Holland America’s Westerdam has earned a solid reputation among mid-size cruise lovers, blending the brand’s signature elegant style with a more manageable ship size — not too big, not too small.
But if you’re planning a trip on this ship, choosing the right cabin can make or break your experience.
Some staterooms are wonderfully located, quiet, and spacious… while others might leave you dealing with noise, motion sickness, or a lifeboat view you didn’t expect.
So let’s walk through everything you need to know about Westerdam’s cabins, from the types of staterooms to avoid to the hidden gems worth snapping up early.
Meet the Westerdam: Quick Overview
Westerdam is one of four ships in Holland America’s Vista Class, alongside Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, and Noordam. (Fun fact — all named after compass points in Dutch!)
She originally launched in 2004 and got a solid refresh in 2021, adding 25 new staterooms and updated decor.
So while she’s not the newest ship in the fleet, she’s definitely kept up with the times.
Cabin Categories on MS Westerdam
There are four main categories of staterooms on Westerdam:
- Interior – No windows, budget-friendly
- Ocean View – Window included (sometimes partially/fully obstructed)
- Verandah – Balcony cabins
- Suites – Signature, Neptune, and Pinnacle class
Let’s walk through each type — including layouts, ideal guest capacity, and tips to help you decide which is right for your trip.
Interior Cabins – Cozy and Affordable
Interior staterooms are always the most economical option, and Westerdam offers two types:
| Type | Sleeps | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2 | ~150 sq. ft. |
| Large | 2–4 | Up to 230 sq. ft. |
Standard interiors are perfect for couples or solo travelers who don’t plan to spend much time in the room.
Large interiors add more breathing room and sleep up to four, thanks to sofa beds and an extra upper Pullman bed.
Most interior cabins come with convertible twin beds that can become a queen. Just mention your preference at booking or ask your cabin steward once onboard.
💡 Tip: If you’re cruising with kids on a budget, the large interiors are your best shot — but keep in mind that Holland America isn’t geared heavily toward families. It’s a more refined experience overall.
Ocean View Cabins – Let the Light In
Ocean View staterooms are a nice step up from interiors, giving you a large picture window to brighten the space. On Westerdam, there are two types:
| Type | Sleeps | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Large | 2–4 | 174–180 sq. ft. |
| Large Obstructed | 2–3 | 174–180 sq. ft. |
The obstructed rooms — mostly on Deck 4 — are located behind the ship’s lifeboats, so the view can range from partially to fully blocked.
If you just want natural light but don’t care about scenery, these rooms are a solid money-saving choice.
Ocean View rooms for three or four guests include a sofa bed and a Pullman, similar to the layout in the larger interior cabins.
🌤️ Bonus: Having a window is a great way to check the weather before you step out for the day — way better than relying on a sketchy Wi-Fi weather app!
Verandah Staterooms – Your Private Outdoor Space
A Verandah cabin offers the classic cruise perk: your own private balcony.
| Type | Sleeps | Size (inc. balcony) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2–4 | 212–359 sq. ft. |
| Aft-View | 2 | 212–359 sq. ft. |
Verandah rooms are ideal for travelers who enjoy downtime in their cabin. Whether it’s morning coffee or sunset cocktails, the ability to step outside into fresh air is a major upgrade over an Ocean View.
That said, not all balconies are created equal.
Some Standard Verandah rooms have solid steel railings instead of clear plexiglass, meaning you won’t see much unless you’re standing.
These are usually located at the very front of the ship (we’ll cover specific numbers later).
Aft-View Verandahs are prized for their peaceful vibe and wake views, often with less wind and more sun. They’re a bit pricier but sell out fast.
FYI: Verandah rooms for 4 guests usually come with only 2 chairs on the balcony — you can always request extra, but there’s no guarantee.
Suites – Stretch Out and Splurge
Suites on Westerdam come in three flavors, each with increasing size and benefits:
| Suite Type | Sleeps | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Suite | 2–3 | 372–384 sq. ft. |
| Neptune Suite | 2–4 | 500–712 sq. ft. |
| Pinnacle Suite | 2–4 | 1,150 sq. ft. |
Signature Suites are the entry-level luxury option — think extra space, better bathroom features, and a few perks like priority boarding.
Neptune Suites add lounge access, concierge service, and upgraded amenities. And while deck plans list them as sleeping 3, the sofa bed can fit two small guests — perfect for families.
Pinnacle Suites are the ultimate splurge — think separate living/dining areas, whirlpool tub, massive balcony, and premium perks throughout your cruise.
Special Cabin Types, Cabin Grades, and the Ones to Steer Clear Of
So now that you’ve got a solid handle on the main cabin types aboard the Westerdam, let’s go deeper into a few specialty cabin options — including some that are easy to overlook but can make a big difference depending on your needs.
