Peaceful, sumptuous. Professional, attentive crew, friendly officers, accessible help for anything. Felt safe and valued.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Steak and Spanish restaurants were OK, but the Lido marketplace buffet was outstanding. Not as many dishes as on Princess, but tastier, better prepared. From bread pudding to filet mignon, no dish was less than spot on. However, your orange juice and lemonade were very very weak. The mix settles in the pitchers before they pour it. They don't stir it. I brought my own peach tea powder to put in the lemonade so it had some flavor. Better out of the spouts than the pitchers.
We were surprised and gratified at the frequency with which you served steaks and prime rib in the buffet. Thanks.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
I used the treadmill many times, always was one available, and we enjoyed the Trivia and some of the game shows. JC was a great hostess. I missed some of the more riotous "contests" among passengers around the Lido pool, best men's legs, hairiest chests, cocktail building, etc.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Princess has a larger singing/dancing cast, but they are cheap. We had seen one of the big reviews on a prior cruise, and on this 2 week rt to Hawaii,they repeated two show the second week. Holland America had four different dance reviews in two week, each one amazing, spectacular. chorerography astounding and performances up to it. TALENT!
John King, comedian, was fabulous, sooooo funny and had totally different shows.
Chamber music was created for intimate salons. What are you doing, putting it on in an arena??? And TWICE? Kidding me?
We enjoyed the flautist, but not a second time. Are you saving money or something? Rather have an Elvis or other musician impersonator. Please.
Michelle Maru---, singer and commentator, was delightful, whole ship loved her and her songs. Great entertainment.
As mentioned prior, Von, customer service desk, went way above and beyond in his help to us when our phones weren't working, even to the point of coming to our cabin to ensure he understood the problem!
Children's Programs
N/A
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Holland America is like dealing with Mom, a nice Mom. Princess is like dealing with city hall. If something's wrong, they're defensive. When we had phone trouble, Von, from the service desk followed us back up to our suite to ensure it had been corrected. Wow.
I didn't dare ask someone where something was or they would escort me to it, instead of pointing. Heavens.
Servers in buffet were cheerful and upbeat, speedy and accurate.
Raymond and Adit, our cabin stewards, KNEW OUR NAMES! They were absolutely thorough, punctual and made our voyage better. Quite personable, just the best, always available. They made our cabin like an easy, warm hug.
Wasa, in the Lido buffet, was quite special. He had the most radiant manner and smile; he really seemed happy to see you and made each meal a happier event. Asep also served in the Lido and was unfailingly cheerful and helpful.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Not as spectacular as Princess' Discovery atrium and see through glass floors, but always ship shape, pristine. There were usually tables available around the pool, and, if not, spacious lounges everywhere.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Bath had whirlpool tub and shower and an additional shower! Two sinks, no waiting, beautiful tile pattern. Will try to get it again when we sail with you. Large balcony, couch inside, ample drawers and hangers.
Ship tip
If anything is the least bit discomforting, mention it. The whole staff really wants to make everything all right
The Andalusian (spelling) stallions were simply the best excursion I've ever had in my dozens of cruises. They were up close and personal, length of segments of the show were perfect, Spanish cheeses and snacks, wine added a great touch. Guide Vera was superb.
Our probably beginning excursion guide had no mike for relating details to the group, which just dissolved finally in Guadalest. Enjoyed the castle without her.
One of your agents, Wira, recognized my husband's panic about connecting flights, etc., and got us on the first group to leave. Slick, fast we appreciated it.
We are sailing on her in September in the Mediterranean. Thanks for the review, we have been multiple times on the Pinnacle class ships but first time on Oosterdam I’m looking forward to it.
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