Editorial note: On October 4, 2000, the Holland American Lines (HAL) was kind to your webmaster, and by working through their home office in Seattle, he was permitted to board the MS Statendam while in Port (San Diego,) prior to her leaving for a 15 day Hawaiian cruise later that afternoon. We wish to thank HAL for their assistance in this endeavor - which permitted us to show off their wonderful ship to Hector's web site visitors.

So now, set your sights (& GPS) on N 32-43-06, & W 117-10-31, and you will be on the Sports Deck, mid-ship, Starboard on the ms Statendam. See you there!

The MS Statendam at rest in the San Diego Cruise Ship Terminal

The old & the new. The Bark Star of India and the Statendam. (The Star of India is a part of the San Diego Maritime Museum. She was launched in 1863, and is the world's oldest active merchant ship. She sails out into the Pacific several times each year. Another reason to spend some time in San Diego either before or after your cruise with Hector.)

The Star of India from the Statendam's Sky Deck

Under misting skies, the San Diego sky line - from the Sports Deck

The Crow's Nest on the forward part of the Sports Deck offers great views

From just aft of the Port side view deck, which is located forward of the Ocean Spa Gymnasium, we look over toward the Holiday Inn - Bay Side, a convenient place to stay - just a short walk to the cruise ship pier.

The ships bell as we look at downtown San Diego.

These dolphins, with the lei's already around their necks, are ready to jump with joy as the ship sails toward Hawaii above the Lido Deck Pool. (The pool was empty when this photo was taken. While in port, a lot of maintenance is performed.)

All HAL ships are known for their extensive on board art collection . . .

. .  . above, just a taste of what awaits you.

Of course, something else awaits you as well, if you choose to participate.

If you can't exist with out e-mail or Internet access . . .

You can tell folks what your e-mail address will be in advance, by following this guide:

Your first initial, last name, your cabin # (4 numerals, add a "0" if necessary).
(Example: < djones0162@statendam.cruisemail.net >

. . . the ships Internet C@fe is waiting for you. It's located on the Promenade Deck (#7) right in the center of things.

You can read & write your e-mail, send it, and have full 24 hour access to the Internet while cruising across the Pacific. Each terminal also has video capabilities.

The ships Front Office where any question can be asked, and answered.

To the right is the Shore Excursion Office where you will find out about the availability of fun & interesting shore-side trips. These two offices are located on the Promenade Deck (#7).
      

Come on, HAL is ready, Hector is ready - are you?