After spending ten nights on boardCompagnie du Ponant’s Le Boreal, I truly felt asif I had discovered my inner Frenchman. Afterall, it’s a French-owned and operated company,the primary language on board is French and theoverwhelming number of guests on board wasFrench. And, all in all, it was “tres agreeable” –okay, very enjoyable.

Le Boreal, which entered service in May2010, is a small cruise ship but it’s very sleekprofile, well-shaped bow and great exterior paintjob – grey with a red stripe above the waterline -- makes it look like a large yacht instead. Itactually feels more like a small seagoing, very“chic” Parisian Hotel. At 10,700 gross tons and466 feet long, it has only 132 rooms and carriesa maximum of 264 guests.

And, while the cruisers on board vary innationality from cruise to cruise, and dependingon whether American companies charter theship, it’s going to be a French experience. Thiscan be very enjoyable if one adapts to it with aphilosophy of “vive la difference.”

And that was part of the fun. Out of the 200guests on board, only 20 were designated asEnglish-speaking (which included those from theUnited States, Belgium, Germany and, of course,England). For us they had the daily program inEnglish, menus translated into English,announcements made in English in addition toFrench, etc. Naturally, a vast majority of the restspoke some English.

Which isn’t to say that the ship doesn’t do itspart in dealing with multiple languages: it does.And it does it very well. When announcementsare made (and, happily, they are kept to aminimum), they are made first in French and

then in English. Sometimes, the English versionwas shorter than the French version leading to afeeling of something being left out but, certainly,nothing critical was missing (I hope). Theyprinted the onboard “newspaper” in both Frenchand English. The ship guidebook in thestaterooms is printed in French and English asare room service menus, TV instructions, safety,etc. The life boat drill was conducted in bothFrench and English, of course.

When it came to shore excursions,information for which was available in bothFrench and English, they really did a great job.They always had an English-speaking guideavailable. As much as possible, they hadseparate buses and/or vans for the Englishgroup. Even when the tour was to a Canadiannational park where the primary language wasFrench (this was Quebec of course), they wereable to arrange the right guides. And, when oneof the tours was to a production show inSaguenay telling the history of that part of thecountry (and it was truly Broadway-quality), theentire show was translated for us in a littlebrochure since everything in the show was saidor sung in French.

And the staff on board the ship was quiteconversant in English. Language with them wasnot any sort of an issue. Maybe it was with someof the French guests on board who did not speakany English. I tried if possible to use my long-ago and not very good high school French andtried to immerse myself into the Frenchambience, knowing that, number one, as anAmerican I was in the minority, and number two,as it was a French experience, not an Americanone, it was up to me to try and fit in. This was

Le BoreaL: Un Voyage Francais By art sbarsky

Vol. 31, Issue 2 - December 15, 2011 “Our 31th Year of Continuous Publication” Single issue price $2.50

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE WORLD OCEAN & CRUISE LINER SOCIETY

(Continued on page 13)

newsletter (OCN 12-11):newsletter (OCN 12-11) 12/13/11 11:26 AM Page 1

If I missed your name I apologize. Pleasecontact me and let me know. I will be listingnames of our other long time members from theearly years in future issues.

Tom Cassidy

EDITORIALAs we close the door on another year I

would like to once again take the time tothank you all for being members for anotheryear. Without you the Society wouldn’t existand I appreciate each and every one of yourmemberships. I know we have gone throughsome ups and downs and some growing painsand I appreciate the fact that we have sharedour love of cruising and our love of ships foranother year together.

I would like to take this time to also thanka very special and elite group of members.These members have been members since ourbeginning in 1980 and are listed in noparticular order. To each and every one of you,if I have never thanked or met you personally,please accept this as my special thanks forbeing members for our entirety.

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- PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY -The World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society

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FounderGeorge C. Devol

EditorThomas E. Cassidy

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Contributing WritersPeter Knego

John Maxtone-GrahamTheodore W. ScullAndy Hernandez

Art SbarskyBen Lyons

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Printed in the United States

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Original Ocean & Cruise News Members:

The most opulent and legendary riverboatever built, the fabled American Queen returnsto service April 13, 2012, offering authenticsteamboat voyages through America. Withluxurious staterooms and extraordinarycuisine overseen by Culinary Director ReginaCharboneau it is like no other. Two specialvoyages from New Orleans will celebrateSouthern culture, cuisine, history andliterature departing New Orleans April 13and April 19, 2012. On the American Queen,complimentary shore excursions areavailable in all ports and fares include winewith dinner, complimentary bottled waterand soft drinks, and multiple dining choicesat no cost. Guests booking by December 31,2011, receive up to $150 onboard creditper stateroom. Call (888) 802-1853 orwww.GreatAmericanSteamboatcompany.com.

In 2012, Cunard’s newest ship, QueenElizabeth, takes over the successful fallMediterranean programme with 12-dayMediterranean voyages that begin and end inAthens, Venice or Rome. Featuring eight uniqueitineraries, Queen Elizabeth’s Mediterraneanseason commences with a nine-day voyage fromSouthampton to Rome on 28 August andconcludes with the 10-day voyage from Rome(overnight) to Southampton on 29 November.These two voyages call on Seville (Cadiz), Palma(Mallorca), Barcelona, Monte Carlo andFlorence/Pisa (Livorno).

In 2012, Cunard’s popular Mediterraneanofferings have been further enhanced with twovoyages to the Holy Land – including calls inJerusalem, Galilee and Alexandria – as well asmore voyages to the Greek Isles and BlackSea. Highlights of Queen Elizabeth’s 2012Mediterranean Season include:

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LOOKING BACKA look at what was making news in Ocean &

Cruise News, Five, Ten, Fifteen and Twentyyears ago.

