Cruise to Antarctica
Oosterdam Cruise Review to Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Contributor Level:
Purser
Cruises: 7+ cruises
Reviews: 2
Helpful Votes: 88
Review summary
It is the "trip of a Lifetime" for anyone who wants to cruise to Antarctica.Embarkation
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Service in the main dining room was outstanding, as was the Pinnacle Grill specialty restaurant. Good variety of food in Lido buffet, but seating was extremely limited.
Onboard Activities
As Antarctica was the main reason for the cruise, most activities revolved around this theme. Three expert lecturers were on board, plus the Captain opened the bow for the 4 days in the arctic for scenic viewing for all of the passengers.
Entertainment
Holland does not do production stage shows on this cruise. The Rolling Stones Lounge was popular for those interested in that particular venue. Also piano bar with live singer, and various performers on the stage, i.e., guitarist, magician, dancers.
Service and Staff
Room stewards were outstanding. We had open seating, so cannot rate all waiters, but those we did have, did an outstanding job in the dining room.
Ship Quality
The ship was very clean in the common areas. However, as the Oosterdam is an older ship (1996) the layout could not accommodate all the passengers in the public rooms during the evening hours when the entertainment was available. Some had standing room only.
Cabin / Stateroom
We had three people in the suite and it was very adequate space wise. As noted before, the stateroom steward was outstanding. Stateroom was always made up and towels replaced whenever they were used.
Ship tip
Order a special low salt menu if you don't like your meals highly seasoned with salt. They will accommodate you if you request it.
Thumbs up
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Ports of call
Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina
There are no excursions in Glacier Alley. However, since my initial cruise to Antactica in 2003, these glaciers have really been reduced due to global warming.
Disembarkation
Disembarking the ship was very orderly. However, we had a private tour to the airport, and the ship was not helpful in getting us to where the tour was to meet, and Spanish was the main language of everyone in the port, which made things more difficult to navigate directions to our tour.