Accessible Cabins: Designed for Comfort and Convenience
Westerdam has two categories of accessible rooms:
Ambulatory Accessible
These are designed for guests with limited mobility, but not necessarily wheelchair users. They include slight layout modifications to make navigation easier.
- 11 Verandah Staterooms
- 2 Ocean View Staterooms
Fully Accessible
These rooms are built to accommodate wheelchairs, with features like wider doorways and roll-in showers.
- 2 Neptune Suites
- 4 Signature Suites
- 2 Verandah Staterooms
- 3 Ocean View Staterooms
- 4 Interior Staterooms
💡 Tip: If you require a wheelchair-friendly space, double-check the accessibility designation before you book — not all staterooms with grab bars are fully accessible.
Connecting Cabins: Ideal for Families… But Noisy for Everyone Else
If you’re traveling as a group or family, connecting cabins are a great option. These rooms have a private doorway between them that can be unlocked if both are booked under your party.
Available in:
- Interior Cabins
- Ocean View Cabins
- Verandah Cabins
For Verandah staterooms, the balconies can also be connected, creating a nice extended outdoor space.
⚠️ Important: If you’re not using the connecting feature, these rooms can be noisier. The doors between cabins aren’t as soundproof as a solid wall. Loud neighbors? You’ll hear them more clearly.
Cabin Grades Explained
Holland America uses cabin grade codes to classify staterooms. These are usually a letter (or two) followed by numbers (indicating deck and location).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Grade | Type |
|---|---|
| PS | Pinnacle Suite |
| SA–SC | Neptune Suite |
| SS–SZ | Signature Suite |
| VA–VH | Verandah Stateroom |
| C–F | Ocean View |
| G | Ocean View (Partially Obstructed) |
| H–HH | Ocean View (Fully Obstructed) |
| I–N | Interior Stateroom |
Example: Cabin VA6091 is a Verandah Stateroom (grade VA) located on Deck 6.
Also Read
Cabins with four-digit numbers (e.g., 4001) are on decks 1–8.
Five-digit cabins (e.g., 10001–10026) are on Deck 10, the Panorama Deck.
Cabins to Avoid on Westerdam (And Why)
These rooms aren’t “bad” per se, but depending on your preferences (noise, motion sickness, view), you may want to steer clear.
1. Cabins That Can Cause Seasickness
Deck 10 (10001–10026) and Deck 8 Aft (8101–8147)
If you’re sensitive to motion, avoid forward-facing cabins on the top deck, as well as those at the very back.
Why? These areas experience more movement, especially in rough seas. The ship’s sponson (the ducktail at the stern) can also cause a subtle vibration in some aft-facing rooms.
✅ Best bet: Midship cabins on lower decks (like Deck 4–6) are more stable.
2. Connecting Cabins (If You’re Not Booking Both)
Examples: Found throughout all cabin types.
If you’re traveling as a couple or solo, you’ll likely prefer a non-connecting room. Even with the door locked, sound carries more between connecting rooms.
Noisy neighbors = less privacy.
3. Obstructed Ocean View Staterooms
Cabins 4055 to 4120 (Deck 4)
These cabins sit right behind the lifeboats. Yes, you’ll still get natural light, but the view varies from partially to fully blocked.
✅ These are fine if the view doesn’t matter and you want to save some cash.
✅ Not ideal if you’re dreaming of ocean vistas or photography from your room.
4. Verandah Rooms with Solid Railings
Cabins 4001 to 4042 (Deck 4 Forward)
These balconies use solid steel railings instead of plexiglass — necessary due to strong winds at the front of the ship.
What’s the problem?
When sitting down, your view is completely blocked by the railing. Plus, these balconies tend to be windy and less usable overall.
✅ Bonus: They are larger than standard balconies — just don’t expect a cozy coffee spot.
5. Rooms Above the World Stage Theater
Cabins 4001 to 4050
The World Stage spans two decks and features powerful speakers and nightly performances. If your cabin is directly above it, you’ll likely hear music and bass during showtimes.
Shows usually wrap up early, but if you’re the type who hits the hay by 9 p.m., this could be a problem.
6. Rooms Below the Pool Deck
Cabins 8038 to 8147
These are located under the Lido and Sea View pools. Early risers dragging pool loungers across wooden decks = morning noise.
If you’re a light sleeper or enjoy late mornings, you’ll want to skip these.
7. Cabins Next to Elevators
Examples: C1081, H4089, VA5097, SS7066, VA8066 (and others)
Elevator noise isn’t usually the issue — it’s the gathering crowds just outside your door. Chatting, laughing, people coming and going at all hours. If you want true peace and quiet, book further down the corridor.
