to see and do so that you aren’t stuck bored in the airport for 12 hours, but most have a cost – make sure you’ve factored that in.
Travel insurance really is a must for cruising. You don’t want to risk something going wrong and losing your entire fare if it’s not the cruise line at fault.
The cost of travel insurance will vary depending on your age and medical history, but I really would recommend always buying it, especially since medical costs on cruise ships can be so expensive.
My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.
These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.
Final Word
There are a lot of extras that you might have to pay for on a cruise, but most of these are optional. Cruising on the bare-bones fare is still great fun, though you might feel a little restricted.
If you’re on a tight budget, just work out everything before you travel and set sensible limits to stick to, and you can have an amazing time without worrying about the bill on the final day.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
The MS Zaandam may be one of the oldest ships in Holland America Line’s fleet, but she’s still going strong after more than two decades at sea. As one of just two remaining R-class ships, she offers a classic cruise experience on a much smaller scale than today’s mega-ships, which can be both a charm and a challenge.
In this guide, I’ll reveal the best and worst cabins on the Zaandam – based on the deck plans and real guest feedback – to help you choose the perfect stateroom for your cruise.
MS Zaandam Cabin Types
There are three main cabin types you can choose from on MS Zaandam. These each have subtypes of cabins within them…
Let’s take more of a closer look at each of these cabin types, so you can get an idea of which one is the best for you…
Interior Staterooms on MS Zaandam
MS Zaandam has just one type of Inside cabin that you can book:
Room
Sleeps
Size
Large
2-4 people
Approx. 160-180 sq. ft.
As they are with any cruise ship, Interior cabins are always going to be the cheapest option. They’re great if you’re on a budget and plan on spending most of your time outside of your cabin, exploring everything that MS Zaandam has to offer.
While there is only one official classification of Inside Stateroom on MS Zaandam (other ships in the fleet have both Standard and Large options), that doesn’t mean they’re all the same.
Some of the staterooms are Triples, with a sofa bed included for a third guest. And some are Quad rooms, which have a sofa bed and a pull-down bed, sleeping a maximum of four.
The Triple rooms are split across the first and second decks (Dolphin Deck and Main Deck), while the Quad rooms are all on the Main Deck. There are some Inside Staterooms on higher decks, but these are all for two people only.
I often like to cruise in the cheapest inside stateroom with my children, so these would be the rooms to go for on this ship – but if you’re looking for the cheapest family cruise, Holland America probably isn’t the cruise line for you. It’s a more premium option.
Ocean View Staterooms on MS Zaandam
There are four types of Ocean View Stateroom available for guests to book on MS Zaandam:
Room
Sleeps
Size
Ocean View
2-4 people
200-255 sq. ft.
Partial Sea View
2 people
200-255 sq. ft.
Fully Obstructed View
2 people
200-255 sq. ft.
Porthole
2-4 people
200-255 sq. ft.
The next step up from an Interior Stateroom, Ocean View Staterooms have a window that lets you see out over the ocean. The window is nice and large for most of the staterooms, and lets a lot of bright, natural light into the room.
The only difference is a handful of Ocean View staterooms near the front of the ship on the Dolphin Deck and Main Deck, the lowest passenger decks on the ship. These have two small portholes instead of a picture window. You won’t get much of a view, but you will get some natural light.
All of the Ocean View staterooms on MS Zaandam are larger than the Interior Staterooms.
Some of the Ocean View staterooms have either a partially obstructed or fully obstructed view. There are two staterooms at the aft of the ship on the Navigation Deck, where there’s a staircase leading right up to the Lido Deck, which partially blocks the view from the windows.
Other rooms on the Lower Promenade Deck have views partially or fully blocked by structural beams on the ship.
The rooms with restricted views and the rooms with portholes are cheaper, as you’d hope. They’re a good choice if you don’t care about the view but just want the natural light, especially if you like to know whether it’s morning without having to check your phone.
Again, there are some that sleep families, with options for three or four guests. And again, those for four people have a sofa bed and a Pullman bed. The Partial Sea View rooms and the Porthole rooms only sleep two guests, though.
A Note on Verandah Staterooms
One of the biggest differences between the R-Class ships and the more modern ships in the Holland America fleet is the lack of Verandah Staterooms on these older ships.
That’s not to say there are no rooms with a balcony – but they are all classed as suites. In reality, a lot of the Vista Suites on MS Zaandam are a similar size to a typical Verandah Stateroom on the more modern ships.
