MS NOORDAM
The "Modern Classic." A mid-sized explorer that balances a rich art collection with the high-energy Music Walk.
- Guests
- 1,924
- Tonnage
- 82,318
- Launch
- 2006
- Crew
- 800
The Prodigy Verdict
Refined Exploration.
The MS Noordam sits in the "Goldilocks" zone of ship sizes—large enough to host the full Music Walk experience (Rolling Stone Lounge, Billboard Onboard, B.B. King's) but small enough to dock in restrictive ports like downtown Montreal or narrow Alaskan fjords. The interior is adorned with museum-quality art, including 19th-century oils and contemporary photos of music legends. While she is an older vessel (2006), the 2019 refurbishment modernized the suites and public areas, making her a top choice for adults seeking a quiet, enrichment-heavy voyage without the gimmicks of waterslides or go-karts.
- Live music lovers (the Music Walk is the ship's heartbeat).
- Travelers prioritizing itinerary depth (Alaska, Australia/NZ).
- Couples seeking a traditional ocean liner atmosphere.
- Nightlife: While the music is excellent, the ship becomes very quiet after midnight.
- Kids: Club HAL exists, but there are no dedicated splash zones or high-energy teen attractions.
- Age: Launched in 2006; some cabin layouts feel traditional compared to the Pinnacle Class.
The Zones
From the panoramic Crow's Nest to the blues clubs of Memphis, the Noordam is designed for relaxation and music.
B.B. King's
The Queen's Lounge transforms nightly into an authentic Memphis blues club. Features an eight-piece band and a large dance floor.
Billboard Onboard
A dueling piano experience where two musicians play chart-topping hits. It's an interactive, high-energy singalong venue.
Rolling Stone Lounge
A rock-focused venue featuring a live band playing classic rock, pop, and country hits. A staple of the Music Walk.
Crow's Nest
Located on Deck 10 forward, this observation lounge offers 270-degree views. It houses Explorations Central and the shore excursion desk.
Lido Pool
The main pool deck features a retractable glass roof, ensuring swimming is possible even during chilly Alaska days.
Greenhouse Spa
A large thermal suite with heated ceramic loungers, hydrotherapy pools, and steam rooms. A paid pass is required for entry.
Casino
A prominently placed venue featuring slot machines and table games. It hosts tournaments and offers gaming lessons.
World Stage
The main theatre featuring LED projection screens for immersive shows, including BBC Earth in Concert and dance productions.
Dining & Provisions
HAL is known for exceptional dining. The Noordam features the classic Pinnacle Grill and the versatile Lido Market.
The Dining Room
Main Restaurant
A two-story venue with ocean views. Serves multi-course meals including vegetarian and region-specific dishes. Open seating is available.
Lido Market
Modern Buffet
A marketplace-style buffet with themed stations: Distant Lands (Asian), Wild Harvest (Salads), and Homestead (Comfort Food).
Dive-In
Poolside Grill
Considered by many to be the best burger at sea. Serves made-to-order burgers, hot dogs, and crispy fries near the Lido Pool.
Pinnacle Grill
Steakhouse
The flagship steakhouse serving premium beef and seafood. Lunch here is a hidden gem for a lower cover charge.
Canaletto
Italian
Located within the Lido Market area but with table service. Features authentic Italian plates to share, like braised short rib gnocchi.
Room Service
24-Hour
HAL still offers a robust complimentary room service menu, including breakfast (eggs, meats, fruit) and late-night snacks.
Explorations Café
Coffee Lounge
Located in the Crow's Nest. Offers complimentary pastries and snacks (specialty espresso drinks cost extra) with a great view.
Morimoto By Sea
Pop-Up Dining
A special pop-up dining experience featuring Chef Morimoto's Asian cuisine. Available at least once per cruise in the Pinnacle Grill.
Where It Sails
The Noordam is a true explorer, specializing in deep-water cruising in Alaska and extended voyages in the South Pacific.
- Alaska Glaciers (May - Sept)
- Australia & NZ (Winter)
- Pacific Crossings (Spring/Fall)
Because she is smaller than the Pinnacle Class, Noordam can access more restrictive ports and offers better glacier viewing angles from the Crow's Nest.
Check Availability
See current pricing for MS Noordam sailings.
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Cost Reality
HAL offers a premium experience that is often bundled. The "Have It All" fare adds value for drinkers and Wi-Fi users.
- Dining Room & Lido Buffet
- Music Walk Venues (No Cover)
- 24-Hour Room Service
- Club HAL (Kids)
- Pinnacle Grill & Canaletto
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Greenhouse Spa Pass
- Wi-Fi Packages
Don't miss the "Pea Soup" on the bow. On scenic glacier cruising days in Alaska, Dutch Pea Soup is traditionally served on the open decks.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is more "classical recital" than "pool party."
Sophisticated and quiet. The focus is on the itinerary, the music, and the culinary experience. It is not a party ship.
Skews older (50+), especially on longer itineraries. However, Alaska cruises in summer see significantly more multi-generational families.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Cabins on the Vista Class are known for being spacious. The decor was refreshed in 2019 to lighter, more modern tones.
Verandah Stateroom
The core cabin experience. Features floor-to-ceiling windows and a sitting area. The beds (Mariner's Dream) are widely considered the best at sea.
Aft-View Verandah
Located at the back of the ship, these balconies are deeper than those on the sides, offering less wind and better wake views for the same price category.
Neptune Suite
Offers access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge and concierge service. Includes priority boarding, breakfast in the Pinnacle Grill, and free laundry.