Five Years Ago – December 2006…Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, NorwegianPearl, is christened by Godmother RosieO’Donnell in a naming ceremony in Miami… In avery rare step for the CDC, the government agencyissues a recommendation to Royal Caribbean todelay the sailing of Freedom of the Seas for twodays pending a thorough clean up and examinationof the ship after a Norovirus outbreak.

Ten Years Ago – December 2001… Carnivalhas creates a designer luggage collectionconsisting of three-piece soft-sided luggage setsfor both adults and children… Carnival offers themanagement of P&O Cruises $4.5 billion forP&O and Princess Cruise Lines on Sunday, butP&O turned the offer down saying it intends to goforward with the merger with Royal Caribbean asplanned… NCL introduces its new VISA creditcard, which earns upgrades and discounts onfuture cruises… Carnival Cruise Lines takesdelivery of its 16th vessel, Carnival Pride.

Fifteen Years Ago – December 1996… Themerger of Epirotiki and Sun Line, creating RoyalOlympic Cruises, offers a combined schedule of220 cruises on 6 ships… Majesty Cruise Linetakes over the charter of the Cunard CrownDynasty and will sail her as the CrownDynasty… Princess Cruises announces that thesecond of the Grand Class ships for PrincessCruises will be named Dawn Princess… SagaCruises purchases the Sagafjord from Cunard.

Twenty Years Ago – December 1991… TheVard Group of Norway, parent of the KlosterGroup, that owned Norwegian Cruise Line,began an agreement with the OverseasShipholding Group to own and operate NCLcruise ships… Carnival Corporation announcesthat it is interested in purchasing Seaboun CruiseLines… Chandris/Fantasy Cruises unveiled aschedule of 2, 5- and 7-night cruises on itsAmerikanis and Britanis.

• Three 12-day Greek Isles voyages betweenAthens and Venice, and one 12-day GreekIsles voyage roundtrip Athens – featuringcalls to Mykonos, Mytilene, Istanbul,Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Rhodes, Santorini,Katakolon (for Olympia), Corfu, Dubrovnik,Heraklion, and/or Alexandria (for Cairo/Giza,depending on the voyage)

• One 12-day Black Sea voyage from Venice toAthens – featuring calls to Katakolon (forOlympia), Mykones, Istanbul (overnight),Yalta, Odessa, Nessebur, Kusadasi (forEphesus), and Santorini

For more information and to book a voyage,consult your Travel Agent, call toll-free 1-800-728-6273 or go to www.cunard.com.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is known for theirNorwegian heritage, and their Norwegiancaptains know the fjords like the back of theirhand! Discounted prices and onboard spending(OBS) credits are available on a selection ofNorway cruises; choose from 7 – 16 nights,Stavanger to Honningsvag, and a variety ofVISTAS themes. The VISTAS enrichmentprogram includes expert lecturers, groupdiscussions, and practical sessions on a variety oftopics at no additional cost.

• M1214 – June 14, 2012 – 13 nights – Flora &Fauna – OBS $200 – Starting price $2,275

• M1215 – June 27, 2012 – 8 nights – OBS$125 – Starting price $1,401

• D1215 – July 15, 2012 – 16 nights – ArcticExploration – OBS $245 – Starting price $3,018

• L1212 – August 3, 2012 – 8 nights – OBS$125 – Starting price $1,401

You must book 90 days prior to departure toreceive the discounted pricing and onboardspending credit. OBS amount listed is per cabin.

Price is per person based on two people sharing.Contact Borton Overseas at 1-800-843-0602 formore information.

Holland America Line has just launched oneof its most popular annual promotions — the Sail& Save event — featuring special savings onmultiple staterooms, products and destinations.Additionally, the line is giving away one seven-day cruise for two through a sweepstakes on theline’s website: www.hollandamerica.com.

Guests who book under the Sail & Savepromotions can take advantage of savings of upto 50 percent off select cruise fares,complimentary ocean-view and verandahstateroom upgrades, free or reduced third andfourth fares, reduced airfare for some gatewaysand sailings, and savings of up to $2,000 onCollectors’ Voyages.

Cruise destinations featured in the Sail &Save sale include Alaska cruises andCruiseTours, Asia, Australia/New Zealand,Bermuda, Canada/New England, Caribbean,Europe, Grand Voyages, Hawaii/Tahiti,Mexico, Panama Canal, South America andholiday itineraries.

Visitors to Holland America Line’s website(www.hollandamerica.com) can register to win aseven-day cruise (no purchase necessary) byfilling out a short questionnaire, which then isautomatically entered into the sweepstakes.Entries will be accepted through Feb. 29, 2012,and a winner will be selected by a randomdrawing in March 2012.

For more information on Holland AmericaLine’s Sail & Save offers, consult a professionaltravel agent, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Travelers can save up to $2,000 perstateroom on two 2012 Mediterranean cruisesaboard Oceania Cruises’ new Riviera. Ratesfor the 10-day voyages start as low as $3,749

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per guest (savings inclusive) with free round-trip airfare. Bookings must be made byDecember 31, 2011.

• Accent on Italy – departing Aug. 13, 2012 –calls at Venice, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu,Taormina, Amalfi/Positano, Sardinia, Livorno(Florence/Pisa/Tuscany), Monte Carlo, andCivitavecchia (Rome).

• Azure Coasts – departing Aug. 23, 2012 –calls at Civitavecchia, Sorrento/Capri,Amalfi/Positano, Livorno (Florence/Pisa/Tuscany), Portofino, Monte Carlo, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, an overnight stay in Ibizabefore ending in Tarragona.

The line’s new 1,250-guest Riviera is designedfor epicureans and features 10 dining venues – sixof which are open-seating, gourmet restaurantswith no surcharges. Facilities also include aCanyon Ranch SpaClub®, Bon Appétit CulinaryCenter and Artist Loft enrichment center.

