Another wonderful TransAtlantic!
Oosterdam Cruise Review to Transatlantic
Contributor Level:
Second Mate
Cruises: 7+ cruises
Reviews: 8
Helpful Votes: 112
Review summary
This was our second transatlantic and our first Holland America cruise. A couple of Holland loyalists told us not to judge Holland by this cruise as they felt there were a lot of new crew and not as many crew as they had experienced in the past, so told us to keep our expectations low. It was a nice cruise. Many on board were in our age group (late 60's) which was nice for finding good conversation. Food was generally good, but not great. There were nights when the menu's were lack luster. We can highly recommend the Signature Suites; very comfortable and pleasant for a cruise with lots of sea days where you spend a little more time than usual in your cabin. The ship was big enough to be stable on the sea and have enough room for everyone but small enough to not feel overwhelmed finding one's way around. Overall, we enjoyed the cruise very much.Embarkation
Spent some time sitting in the waiting area even though we weren't early.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
We ate dinner every night in the main dining room where the food was good, but nothing extraordinary. The buffet was the same, which is okay but nothing more special than other cruises we have been on. The best meal I had was the Halibut that was an upcharge. I was disappointed in the Dive In Burgers--took forever to get a burger or a hot dog. They could take a lesson from Guy's Burgers about how to move people through efficiently and still serve a good burger (their's was as good as Guy's). Wish they would have had more brunches offered...the one day we tried to go the line was around the block.
Onboard Activities
We spent a lot of day time hours at the aft pool at the tables or loungers which there were usually plenty. The pool and hot tubs were good. The fitness center was pretty small and basic.
Entertainment
The entertainment was good. They had a couple really good dance shows with outstanding dancing and technological backgrounds. Never had a problem finding a decent seat. The comedian John, was good and really knew his audience. The flutist was excellent. The parties they hosted like the captain's party and the Orange party were in such small venues that it was very crowded and not something we thought was worth fighting the crowd for.
Service and Staff
The service was good. Our main waiter in the MDR was very nice but sometimes not very accurate, but everyone we dealt with was attentive and nice.
Ship Quality
The ship was very clean and well maintained except for a couple drips from the ceiling at Guest Services and in the Rolling Stone lounge. My husband sat in a wet seat in the lounge from a leak above it.
Cabin / Stateroom
This cabin was an upgrade offer we rec'd a couple weeks before we left. We were originally booked into an oceanview. When I got the email offer and called the number they said the Signature Suites were gone but they would put us on a the waitlist and call if something came available. When I noticed that the website had one available I called right away and they were able to book it for me. I really don't think they would have called; I think because I was proactive is the reason we got the upgrade, so I suggest checking the website frequently if you find yourself in the same situation. We LOVED this room. Not really a suite, but just a larger balcony room with a great bathroom with a shower, jetted tub and double sink. I loved the desk area that looked out over the balcony that was bonus space. The balcony was spacious with chairs and ottomans which we enjoyed as well. Our room steward did a nice job and kept us supplied with everything we needed. Felt really fortunate we got the chance to upgrade for a reasonable price.
Ship tip
Expect good, not over the top good in all aspects of this cruise and you won't be disappointed.
Thumbs up
0
Ports of call
Ft. Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida
Disembarkation
Very quick and efficient. We were in a taxi and on our way to the airport in about 45 minutes from leaving our cabin to getting in the cab.
Traveler Photos
