Live from the Oosterdam Mch 5-12 sailing

[Spinner2]

Our situation (some of these facts, admittedly, color our experiences)
4-star Mariners
Deluxe suite this cruise
We were last here in October 2010. Much of the crew is the same.

This has been a great cruise so far. The ship seems to be in fine condition, at least what we've seen of it so far, and seems healthy. We've heard no reports of illness. We had a fun Cruise Critic Wave and Meet/Greet; thanks to those who organized these.

We loved the "old home week" atmosphere as we came aboard. We almost always do "guaranty" cabin and this time we lucked out and got a slight upgrade--to the very same deluxe suite we had in October, same stewards who told us they knew 3 days ahead when they got the list for the upcoming cruise that we were coming back. They had the cabin set up just the way we like it. We didn't draw the same dining steward--thought he'd gone home last week but actually he goes home this week, but he's working adjacent to our new fixed dining table for 2 which is exactly what we asked for. John Mann, the cruise director, came over the first afternoon as we were coming aboard to discuss the new iPad and whether we'd be buying when they come available in a couple of weeks--we're all fans of that nifty device.

This cruise the dining room management has been much more personable than in October; that staff is new and we've had several nice conversations with them.

For loyal Oosterdam cruisers, here's what's new, so far, at least to us:
First, those wonky steak knives in the MDR are gone; as the DRM said, "I threw them in the garbage just last week." The old ones were tipsy in your hand, very strangely-shaped and hard to use. The new ones, more traditional.

The Front Desk staff, including the Pinnacle staff, are sporting nifty new brown uniforms. Very nice

At least in our cabin, the switch has been made to the Elemis dispensers hanging in the shower and in the tub. There is still a full set of the little Elemis bottles (no rack, just lined up on the counter), and plenty of discs of hand soap, also on the counter.

New books in the library; I use the library a lot and thought that perhaps, since it's only been 4 months since we were last here, there wouldn't be anything new, but I found quite a few new titles. The librarian, who came aboard in January, said new books come fairly often.

Also new: A behind the scenes tour of the ship with the Hotel Manager; new, it's said, for this ship but not new fleetwide. Expensive; $150 per person but books and other items relating to the ship are part of the package. My DH is going; I was so-so about it and we don't need two sets of mementos.

So, we're looking forward to a great week and it's going by way too fast already. Just now we completed the scenic cruising offered first thing this morning; the first half-hour was pretty foggy but it cleared up; we spotted a couple of dolphins and several whales. It's a sea day and we've spotted more dolphins as we've continued the trip down the coast.

Finally, an observation about clothing options: First Formal Night was last night. Quite a few men, including my DH George were splendidly decked out in their tuxedost; we saw a couple of gentlemen who were admitted into the upper level of the dining room in less than formal dress but they did have on long pants and collared shirts. No short, no hats, no t-shirts. Looking around the dining room, we saw most tables occupied and everyone in our view nicely dressed.

This morning before the scenic cruising I dropped by the Lido for a couple of glasses of orange juice to take back to the cabin as nothing else was open yet. It was early; and the time changed last night so it seemed even earlier. Still, I was a bit surprised at how many people I spotted in their bathrobes!

[taxmantoo]

Thanks for starting your thread. We are on the last 10-day cruise of the season in the Sea of Cortez and then on up to Vancouver, so will be following your thread with great interest.

Cruise Critic just posted today an updated news item about Carnival cancelling more stops in Mazatlan. Please keep us informed as to what the Oosterdam is doing in that regard.

Wishing you a nice cruise and thanks again !

[CanuckCruizer]

Spinner2 - thanks very much for taking the time to post live from the ship. Sounds like you are having a good time:)

Can you tell me if they had the suite cocktail party on embarkation day and what time?

Are you posting from your cabin or do you have to go to Explorations Cafe for internet?

We have late fixed seating and are concerned about the show times. Have read reviews that say that HAL has forgotten about late seating diners and is scheduling the shows at 9pm, which would be impossible to make with an 8pm dining time. Can you tell me what time the latest show is? Also, when is Karaoke?

Thanks so much!!

Canuck

[cat4151]

Thank you for your review, it's nice to get a current experience, we're looking forward to this cruise next week so it's really nice to hear from you!

[edit4ever]

My DW and I and enjoying this cruise as well! FYI - this is our 11th cruise, but first with HAL. We were wondering what it would be like and I must say... it's fantastic! We are in our late 30's but are finding the pace relaxing and enjoyable. Definitely a more classy feeling than the trip on the Carnival Spirit that we took in Jan. There were only a few Tuxedos at formal night - but I did see them turn away someone in jeans and a T-shirt. So far I would say we will definitely be looking at future cruises with HAL.

P.S. For those interested... I am reading and writing this from my 3G Kindle while at sea... for free... connected through the ship cell network with an EDGE connection. This is the 3rd trip with the Kindle and have not had a problem connecting for free on any of them. This includes Carnival, RCCL and now HAL.

[Spinner2]

Suite cocktail party first night.
We're invited to a "captain's reception" this evening; this may be a CC-meet/greet invitation; don't know yet.

As far as I know, we're going to Mazatlan.

Code Red (as best as I can tell) announced about an hour ago. Nothing said yet about library, pools, etc. but food service definitely affected.

Will update.

[IRL_Joanie]

Enjoy the cruise Marney but keep us posted:) Hubby and I will be on her in 25 days!!

Photos also please?? Please??

Joanie

[gonzo67]

Thanks for the review! We will be onboard this cruise in 5 days and can't wait!

[CanuckCruizer]

Spinner - thanks for the suite party info. Too bad about the Code Red - hope it doesn't affect your cruise too much.

Have fun!

Canuck

[heirloomz]

Code Red?

[erewhon]

Thank you for your live reports from the Oosterdam, which I am reading with interest to learn about the ship before she heads to Australia/New Zealand for our 2012/2013 summer season.

I appreciate you taking time to report whilst on board.

[Susie51]

Thank you for posting. I am enjoying reading your review and looking forward to your next installment.

[Okie1946]

Thank you so much for the posting. As stated above we sail on April 9th and am so looking forward to it. Please keep them coming if possible.:)

[Spinner2]

Just back from dinner; you can tell that they are getting ready to do major sanitizing tonight. Everything served to you in the MDR; even at a table for 2 the rolls, salt/pepper, etc. are served for you.

More questions answered: internet ok in the cabin; 7068 is just off the center (glass) elevators.

Show times: wonderful! 10 pm for late fixed seating but dinner time moved up 15 minutes to 7:45. It is taking us less than an hour and a half to eat; no problem making it to the show.

[kazu]

Marney, thank you for starting this thread :D and keeping us up to date.

So sorry that you are hitting a code red. Takes some of the fun out of things. hopefully it is short lived - looking forward to your reports :):)

[Krazy Kruizers]

thanks -- am enjoying your live report

[jkrislc]

Code Red?

It occurs when there are reported cases of the Noro virus - a gastrointestinal illness spread by people who don't thoroughly was their hands after using the bathroom and infecting everything they touch as a result, which is why everything is served by gloved service personnel who aren't sick.

I haven't sailed on HAL yet, but I'm very impressed with the measures I've heard they implemented. For example, I know Code Orange slows down the lido service the first two days, but it's the only way to ensure that someone hasn't brought the virus onboard with them.

