My husband and I are planning a cruise for our 25th wedding anniversary. We are interested in Rhapsody of the Seas 7 night out of Galveston or Maasdam 7 night out of Ft. Lauderdale. Any pros or cons would be appreicated.

<BR>Most definitely sail Holland America. Most people may say "old fogies" but that is not true.<BR><BR>Paul

I've sailed on the Rhapsody and the Amsterdam but not the Maasdam. Based on my experiences with the above 2 ships, they are about equivalent in style, service, food etc. The chef on the Rhapsody is a very dynamic young lady from Australia named Christine Ross who presented us with some remarkable dishes ( This was just this past March out of New Orleans ) I think you would be happy with either ship and would recommend you take the destination you prefer the most.

lucy,<BR><BR>we're sailing Amsterdam in late August. Can you post what you thought of the ship? <BR>Thank you.

We liked the Amsterdam. A beautiful ship, nice layout, lovely public rooms. Main dining room is very nice and they have an alternative dining room which we tried and liked. Here is a link to the Cruise-Addicts page on Amsterdam reviews. <BR><BR>http://www.cruise-addicts.com/reviews/listoneship.php?ShipRequest=0000000130<BR><BR>Chec k these out...

Although both ships are very nice, you'll find the atmosphere is quite different. RCCL is a bit more laid back and activity oriented. Holland America is more upscale and the food is great (hands down better than RCCL is food would be a deciding factor). Formal night feels a bit more formal on Holland America (more long evening gowns and tuxedos) than on RCCL. I loved both ships and would recommend either.

The Maasdam hands down. Holland America is superior in service, quality, food, etc. It's a little more tame - doesn't mean people don't like to have fun. <BR><BR>It really just depends on the type of atmosphere you are after. The crowd also depends upon the time of the year you are sailing as well. Holland can attract an older crowd. When we sailed the Veendam, the younger ones (45 and less) would head to the Crow's Nest for late night fun. The ship wakes up early, it seems. I inspected the Maasdam a year ago - truly a beautiful, classy ship.<BR><BR>Just my opinion, however. I sell both lines.