So, if you were looking for a regular Verandah Stateroom, you’re unfortunately going to be disappointed on MS Zaandam. If outside space is important, you’ll need to book a suite.
Suites on MS Zaandam
The different types of Suite on MS Zaandam are:
Room
Sleeps
Size
Vista Suite
2-3 people
290 sq. ft.
Neptune Suite
2-4 people
390 sq. ft.
Pinnacle Suite
2-4 people
1,130 sq. ft.
There are three types of suites on MS Zaandam. She doesn’t have any Signature Suites like you would find on some of the more modern ships in the fleet. Signature Suites typically bridge the gap between Vista Suites and Neptune Suites.
Vista Suites
Vista Suites are very much an entry-level into the suite class with Holland America – like I said earlier, they’re essentially just a Verandah Stateroom that you would find on other ships, but with one or two additional benefits.
Take a look at this video for a closer look at a Vista Suite:
Neptune Suites
Neptune Suites are larger again, and they have a lot more additional benefits. Just a heads up if you were checking the Holland America Zaandam deck plans yourself – Neptune Suites are marked as sleeping up to three guests, but their sofa beds are bigger and can accommodate two smaller guests. So you can comfortably fit four people in one.
Pinnacle Suite
There’s just one Pinnacle Suite on the Zaandam cruise ship. It’s extremely spacious (with a Verandah that’s bigger than some of the actual staterooms on the ship) and it includes an oversized whirlpool bath too.
Again, a sofa bed large enough for two guests is included if you want to enjoy this suite with your family.
If you like the idea of a suite but aren’t sure which to choose, then you should be sure to compare the different perks that you get with each. Take a look at my Holland America Line Suite Benefits Guide to find out more.
Special Cabin Types on MS Zaandam
Beyond the standard selection of staterooms on MS Zaandam, there are a few more choices you can make.
Accessible Rooms
Almost all cruise ships have accessible stateroom and suite options – designed for guests with additional accessibility needs. And MS Zaandam is no different.
On MS Zaandam, the accessible rooms are split into two categories – Ambulatory Accessible and Fully Accessible.
Ambulatory Accessible rooms are those which aren’t designed for wheelchair users, but have small modifications to handle other accessibility needs for guests. On MS Zaandam, these rooms include:
9 Ocean View Staterooms (including some with obstructed views)
3 Interior Staterooms
Fully Accessible rooms are suitable for wheelchair users, with widened doorways and a roll-in shower. These include:
1 Neptune Suite
4 Vista Suites
4 Ocean View Staterooms (including 2 with porthole views)
Connecting Rooms
While there are some staterooms on MS Zaandam that are suitable for 3 or 4 guests, the additional beds aren’t the biggest. They’re fine if you’re travelling with younger children, but for teenagers or other adults, they will be a little cramped.
But there is another option – there are connecting cabins that guests can book if they want two staterooms side-by-side. These have a doorway between them, which is normally locked. If your party has booked both rooms, you can ask for the door to be unlocked, giving all guests access to both rooms.
Connecting rooms are available for Ocean View Staterooms only on MS Zaandam.
A Note on Spa Rooms…
You might’ve heard about Spa cabins on Holland America ships – these are special cabins and suites that are situated close to the spa, and that have extra spa-themed features in the rooms themselves.
Unfortunately, those rooms aren’t available on R-Class ships. If you love the idea of a relaxing spa-retreat-themed cruise, consider booking one of the newer Holland America ships instead.
How to Choose the Best Room
There are a lot of different decisions that factor into picking the best cabin for your cruise, and as you can tell, there are many different stateroom options on MS Zaandam to choose from too!
To help you out, I’ve created a checklist that you can work from, which tells you what you should be looking for when you decide to book a cruise.
All you need to do is pop your email address and name into the form below and it’ll be sent straight to your inbox.
MS Zaandam Cabin Grades
When choosing the best room on Zaandam, one thing that you’ll need to get your head around is the cabin grades.
Every cruise ship labels rooms with a cabin grade – this is usually one or two letters at the start of the room number, which tells you what kind of room it is.
Different cruise lines have systems that vary slightly, but with Holland America, you just need to know what the letters stand for – that tells you the type of room. Then the digits afterwards will tell you what deck you are on, and specifically which room you’re in.
The cabins all have a four-digit number, and the first number tells you which deck you’re on.
