RevNeal's Oosterdam Cruise Review

[RevNeal]

Review of the ms Oosterdam
The Holland America Line
February 5 - 12, 2005
7-Day Mexican Riviera Cruise
(Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.)

Introduction:

Having cruised many times on the Holland America Line, and being well-acquainted with their popular Statendam and Rotterdam Class of ships, I was nevertheless very ambivalent about the new Vista ships. Over the past few years I had read quite a few reviews which left me worried and unhappy about the direction HAL was taking in their newest vessels, and entirely unwilling to try them. According to these reviews they were too large, were appointed with strange (“funky”) furniture and color schemes, were “shoddy” in their construction, had terrible vibration problems, were too large, too crowded, and had rooms that were too small. All of these criticisms, and more, had been written about the Vista ships ... and because of these statements I was very hesitant about trying them out.

However, the Oosterdam and the Westerdam had also received some excellent reviews, and after reading several such from people whom I trust, I determined to try the Oosterdam on one of her 7-day Mexican Riviera Itineraries. After much research I found a deal that enabled me to book a cruise, with single supplement, for an acceptable (“low”) price, and so I jumped at it.

Embarkation, Cabin, and Sail Away:

The Oosterdam was docked across the pier’s parking lot from the San Diego Ship Terminal, which was occupied by the Carnival Spirit, so we had to use the “tent” (aka, “the big top”). It wasn’t a bad setup, and there was plenty of room inside “the big top” for the check-in operations and the line. Check-in was, itself, a fairly painless process. By far, this was the longest line I stood in the entire cruise; it was, thankfully, a fast moving line, so I really don’t have a great deal to complain about. I passed through the terminal gates and surrendered by luggage to HAL staff at 12:20. By 1:30 I had gone through the check-in line, been processed, and was moving up the gangway line and into the ship. Since I boarded prior to the Staterooms being readied, I was directed to elevators and whisked to the Lido deck, where food was to be found in a panoply of delicious variety and amazing quantity. Long ago I discovered that a 7-day cruise is often a week-long gorge fest interrupted by 3 ports-of-call; this was certainly the case aboard the Oosterdam.

After having explored the Lido Restaurant, and being much-impressed with its layout and ease of access, and after having consumed an excellent lunch of fruit, vegetables, roast beast, and ice cream, I sat and chatted with a few fellow passengers until an announcement was made (along about 2:45) informing us that our staterooms were ready. And, so, I proceeded down to my cabin on Main Deck, # 1037, a J-Category large enough to dance in! I was extremely pleased with this cabin; research had told me that many of the inside cabins were tiny, but that most of those on Main Deck were larger than average. Truth be told, that’s was an understatement: these J cabins on Main Deck are “huge.” Within a few minutes of arrival in my cabin a knock on the door announced that my luggage had arrived, and I quickly unpacked, putting everything away into closets and cabinet space which was ridiculously more than adequate for one, and would have been sufficient even for three. As it was, I didn’t use all of the storage space available to me.

The sail away party was nice, and well attended -- pretty much standard HAL fair -- however departure was delayed due to something of a minor disaster ... well, it wasn’t so minor to those whose luggage had been dumped into the bay. Yes, that’s right, the pier staff had accidentally dumped a pallet of passenger bags into the bay and underneath the ship. The captain announced that they were sending divers down to make sure that all the bags were recovered, and I later learned that those who suffered this mishap were compensated, their clothing cleaned, pressed, dry-cleaned, and repaired. Nevertheless, we set sail at about 8pm, just before second-seating dinner.

(To Be Continued)

[RevNeal]

The Oosterdam:

Since this review is more about the Oosterdam, herself, than it is about this particular cruise, I really should shift my focus, now, to the ship in her many aspects. Contrary to the reports of others, I must say that this vessels is not too big. Yes, the Vista series of cruise ships is larger than HAL’s other vessels, but she is very much a HAL ship. On a cruise ship which could, easily, carry 2700 passengers, HAL plays host to just 1800-2000 guests with grace and style.