[CanuckCruizer]

Just back from dinner; you can tell that they are getting ready to do major sanitizing tonight. Everything served to you in the MDR; even at a table for 2 the rolls, salt/pepper, etc. are served for you.

More questions answered: internet ok in the cabin; 7068 is just off the center (glass) elevators.

Show times: wonderful! 10 pm for late fixed seating but dinner time moved up 15 minutes to 7:45. It is taking us less than an hour and a half to eat; no problem making it to the show.


Spinner - Thanks SOOOO MUCH for answering all my questions!! Really appreciate it!

Hope you continue to have a great time!

Canuck

[Himself]

Spinner:

Thank you for sharing your live report.

[CanuckCruizer]

Spinner - this new CD, John Mann, sounds a lot better to me than J.T. Waters (the other regular one) as John seems to want to accommodate the late seating diners as well as the early seating ones (where reports were that JT was scheduling shows at 9 or 9:30 sometimes, which made it impossible for late diners to get to). Of course I don't personally know how each CD is - just going by reviews of passengers...

If you have a chance to ask or possibly hear something through "the grapevine" - I would love to know how long John Mann is going to be onboard?

Thanks!:)

Canuck

[pmd98052]

I can check the Explorers from the Oosterdam last week but most shows were on at 8pm and 10pm. The last show was on at 9.30pm.

[Spinner2]

CD John Mann:
He was here when we were in October and we'd assumed he was assigned here but he says not; he came back onboard when we did last Saturday (has been on the Statendam) and says right now he's "floating" (no pun!) and handling vacation leaves. I'll find out how long he'll be here. We like him a lot too; He ad Matt Allen are among the ones I find the most congenial.

Tuesday Mch 8
I started out feeling a bit discouraged this morning and those who have met me on a cruise, I think it's safe to say, would never think I'd be discouraged about a cruise, but Code Red continues; earlier the library wasn't open (I LOVE serendipitous reading on a ship; I find the most unlikely things to read!) and I'd assumed that a book I wanted but couldn't be found last night would be elusive for this trip but no, I was totally wrong! The librarian is here now, has found the book, and is pulling books once an hour for people who have requested them. She wipes them down and checks them out. So I'm a happier camper now.

We're in Puerto Vallarta today; bright, sunny, the ocean scenery looking out from the Crow's Nest is gorgeous. Lots of people off on tour, but lots around the ship as well. Having just been here in October, we'd mostly planned to hang around the ship and that's still our plan.

Joel Mason was last night's show entertainment; he was terrific. High energy performance; we really enjoyed it.

[fishinjules]

Spinner2, Thank you for the updates. We will be sailing on her in 18 days. Very interested in knowing about Mazatlan. Keep the updates coming!

Julie

[jjfromsd]

Thank you very much for the live report. I will be sailing on the same cruise soon after you return, so I will be following this thread very closely.

Have a safe and enjoyable cruise.

[CanuckCruizer]

CD John Mann:
He was here when we were in October and we'd assumed he was assigned here but he says not; he came back onboard when we did last Saturday (has been on the Statendam) and says right now he's "floating" (no pun!) and handling vacation leaves. I'll find out how long he'll be here. We like him a lot too; He ad Matt Allen are among the ones I find the most congenial.
Thanks very much Spinner - I really appreciate you taking the time to find out!

Tuesday Mch 8
I started out feeling a bit discouraged this morning and those who have met me on a cruise, I think it's safe to say, would never think I'd be discouraged about a cruise, but Code Red continues; earlier the library wasn't open (I LOVE serendipitous reading on a ship; I find the most unlikely things to read!) and I'd assumed that a book I wanted but couldn't be found last night would be elusive for this trip but no, I was totally wrong! The librarian is here now, has found the book, and is pulling books once an hour for people who have requested them. She wipes them down and checks them out. So I'm a happier camper now.

We're in Puerto Vallarta today; bright, sunny, the ocean scenery looking out from the Crow's Nest is gorgeous. Lots of people off on tour, but lots around the ship as well. Having just been here in October, we'd mostly planned to hang around the ship and that's still our plan.

Joel Mason was last night's show entertainment; he was terrific. High energy performance; we really enjoyed it.

Don't be discouraged - things will get better!!

Canuck

[Susie51]

Oh, I'm so happy the library has opened. Enjoy your relaxing cruise. I'm sorry the code red continues. Looking forward to more of your posts.

[cpen]

Joining the Oosterdam this Saturday.... I'm betting they'll have a big cleaning 'party' before the new passengers board, if you're still Code Red that is.

Looking forward to sunshine. Was it warm the first 2 seas days, down to Mexico?

[CanuckCruizer]

Spinner: CD John Mann:
He was here when we were in October and we'd assumed he was assigned here but he says not; he came back onboard when we did last Saturday (has been on the Statendam) and says right now he's "floating" (no pun!) and handling vacation leaves. I'll find out how long he'll be here. We like him a lot too; He ad Matt Allen are among the ones I find the most congenial.


I posted earlier from my IPHONE thanking you for finding out about John Mann's contract but I accidentally posted in with your quote, so you probably didn't see it.

Just wanted to let you know how grateful I am for any info from the ship as we are so excited about our upcoming cruise!:D

Canuck

[scopewest]

Spinner, re the $$$ tour of the ship, did you have to sign up for this upon boarding? How did you find out about it?

When we were on the O in December the captain told us there was no such tour and he had no idea when or if they'd offer it.

[pmd98052]

I did the tour last week - They've only been offering it for a month or two at most. $150 I signed up the first day - They take 12 people but last week they only had 8 for the tour.

[adventuregrrl]

Thanks so much for the live info. Hope you all have a great time.

Like so many other people, we're really interested in seeing if you still stop at Mazatlan. As of right now, HAL is the only cruise line stopping in Mazatlan. If you do stop in Mazatlan, we hope you have a good, safe time.

[Spinner2]

CD John Mann told me this evening that he can't take credit for the "new" show times--moving the last show to 10 pm--it's a "corporate thing" that they are going to try for awhile. I may hear more later; he had to dash to the mike to close showtime.

After showtime tonight was "adult comedy" featuring Andrew Norelli. Really, really fun. Everybody enjoyed this one I think!

Code Red continues . . . still, having a great time.

The pricey tour of the ship? My DH heard about it someplace right after we boarded; signed up at the front desk. That's all I know about it; will report after it happens.

[Krazy Kruizers]

sorry to hear that the ppsterdam is in code red -- whenever we were on ships that were in code red -- no library books at all

[WINEMANVISALIA]

Four shot dead in Mexican bar's parking lot


2011-03-09 09:50:00



, March 9 (IANS/EFE) At least four people were killed and seven wounded when gunmen attacked them in the parking lot of a bar in northwestern Mexico, officials said.
The attack occurred Tuesday in the parking lot of the bar in Mazatlan, a resort city, Sinaloa state Attorney General's Office spokesmen said.

Over the weekend, seven police officers and three gunmen died in two shootouts in Sinaloa.

Sinaloa is the home of a drug trafficking organisation run by Joaquin 'El Chapo' (Shorty) Guzman, considered Mexico's most powerful criminal.

Guzman, who was arrested in Guatemala in 1993, pulled off a Hollywood-style jailbreak when he escaped from high-security prison in the western state of Jalisco in 2001.