For more information or to order abrochure, contact a travel agent, visitwww.OceaniaCruises.com or call OceaniaCruises toll-free at 800-531-5658.

Guests can receive two-for-one fares andbonus savings of up to $1,500 per suite onRegent Seven Seas Cruises’ 10-night WesternCaribbean cruises, sailing round-trip from FortLauderdale aboard the 490-guest, all-suite SevenSeas Navigator.

Ports include Key West; the CaymanIslands; Cozumel; Belize; Santo Tomás deCastilla, Guatemala; Roatán, Honduras; andCosta Maya, Mexico.

Fares for Realm of the Maya cruises begin at$4,999 per guest, including round-trip air and aone-night luxury pre-cruise hotel stay.Departures are: January 16, February 6 and 27and March 19, 2012.

Recognized as the most inclusive ultra-luxury cruise line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’rates include air transportation from more than

25 gateway cities, all gourmet dining venues,fine wines and premium spirits, free unlimitedshore excursions in all ports, onboardgratuities and a free luxury hotel packagebefore embarkation.

To receive a brochure or for moreinformation, see a travel professional, visitRSSC.com or call 800-285-1835.

SEVEN SEAS VOYAGERREFURBISHMENTS

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 700-guest SevenSeas Voyager emerged from dry dock withelegantly renovated suites and public areas,completing the third phase of the ultra-luxuryline’s multi-phase, fleet-wide Seven SeasSignature initiative.

As part of the ship’s makeover, new ultra-plush carpeting was installed throughout theentire interior of the ship; 26 top suites wererefreshed with new wallpaper, fabrics, curtains,decor and art pieces. In addition, Penthouse andhigher-category suites have been equipped withiPads and selected suites also received newupgraded balcony furniture.

Several enhancements were also made to theship’s elegant public rooms. The popular pre-dinner cocktail spot, Voyager Lounge, featuresnew drapery and furniture, including sofas,armchairs, stools and tables, while new Turkishcarpets bring added elegance to the ConoisseurClub. On Deck 11, refurbishments to the poolarea include an updated Pool Bar and expandedPool Grill, and marble-edged corridors that nowlead guests to new wood flooring in theObservation Lounge. The ship’s popular LaVeranda restaurant has new chairs and wallpaperand the coffee bar on Deck 5 has been expandedto accommodate demand.

As announced previously, enhancing theculinary experience was also a key element ofPhase Three. Menus in Compass Rose wereexpanded with select items from the Signatures andPrime 7 specialty restaurants, as well as a greateremphasis on dishes from the regions visited.

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Zuiderdam entered service for HollandAmerica Line almost ten years ago as the firstof four new Vista Class ships. As the first shipin this new class, she incorporated thetraditions of past HAL ships, but she, also,went into a more modern, bold direction indÈcor that many passengers enjoyed but otherHAL veterans did not embrace. Zuiderdamintroduced the use of brighter, more daringcolors and dÈcor than the previous HAL ships.She was truly a trendsetter for HAL and a signof things to come within the fleet.

As a result of passenger feedback, someaspects of the interior design were progressivelytoned down for her sisters, Oosterdam,Westerdam, and Noordam, but many weremaintained and carried through onto the newerEurdodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. So, it is nowtime to go back and re-visit this one time HALtrendsetter and see if she has aged gracefully!

THE LINE – Holland America dates back to1871, then running a regular trans-ocean serviceacross the North Atlantic, between Holland andthe United States. Early ships were combinationsail and steam vessels that often took two or threeweeks to make the journey to New York. Amidstfierce competition, the Rotterdam-based firmbecame known for reliability, fine service, andmost importantly, the very high maintenance of itsships. In due course, HAL was dubbed thespotless fleet. Another slogan also seemedappropriate: It is good to be on well-run ships. By1900, the line had added the 10,000-ton Noordam,followed by the 17,000-ton Nieuw Amsterdam in1905, and a new flagship, the 24,000-tonRotterdam in 1908.

By the 1950s, Holland America had sevenpassenger ships running between New York andNorthern Europe, carrying kings and queens andmovie stars as well as summertime tourists and

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SHIP OF THE MONTH: ZUIDERDAMBy Tom Cassidy

Zuiderdam Photo Courtesy of Holland America Line

budget conscious students. But, the decisivecompetition of the airlines, with their speedy jetsof the 1960s and 70,s caused Holland America toturn completely to the ever-expanding cruisebusiness. There were lucrative vacation itinerariesto the likes of Bermuda and Nassau, theCaribbean, and, in summer, to Alaska. In fact,Alaskan service proved so successful thatcompany headquarters were eventually relocatedto Seattle.

In 1989, the highly successful CarnivalCorporation bought Holland America, and itsgreatest expansion followed. Holland Americabecame more successful, more popular, andcertainly, more profitable with a bigger-than-everliner fleet. Today, the company has no less than15 liners in worldwide cruise service, offeringglobal itineraries to some 280 ports. The presentfleet consists of the Statendam, Maasdam,Ryndam, Veendam, Rotterdam, Amsterdam,Volendam, Zaandam, Prinsendam, Zuiderdam,Oosterdam, Westerdam, Noordam, and the new86,000-ton, 2,044-berth sisters, Eurodam andNieuw Amsterdam.

THE SHIP – Built in a design similar toCarnival’s Spirit-class ships, Zuiderdam(named for the southern point of the Dutchcompass) and her sisters, Oosterdam (eastern),Westerdam (western), and Noordam (northern)were, technically, Holland America’s firstmegaships. While these may have beenmegaships for HAL, they would be consideredmedium sized when compared to many otherships, both then and today.

Designed to reshape HAL image and to attractmore of the younger baby boomer crowd, the firstof these vessels, the Zuiderdam, was introduced in2002. At that time, she was planned for year-roundCaribbean sailings. As previously mentioned, sheyielded mixed reviews, and the following threesisters were subsequently somewhat toned downin decor. The Zuiderdam, herself, was tweaked insubsequent refurbishing. HAL’s Signature ofExcellence initiative has been rolling out in phasessince 2003.

