Solid but not Memorable
Oosterdam Cruise Review to Alaska - Inside Passage
7 Night Alaska Hubbard Glacier (Seattle Roundtrip)
Sail date: June 11, 2017
Ship: Oosterdam
Cabin type: Balcony
Cabin number: 10010
Traveled as: Family (older children)
Reviewed: 7 years ago
Review summary
This was my 7th cruise on 5 different cruise lines. First time on Holland America. The ship is attractive both interior and exterior. It has a classic cruise ship look from the outside. The inside has been updated. While not opulent it has quality furnishings like solid wood deck chairs, statues, wood, brass, etc. The staff was helpful and always made contact (good morning, good afternoon, etc.). This ship suffers from some of the same things most other ships do, in trying to keep prices down. The wait staff at meals is spread too thin but work hard to get meals delivered in a reasonable time. But they always seem a tad rushed. The food was OK, but not memorable. The buffet had a reasonable but small selection (pasta, seafood, and a few other dishes). Good ice cream options but most desserts were pretty basic in the Lido Market (buffet). Not unlike most other ships' buffets. We didn't have the meal package so I can't comment on the extra charge restaurants. The main dining area's food was good if not plentiful. They typically had a limited number of selections for each course (3-5) and you can of course order multiple items. Entertainment was weak. One comedian was good and the BB King lounge had a group that was excellent. If you like Jazz you will love them. Embarkation and Disembarkation was very fast compared to other cruise lines and handled professionally. Overall, it was a good cruise for the money but not the best I've taken. I'd consider HAL again but would not be at the top of my list.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Onboard Activities
Entertainment
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
2 Comments
Gwbigdog 2 years ago
dlhoffm 7 years ago