Our First Cruise...Kunundrum

Oosterdam Cruise Review to Alaska - Inside Passage

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)
Reviews: 0
Helpful Votes: 10

Overall rating:

4 out of 5
Verified Review
Oosterdam

7 Night Alaskan Explorer Via Hubbard Glacier (Seattle Roundtrip)

Sail date: May 12, 2007

Ship: Oosterdam

Cabin type: Suite

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 17 years ago

Review summary

The Cruise was planned so far in advance. We were excited indeed, and being our first cruise, we didnt know what to expect. From boarding process in Seattle, to the debarkation, we were very impressed. The Oosterdam is impressive, the staff were amazing, the food, and overall dining on all parts of the ship were amazing. So, why, you ask, the kunundrum? We were free to do what we wanted, but my wife and I love travelling with no itenery. We simply go. The cruise had us enthralled, and we enjoyed excursions like Mendenhall Glacier and Salmon Bake, Kayaking in Sitka, and Rain Forest Canopy Zip lining through Ketchikan. (Our favorite) But, still, something missing. I cant put my finger on it, but something.... In any event, thats my problem. This ship is not overrated, and is fantastic. The entire staff, from the Captain (Mercer) to the basic engineering staff were utterly amazing. I cant say enough! Lots to do, more to eat than even I could imagine, and impeccable service in our suite.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5
Pinnacle grill was oppulent, delicious, and amazing. Vista Dining was fantastic as well. Even the buffett was cosistent, quality and filling. Bravo Holland America

Entertainment

5 out of 5
Saw the shows, hot dancers, and although probably geared for an older crowd, I found myself really enjoying all of the shows.

Service and Staff

5 out of 5
Highest rating here. awesome from start to finish

Ship Quality

5 out of 5
Ship is large, but easily navigable. We took the stairs the entire cruise, and stayed away from the elevators. Public areas have a bit of wear, but my gosh, they keep it sharp nonetheless. Our balcony suite was comfortable and large enough (SS8051) and we enjoyed the ship bow to stern

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
A+ from end to end. Plenty large, funky decor, but extrodinarily comfortable.

Ports of call

Victoria, British Columbia

5 out of 5
The most georgeous city in Canada. I have been there often, so we just walked around downtown. I love this city the most!
Don't Miss: WALK! WALK! it is incredible. Dont forget to party in the alleys, or dine nearby!

Juneau, Alaska

3 out of 5
Small town charm here. Very good shopping. Please see your shopping coordinater before disembarking....you will be glad you did. Kim was ours, and she is a hoot
Don't Miss: I would say The Red Dog Saloon

Sitka, Alaska

3 out of 5
Not much of a town here. Good shore excursions. Do not miss the Museum...it was incredible. Also, found a little thrift shop here, and bought many collectables for next to nothing. I am not going to tell you where it is, but it is close to a cannery.....
Don't Miss: Look off the main street for hidden thrift/junk shops you will know when you see it

Ketchikan, Alaska

5 out of 5
You know, we zip lined here, and had about 10 minutes to see the town! This was the neatest port town on our trip, and we missed it! I just bought some Alaska Air tickets for a long weekend there in June! That is the way to see it
Don't Miss: Canopy Zip Line! DO THIS!

Pros: The Staff, The Ship, The Food

Cons: Length of time in ports

Recommends Oosterdam? Yes!

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1 Comment

Gwbigdog    2 years ago

Thanks for sharing your cruise.

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