The 84,000-ton Zuiderdam measures 936 feetin length and 106 feet in width and has eleven

passenger decks. She has a cruising speed of 24knots and can accommodate 1,916-guests. Shewas built at the Fincantieri Shipyards in Italy andwas christened by TV personality and journalist,Joan Lunden. As with all Vista-class ships, theZuiderdam is equipped with a diesel-electricpower plant and Azipod propulsion system.

The exterior of the vessel is traditionalHolland America dark blue (lower hull) withwhite upper decks. Twin stacks, one in front of theother, both bear the distinctive Holland Americalogo. Like most ships today, the Zuiderdam haspublic rooms on her top and bottom decks withpassenger cabins sandwiched in between.

Zuiderdam’s top deck for public rooms isObservation Deck (10). Forward on this deck isHAL’s signature Crow’s Nest Lounge withspectacular views over the bow of the ship. AnExplorations Cafe was added up here during the2008 refit. Club HAL (where the children’sprogram is based) and the Loft (the teen center)are also located on this deck.

The Lido Deck (9) onboard the Zuiderdam isone of her most popular decks with the mainoutdoor pool (the Lido Pool) located here. Also, onthis deck, is the Lido Bar, the Terrace Grill (greatfor a quick outdoor meal), the Greenhouse Spa &Salon (featuring a hydro pool, thermal suites,therapy rooms, and fitness center), and the LidoRestaurant, and aft is the Sea View Pool and Bar.

Decks 4 thru 8 contain the majority of theZuiderdam’s staterooms and suites withRotterdam Deck (7) containing the NeptuneLounge for suite passengers only and the ship’stwo Penthouse Suites.

Promenade Deck (3) aft is the second level(balcony) of the Vista Dining Room. Also on thisdeck, forward is the second balcony level of theVista Lounge, the Half Moon, Hudson andStuyvesant Conference Rooms, the ScreeningRoom, the Shopping Arcade, the photo galleryand the popular Ocean Bar. Promenade Deck alsocontains an HAL tradition of a full wrap-aroundoutdoor promenade lined with deck chairs. It isperfect for strolling, jogging, or just relaxing andwatching the ocean.

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Lower Promenade Deck (2) forward is thebalcony level of the Vista Lounge, as well as theship’s casino, the piano bar, sports bar, NorthernLights Night Club, Queen’s Lounge andCulinary Arts Center, Pinnacle Grill and Bar, artgallery, Explorer’s Lounge, and overlooking thestern of the ship, the main level of the VistaDining Room.

Main Deck (1) amidships is the ship’sthree-deck high atrium with its stunningWaterford Crystal Seahorse. Here you can findthe shore excursion desk and front office.Forward is the Vista Lounge, which is theZuiderdam’s main show room. There are alsovarious interior and ocean view stateroomslocated on this deck.

Zuiderdam was, also, the first of the HALships to have outdoor panorama elevators, buttake the stairs and see all the beautiful artwork thatdecorates the stair towers, especially the forwardstairs where you will find Stephen Card’sbeautiful paintings of past Holland America ships.

The Zuiderdam is approaching ten years old;and, to be honest, it shows its age in some areas.The exterior of the ship looks nice from adistance, but close up you will notice some rustand chipped paint. I saw some worn places onthe carpet and drapes, and rips in some chairs,but nothing to indicate the ship was falling apart.These were not the norm, but they wereobserved. The Zuiderdam is scheduled for arefurbishment in 2012, which I am sure willaddress any minor cosmetic needs.

THE CRUISE – The cruise was the ten-dayPanama Canal Sunfarer cruise to the Caribbean,including Panama and the canal, which, for me,was the goal of the cruise; and it really was wellworth the visit. But, the cruise itself, also, alsois a perfect mix of interesting ports and relaxingsea days.

Boarding in Fort Lauderdale went quickly, andsoon we were at the Mariners’ luncheon in theVista dining room. This was great because wedidn’t have to find a seat or stand in line in theLido. We just sat down and were served, which isa wonderful way to begin a cruise. Our room was

ready when we boarded, and luggage was in theroom soon after lunch.

The ports of call on the Sunfarer cruise arealways the same, but the direction changes onoccasion. Our cruise started out with two full daysat sea to relax and enjoy the Zuiderdam before ourfirst port of call at Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.Here, I enjoyed the train, eco cruise, andcountryside tour which, as the name suggests,includes a train ride through the jungle, followedby a great river cruise where you will seebutterflies, birds, bats, lizards, sloths, monkeys,and turtles, and, then, a bus trip to a bananaplantation before returning to the ship. It is a funexcursion for all ages and is highly recommended.

The next day was the main event, the PanamaCanal! On this cruise, the ship enters the canal andtravels the locks to Gatun Lake, where it anchorsand tours depart. For those that opt to stay aboardship, the ship, then, turns back and docks in Colonfor the afternoon to await its tour passengers.

Here, at the suggestion of the Zuiderdam’swell-qualified tour desk staff, I booked the CanalExperience tour. Once anchored in Gatun Lake, atender took us off the ship to meet our bus. Wehad about an hour bus ride to the other end of thelake to board a smaller excursion boat. Thesmaller boat provided a different but amazingview of the canal. We passed under theCentennial Bridge on our way to the Pacific. Alight buffet style lunch was provided. Afterpassing through the three Pacific locks and underthe Americas Bridge, we reached Panama City,where we docked and got back on the bus for thereturn to Colon. The return took about an hourand a half. When we arrived at Colon, we hadtime to go through a few of the shops along thepier. All in all, it was a great experience.