More than 35,000 people have died since President Felipe Calderon declared war on the country's cartels shortly after taking office in December 2006
:mad:

[ironin]

Wineman Visalia:

Given your repeated postings about the dangers of Mazatlan, one wonders why are you still in Visalia? It appears to be a hotbed of crime (http://www.neighborhoodscout.com/ca/visalia/crime/), safer than only 3% of all the cities in the United States, with above average murder and rape rates, a robbery rate 40% above the national average, and where one is almost three times more likely to be physically assaulted than anywhere else in the United States.

Spinner2:

Thanks for the live updates about your cruise. Given your anticipation and enthusiasm, getting stuck with a Code Red seems so unfair. It doesn't add to the luster of your experience, although it does go a long way to protecting your health. You seem like one of those who can roll with the punches, and overcome any disappointments and inconveniences along the way. Hoping you end up creating what will in the future many fond memories of a wonderful cruise.

[Susie51]

Thank you for posting live. If you stop in Mazatlan, have you heard if most people will want to stay on the ship?

[WINEMANVISALIA]

winemanvisalia is tribute to father in law who lived in visalia and retired from wine business successfully...when he died he left us some money which enables us to cruise...

now to the point of mazatlan...ARE YOU FRIGGIN KIDDING ME?...ALL CRUISE LINES HAVE STOPPED GOING TO MAZATLAN BECAUSE OF POTENTIAL DANGER AND YOU CARE THAT I CARE...

by the way, we have gone to mexico over 50 times by ship and we are saddened by this spate of violence...we have friends there and it pains us but we wont go there anymore...

okay, go back to your ironing....
:>))

Wineman Visalia:

Given your repeated postings about the dangers of Mazatlan, one wonders why are you still in Visalia? It appears to be a hotbed of crime (http://www.neighborhoodscout.com/ca/visalia/crime/), safer than only 3% of all the cities in the United States, with above average murder and rape rates, a robbery rate 40% above the national average, and where one is almost three times as likely to be physically assaulted than anywhere else in the United States.

[ironin]

miss ironin..don't live in visalia..
winemanvisalia is tribute to father in law who lived in visalia and retired from wine business successfully...when he died he left us some money which enables us to cruise...

now to the point of mazatlan...ARE YOU FRIGGIN KIDDING ME?...ALL CRUISE LINES HAVE STOPPED GOING TO MAZATLAN BECAUSE OF POTENTIAL DANGER AND YOU CARE THAT I CARE...

by the way, we have gone to mexico over 50 times by ship and we are saddened by this spate of violence...we have friends there and it pains us but we wont go there anymore...

okay, go back to your ironing....
:>))

I asked you a simple question based on the erroneous assumption that your screen name indicated your abode. I now know I was wrong.
Your response begins with an equally invalid assumption and then deteriorates into sarcasm and personal insult. As such, I see no point in continuing this conversation.

[erinpdx]

So does anyone know if the Oosterdam is in Mazatlan today?

[kazu]

Thanks Spinner2 for the great update. I do hope the code red ends quickly for you.

[edit4ever]

We are in Mazatlan today. Captain slipped her into the dock a bit after 8am despite a thick fog. Definitely seems like more people stayed on board today... but saw plenty heading into town as well. Heavy polica presence just outside the pier and for awhile a military style chopper was circling low overhead. We planned to go over to Stone Island - our usual hangout at Letty's - but the fog bank hasn't cleared the coast at 11:30... so there's no incentive. It seems to be sunnier here at the ship. Code Red is still in effect... which means the hot tubs are still closed as well and you have tofind someone to get a towel for you... they're not in the normal places.

Still having a fantastic time aboard!

[CanuckCruizer]

We are in Mazatlan today. Captain slipped her into the dock a bit after 8am despite a thick fog. Definitely seems like more people stayed on board today... but saw plenty heading into town as well. Heavy polica presence just outside the pier and for awhile a military style chopper was circling low overhead. We planned to go over to Stone Island - our usual hangout at Letty's - but the fog bank hasn't cleared the coast at 11:30... so there's no incentive. It seems to be sunnier here at the ship. Code Red is still in effect... which means the hot tubs are still closed as well and you have tofind someone to get a towel for you... they're not in the normal places.

Still having a fantastic time aboard!

Thanks edit4fever for reporting live. Very surprised that the Oosterdam is still going to Maz in light of, again, more violence in the last few days.

Found out this info posted on the Mexican Riviera board -

10 killed on the weekend in Mazatlan (7 cops and 3 civilians) and 6 killed and 20 wounded yesterday (Tuesday) at a popular disco in Mazatlan.
http://mazmessenger.com/2011/03/08/five-killed-in-early-morning-attack-at-local-night-club/

When all the other cruiselines have pulled out - why oh why is the Oosterdam still going?

Hope you have a safe enjoyable day.

Canuck

[slimknyzer]

Thanks edit4fever for reporting live. Very surprised that the Oosterdam is still going to Maz in light of, again, more violence in the last few days.

Found out this info posted on the Mexican Riviera board -

10 killed on the weekend in Mazatlan (7 cops and 3 civilians) and 6 killed and 20 wounded yesterday (Tuesday) at a popular disco in Mazatlan.
http://mazmessenger.com/2011/03/08/five-killed-in-early-morning-attack-at-local-night-club/

When all the other cruiselines have pulled out - why oh why is the Oosterdam still going?

Hope you have a safe enjoyable day.

Canuck

My sentiments exactly! I am sure the powers to be (HAL) are constantly evaluating the situation, however, it would seem logical that if the majority of the passengers are not going ashore, this would be a critical factor in following suit of the other cruise lines.

[CanuckCruizer]

My sentiments exactly! I am sure the powers to be (HAL) are constantly evaluating the situation, however, it would seem logical that if the majority of the passengers are not going ashore, this would be a critical factor in following suit of the other cruise lines.


Or maybe they want us to stay onboard which would equal more onboard revenue for them:D

Either way - Carnival has pulled out and they own HAL - so it is very puzzling:confused:

Canuck

[slimknyzer]

Or maybe they want us to stay onboard which would equal more onboard revenue for them:D

Either way - Carnival has pulled out and they own HAL - so it is very puzzling:confused:

Canuck


It is, indeed!

[Spinner2]

I know there are a lot of posts since I was here last evening; I've pulled the pages and I'll read them offline to save my internet dollars!

Meanwhile here's an interesting adventure:


Our plan had been to stay aboard the ship for Mazatlan day; we'd been here recently and the recent difficulties didn't inspire us to do anything at all. But my DH wandered into the terminal on a checking-things-out trip and was back in 15 minutes with interesting news

The Mazatlan Tourist Board has put together teams of volunteers. They mostly seemed Americans living in Mazatlan when we spoke with them, certainly all of them spoke excellent English. The first of the group are right at the gangway, they have maps that show specifics of the walking tour they encourage and they were very helpful.

As you follow the route recommended you'll come to blue archways, convertible cars with signs on the doors, tables with blue banners, and the blue-shirted VOLUNTEER persons. They'll answer questions, point you toward safe streets, etc. We felt totally comfortable as we walked perhaps 3-4 miles, going to see the opera house, the big church that you can see from the ship (Ash Wednesday today so the church plaza was crowded) and the public market. I would highly recommend this walking tour; plan on about 2-3 hours to see it all. Or you could just go part-way, to the plaza where the church is.

