The Rotterdam is a magnificent ship and very was stable in a bit of rough North Sea weather. My complaint with HAL in the past was the closet sized public sauna and that was rectified beautifully. As we're just coming out of the pandemic there were signs everywhere recommending wearing a mask, but never did anyone ask me to put one on even though the entire crew still wore masks. I love the fact that there is a bridge cam and aft cam available on the tv and the amount of storage in the cabin was fantastic. Also, for an ordinary balcony cabin, the shower was an excellent size. My one complaint (minor as it is), is that the vent in the bathroom is quite loud and there is no on/off switch or adjustment of any kind. Even with the door closed we could hear it very easily, so lying in bed, there was always the drone of the bathroom exhaust vent. Other than that, we loved everything about the ship. Embarkation was fast and we were able to access our cabin the moment we boarded which is a real plus being able to stow your carry on, or even a quick change before lunch. Loved the cruise and the ship!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Embarkation was smooth and fast. At no time did we stand still in a line.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
The drinks were excellent and every bartender was friendly and attentive. It did seem to take a bit too long, however to process the ship card when paying for the drink, this could be streamlined some how. The MDR as usual was first rate with fast and courteous service and excellent food and wine. We completely enjoyed every minute of the Pinnacle Grill. Every morsel of food was cooked to perfection. I'm a big eater and did not leave hungry. The buffet on Lido deck (9) was always wonderful and never too crowded. Not once did we ever encounter a less than friendly and smiling crew member.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
I used the gym almost everyday and it was exceptionally well equipped. I did use the public sauna every day and loved the size. It was cool in Norway (May), but we used the indoor pool often with the hot tubs and had a chance to use the outdoor aft pool a few times which was a great temperature. I didn't purchase anything in the shops this time but enjoyed perusing them. There didn't seem to be the variety and number of shops on the Rotterdam that I'm used to seeing. That was a bit disappointing. I did purchase a water proof phone case from the photography area thought seriously about a few more of the products they had on display, however there wasn't always someone in attendance, in fact it was not staffed very often.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
The entertainment was excellent. I only gave it 4 stars because of one and only one complaint. I'm used to seeing quite a variety of acts in the ship theater. The Rotterdam seemed to only have a male quartet and their company dancers, so there was no comedian, variety show or magic acts, which we always look forward to.
Rolling Stone Rock Room
5 out of 5
Although we didn't sit through any of their shows, there was always a rockin' crowd having a great time. The musicianship from what I heard was excellent.
Billboard Onboard
5 out of 5
These two put on a great show every time they sat down at the keys. Some shows were extra fun as they encouraged audience singing.
B.B. King's Blues Club
5 out of 5
B.B.King's always provided fantastic entertainment. The two singers were both amazing and the musicians are top notch.
Children's Programs
We did not bring any children
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The staff was fantastic right across the board (ship), friendly and up beat. The waiters took time to learn all our names and our usual favourites and the cabin stewards were quick to meet any request we had.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The ship was immaculate and well designed. I think it could use a few more hot tubs on deck.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We loved the cabin. the shower was the largest of any of our 25 cruises and there was an abundance of storage which we really appreciate.
Ship tip
The healthy smoothies by the midship pool are excellent. The best coffee is in the Grand Dutch Cafe, but get there early. There is often only one attendant making coffee and may take a bit.
Alesund was fantastic. We did an excursion to the ocean centre and loved it thoroughly. My wife just went because I wanted to go and she loved the whole experience. The tour though the city was beautiful and we last stop up the mountain was fantastic. I got amazing pictures.
The ports were all beautiful and the sea walk in Geiranger Fjord was a real bonus for getting on and off. We did RIB boat, 1 hour trip and it was amazing. We saw more than 100 waterfalls and spectacular views. Our guide and captain was very informative about local legends and facts. The small town was beautiful to walk around and photograph the two waterfalls.
Cruising out of the fjord was neck wrenching as we didn't want to miss anything on either side of the ship. Cruising under the suspension bridge was thrilling and watching the waterfalls go by as we ate in the dining room was so beautiful.
Bergen was really interesting. We loved walking the streets and the funicular was amazing except it poured rain all day. Everyone came back wet and laundry would not accept anything as it was friday and less than 48 hours until debarkation. That was a problem for many passengers as there is limited space to hang things to dry including the umbrella.
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