A fantastic voyage
Koningsdam Cruise Review to Transatlantic
14 Night Passage To Rome (Ft. Lauderdale To Rome)
Sail date: March 28, 2018
Ship: Koningsdam
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Singles/Friends
Reviewed: 6 years ago
Review summary
Our first transatlantic was a smashing success. Time flew by and enjoyed every minute of it.Embarkation
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Tamarind Restaurant
A favourite of our group. My wife and I went twice and enjoyed totalling different fare each experience being wonderful. A lovely menu offering something for everyone. Its position aft of the ship provides lovely views, which because we were travelling east were sunsets.
Blend
It was an interesting experience but overpriced for the outcome. Our sommelier was very knowledgable and engaging. She made it worthwhile.
Grand Dutch Café
A unique and new experience for us on HAL ships. Great for snacks, light meals or just afternoon tea. The staff were extremely pleasant and helpful. Try the bitterballen or pea soup.
Pinnacle Grill
I've have always enjoyed the Pinnacle Grill in terms of ambience and personal attention. Sometimes the steak orders are a little off but they are quick to amend to ensure you have a memorable experience.
Ocean Bar
A regular before dinner place for our group. It is well positioned close to all the dining options. Service was good but be careful you don't over indulge in the hor d'oeuvres or you won't have room for dinner.
Culinary Arts Center
Isn't overley conducive to groups of six or more in terms of places to sit. However, the food made up for it and we enjoyed sampling each others choices.
Canaletto
Like the new set up on the Konningsdam. More intimate than a hived off section of the buffet area. They could go further. As a group of six we shared plates which was a great way to sample different dishes.
Onboard Activities
Guest Services
At times there is a line up but they move through it fairly quickly while still giving each guest their undivided attention and sincere efforts to solve their issues.
The Retreat
This is indeed a hidden gem onboard the Konningsdam. Mind you the temperature hovered around 20 degrees Celcius the days we used it making not as busy perhaps as it would be in the Caribbean. It is for sure a great way to spend a sea day. It is privately located on the 12th deck. You can start in the early morning for breakfast and stay until late afternoon. The personalized service provides attentive staff to bring you drinks and food right to your cabana.
Signature Shops
Nicely spread out and not clumped in just one area. You can browse easily and the staff are attentive and helpful.
Entertainment
Lincoln Center Stage
While I didn't spend a lot of time there when I did it was fantastic and very professional. Clearly HAL has put a lot of effort into the quality of musicians and performers. Worth spending some time at.
World Stage
I didn't see all the venues but the dancing and singing was some of the best I've seen at sea. Clearly HAL has put a lot of thought into the entertainment on board and the World Stage showcases some of the best. The unique multi screened venue is state of the art and adds a whole new dimension to the performances.
Queen's Lounge
Spent fare too many late nights listening to the BB King's Allstars and then later closing the disco. Much better set up than my experience on other Holland ships.
Billboard Onboard
Enjoyed the duelling pianos. The musicians were entertaining and engaging. A warm and fun atmosphere.
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ship tip
Try the different dining venues.