This cruise was all about the itinerary--4 stops in Iceland as well as Faroe Islands and Shetland Islands--all of the ports were unforgettable!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Fast and Organized
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Typical Holland America food. Food was very good in the main dining room and a wide variety of options in the Lido buffet.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Again--typical Holland America--lots of trivia, classical music, and of course a very friendly casino. A pool area that was usable during cool weather sailing because of the covered retractable roof.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
Classical music was excellent--the rest of the shows/entertainers were average cruise ship.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
We did not have a set dining time--but after day 1--we made a reservation at the same table at the same time every evening (party of 10) and got the same waiters, wine steward, etc. Loved the individual service.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Always appreciate the promenade on Holland America ships--love being able to completely walk around the ship. The Spa and the thermal room are always excellent.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Very clean--we had an aft facing regular balcony room. Had a HUGE balcony which was largely unused due to the cool weather even in July. A bit larger than the cookie cutter balcony rooms on the newer ships. Of course our friends in the Neptune Suite had more room--but it was enjoyable nevertheless and we didn''t feel cramped.
Copenhagen is a lovely city--we arrived 2 days before the cruise. We arranged for a private canal tour and a segway tour both of which were very nice. Did lots of walking--Tivoli Gardens is a must see for first time visitors--but a bit disappointing.
The ship docks about 45 minutes from Edinburgh--taxis are lined up across the street from the dock and the trip to Edinborgh is reasonably priced. You can easily see Edinborgh castle on your own and then enjoy lunch and shopping. Watch for festivals in August which draw huge crowds. The military tattoo excursion to the castle is ridiculously expensive, but everyone I talked to thought it was worth it.
Multiple shore excursions to choose from if you have never seen Loch Ness. Might be ho-hum for someone who has been there before--but enjoyed seeing Lock Ness and a modern day working castle and gardens.
The ship again docks right in front of the small town--we chose the shore excursion to the Skalanes nature reserve. The trip getting there was exciting--had to ford rivers in a special vehicle with large wheels. I loved seeing the birds--but if you aren't into birds and nature--then try a different shore excursion. Waterfalls are within walking distance from the dock.
Another small town with nearby puffins & other birds, whale tours, waterfalls--the boat again docks right by the town. We opted for the hot springs tour again--fantastic.
Enjoyed stopping at this small town--the ship docks right next to "downtown"--there are a few shops to visit and lots of places to hike. We took the tour to Vigur Island--saw puffins and lots of other birds --very interesting if you are a nature buff.
Reykjavik is such an interesting city and the area around it is beautiful. 2 days don't do it justice. First timers should do the Golden Circle Tour. (see Geysers and waterfalls among other things) If you are into sulphur baths and essentially a Giant Hottub--then the Blue Lagoon is a must also. The ship docks about a 30+ minute walk from downtown but there are usually shuttle buses. Food is expensive in Iceland--plan to eat on the ship unless you want to uber splurge.
Absolutely loved this port--the ship docks very close to the shopping/downtown area so there is lots to do shopping and eating wise if you decide not to take a tour. We usually don't like bus "tours"--but this one was very interesting--the main stop was an old castle ruins--but the scenery there and back was incredible
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