Tips from the Volunteers:
1. Wear good walking shoes or closed-toe/heel shoes; the very rough streets with varying curb heights and cuts in the sidewalk to shape drainage make heels, strappy sandal, flip-flops, etc. very unsuitable.

2. Watch your head and your feet; if you are walking near a building, watching your step, you may bump your head on a protruding electrical box or low air conditioner.

3. The opera house will ask for 12 pesos to enter but with enough conversation (mostly by you; the entry person spoke no English!) he will accept a U.S. dollar or two; it's a fascinating building and you can wander around pretty much on your own. Everything else we saw was free to enter.

4. There are cabs to take you back to the ship if you don't wish to walk; you might ask one of the Volunteers to help you.

5. The Volunteers are interesting to talk to; you'll learn more about ordinary life in Mazatlan if you chat with them and they seemed very willing to do that.

The Volunteers start closing up shop about 1 or 2 in the afternoon; by then almost everyone has stopped their wandering from the ship for the day. Plan to go in the morning for maximum assistance.

I'll post some photos of the personnel and their arches and vehicles when we get home; I don't think I can use the internet economically to do that.

[slimknyzer]

I know there are a lot of posts since I was here last evening; I've pulled the pages and I'll read them offline to save my internet dollars!

Meanwhile here's an interesting adventure:


Our plan had been to stay aboard the ship for Mazatlan day; we'd been here recently and the recent difficulties didn't inspire us to do anything at all. But my DH wandered into the terminal on a checking-things-out trip and was back in 15 minutes with interesting news

The Mazatlan Tourist Board has put together teams of volunteers. They mostly seemed Americans living in Mazatlan when we spoke with them, certainly all of them spoke excellent English. The first of the group are right at the gangway, they have maps that show specifics of the walking tour they encourage and they were very helpful.

As you follow the route recommended you'll come to blue archways, convertible cars with signs on the doors, tables with blue banners, and the blue-shirted VOLUNTEER persons. They'll answer questions, point you toward safe streets, etc. We felt totally comfortable as we walked perhaps 3-4 miles, going to see the opera house, the big church that you can see from the ship (Ash Wednesday today so the church plaza was crowded) and the public market. I would highly recommend this walking tour; plan on about 2-3 hours to see it all. Or you could just go part-way, to the plaza where the church is.

Tips from the Volunteers:
1. Wear good walking shoes or closed-toe/heel shoes; the very rough streets with varying curb heights and cuts in the sidewalk to shape drainage make heels, strappy sandal, flip-flops, etc. very unsuitable.

2. Watch your head and your feet; if you are walking near a building, watching your step, you may bump your head on a protruding electrical box or low air conditioner.

3. The opera house will ask for 12 pesos to enter but with enough conversation (mostly by you; the entry person spoke no English!) he will accept a U.S. dollar or two; it's a fascinating building and you can wander around pretty much on your own. Everything else we saw was free to enter.

4. There are cabs to take you back to the ship if you don't wish to walk; you might ask one of the Volunteers to help you.

5. The Volunteers are interesting to talk to; you'll learn more about ordinary life in Mazatlan if you chat with them and they seemed very willing to do that.

The Volunteers start closing up shop about 1 or 2 in the afternoon; by then almost everyone has stopped their wandering from the ship for the day. Plan to go in the morning for maximum assistance.

I'll post some photos of the personnel and their arches and vehicles when we get home; I don't think I can use the internet economically to do that.

Great info! Thanks! Look forward to the pics.

[fishinjules]

Thanks for the Mazatlan information and safety tips! I have heard some talk about HAL pulling out of Mazatlan but it seems they have not started as of yet.
Keep up the great reporting......I am getting very excited!
Thanks!
Julie

[Spinner2]

As we depart Mazatlan we've been informed that Code Red (although of course they don't call it that!) is being lifted; containment procedures have been highly successful. Food won't be self-serv in the Lido just yet but apparently everything else is going back to normal. At least this is what I understand from the message.

Excellent news! For both this sailing and the one following. I did notice the Spa closed a couple of hours ago; a "Super Sanitizing" sign up. The gym side was open but the other side was closed.

Edit4Ever, thanks for adding to this "blog"; I'd love to meet you; call us; our cabin # is 7068.

[kazu]

Spinner 2 - great posts - great info and following like a bee drawn to honey :) Glad you got off the boat and did the port - good for you - cudos :D

We need to take care wherever we get off - thank you again for sharing and have a great cruise :):)

[IRL_Joanie]

........

2. Watch your head and your feet; if you are walking near a building, watching your step, you may bump your head on a protruding electrical box or low air conditioner.

Marney, Would you think that a person on a scooter or in a wheelchair could make this trek???

Joanie

[Okie1946]

Am so looking forward to our cruise the second week of April. We have already booked a Mazatlan excursion with Frank as it is our first time going to this area. Thank you so much for such a positive look at everything - including the "Code Red". :)

Enjoy the rest of your trip and look forward to seeing the rest of your postings.

Previous Tours
Alaska - Westerdam - September 2009
Alaska - Rotterdam - September 2010

[tiller02]

Thank you for taking the time to update all of us future Oosterdam Cruisers. We sail on the 19th and are looking ahead with great anticipation your remaining posts.

[dobiemom]

Mazatlan is my favorite MR port... mostly due to Randi and Mazatlan Frank. Thanks for letting us know about the extra security (edit4ever) and volunteers (spinner2). I hope when I return they're still cruising to beautiful Mazatlan.

Or maybe they want us to stay onboard which would equal more onboard revenue for them:D

Since the shops and casino are closed, I don't think they're making that much money from the bars... but I could be wrong! ;)

[gonzo67]

I'm sorry I am new to this...what is a "code red" and if they don't call it by that what do they call it? I have been following your posts closely as we are getting on this cruise this Saturday. Thanks for all the great information :)

[Susie51]

Thank you for the Mazatlan info. I fly out tomorrow for a two night stay in Newark and then I'll be cruising so I'll miss the rest of your posts. Have a great cruise and a safe trip home.

[solocanadian]

Thanks for taking the time to post while on board. Volunteer info very interesting. Glad to hear Code Red has been lifted as it tends to dampen some passengers spirits. Still hoping we go there on the final April cruise.:D

[Rowsby]

Watching the Oosterdam in the Cabo webcam right now....can hardly wait...!!

Thanks for the live updates...have truly enjoyed them...

[DotComMom]

Spinner - this new CD, John Mann, sounds a lot better to me than J.T. Waters (the other regular one) as John seems to want to accommodate the late seating diners as well as the early seating ones (where reports were that JT was scheduling shows at 9 or 9:30 sometimes, which made it impossible for late diners to get to). Of course I don't personally know how each CD is - just going by reviews of passengers...

If you have a chance to ask or possibly hear something through "the grapevine" - I would love to know how long John Mann is going to be onboard?

Thanks!:)

Canuck

We just got off the Oosterdam on March 5th. JT had the late shows scheduled for 10 PM too but our late seating dinner time was 8 PM.

[DotComMom]

Watching the Oosterdam in the Cabo webcam right now....can hardly wait...!!

Thanks for the live updates...have truly enjoyed them...

"Cabo webcam" please tell me where I can view this.

[CanuckCruizer]

We just got off the Oosterdam on March 5th. JT had the late shows scheduled for 10 PM too but our late seating dinner time was 8 PM.