We, then, had a day at sea before arriving inCuracao for a full day stay from 9:00 a.m. to11:00 p.m., which gives plenty of daytime toenjoy the beaches and walk the quaint town aswell as evening time to return to town afterdinner and enjoy some of the nightlife. We, then,sailed to Aruba, where we docked the nextmorning for a slightly shorter visit, fromapproximately 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For Aruba,

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that is more than enough time to hit a beachand/or shop.

Then, we enjoyed another full day at seabefore the traditional HAL call at their privateisland of Half Moon Cay. Holland America Line’sbeautiful, private island offers everything youneed for a day of play in paradise; and, personally,I find Half Moon Cay the best of the cruise lineowned islands.

We sailed from Half Moon Cay at about4:00p.m., which left ample time to enjoy the lateafternoon sun around the pool before packing andsaying our goodbyes to new friends. As withboarding, our disembarkation back in FortLauderdale was painless.

PUBLIC ROOMS & ACTIVITIES – In pastyears, HAL had not been known for itsentertainment, but my more recent HAL cruiseshas shown that they have come a long way andnow provide first class entertainment at sea. Theynow offer small-scale Vegas-style shows in theVista Lounge with high production values andtalented performers. In addition, there was acomedian, who was hilarious, and a magician,who was amazing. Overall, throughout theZuiderdam, you will find excellent qualityentertainment, including the soloists, trios, andquartets playing jazz, pop, and light-classicalstandards around the ship.

As on all HAL ships, the Ocean Bar on Deck3 is a popular hangout for pre-dinner drinks anddancing. Here, you will find comfortable seatingand live dance music. Just ask your waiter, andyou can get a plate of hot appetizers tocomplement your favorite beverage. The ship hasa happy hour drink price each night at different barlocations, where the second drink is only onedollar. Not a bad deal!

The always-popular Crow’s Nest on Deck 10forward, offers 180-degree panoramic views ofthe ocean, a bar, a dance floor, and stage for livemusic. The Crow’s Nest is the perfect spot torelax during the day and just gaze out over theocean as well as to enjoy cocktails and appetizersat sunset, or live music in late evening. TheExplorer’s Lounge was also popular, especially

in the evening, to enjoy the classical quartet andan after-dinner drink. The Sports Bar on Deck 2,located next to the Casino, contains severaltelevision screens playing a variety of sportsevents from around the world. In addition, thereis the Northern Lights Night Club, for you todance the night away! The bar servicethroughout the ship was efficient, and the staffwas polite.

The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food& Wine Magazine, provides guests theopportunity to experience demonstrations andhands-on classes conducted by top chefs, wineexperts, and leading cookbook authors, allelements of HAL’s extensive culinary enrichmentprogram. Also, you can learn how to display andshare your vacation memories through the DigitalWorkshop powered by Windows.

Another nice feature, that few cruise shipsseem to have anymore, is the Screening Roommovie theater showing first-run films and specialpresentations throughout the cruise. It is completewith cushy-chairs and free fresh popcorn. But, bewarned that the room is small and popular; so getthere early to assure a seat.

And, be sure to check out each day’s activitiesin the Explorer, which is delivered to your roomeach evening. The Explorer has an easy, user-friendly layout and, also, a detachable Today at aGlance section that you can tear off and easilycarry around with you. Also, during the day andevening, there were the usual trivia games,hilarious game shows like the Marriage Game,Match Game, Liars Club, etc., which are all listedin the Explorer.

Holland America Line automatically adds$11.50 per person, per day, to onboardaccounts, which is shared among waiters,stewards and other service personnel. Thatamount can be adjusted in either direction byvisiting the front desk. A 15 percent gratuity istacked on to bar bills.

STATEROOMS – The Zuiderdam opened a newera for Holland America in being able to offermore outside cabins than any HAL predecessor.More than 80 percent of all staterooms are

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outsides, and more than 60 percent of all roomsfeature private verandas.

Standard inside cabins start at 143 square feet,but they are well planned with a great deal of well-hidden storage space Ocean view cabins start at 185square feet, while the Deluxe Verandahs are 200square feet (54-square-ft. balcony) and offer sittingareas. Superior Verandah Suites measure 298 squarefeet (100-square-ft. balcony) and feature dressingrooms, sofa beds, and full-size whirlpool baths withadditional shower stalls and dual-sink vanities.

Deluxe Verandah Suites increase to 380 squarefeet (130-square-ft. balcony), and the beds arekings rather than queens. For those that like alarge veranda, the aft corner suites (category SB,under Deluxe Verandah Suites) offer spacious,wraparound verandas. Finally, the two Penthouse

Verandah Suites are 1,000 square feet (318-square-ft. balcony) with hot tubs on the verandas.

Suite passengers, also, have access to theNeptune Lounge with concierge, where eveninghors d’oeuvres and cocktails are served; theconcierge can make spa and restaurantreservations; and, in addition, breakfast for suitepassengers is served in the Pinnacle Grill.

Standard outside and veranda cabins all have asmall sitting area and a small tub in the bathroom,which is rare for standard cabins these days. Closetspace in all categories is more than adequate forseven-night cruises, with nicely designed fold-down shelves. All staterooms offer Signature ofExcellence amenities, such as Mariner’s Dreambeds, deluxe waffle/terry cloth robes, Egyptiancotton towels, DVD players, make-up mirrors, hair

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dryers, fresh flowers, and complimentary basketswith guests personal fruit choices.

All cabins have flat-screen televisions thatoffer a typical range of channels, including news,movies, and Holland America promotionalprogramming. The ship offers an extensive movielibrary at no charge; they may be viewed on yourcabin television, available one movie at a time.The daily movie shown in the cinema, also, isavailable the next day on your television.

Twenty-eight cabins are wheelchairaccessible.