8. Interior Cabins With No Seating Area
Standard interiors don’t include a sofa — just the bed. If you plan to spend any real time in your room (reading, relaxing, or having a coffee), the lack of a proper seat can get old quickly.
Upgrade to a Large Interior or Ocean View if that matters to you.
The Best Cabins on Westerdam, Best Decks, and Final Tips
Now that we’ve covered the staterooms you may want to avoid, let’s flip the script and talk about the best cabins on Westerdam — the ones that frequent cruisers rave about and that often get booked up early.
Whether it’s extra balcony space, unbeatable views, or just a smart location, here are the standout choices.
The Best Cabins on MS Westerdam
1. Extended Balcony Rooms – Hidden Space Bonus
Cabins 4164 & 4166
If you love having extra space outdoors — and who doesn’t? — These two cabins offer massively oversized balconies without any special suite pricing.
Why are they bigger? These cabins sit next to a crew stairwell, which results in a double-width balcony.
Plus, since they’re located at the aft of Deck 4, the depth of the balcony is also extended.
You’ll get four loungers instead of the standard two — perfect for couples or families who want to enjoy sea days outside without the pool crowd.
💡 Tip: These tend to book fast once word gets out, so if you see them available, grab one.
2. Aft-View Verandah Staterooms – Best Views on the Ship
Examples: 4174, 4176, 5184, 5186, 6162, 6173, 7147, 7149, 8134, 8136…
There’s just something special about a wake-facing balcony. As the ship sails, you’ll enjoy an ever-changing view of the foamy trail you leave behind, plus more privacy and less wind than side-facing balconies.
These staterooms are especially loved for:
- Sunsets and sunrise views
- Photographers and nature lovers
- Shielding from strong crosswinds
Some of these aft-view rooms are even wheelchair accessible, so check if you need those features.
💡 Note: Neptune Suites with aft-views also exist, but they’ll cost quite a bit more.
3. Pinnacle Suites – For the Ultimate Luxury
Cabins PS7045 & PS7046
If budget isn’t holding you back and you want to live like a cruise VIP, the Pinnacle Suites are the best Westerdam has to offer.
They come with:
- Over 1,100 square feet of living space
- An enormous private veranda
- Whirlpool tub, separate dining area, and spacious living room
- Upgraded concierge services, breakfast in-suite with mimosas, and priority everything
You’re basically booking your own luxury apartment at sea — ideal for honeymoons, big anniversaries, or those “treat yourself” moments.
4. Deck 8 Aft Staterooms – Ideal for Smokers
Cabins 8096 to 8145
On most modern cruise ships, smoking is tightly restricted. On Westerdam, smoking (including e-cigarettes) is only allowed in:
- The casino (when playing)
- The Sea View Bar on Deck 9, aft
If you’re a smoker and want easy access without a long trek, these cabins — one deck directly below — are a smart pick. Just head up one flight and you’re there.
💨 Not a smoker? No worries. Since this bar is open-air, smoke doesn’t drift downward, so these rooms still work well for non-smokers too — as long as you’re not seasick-prone.
What’s the Best Deck on Westerdam?
While no deck is “bad,” certain locations do offer more peace and quiet, better access, or less motion.
Best Overall Decks:
Decks 5 (Verandah), 6 (Upper Verandah), and 7 (Rotterdam)
Why? They’re sandwiched between other stateroom decks, which helps block out noise from venues like theaters, pools, or restaurants above or below.
These mid-level decks also reduce the feeling of motion, especially helpful for those sensitive to seasickness.
Want Easy Access to the Pool or Buffet?
Go for Deck 8, just one level down from the Lido Deck (Deck 9), where the pools, buffet, and bars are located. Just remember — some noise might filter through in the morning.
Want to Minimize Motion?
Stick to the Main Deck (Deck 1) or Lower Promenade Deck (Deck 2). The lower you are and the more central your room, the less movement you’ll feel.
Final Thoughts: Picking the Right Cabin for You
Westerdam might not be one of the newest ships at sea, but it offers a great mix of charm, modern amenities, and a relaxed, grown-up cruising experience.
And while it’s true there aren’t many “bad” rooms, your cruise experience can absolutely be impacted by where you sleep.
Here’s a quick recap:
You might want to avoid:
- Forward or aft high-deck cabins (motion sickness)
- Obstructed view cabins (unless you’re OK with lifeboats as scenery)
- Rooms over/under busy areas (pool, theater, elevators)
- Standard interior rooms (if you like lounging in-cabin)
You should consider:
- Aft-view verandahs (amazing views, less wind)
- Extended balcony rooms (double space, no double price)
- Mid-deck, mid-ship locations (quiet and stable)
- Pinnacle Suites (if you’re ready to splurge)
No matter your budget or travel style, there’s a Westerdam cabin that can suit your needs, as long as you know what to look for.