DotComMom - oh that is great news!! I had read some reviews that the shows were being held at 9pm or 9:30pm, so I was worried. How did you find JT as a cruise director - I haven't read too too much about him but what I have read has been mixed?

Spinner - Did you ever manage to find out how long John Mann is on the ship?

Thanks:)

Canuck

[Rowsby]

Several of the resorts in Cabo have web cams....go to this site and scroll down and click on the best view.

The Oosterdam is there on thursdays....other cruise ships, as many as three, are there on different days....weekends are usually empty.

www.cabovillas.com/campage.asp?id=1

[fishinjules]

We were just advised that HAL has made the decision to remove Mazatlán from their itineraries for the remainder of the season.

Julie

[25plus]

Julie:
Who informed you that Mazatlan was cancelled? We are booked on the Oosterdam for this Sat (March 5th) so I called HAL after reading your post. HAL said at this time we would still be going to Mazatlan. (Called at 8:45am Thur Morn.)
25plus

[25plus]

???

[CanuckCruizer]

Julie:
Who informed you that Mazatlan was cancelled? We are booked on the Oosterdam for this Sat (March 5th) so I called HAL after reading your post. HAL said at this time we would still be going to Mazatlan. (Called at 8:45am Thur Morn.)
25plus


25plus - Have you had your coffee yet?:D Today is March 11th. Do you mean tomorrow's sailing which would be March 12th??

From what I have learned - HAL agents are not the sharpest tools in the shed....HAL has a reputation of NOT telling their passengers ANYTHING about itinerary changes until you are onboard the ship and even then....it seems to be the night before. The reason that the March 26th passengers were informed is because they are on a "charter" and their leader/head TA or whomever is keeping them informed.

Princess has also cancelled their sailings. So, the Oosterdam would be the ONLY ship still going to Mazatlan, if they indeed go.

Perhaps the "charter" has organized this o/v in PV and the sailings afterwards or before will still go to Mazatlan....who knows?

Canuck

[solocanadian]

Sure wish Hal would post something affirmative. I too feel you could call them 3 times a day and get 3 different replies.:confused::confused::confused:

[taxmantoo]

Sure wish Hal would post something affirmative. I too feel you could call them 3 times a day and get 3 different replies.:confused::confused::confused:

I just wish HAL would post something PERIOD! The agent I was talking to today even denied that the March 26 sailing had its stop in Mazatlan cancelled! It is high time they come to a decision as all the other cruise lines have.

[CanuckCruizer]

I just wish HAL would post something PERIOD! The agent I was talking to today even denied that the March 26 sailing had its stop in Mazatlan cancelled! It is high time they come to a decision as all the other cruise lines have.


taxmantoo - I TOTALLY AGREE!! Waiting to hear "where" we are going....well, there is no reason not to tell us.:mad:

Canuck

[kazu]

There was a thread earlier today announcing that HAL has cancelled this port

[fishinjules]

We are booked on an Olivia Cruise. Which books out the whole ship when they travel. We were informed last night that HAL contacted our group and this is what they told us:
We are writing to let you know about a change in our itinerary. Holland America advised us that they made the decision today to remove Mazatlán from their itineraries for the remainder of the season.
The revision to the itinerary was made in response to recent incidents in Mazatlán. As always, your safety and comfort is our first priority. So we, as Olivia travellers will be staying two days in Puerto Vallarta.

Julie

[lorekauf]

taxmantoo - I TOTALLY AGREE!! Waiting to hear "where" we are going....well, there is no reason not to tell us.:mad:

Canuck
I've said it before...and I'll say it again. Hal could be sailing right past Mazatlan and they would still say they are going there. Too bad someone couldn't introduce HAL's right hand to it's left:D;).

[WINEMANVISALIA]

http://www.olivia.com/Travel/Trips_Mexican_Riviera_2011-itinerary.aspx

[Spinner2]

Catch-up time

The 10 pm show works out great for 8 pm dinner in our experience; we've had fixed 8 pm and we're ALWAYS out by 9:15; time to go back by the cabin, relax or stop by the piano bar on our way to the show. Worked out just great.

Much interest in tsunami aboard; people including crew have relatives/friends in Japan. Frequent updates by Captain.

Joanie, more later, but Mazatlan's streets really too difficult for scooters. Sorry.

[edit4ever]

Marney-
Sorry didn't get around to posting yesterday... Hanging out in the Crow's Nest/Explorations today... stop on by if you get a chance... wearing a light green shirt/tan pants and holding a kindle!

BTW for those of you coming on this itinerary... HAL is gracious enough to close the dome over the pool on these cold and overcast sea days. We were not that lucky on Carnival in January. Definitely creates a lot more space for people to spread out and enjoy the last day. Can't believe it's over already... maybe we need to book the 112 day world trip they're offering. :-)

[toodycat]

Thanks for all the up-to-the-minute info. I'm enjoying this thread. We are on the Oosterdam in mid-April. Should I pack very differently than I would for a Caribbean cruise? Is the Pacific windier or chillier? I wasn't planning on touring Mazatlan particularly. Does HAL have another port they would substitute in?

Thanks.

[edit4ever]

The Pacific is definitely colder than the Caribbean! The water here is in the 60's instead of the 80's. But two things help... on the first sea day - the wind is often at your back matching the speed of the ship... which makes it feel like there is no wind at all. Second... when the sun is out - it tends to be quite warm feeling since we are pretty far south. Of course... the last sea day on the way back up is often cool, cloudy and windy... but any day at sea beats a day on land!

The weather can vary out of San Diego in April... it can be sunny and 80 or cloudy with a heavy marine layer and barely get over 60. Tend to get lucky with more of the warm and sunny days... so we'll send thoughts of good weather your way! I would say it's best to bring a light sweater or wind breaker if you want to stay outside for the cool days. Once you hit cabo and south it is nice and warm... and in my opinion... not too hot or humid... the only risk wen you are in the caribbean.

I always check the 10 day forecast for all the ports I'm visiting and build my plan accordingly. Just realize it tends to be about 10-15 degrees cooler at sea in the morning or evenings.

As for Mazatlan... they could easily switch to Manzanillo or a second day in Cabo or overnight stay in Puerto Vallarta... but until they decide to change it... it's anybody's guess.

[DotComMom]

DotComMom - oh that is great news!! I had read some reviews that the shows were being held at 9pm or 9:30pm, so I was worried. How did you find JT as a cruise director - I haven't read too too much about him but what I have read has been mixed?

Spinner - Did you ever manage to find out how long John Mann is on the ship?

Thanks:)

Canuck

I really liked JT and felt that he did a great job as cruise director.

[Spinner2]

Sorry; don't know how long John Mann is here for; I know that he's floating at the moment, filling in for vacationing cruise directors. I do know that the current show times (9:30 pm single show for first and last day; 2 shows at 8 and 10 for other days and I think the 8 is right; we don't go to the first show) are a Seattle decision and wouldn't change even if he left this ship.

More changes since we were here in October:
1. We didn't get a preliminary bill and none was mentioned at the disembark talk.
2. No parade of the baked alaska at the Master Chef Dinner tonight; the wait staff and kitchen staff paraded but the dessert was served as people were ready for it.

At the Q&A session I was invited to this afternoon it's clear that people are still of two minds about formal dress and HAL seems to be trying to please them all. Nothing else I can report; I heard some rumors but I'm not free to disclose. Sorry.