SERVICE & CREW – Zuiderdam’s veryfriendly and attentive crew of Indonesian andFilipino hotel staff does an extraordinary job ofmaking you feel at home and provides a level ofservice seen on few ships today.

Our cabin stewards were great, ensuring thatwe had what we needed at all times. They alwaysgreeted us with a smile and by name, whichalways makes you feel special. And, the rest of theonboard staff and crew, also, were very attentive.We were almost always greeted as we walkeddown the halls. The front desk and excursion deskstaff were friendly and efficient.

Holland America has encouraged its mostlyIndonesian and Filipino crewmembers to maketheir cultures a part of the cruise experience on alltheir ships in the fleet. There are specialIndonesian afternoon teas offered, where crewwear native costumes and serve Indonesian teasand pastries. There is also a Filipino crew talentshow held onboard.

FOOD & DINING – The Vista Dining Room isZuiderdam’s two-deck main dining venue,decorated traditionally but with some nicetouches of modernism. It offers open seating forbreakfast and lunch, and two options for dinner:traditional, set tables and times (fixed dining) onthe upper level, or As You Wish (flexible dining)on the lower level. As You Wish guests are ableto make reservations up until 4:00 p.m. each dayfor specific time slots (5:30, 5:45, 6:00, 8:00,8:30, 9:00) or walk in anytime between 5:30 and9:30 to request availability.

The menus were different every evening of theten-day cruise with a variety of selections tosatisfy just about any passenger. Lobster wasoffered three times during our ten-day cruise,and other dining options included Alaskan crablegs, duck, veal, lamb, and fish, in addition tovegetarian and the other traditional beef, pork,chicken, and pasta options. In the past, manypassengers found Holland’s cuisine to besomewhat bland, but the new generation ofchefs has definitely changed that. Breakfastspecialties include kippered herring, omelets,Belgian waffles, and Eggs Benedict. The lunchmenu, typically, offers a selection of threeappetizers: a hot soup, a chilled soup, or a salad,and several entrees.

Afternoon teas that are served on sea daysinclude traditional Dutch High Tea (desserts andcakes with tea and coffee), an Indonesian TeaCeremony (featuring local tea varieties andIndonesian sweets), and a Cupcake Tea (a dozendifferent flavors are served).

Zuiderdam’s alternative restaurant is thePinnacle Grill, open for lunch most sea days at acharge of $10 per person, or for dinner, at $20 perperson; reservations required. The cuisine isPacific Northwestern, with an emphasis on steaks.The wine list includes selections from Washingtonand Oregon. The $20 cost for dinner is a steal!

One evening each cruise An Evening at LeCirque, which is in partnership with the famedNew York French restaurant, is offered in thePinnacle grill. Enjoying the work of Le Cirque’sskilled chefs is a special treat, especially sincemost of us will never get to dine at Le Cirque inNew York. It is, also, a bargain at $39, which isless than the cost of some appetizers at the actualrestaurant in Manhattan.

As part of the Signature of Excellenceupgrades, an area of the Lido has becomeCanaletto, an alternative Italian dining experience.Reservations are suggested, but walk-ups areaccepted on a space-available basis. There is nofee to dine there, and the menu is the same eachnight. The menu starts with antipasti followed bya choice of appetizers and entrees that includeassorted pasta dishes, Veal Milanese, Chicken

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Passenger Capacity: 1,916 Builder: FincantieriNumber of Crew: 817 Marghera, ItalyTonnage: 82,000-tons Entered Service: 2002Length: 936 feet Registry: NetherlandsBeam: 118 feet Maximum Speed: 24 knotsDraft: 26 feet Propulsion: Diesel ElectricPassenger Decks: 11

Ocean & Cruise News Classification: HIGH DELUXE – 5 STAR+ (Large Ships)

Passenger Cabins:Penthouse Verandah Suite .................................2 Deluxe Verandah Suite ..................................60Superior Verandah Suite ................................100 Deluxe Verandah Outside............................477Standard Outside............................................165 Standard Inside............................................154

Passenger Services: 11 passenger decks, 9 bars, casino, show room, cinema, disco, library, CulinaryArts Center, The Explorations Café, Club HAL, Greenhouse Spa, 2 pools, hot tub, gym, art gallery, giftshops and a classic wrap-around promenade deck.

Restaurants: Vista Dining Room, Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto Restaurant, Lido Restaurant, Terrace Grilland 24 hour room service.

Grading System: A basic score of 2 indicates the ship being graded is performing to the generalstandards of the classification. A score of 3 indicates it is performing above what is normally expectedfor the classification. A score of 1 indicates it is performing below what is normally expected for theclassification. A + or – is used to indicate minor differences, but not enough to warrant a higher orlower whole number.

Level of Activity...............................................2+ Passenger Conveniences...................................3Alternate Dining ...............................................3 Quality of Food ................................................2+Menu Selection .................................................2+ Food Preparation ..............................................2+Food Presentation .............................................2+ Stateroom Comfort ...........................................3Quality of Ports.................................................3 Overall .............................................................2+

Suggested Tipping: Holland America Line automatically adds $11.50 per person, per day, toonboard accounts. A 15% gratuity is tacked on to bar bills.

Strong Points: Gracious service by a professional, attentive and friendly staff, wrap aroundpromenade deck, excellent itineraries.

Weak Points: Ship is starting to show her age (10 years) in some areas but refurbishment is scheduledin 2012.

CRUISE FACTS — ZUIDERDAM

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Marsala Scaloppini, and Cod Putanesca. A nicetouch at the end of the meal is that each tablereceives a dish of cotton candy to share, inaddition to a choice of desserts.

