We are looking at Volendam vs Zaandam to Alaska, pricing on Volendam i about 15% lower, has anyone traveled on either one of this ship? I search for previous questions, but they very outdated. Our other option is Serenade of Sea from HCL.

The Volendam and Zaandam are sister ships. The layout is identical, decor is different. I sailed on the Volendam 3 times , the last time being almost 2 years ago. Food and service were good. If the price is lower on the Volendam, go for it.
Can't help with Serenade.

We went to Alaska on the Volendam in July. Had a great time. I was not expecting to enjoy the ship as much as I did. We don't like large ships so anyting bigger than their S class ships rings alarm bells.
There were six of us and I think everyone was impressed.

I enjoyed Volendam as well. As always Holland America's food is good. Serenade of the Seas is Royal Caribbean. I just sailed on RCI's Legend of the Seas last month and hated the food and their cutbacks. I am even proud to say I lost 5 lbs on a 2 weeks cruise!!! Too bad with the cruise line's cutbacks the staff and crew have to work harder to please the passenger.

Thanks for everybody's input. Yes, Serenade of Sea is RCCL, there is a typo. How is RCCL vs HCL in general? Any input is appreciated.

I was informed that Holland is for an older crowd. Better entertainment on Royal Caribbean & better service on
Celebrity. I have been on both Celebrity and Royal Caribbean I thought the food was good on both, same type of menu. Serenade of the Sea's is new and apparently from what I hear beautiful and caters to it's quests.

Mels, thank you. I just booked my cruise on Serenade of Seas to Inside Passage. Anyone wants a great agent who will match cruisevaluecenter.com price, let me know.