I have just returned from a three-week cruise on the Veendam which included a wonderful excursion to Machu Picchu. As usual HAL had organised everything perfectly and it all went like clockwork. The guides were excellent, the Monesterio Hotel lived up to its 5-star rating, the Hiram Bingham rail journey was a great experience and… read more of “Exploring…”
After Part 1 and 2, here are the last pictures from our day spent repairing a local school in Manta, Ecuador. What a rewarding experience!
We posted Part 1 yesterday, and here are some more pictures from the day spent repairing a local school in Manta, Ecuador. Kudos to Veendam‘s amazing crew for doing such a terrific job!
On April 21 the crew of the ms Veendam took the concept of “Cruise With a Purpose” literally in their own hands. Cruise with a Purpose is a designation given to shore excursions that give back to the community or serve a higher purpose than entertainment, and today the crew of the Veendam did just… read more of “Together we Can…”
Dear readers, my apologies for not contributing for several days. Towards the end of one’s contract, there never seem to be enough hours in a day. What with social functions, endless paperwork, (reports in various guises) and the everyday responsibilities of commanding a cruise ship, time to sit and write to you seems to be… read more of “Captain’s…”
Here are photos of a sand castle we came across on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. Seems like they are ready for the 2016 Olympics! Jaime de Castro-van der Loo is Maasdam’s human resources manager.
Thanks to guest Vera Gibault for sending in her stunning photos from her Veendam cruise to Antarctica.
Guest Mary O’Donnell was on board Maasdam and sent in this great Cruise Diary from her voyage. Stay tuned for more posts from Mary! Day 20 or so – 2/27/13 – Parintins & Alter do Chao I believe Holland America saved the best for last! Two delightful, small cities, with clean, well kept little homes,… read more of “Cruise Diary:…”