Improvements

The signature of the Holland America Line’s traditions can be seen everywhere aboard the Oosterdam. Even given her distinct arrangement of public rooms, I quickly discovered the logic of the designers in their orientation. One major improvement over the S and R class vessels is that, on both public decks (the Lower Promenade and Promenade Decks) one may pass all way through the ship, from the Vista Lounge in the front to the main Dining Room in the aft, without having to go up or down a deck to go around the kitchen! This is a marked improvement over the older design.

Another significant improvement is the outside promenade deck is actually on the Promenade Deck, and that this deck is not an accommodations deck but, rather, a public rooms deck. Indeed, it’s the deck where the Ocean Bar, the shopping arcade, the Library, the Internet Cafe, and the lecture rooms are all located.

A further improvement, and one that is particularly interesting, is the placement of the Ocean Lounge amidships, surrounding the Atrium, on the Promenade Deck. On the Starboard side one find the bar, itself, with smaller gathering nooks and crannies, where one can sit and chat, drink and enjoy conversations somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle, noise and confusion, of the band and the dance floor, all of which can be found on the port side. This central location makes the Ocean Bar a very popular hangout for both pre-dinner cocktails and post dinner drinks.

The Crows Nest is larger and more open, with plenty of seating both at the forward windows, in the central section, and in the side lounges. I particularly enjoyed the Oak Room (or “smoking room”) on the starboard side aft of the Crows Nest proper. It has access to the aft observation deck, where one may enjoy “cigars under the stars” without bothers nonsmokers.

The Sports Bar is larger, with an excellent large-screen display for watching games (like the Superbowl). It is right off the Casino, and there are built-in Poker games on the bar, which gives one something to do other than just watching sports.

The Casino is much larger than on other HAL ships, stretching across the width of the ship, with more tables and more video poker and slot action.

The Night Club (on the Oosterdam, the “Northern Lights” is a large, noisy, dance floor and bar. One of my favorite places to go late in the evening. It’s existence makes for a quieter Crows Nest late at night, but it is a major improvement to have a large dedicated dance floor in a night club aboard ship.

The Pinnacle Grill is centrally located to port of the Atrium, amidships on the lower Promenade Deck. This location keeps it from either being buried in depths of the ship, cut off from the outside world (as on the R-class ships), or being a retrofitted afterthought (as on the S-class ships). It is plenty-large, and comfortable, and the meals provided here are excellent, indeed. The Hotel Manager, Mr. James Deering, invited me to dinner here one evening, and I truly enjoyed myself immensely. The steak was cooked to perfection, and the sides were delicious as well. The quality of the food was only matched by the quality of my host’s conversation.

The Front Office and Shore Excursions Desks are located on either side of the Atrium on Main Deck. This is an excellent place for these services, and the staff which manned each were exemplary.

Needs Improvement

The Vista Lounge -- where the evening’s main entertainment is performed and where the Captain’s Champaign Reception is held -- is large and comfortable, with three decks (Main, Lower Promenade, and Promenade) all providing access to it. However, certain elements of it are poorly designed, including the pillars in the middle section which support the balcony but which obstruct the view from several locations. Other vessels manage to support a balcony without such pillars, the engineers could have done a better job with this one. Another area that needs improvement is the location of the display screens ... they simply cannot be seen by anyone seating anywhere above the halfway point in the middle section.

The Queens Lounge is a very nice, medium sized show room, however it is not conducive to showing movies ... the heads of one’s fellow passengers get in the way.

The Windstar Cafe is a nice idea, however during our cruise aboard I didn’t notice it receiving much business; I, myself, didn’t use it at all. The Hotel Manger, Mr. James Deering, mentioned to me a suggestion which he will be making to the Home Office that the Windstar Cafe be replaced with a third alternative dining venue ... like an Italian Bistro. This sounds like a workable idea that, perhaps, should be explored.