The Lido on Deck 9 offers Continentalbreakfast beginning at 6:30 a.m. The full buffet isopen 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Separate stations includefruits, cereals, beverages, waffles, pancakes,creamy scrambled eggs, and such side dishes ascarved ham, made-to-order omelets, and cold meatsand cheeses. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to2:00 or 3:00 p.m., depending on the timing of theport of call. Stations are set up for soups and salads,hot dishes with a carving spot, desserts, and a fullsandwich bar. Dinner in the Lido is a casual buffetfrom 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., featuring appetizers, soups,salads, six entrees, and dessert. The Terrace Grill islocated poolside and serves burgers, hot dogs, andfries. And, those who are hungry for a later mealwill find the Lido open, again, at 11:00 p.m.

Room service on any HAL is one of the bestafloat and at no charge, 24 hours a day. From noonto 10:00 p.m., you can order a full four-coursemeal, and during dinner hours in the mainrestaurant, passengers may order from the diningroom menu. Unlike most other cruise lines, roomservice in the morning offers a full breakfast, evenon the morning of disembarkation.

CONCLUSION – At ten years old, theZuiderdam is now a seasoned veteran of the HALfleet. The once flashy upstart has aged well and inmany ways, has grown into her thencontemporary look. Styles that were bold back in2002 are now more commonplace. And, whiletoday she is in some areas a little worn around theedges, she has aged well, overall. Like any lady,she needs a little refreshing on occasion; and so,later in 2012, the Zuiderdam will be going in for acosmetic refurbishment, so to speak.

Holland America has always offered someof the best Caribbean itineraries in the business,and this itinerary is one of their finest. And,with her lively colors and eclectic charm, whatbetter ship is there to take you to the Caribbeanthan the Zuiderdam! She is a perfect Caribbeancruise ship or, for that matter, perfect cruiseship for any destination!

met with mixed results but I found that as manyof the French on board were willing to use theirEnglish skills, it all worked out just fine.

As to the cruise experience itself, it was quitenice and played well to an international audience.

This worked well with production shows, puton four different nights (four female dancers andone male), which had prerecorded music. Thesewere mostly visual, not song-oriented, showsalthough there was the occasional singer addedin singing in French. But, it really is such abeautiful language when sung that it was verypleasant to this American’s ear.

There were two male/female duos on boardwith the male playing keyboard and the femaledoing the singing. They performed during teatime up through the dinner hour and occasionallyother times as well, with late night piano musicin the Observation Lounge. The singing variedfrom French to English (I actually would haveenjoyed even more of it in French). There wasalso a classical/jazz pianist on board who gaveone concert and then appeared in the lounges aswell; he was superb, with the most unusual andenjoyable jazz/classical version of Rhapsody inBlue I’ve ever heard.

On a ship the size of Le Boreal, there’snaturally not going to be a whole lot of organizedactivities, especially since we were in a differentport every day. But, there were two lecturers whogave three talks each. They gave the same talk inEnglish and French on different days; onecovered the history of Eastern Canada/NewEngland and the other cover sea life. This reallyhelped as we went further north from Boston toMontreal over the ten days in terms ofunderstanding some of the towns we reached andthe sea life that was seen, especially the whalesand seals during excursions.

As might be expected, dining was a big partof the experience. Meals were served in twodining rooms. One was certainly the moreelegant with table service for dinner. All othermeals were served buffet style in both

(Le Boreal… continued from page 1)

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restaurants. While there was some overlap interms of the items offered, there were plenty ofdifferences. Indeed, every day at lunch in thecasual restaurant, there was a pasta station with acouple of different sauces or toppings beingoffered. And when whole Canadian lobsters orgreat king crab legs were brought on board, theywere served in both dining rooms.

One of the advantages of this size ship is theflexibility the ship has in using local food items.One night, after we had left Havre St. Pierre, theyserved a roast pork dish that used a local beer, PitCaribou, the chef had found the day before inPerce. I loved the sauce, just as much as I hadenjoyed the beer the day before in port.

Le Boreal is one of five ships in theCompagnie du Ponant Fleet. Three of them aresmaller, somewhat older ships and one is theyounger twin to Le Boreal. They have recentlysigned two contracts. One will add a new ship,identical to both Le Boreal and L’Austral. Theother will charter Le Levant to another companystarting in late 2012.

A cruise on Le Boreal is perfect for those whowant to enjoy the French ambiance, who enjoythe small ship experience and want a voyage to a

wide variety of places with port-intensiveitineraries. It is definitely not for someone whogoes to a great European city and stays in anAmerican chain hotel.

More information and brochures can begotten through Compagnie du Ponant’sinternational website (they are headquartered inMarseille, France) which is www.ponant.com.The website can be viewed in French, Englishand German. Or call them at their Miami, FL,office: 1-800-400-1082. Bon Voyage!

CARNIVAL INTRODUCES“FUNSHIP 2.0”

Carnival Cruise Lines has unveiled Fun Ship2.0, a multi-year effort to offer new diningchoices, more exciting bars and lounges, andbetter entertainment options through innovativepartnerships and new branded spaces. The firstphase alone, which extends through the end of2015, Carnival will invest more than $500million across its fleet.

Carnival announced partnerships withentertainer George Lopez, who will become

Le Boreal Photo Courtesy of Compagnie du Ponant

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Carnival’s creative director for comedy andenhance its fleetwide comedy clubs; FoodNetwork star Guy Fieri, who will develop aburger venue called Guy’s Burger Joint; leadingvideo game manufacturer EA SPORTS to createthe first-ever EA SPORTS Bar at sea, andHasbro for new larger-than-life game showsfeaturing iconic games and brands. Thecompany also worked with leading productiontalent to create a high-energy musical showcaseand announced that celebrity song master DJIRIE was named Official DJ of Carnival CruiseLines. Plus, Carnival announced more of itsunique branded spaces with the RedFrog RumBar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar and three other funthemed bars and lounges, as well as a newcomplimentary BlueIguana Cantina casualdining option.