Dolphin Deck – 1800-1964
Main Deck – 2500-2715
Lower Promenade Deck – 3300-3431
Verandah Deck – 6100-6228
Navigation Deck – 7001-7088
The Promenade Deck, Upper Promenade Deck, Lido Deck and Sports Deck don’t have any staterooms to book.
Here’s a rundown of the different grades of cabins on MS Zaandam:
Cabin Grade
Type
PS
Pinnacle Suite
SA, SB
Neptune Suite
A, AA, B, BB, BC
Vista Suite
C
Ocean View Stateroom with shower only
D, DA, DD, E, EE, F, FF
Ocean View Stateroom with bath and shower over
G
Ocean View Stateroom – Porthole View
H
Ocean View Stateroom – Partially Obstructed View
HH
Ocean View Stateroom – Fully Obstructed View
I, J, K, L, M, MM, N
Interior Stateroom
The Worst Cabins on MS Zaandam
Now, before we get to the best cabins on this ship, let’s take a look at some rooms that you may wish to avoid. It’s not that these are always bad, but depending on your circumstances, you may wish to steer clear of these rooms…
1. Cabins That Could Make You Seasick
7058 to 7086
Some people are more prone to getting seasick than others, and most cruise passengers never need to worry about it. However, if you are one of the unlucky ones who suffer, there are certain staterooms you should avoid that can make things worse.
Those are mainly the staterooms towards the aft of the Navigation Deck. Basically, with seasickness, you want to avoid being on higher decks, and you want to be as central as possible – the higher you are, and the further towards the front or rear of the ship, the more you’ll feel the motion.
If you do suffer from seasickness, choose a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck.
You might assume that because MS Zaandam is a smaller ship, it’s not a massive issue. Yet, while it’s true you don’t have rooms on the 10th deck, you have to bear in mind that as a small ship, you will feel more of the motion everywhere on board.
2. Connecting Staterooms if You Don’t Use Them
Various
On any cruise ship, connecting staterooms are handy for families and larger groups. Even more so on MS Zaandam, where there aren’t as many standard staterooms that sleep multiple guests.
But that’s not the reason to avoid booking them if you don’t need them. True, someone else might make better use of them, but there’s an even more practical reason why you should avoid them if you won’t be booking the adjacent room too.
Cruise ship staterooms are made from a metal frame, which offers a decent level of soundproofing. Cut a door into it – even a closed one – and that soundproofing is partially compromised.
The door may stay locked, but you’ll likely hear your neighbours, especially if they’re loud. Which also means they may hear you.
If you value your privacy, book a non-connecting room instead.
3. Obstructed Ocean View Staterooms
Any G, H or HH stateroom
This really depends on whether the view is important to you or if you just like the idea of having some natural light.
The G-grade cabins have portholes, which really don’t offer much of a view at all, especially as they’re so much closer to the waterline.
H staterooms aren’t too bad – your view is only partially blocked by steel support beams. But HH rooms have a fully blocked view by those beams.
If you want a view without the cost of a suite, you’re best choosing any Ocean View cabin beginning with C, D, DA, DD, E, EE, F or FF instead.
4. Rooms Directly Below the Swimming Pools
7005 to 7029
If you’re someone who enjoys a lie-in every morning, you may wish to avoid rooms directly below the Lido pool and the Sea View pool areas.
You won’t hear the noise at night here. But what you may well hear is the sound of people grabbing a lounger first thing in the morning.
And not just reserving a lounger, but dragging it along the decked floor – and that is a sound that will carry right through your ceiling.
If you appreciate a lazy morning, and you don’t want early risers on the pool deck waking you up, book a room elsewhere on the ship.
Ideally, when choosing your cabin, you don’t want one that is opposite the elevator area.
It’s not super-noisy, but it does mean there’s a lot more foot traffic coming past your room – and that can generate a bit of volume, especially late at night.
Again, with the size of MS Zaandam, it’s never a huge issue since there aren’t thousands of cabins, but things will be a little quieter slightly further from the elevators.
It’s less of an issue towards the front of the Navigation Deck – as this is where the Pinnacle Suite and Neptune Suites are located, there are fewer rooms and so less foot traffic.
6. Rooms Where Privacy May Be an Issue
All Ocean View rooms on the Lower Promenade Deck (beginning with 3)
The Lower Promenade Deck is a classic deck on the MS Zaandam, in that it actually has a full promenade all around the ship. It’s a lovely spot for a sheltered stroll.
