Overall, it was exceptional. Other than the process for back-to-back cruisers, there was nothing I would change.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Embarkation could not have been easier. It took us less than 15 minutes to get from the hotel van to our cabin. Walked right through all the embarkation process and right onto the ship.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
We were Neptune suite cruisers and took advantage of Club Orange for dinner every night. We also enjoyed breakfast there, with an occasional foray at the Lido buffet on days when we had early excursions. We also enjoyed the Dive-In and the Deli for lunch on sea days. The Maître D in Club Orange was the absolute best. He acknowledged us by name, knew where we preferred to sit, and was, without a doubt, the main reason we ate there every night. The service staff was amazing and the food was also wonderful, so another reason to eat there!
One of our favorite bars on board this ship was the Ocean Bar. The lead bartender, Jeffery, was amazing and recognized us by name every night - making it feel like you mattered. He remembered our favorite drinks but also came up with some very unusual drinks for us. Never a boring moment at the bar! This is where we had our pre-dinner drink every night.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Given the average age of the cruisers on board, the activities were good. This ship will not appeal to the younger, party crowd or little kids.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
We did not see any of the shows, although we did see the new movie Maverick at the World Stage.
I am not a Jazz fan, but I did enjoy the Rolling Rock Room.
Children's Programs
No kids!
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
There isn't enough room to tell you about the amazing service we received during our 21 days on board. The room stewards were excellent, and our Neptune Suite concierge was so helpful as we attempted to get the best internet service so I could work remotely. She was so helpful and patient with us. But beyond all that, our Club Orange Maître D (Edgar), his service staff, and our favorite bartender, Jeffery, made this trip perfect. We enjoyed it so much we are sailing with the same crew again in March. Despite what you might read in other reviews, the Rotterdam has an excellent staff and crew and they work so hard at making sure you have everything you need.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Spotless, all the time.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
The cabin was terrific. Lots of space in the room, lots of closets, and the balcony was perfect. But if there was anything about this cruise that was not perfect, it was a particular issue with our toilet in the cabin. The pressure was so intense when you flushed, that there was an extremely ear-splitting pop. We did report it immediately, and they did everything they could to remedy the issue, and although it did finally quiet down some, it was still there when we disembarked.
I am sure it will take more work than could be done during this hectic cruise season, so maybe when they are doing their transatlantic journey in April.
Ship tip
Above all - don't let negative reviews ruin it in advance - formulate your own opinions. We love this ship so much we're sailing again in March.
Flawless on the final disembarkation but if you are doing a back 2 back cruise, they need to come up with a better process for those of us getting back on the ship. The waiting area and time spent was not acceptable given the age of most of the cruisers. Too many of older people had to stand around without wheelchairs or places to sit while they cleared the ship for reembarkation.
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