If Joel Mason is still aboard when you come his final show is hilarious (he did a straight musical one earlier in the week; this one is called "Joel and Friends" and I would urge you to stop packing and go. If CD John Mann is still here, for I can't imagine many CDs who are such good sports--it'll be even better; John lying on the piano doing this number with Joel is a scream. As is the rest of it! Enjoy.

DH George went on the behind the scenes tour today; 3 hours; took lots of photos; nothing was said about any restrictions so when he gets those organized I'll get them posted somewhere on one of our websites and will share the link. Fascinating stuff; even some of crew quarters and such.

Packing done; I guess we have to leave in the morning! And I still have 17 minutes of internet left!

[kazu]

Sorry; don't know how long John Mann is here for; I know that he's floating at the moment, filling in for vacationing cruise directors. I do know that the current show times (9:30 pm single show for first and last day; 2 shows at 8 and 10 for other days and I think the 8 is right; we don't go to the first show) are a Seattle decision and wouldn't change even if he left this ship.

More changes since we were here in October:
1. We didn't get a preliminary bill and none was mentioned at the disembark talk.
2. No parade of the baked alaska at the Master Chef Dinner tonight; the wait staff and kitchen staff paraded but the dessert was served as people were ready for it.

At the Q&A session I was invited to this afternoon it's clear that people are still of two minds about formal dress and HAL seems to be trying to please them all. Nothing else I can report; I heard some rumors but I'm not free to disclose. Sorry.

If Joel Mason is still aboard when you come his final show is hilarious (he did a straight musical one earlier in the week; this one is called "Joel and Friends" and I would urge you to stop packing and go. If CD John Mann is still here, for I can't imagine many CDs who are such good sports--it'll be even better; John lying on the piano doing this number with Joel is a scream. As is the rest of it! Enjoy.

DH George went on the behind the scenes tour today; 3 hours; took lots of photos; nothing was said about any restrictions so when he gets those organized I'll get them posted somewhere on one of our websites and will share the link. Fascinating stuff; even some of crew quarters and such.

Packing done; I guess we have to leave in the morning! And I still have 17 minutes of internet left!

Great info Marney - your cruise sounds similar to ours - no Master Chef Dinner and no interim bill on ours either. (no big deal as you can get it anytime)

Ah....you're mean - rumours you can't share???

hopefully you can share later?

Thanks again for your great review and information. :)

Time goes by so quickly on a cruise, doesn't it? Wishing you a smooth disembarkation and a safe trip home:D

[toodycat]

Thanks Marney for your narrative of the cruise and all the helpful information. I can't wait to see your DH's photos. Have a comfortable trip home.

[macmarsue]

Just watched the Oosterdam sail into the harbor here in San Diego. DH and I are staying at the Grand Hyatt and are going to be boarding the ship in a few hours. Thanks for all your great tips on the cruise. Welcome back!

[Spinner2]

We are indeed in San Diego; luggage is coming off and they've issued yet one more plea for the non-US citizens to come to the required immigration check-out.

Minor updates; I have 6 minutes of internet time I can use up!

We had the Master Chef dinner but not the Baked Alaska parade.

It also occurred to us last night that they didn't have a raffle for a luggage prize, drawn from those who turned in their surveys on time.

Several crew members that we've known over the past few cruises are leaving the ship today; their contracts are over and they're going home via Los Angeles; they will be taken there via 2 busses. One we know is going home to get married!

Sorry about the "rumor secrecy" but if I tell all I hear (and overhear!) I'm not likely to learn any more and in the past less than half of what I've heard has come true anyway. We'll just wait for official confirmation of this stuff.

[Krazy Kruizers]

boy that week went fast

for the last couple of years there weren't any luggage give-aways on any of our cruises if you turned in your survey early

[Spinner2]

Heard this just now from non confidential source--passenger staying aboard-- no Mazatlan for this cruise. Overnight in Puerte Vallarte. I only know fir cruise starting today

Posting from iPhone. Errors in spelling likely

[CanuckCruizer]

Thanks so much Spinner for all your informative posts from the ship.

You are SO good even posting on your IPHONE for us to tell us about Mazatlan!:)

Dotcomom - thanks for the review on JT.

Thanks very much again for the live review!!!!

Canuck

[kazu]

We knew about Mazatlan - thanks! - can't wait to see when these rumours surface ;) Welcome back and thanks again for your very interesting posts.

by the way, if it makes you feel any better, there were no prizes for completing the survey on our last 3 cruises either

safe trip home :)

[fishinjules]

Thanks for the excellent updates....I am looking forward to boarding in two weeks......Can't wait to see your photo's Marney! Thanks again!
Julie

[CanuckCruizer]

We knew about Mazatlan - thanks! - can't wait to see when these rumours surface ;) Welcome back and thanks again for your very interesting posts.

by the way, if it makes you feel any better, there were no prizes for completing the survey on our last 3 cruises either

safe trip home :)

We didn't know about Mazatlan "for sure" - all we knew is that the charter on March 26th was not going to Mazatlan. People that are on this cruise today did not receive notification from HAL that they are not going to Maz - in fact, they were told by HAL that they were still going. So, we appreciate Spinner updating us. This now brings more clarity to the situation and it "looks like" Mazatlan is off their itineraries for the rest of the season (but you never know as they cancelled and went back again already...).

Canuck

[Spinner2]

For those coming aboard today. Don't rush over just yet. They are still trying to finish immigration. Two or three cabins are still not checked out they are making announcements now in German and Spanish. Also you'll board differently. Apparently the shoreside elevators aren't working

[DotComMom]

Last week they said there would be a drawing for luggage/bag for those who turned in their evaluation forms by 5 PM. They did not have the drawing on our cruise either.

We also had MANY announcements for non-US citizens to clear immigration. They started to announce cabin numbers with names and large angry crowds gathered outside the cabin numbers called. One guy asked my 11 yo son if he would like to "knock loudly on a cabin door". ;) They finally cleared all non-US citizens by about 9:30 AM and allowed the rest to start to get off.

During breakfast on Saturday, March 5th. There was actually a guy with an foreign accent at the Lido restaurant (which was more crowded than the first day lunch) who was bragging to a guy serving food that he didn't gain any weight on the cruise and in fact he lost weight. He keep going on and on about how he really knows how to do it, the server could not have been less interested. The guy even made a comment to me about it and my response was, "Are you that guy they are looking for?" (meaning the guy they keep naming to come and clear immigration.) The server laughed so hard he could not contain himself. :p

I didn't see a mention of the Tsunami waves impacting the cruise, did it?

I have really enjoyed this thread. It makes me feel like I am still there.:D I hope that we get more like this one.

[kazu]

We didn't know about Mazatlan "for sure" - all we knew is that the charter on March 26th was not going to Mazatlan. People that are on this cruise today did not receive notification from HAL that they are not going to Maz - in fact, they were told by HAL that they were still going. So, we appreciate Spinner updating us. This now brings more clarity to the situation and it "looks like" Mazatlan is off their itineraries for the rest of the season (but you never know as they cancelled and went back again already...).

Canuck

True CanuckCruizer but I suspect HAL had to give notice to the charter group. One thing I have found as I watch certain ports(and therefore certain boards or rolls calls) - other cruise lines, not just HAL are telling people they are still going and then bam! the captain announces they are not the night before.

I tended to put some faith in the announcement from the charter group. there's more money on the table and HAL has to be forthcoming with them.

