Exceeded expectations!

Zuiderdam Cruise Review to Transatlantic

mjbenda

Contributor Level: Deck Hand

Cruises: 7+ cruises

Review: 1

Helpful Votes: 22

Overall rating:

4.8 out of 5

Verified Review

20 Night Viking Passage (Rotterdam To Boston)

Sail date: July 02, 2023

Ship: Zuiderdam

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 5048

Traveled as: Singles/Friends

Reviewed: 1 year ago

Review summary

Iceland has been on my visit for years and it did not disappointment. The country has such a diverse landscape due to its geology. We saw hot springs, geysers, lava fields, a lava labyrinth, the tectonic plates, volcanoes and more. Every day was different. So glad I took the shore excursions, its the only way to really experience this country. Some highlights, the whale watching by RIB boat in Isafjordur, the sailing in Prince Christian Sound to see the icebergs, visiting Anne of Green Gables site and the Alexander Graham Bell Museum. Unfortunately, you never really get enough time to see all that these museums have to offer. Took advantage of the pre-cruise stay in Rotterdam and stayed on the old SS Rotterdam ship, enjoyed both High Tea and High Wine while there. Did the Golden Circle Tour while in Reykjavik, a must! The second day we were there, I took the tour at the Harpa Concert Hall. Very worthwhile. At some point I fully intend on taking this cruise again. Read the HAL recommendations on attire and footwear for each shore excursion. It meant packing a few more things but I wasn't cold and thoroughly enjoyed myself.

Embarkation

5 out of 5

Seamless, well organized.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5

Great food, lots of varied choices.

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5

a rating was required even though I did take advantage of any of these activities.

Entertainment

3 out of 5

Holland America, much to my disappointment no longer has Lincoln Center Stage. In the past, I enjoyed every performance and just loved it. This cruise I saw the Dutch Tenors and Elliot Finkel, a classical pianist. I did not go to any of the other shows or lounges.

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Always, beyond compare.

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5