Except that there are Ocean View staterooms located on that deck, which means the promenade runs right past your window. Yes, if you choose to leave your curtains open, people will be able to see into your room.
This might not concern you, but if you enjoy being able to get ready at a leisurely pace, without drawing the curtains all the time, it’s definitely a deck to avoid.
Also, be aware that there is some seating on the deck. You may open your curtains and find yourself staring at the back of someone’s head.
7. Noisy Interior Cabins
M and MM cabins, 1923 to 1947
When browsing the reviews of MS Zaandam, most of the feedback is generally really positive. But one recurring issue was the noise coming from the engines when you book an Interior room on the lowest deck.
Being close to the engines can be noisy, especially the closer you are to the centre of the ship – hence why Interior Staterooms tend to have more problems with it. It’s better to book a higher deck if you’re concerned about the noise or vibrations of the engines.
The Best Cabins on MS Zaandam
So those are the worst cabins you could book on MS Zaandam – depending on you and your travelling party. What about the best? Which are the real gems of the ship that are always worth your consideration? Let’s take a look…
1. Unobstructed Aft-View Staterooms
2702, 2713, 2715, 3429
The most sought-after views on most cruise ships are those over the wake at the aft of the ship. As you’re sailing, you get to see the churning waters you leave behind, and you have the benefit of shelter as the ship moves in the opposite direction.
On MS Zaandam, those views aren’t as amazing simply because these rooms are on lower decks, but it’s still cool to look out over the wake, and they’re definitely preferable to other Ocean View staterooms on the same decks.
2. Pinnacle Suite
PS7001
No list of the best accommodations on MS Zaandam would be complete without a mention of the Pinnacle Suite, the largest suite on the ship by a significant distance.
As a guide, you could fit as many as six Interior Staterooms inside the Pinnacle Suite, and that’s just the indoor space – the balcony is also twice the size of the smaller Interior Staterooms, too.
You can see more of the Pinnacle Suite in this video…
It’s not just about space, though – the amenities and the perks you get for booking this suite are what really make it special. Relax in a whirlpool bath, enjoy a complimentary Mimosa each morning in your suite with breakfast, and skip past lines almost everywhere on the ship – you’ll really get the VIP treatment.
It is, of course, extremely expensive compared to other staterooms and suites, so it’s not for everyone. But if you have the budget available and want to treat yourself, it’s a fine choice.
3. Navigation Deck Aft Staterooms If You Smoke
7050 to 7086
On most cruise ships these days, you are very limited in where you can smoke. It’s banned in your stateroom (including on the balcony) and in most public areas of the ship. On MS Zaandam, there are two smoking areas – the casino, if you’re playing, and the Sea View Bar on Deck 8.
If you’re a smoker (which includes e-cigs), it can be inconvenient to trek halfway across the ship when you want to smoke. But there are some staterooms situated just one deck below the Sea View Bar, so it’s only a short walk to the staircase or the elevator and you’re in a comfortable, sheltered smoking space.
Don’t worry if you’re a non-smoker and you book one of these rooms – it doesn’t tend to drift down, since it is an open-air bar – the wind will carry the smoke away. That makes these rooms a good choice for smokers, but not a bad choice for non-smokers.
Unless you get seasick, as these are some of the cabins I’d suggest avoiding for that reason, too.
The Best Deck on MS Zaandam
There is no simple answer for the best deck on MS Zaandam. Typically, most people prefer a deck with staterooms above and below, ideally higher up the ship. The only deck surrounded by staterooms above and below on Zaandam is the Main Deck, which is low on the ship.
This makes it great for anyone who might suffer from seasickness, but it does hamper the view. You could argue that the Navigation Deck is the best deck, since this hosts the best suites on the ship.
But really, most people across any deck won’t have many problems at all with sound coming through the floor or ceiling and so are likely to be fine.
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Final Thoughts
The MS Zaandam definitely has her quirks – it’s not often you find a cruise ship that has suites with balconies, but no Verandah Staterooms. Nor are there many cruise ships these days with a promenade deck right outside your window.
None of the cabins I’ve listed above are outright bad. It all comes down to personal preference. And remember that some of those with downsides will be cheaper, and that might be more important to you.
If you want to learn more, you can check the same resources I did, including the Zaandam deck plans and some other useful pages:
There’s no specific Facebook group just for the Zaandam, but the general group for Holland America cruisers is very active and should be able to answer any questions you have.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