Spinner, do appreciate you confirming though - didn't mean to imply anything else - your posts and reviews have been great!:)

[CanuckCruizer]

True CanuckCruizer but I suspect HAL had to give notice to the charter group. One thing I have found as I watch certain ports(and therefore certain boards or rolls calls) - other cruise lines, not just HAL are telling people they are still going and then bam! the captain announces they are not the night before.

I tended to put some faith in the announcement from the charter group. there's more money on the table and HAL has to be forthcoming with them.

Spinner, do appreciate you confirming though - didn't mean to imply anything else - your posts and reviews have been great!:)


Hi Kazu - Yes I agree with you about having to give notice to the Olivia Charter but we deserve notification too (of course...tell this to HAL!:D) HAL did cancel Mazatlan and then went to Manzanillo instead and THEN went back to Mazatlan again when no one else was....so I am highly suspicious....lol. But you are right - a lot of people are not getting notification until the night before (which I think is ridiculous - we need to make plans!!).

Canuck

[kazu]

Hi Kazu - Yes I agree with you about having to give notice to the Olivia Charter but we deserve notification too (of course...tell this to HAL!:D) HAL did cancel Mazatlan and then went to Manzanillo instead and THEN went back to Mazatlan again when no one else was....so I am highly suspicious....lol. But you are right - a lot of people are not getting notification until the night before (which I think is ridiculous - we need to make plans!!).

Canuck

Totally agree Canuck - that's why I am trying to follow if ships really dock or not -:eek: we are scheduled for Morocco later this year and, if the itinerary is going to change - sure would be nice to know - before the day before!

Don't get me wrong - I totally understand that the cruise ship is concerned with safety - but I think that can be determined BEFORE the night you are supposed to dock :p at the very least, they could update their travel advisory section better or give fair warning to their passengers :rolleyes:

I guess we can't have everything

[CanuckCruizer]

Totally agree Canuck - that's why I am trying to follow if ships really dock or not -:eek: we are scheduled for Morocco later this year and, if the itinerary is going to change - sure would be nice to know - before the day before!

Don't get me wrong - I totally understand that the cruise ship is concerned with safety - but I think that can be determined BEFORE the night you are supposed to dock :p at the very least, they could update their travel advisory section better or give fair warning to their passengers :rolleyes:

I guess we can't have everything


I sure hope you find out if you are going to Morocco or not - you need to plan!!

I would really like to know "where" we will go instead - if it is La Paz, Manzanillo, overnite in PV, extra day in Cabo......I need to make plans/do more research etc. I really don't want to waste time, say, researching La Paz, and they we don't end up going there! If we are o/n in PV - I want to book a hotel room and make dinner reservations. Cabo or Manzanillo wouldn't really require any extra research but would still like to know! Why they can't post the new correct itineraries online is beyond me!

Canuck

[kazu]

I sure hope you find out if you are going to Morocco or not - you need to plan!!

I would really like to know "where" we will go instead - if it is La Paz, Manzanillo, overnite in PV, extra day in Cabo......I need to make plans/do more research etc. I really don't want to waste time, say, researching La Paz, and they we don't end up going there! If we are o/n in PV - I want to book a hotel room and make dinner reservations. Cabo or Manzanillo wouldn't really require any extra research but would still like to know! Why they can't post the new correct itineraries online is beyond me!

Canuck

good luck Canuck - I hope you do find out in time :) totally agree with the planning thing - I am a huge planner ;)

To the op - forgive us if we have high jacked your thread temporarily, back to cudos for your great review and threads :):)

[CanuckCruizer]

good luck Canuck - I hope you do find out in time :) totally agree with the planning thing - I am a huge planner ;)

To the op - forgive us if we have high jacked your thread temporarily, back to cudos for your great review and threads :):)

Me too - a HUGE planner! We are doing a B2B (for 24 days) in the Med. in September and you wouldn't believe the planning for that one!:eek: Gotta lot of work ahead of me....

Yes - Spinner did a great job of reporting live. I LOVE live threads! Don't really know where the people find the time to report live while on the ship - I know I never could - but I do appreciate hearing about everything!!

Canuck

[erewhon]

Thank you for the reports of your cruise while on board the Oosterdam.
Wishing you a safe journey home.

[Spinner2]

We are home now ( we live less than 2 hours away from the port) and I see over on the "other" Mazatlan thread that a letter from the Captain has been delivered to those now aboard and the contents were spelled out. So, I'll confirm the information I was told that I kept to myself because it came from a staff member and I don't believe it's my place to "tell the whole internet" what I'm told in confidence, until the source has a chance to announce it. After all, it might never have come to pass and just been another rumor after all.

I was told that HAL's corporate has indeed decided to pull Mazatlan for the rest of the season; they are substituting overnighting in Puerto Vallarta instead. The final decision wasn't made until sometime late Friday afternoon. There was one new shore excursion offered from P.V. this time called "something" (sorry; don't remember!) of the night and it left the ship mid-afternoon, offered a meal on the beach, stayed out on the beach as late as it could with a 7:30 pm departure. I would think with an overnight they could run this later and it might be even nicer; people said good things about it.

One crew member who also mentioned this while we were still aboard this morning (not my information source) was pleased about the change; he thought the passengers would find many more things to interest them in P.V.

Friday afternoon I was invited to one of those "Q&A" focus groups aboard the ship and one woman asked about the "show of force" that many saw out on the pier in Mazatlan on the morning we were there. I didn't see it; either it was while we were at breakfast or after we'd gone out walking (see a posting further up about the safety volunteers who laid out a walking route; we did that) but according to her there were numerous military-types with guns and dogs out along the pier (we saw one only, no dog but she reported quite a few) and the helicopters circling overhead. Her question was, why had't someone on the ship explained this since she believed it to be the source of many frightening rumors on board of serious trouble. The captain's explanation was that when it happened most people had gone ashore and he wanted to explain it when everyone could listen and then things that evening intervened (the earthquake in Japan?) and it slipped his mind. But it seems the town's police/military (I'm not sure what or who) came to the ship to demonstrate how ready the government was to protect the ship and its passengers. The individual wanted the captain to come down to see all this armament but as he had work to do he sent the security force to look instead and then suggested to the "show of force" that they go protect the town; the ship was in good hands already. So their intention of good will probably scared more people than it reassured but apparently they meant well. The town has really tried, but for now, I think the perception, at least, of danger has caused this port to be eliminated for now.

Finally, a note of caution to whoever "inherits" our cabin (7068): don't go out on the verandah in your bare feet until it's hosed down. Because this morning, after a thorough hosing and scrubbing by the ship's staff, two very large birds came to drink of the nice clean water still on the verandah. After a couple of drinks both (sorry if you're eating!) regurgitated up nice quantities of half-digested fish which they then sorted out across the verandah with their beaks, divided up what they had between the two of them and swallowed it all down again.

Wear your shoes out there!:)

[lorekauf]

I was surprised at how dirty my veranda was on the Oosterdam in Feb.2011. I was on the same deck as you. I never went out there in bare feet. When I was on the Princess Sapphire in Dec.2010 I went out many times without footwear. It was spotless.

[kazu]

We are home now ( we live less than 2 hours away from the port) and I see over on the "other" Mazatlan thread that a letter from the Captain has been delivered to those now aboard and the contents were spelled out. So, I'll confirm the information I was told that I kept to myself because it came from a staff member and I don't believe it's my place to "tell the whole internet" what I'm told in confidence, until the source has a chance to announce it. After all, it might never have come to pass and just been another rumor after all.

