This was my sister’s 3rd trip to Alaska with Holland America and my first. We were fortunate that the weather was absolutely beautiful so we has a marvellous 7 days of touring, photos and a great time overall. We were both so pleased with the Nieuw Amsterdam and all it had to offer so we highly recommend it.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Super quick, very efficient, lots of Holland America personnel to assist passengers.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Excellent food in all areas. The dining room had a varied and always interesting menu. The Lido buffet was very busy but there were lots of selection and the menu changed daily. The Tamarind food and servers were so good we went twice.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Cannot rate as we did more shore excursions and enjoyed entertainment. We did see lots of activities available on the daily itinerary.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
All the main stage shows were very entertaining. The two girls playing the pianos and singing together at Billboard on Board were fantastic (I believe their names were Eva and Liz). Both the comedian and the illusionist were great. The park ranger was so interesting as was the interpreter who told a very touching story about growing up in Alaska. We also enjoyed the information sessions before arriving at the ports as well as the documentaries presented on various topics and wildlife in Alaska. The musicians who played to the videos were also excellent.
Children's Programs
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
All the crew members were pleasant and always happy to help and answer questions. Our room stewards kept our room clean and tidy in a most efficient manner and were always available should we have needed their assistance. A special mention regarding the Tamarind restaurant staff, such pleasant personnel make a dining experience that much better!
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The Nieuw Amsterdam had been recently renovated and it was beautiful. There is lovely artwork throughout the ship, many areas to sit quietly and enjoy the scenery, good indications to assist in finding our way around. The Explorations Cafe was popular and there were large tables with interactive screens for anyone interested in learning more about the area to explore. There were games, books and game tables too. The crew were constantly cleaning inside and out to make sure it shone; overall a truly beautiful ship.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Wonderful, roomy, efficiently set up, lots of cupboard space, fantastic beds that were so comfy! The room stewards kept it spotless.
Ship tip
Enjoy this ship for all it has to offer. The Lido buffet is very busy so it’s better to find an open table and save your spot before going up to get your meal, otherwise you have to negotiate between passengers and crew to find a table and that’s no fun!
Went up the Mount Roberts tram to visit the nature centre. We walked to the observation platforms to admire the views and then returned to stroll through the town. Many touristy shops.
Went on the White Pass mountain train and loved our experience; highly recommend this excursion. Again, lovely town like out of a Western movie, but lots of touristy shops.
Went on a float plane ride into the fjords, wow. The highlight was landing on the water and getting to stand on the pontoons. In the am we enjoyed the Creek Street area and found shops here offered higher quality goods than other ports. We also had a great lunch at Dwyer’s restaurant.
We cruised Nieuw Amsterdam on her 7th voyage. EVERYTHING was wonderful. Brand spanking new. I rate it as one of the best out there. So glad you had a wonderful experience.
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