The Carnival Liberty will be the first ship tofeature many of the new dining and bar venueswhen it returns from a scheduled refurbishmentlater this month. Fourteen ships are scheduled toreceive many of the Fun Ship 2.0 enhancementsthrough 2015.

WINDSTAR CRUISESLAUNCHES

REFURBISHMENT PLAN

Windstar Cruises is launching a multi-million dollar fleet refurbishment plan to becompleted in multiple phases beginning this fall.Total investment for the refurbishment is $18million and it is one of several major projectswithin Windstar’s Full Sail Ahead strategicinitiative encompassing refurbishment,branding, technology investments and productupgrades over the next 18 months.

Work began this November on the firstphase of Wind Surf’s refurbishment, emergingDecember 10, 2011, for the start of theCaribbean season, with renovated and luxuriousstaterooms, suites, bridge suites, corridors, anda timber boardwalk throughout the main deck inkeeping with her elegant yacht style. Thesecond phase of Wind Surf’s refurbishment will

take place in the fall of 2012 and focuses on theyacht’s public spaces including the Lounge, TheRestaurant, Degrees, Veranda, Compass Rose,WindSpa, Yacht Club and Pool Bar. Wind Starand Wind Spirit will undergo completerefurbishments of staterooms, owner’s suite,and corridors along with public spacesincluding The Restaurant, Veranda, Lounge,WindSpa, Library, Reception, and Pool Barfollowing their respective Costa Rica andCaribbean seasons. After the completion ofwork, both yachts begin their Mediterraneanseasons with Wind Spirit starting April 15,2012, and Wind Star beginning April 29, 2012.

RIVIERA CHRISTENING INMONTE CARLO

Oceania Cruises’ new 1,250-guest Rivierawill be christened in Monte Carlo on April 19,2012. The lavish, invitation-only gala ceremonywill take place pier-side at Monaco’s PortHercules overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Following the christening cruise, Riviera willembark on her maiden voyage, the 12-dayAncient Grandeur itinerary. Riviera will spendthe summer and fall cruising the Mediterraneanand then cross the Atlantic to the Caribbeanwhere she will operate a series of winter cruises.

Workmen change the homeport designation on thestern of the Queen Elizabeth from Southampton toHamilton at a recent call in Rotterdam as Cunard Lineannounced plans to re-flag their three ships fromSouthampton to Bermuda.

After doing some 17,000 hours of livetelevision & retiring from Live with Regis &Kelly, TV personality Regis Philbin will cruisethe Pacific next year. He will be aboard theCrystal Serenity, sailing as celebrity speaker onthe Hong Kong to Osaka leg of her worlddeparting Hong Kong on March 13th.

Port Everglades logged a record 3.66million multi-day cruise passengers in FiscalYear 2011, which ended September 30, 2011,and Port officials anticipate an equally activecruise season in 2012. During 2012, PortEverglades is expecting another estimated 3.6million multi-day passengers, nine days witheight cruise ships, and on two of those days(November 26, 2011 and March 17, 2012) PortEverglades may break its world record for thehighest number of cruise guests embarking anddebarking in a single day.

Holland America has decided to drop regularsailings to Bermuda after one final season in2012. The line says the 1,350-passengerVeendam, which has sailed roundtrip toBermuda from New York during summers since2010, will reposition elsewhere for the summerof 2013, though it did not give specifics.Carnival Cruise Lines also recently announced acutback in its planned calls to Bermuda.

Saga Cruises has announced a homeportingagreement with the Port of Dover, Englandthrough 2016. Saga cruise ships will turnaround approximately 150 times over the nextfour years. The line’s latest addition, the SagaSapphire starts service from Dover in March.

Royal Caribbean International will markanother industry first with the introduction ofiPad mobile digital devices in every stateroomonboard the newly revitalized Splendour of theSeas. With a touch of the screen, guests will beable to access the daily Cruise Compass ofevents and activities; personal daily itineraries,including shore excursions; monitor theironboard account; order room service; viewrestaurant menus; access the internet; and watchmovies. The iPads will be available beginning

mid-February 2012 on Splendour of the Seasbefore being extended to all Vision-class shipswhen each undergoes revitalization in thefollowing two years.

After spending nine days cruising theAtlantic Ocean from Europe, the new SeabournQuest made its maiden arrival in the U.S.,arriving into Port Everglades early on themorning of November 21, 2011. Following thetwo nights in Port Everglades, Seabourn Questwill operate a series of 13- and 14-day roundtripCaribbean cruises from Ft. Lauderdale. On Jan.5, 2012, Seabourn Quest will embark on its109-day Maiden World Cruise on a uniqueeastbound course via South America, SouthAfrica, the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, theMiddle East, and the Mediterranean. Thevoyage ends in Venice, Italy on April 23, 2012.

Royal Caribbean International announcedthat guests aboard the cruise line’s Oasis of theSeas will be able to enjoy their favorite hand-crafted espresso beverage at the ship’s newStarbucks store. Royal Caribbean premiered thefirst Starbucks at sea aboard sister-ship Allure ofthe Seas, when she launched in December 2010.Through a licensing agreement betweenStarbucks Coffee Company and RoyalCaribbean International, the second Starbucks atsea opened aboard Oasis of the Seas last month.

Princess Cruises’ signature Italianrestaurant, Sabatini’s, has debuted an updatedmenu and new style of service, which is nowavailable across the fleet aboard all shipsfeaturing the popular eatery. Known for itscelebrated pastas, seafood and Italianspecialties, Sabatini’s is now featuring anupdated collection of Italian favorites and an ala carte experience giving diners more freedomof choice and the ability to streamline theirselections, if they wish.

The 226-passenger Le Diamant, ex-Song ofFlower, is being sold by her French owners, Ciedu Ponant to International Shipping Partners, aBahamas-based investment & holding group.The 8,200-ton ship will be offered for charters.

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MONTHLY NOTES AND COMMENTS