I was told that HAL's corporate has indeed decided to pull Mazatlan for the rest of the season; they are substituting overnighting in Puerto Vallarta instead. The final decision wasn't made until sometime late Friday afternoon. There was one new shore excursion offered from P.V. this time called "something" (sorry; don't remember!) of the night and it left the ship mid-afternoon, offered a meal on the beach, stayed out on the beach as late as it could with a 7:30 pm departure. I would think with an overnight they could run this later and it might be even nicer; people said good things about it.

One crew member who also mentioned this while we were still aboard this morning (not my information source) was pleased about the change; he thought the passengers would find many more things to interest them in P.V.

Friday afternoon I was invited to one of those "Q&A" focus groups aboard the ship and one woman asked about the "show of force" that many saw out on the pier in Mazatlan on the morning we were there. I didn't see it; either it was while we were at breakfast or after we'd gone out walking (see a posting further up about the safety volunteers who laid out a walking route; we did that) but according to her there were numerous military-types with guns and dogs out along the pier (we saw one only, no dog but she reported quite a few) and the helicopters circling overhead. Her question was, why had't someone on the ship explained this since she believed it to be the source of many frightening rumors on board of serious trouble. The captain's explanation was that when it happened most people had gone ashore and he wanted to explain it when everyone could listen and then things that evening intervened (the earthquake in Japan?) and it slipped his mind. But it seems the town's police/military (I'm not sure what or who) came to the ship to demonstrate how ready the government was to protect the ship and its passengers. The individual wanted the captain to come down to see all this armament but as he had work to do he sent the security force to look instead and then suggested to the "show of force" that they go protect the town; the ship was in good hands already. So their intention of good will probably scared more people than it reassured but apparently they meant well. The town has really tried, but for now, I think the perception, at least, of danger has caused this port to be eliminated for now.

Finally, a note of caution to whoever "inherits" our cabin (7068): don't go out on the verandah in your bare feet until it's hosed down. Because this morning, after a thorough hosing and scrubbing by the ship's staff, two very large birds came to drink of the nice clean water still on the verandah. After a couple of drinks both (sorry if you're eating!) regurgitated up nice quantities of half-digested fish which they then sorted out across the verandah with their beaks, divided up what they had between the two of them and swallowed it all down again.

Wear your shoes out there!:)

Thanks Spinner very much for giving us the scoop. Puerto Vallarta sounds fine to me (of course any place warm right now would sound fine to me :)).

very much appreciated all your wonderful posts and all your sharing with us.

Safe trip home :)

[Spinner2]

Lorekauf, our deck certainly looked clean all week; and we had just watched it being scrubbed before the birds arrived. Birds will be birds!

[lorekauf]

Lorekauf, our deck certainly looked clean all week; and we had just watched it being scrubbed before the birds arrived. Birds will be birds!
It's true. Mine was just plain dirty. It didn't bother me enough to mention it on my comment card but once you mentioned it, it reminded me of the difference from my last balcony. When I was waiting to disembark I was sitting on my balcony and the guy came to clean all the balconies with a hose so it was probably cleaner after that.

[slimknyzer]

An overnight in PV doesn't sound bad. With increased fuel prices, one less night of cruising probably puts a smile on HAL's face. Hopefully this will also help defer or delay any fuel surcharge implementation.

[tiller02]

We are home now ( we live less than 2 hours away from the port) and I see over on the "other" Mazatlan thread that a letter from the Captain has been delivered to those now aboard and the contents were spelled out. So, I'll confirm the information I was told that I kept to myself because it came from a staff member and I don't believe it's my place to "tell the whole internet" what I'm told in confidence, until the source has a chance to announce it. After all, it might never have come to pass and just been another rumor after all.

I was told that HAL's corporate has indeed decided to pull Mazatlan for the rest of the season; they are substituting overnighting in Puerto Vallarta instead. The final decision wasn't made until sometime late Friday afternoon. There was one new shore excursion offered from P.V. this time called "something" (sorry; don't remember!) of the night and it left the ship mid-afternoon, offered a meal on the beach, stayed out on the beach as late as it could with a 7:30 pm departure. I would think with an overnight they could run this later and it might be even nicer; people said good things about it.

One crew member who also mentioned this while we were still aboard this morning (not my information source) was pleased about the change; he thought the passengers would find many more things to interest them in P.V.

Friday afternoon I was invited to one of those "Q&A" focus groups aboard the ship and one woman asked about the "show of force" that many saw out on the pier in Mazatlan on the morning we were there. I didn't see it; either it was while we were at breakfast or after we'd gone out walking (see a posting further up about the safety volunteers who laid out a walking route; we did that) but according to her there were numerous military-types with guns and dogs out along the pier (we saw one only, no dog but she reported quite a few) and the helicopters circling overhead. Her question was, why had't someone on the ship explained this since she believed it to be the source of many frightening rumors on board of serious trouble. The captain's explanation was that when it happened most people had gone ashore and he wanted to explain it when everyone could listen and then things that evening intervened (the earthquake in Japan?) and it slipped his mind. But it seems the town's police/military (I'm not sure what or who) came to the ship to demonstrate how ready the government was to protect the ship and its passengers. The individual wanted the captain to come down to see all this armament but as he had work to do he sent the security force to look instead and then suggested to the "show of force" that they go protect the town; the ship was in good hands already. So their intention of good will probably scared more people than it reassured but apparently they meant well. The town has really tried, but for now, I think the perception, at least, of danger has caused this port to be eliminated for now.

Finally, a note of caution to whoever "inherits" our cabin (7068): don't go out on the verandah in your bare feet until it's hosed down. Because this morning, after a thorough hosing and scrubbing by the ship's staff, two very large birds came to drink of the nice clean water still on the verandah. After a couple of drinks both (sorry if you're eating!) regurgitated up nice quantities of half-digested fish which they then sorted out across the verandah with their beaks, divided up what they had between the two of them and swallowed it all down again.

Wear your shoes out there!:)

Just wanted to say thanks again for all of your feeds from your cruise. We sail next on the Oosterdam (Mar 19), and as ours is a family reunion cruise of 18 folks from all over the USA, I was interested in how the crew was, condition of ship,etc. We learned about what a "Code Red" is, and finally about Mazatlan.

Phil

[Spinner2]

Thanks for all the kind words. When DH gets his photos organized I'll organize a page on our travel blog that will show some of the behind-the-scenes photos he took when he did the behind-the-scenes tour of the Oosterdam.

One more tidbit; not from our cruise but the one just before:

On March 2 in Mazatlan a baby boy was born to a couple from the Oosterdam who were traveling with family members. The complete story, with a nice photo is HERE (http://mazmessenger.com/2011/03/11/cruise-ship-baby-born-in-mazatlan-goes-home/); out of respect for the copyright the Mazatlan paper holds on the story I won't copy the story to CC but it's a fast load and you might enjoy reading it. (Perhaps this was reported earlier; if so, please forgive the repeat.)

I found the story while searching the local Mazatlan English-language paper to see if there was any news of the discontinued port visits. So far, I don't think it's been reported in this news source.

[erewhon]

Spinner2,
Thank you for the link to this story.
What a surprise for the new parents.
Best wishes to Judah Bud.