The Rotterdam is the 'Flagship; of the Holland America Line. Although it is an older ship, it's accommodations, service and attention to detail are above reproach.

Rotterdam Retired Cruise Review to Caribbean - Western

Cruises: 7+ cruises
Reviews: 3
Helpful Votes: 50

Overall rating:

4.3 out of 5
Rotterdam Retired

7 Night Western Caribbean (Tampa Roundtrip)

Sail date: April 08, 2018

Ship: Rotterdam Retired

Cabin type: Suite

Cabin number: 7017

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 6 years ago

Review summary

No glitz or glamor, but a relaxing experience for those not seeking mayhem, i.e., geared to older (50's and up) cruisers.

Embarkation

5 out of 5
The Neptune suite guests are greeted and boarded upon arrival to the check-in area. On the vessel within 15 minutes once cleared through security.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5
The Pinnacle and Canaletto are alternatives to the main dining experience. On my voyage, the Pinnacle introduced the 'Sea de Mer' for one evening. Magnifique! The Canaletto has changed their menu with daily specials. In addition, it now charges for expresso and cappuccino coffee. Not too long ago, the venue was free! Then came a $5, then $10, and now a $15 dollar surcharge! I'm not sure I would recommend this to a family on a limited budget. Save and enjoy an evening in the Pinnacle or better still - take advantage of the Pinnacle Lunch on sea days ($10 pp.).

Onboard Activities

3 out of 5
Lot's of reading and focusing on the horizon.

Entertainment

3 out of 5
The entertainment on the Rotterdam is quiet staid. Although adequate, don't expect much excitement. I was surprised on this cruise there was no band/singer by the pool on sea days?

Children's Programs

1 out of 5
N/A

Service and Staff

5 out of 5
Always greeted with a smile and requests attended to expeditiously.

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
The bed is very comfortable. The bathroom needs an update. Although there is a tub with a shower, the step out of the tub is 'one big step for mankind' - especially if you have problems moving your lower extremities. The veranda is spacious with two reclining chairs with footrests and a table with four chairs.

Ship tip

Take a night light to put in/or near the bathroom, and remember there is a step-up entering it!

Ports of call

Tampa, Florida

5 out of 5
Easy to reach the port from the airport, hotels and those who live in state.

Key West, Florida

5 out of 5
Whoo-hoo! Always an interesting cornucopia of culture, spirits and activity in the Conch Republic.

Mahogany Bay, Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras

4 out of 5

Santo Tomas De Castilla, Guatemala

3 out of 5

Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico

3 out of 5
Port built for the cruise ship clientele.

Disembarkation

5 out of 5
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2 Comments

Gwbigdog    2 years ago

Thanks for sharing your cruise.

MarineVet71    6 years ago

Good to know.

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