The Explorers Lounge is divided into three rooms. The main room is where the classic music stand is located, the next room is divided off from this and, while one can hear the music from here, one cannot see the performance. This is also the area where the specialty dutch chocolates can be found. The third chamber is closed off from the others because it serves as the smoking room. In general, I really like the idea of having the Explorer’s Lounge divide off into seperate chambers, and I particularly appreciate that the smokers are given a room where they will not bother the nonsmokers. However, the division of the open Explorer’s Lounge into two chambers truly does limit the seating in the portion where the music stand is located. I found it difficult to find seating in the room for the classical performance on any evening. With this limitation in mind, however, I didn’t really find the Explorer’s Lounge to be overly small ... it is about the size of the Lounge on the Statendam, though it is much smaller than the lounge on the Maasdam or the Volendam/Zaandam. An improvement to the layout might be to leave the music stand in the middle, between the two nonsmoking chambers, but to open them up to each other so as to make the Explorer’s Lounge a large single room again. This would have the effect of doubling the seating area for those who wish to be able to see the music stand.

The Main Dining Room is certainly larger, and while several improvements (including lovely new chairs and side-seating arrangements) have been made, the center of the Dining room is taken up by a large central music stand and service area. This may be more convenient, but it takes up critical central dining space, robs the room of it’s open feeling, and it is -- essentially -- impossible to hear or even know if music is being played on the stand from a table on the lower level in the aft or side galleries. Frankly, I’m not sure anything can be done to repair this problem ... it may just be an unfortunate fact that on a ship the size of the Oosterdam not everyone is going to have a dining table well-positioned for seeing what’s going on throughout the meal.

The aft Verandah cabins are probably wonderful accommodations, and their balconies are truly huge, but one should really take care not to nude sun-bathe on them. The view from above -- from the aft Lido deck abaft the pool -- is quite “good.” Frankly, I’m not sure I like this arrangement, though I suppose I should withhold judgment unless and until I actually book one of these cabins. If I do, I promise you I shall be fully clothed while on my deck. ;-)

And, finally, I must say that the Vista Ship’s lacking the self-service laundry is a hindrance to taking longer-range cruises. I would suggest HAL consider retrofitting the ships with at least one or two laundries for the use of those of us who “travel in steerage.”

Noted Problems Not Noted:

Many reviews had indicated vibration problems in the main dining room and shoddy workmanship in the construction of the Vista class ships. None of these “problems” were observed on this cruise. Indeed, even when “The Big O” was making 23 knots, the dining room was smooth and stable, with only the very slightest shimmer noticeable. I have noticed more motion, and more vibration, on the Statendam than I noticed on the Oosterdam this cruise. Likewise, I thought that -- after one year in service -- there were few, if any, signs of “shoddy workmanship.” I noticed one light fixture out on the aft pool deck, a cover blown off the port side compass stand on a forward observation deck, an occasional plant that could do with some TLC, and one “Captain Kirk chairs” in the Crows Nest that needed attention. Frankly, one should remember that a ship like the Oosterdam is a working vessel at sea and -- as is true with all things man-made -- maintenance is warranted. And, indeed, every day I noticed the crew working on the ship: painting, cleaning, repairing ... work continued around the clock! The Oosterdam is a credit to “The Spotless Fleet” monicker of the Holland America Line ... and, having twice achieved a nearly unheard of 100 on her CDC health inspections, her Hotel Manager hopes to have her make history by earning another 100 at her next inspection. If any ship of the Line can do it, the Oosterdam can!

(To Be Continued)

[RevNeal]

The Crew:

What else can I say but “wow!” I have always expected the best from HAL crew and staff, and I have rarely been disappointed, but on the Oosterdam every single expectation was met and, indeed, surpassed. My cabin steward, Andri, was exemplary; he kept the cabin spotless and in order, even though I am neither of these things. So superb was his work that I was tempted to forgo packing my clothing and just pack him! Something similar could be said about my dining room stewards: Sri and Tammy were outstanding in terms of service; they were quick, courteous, and never failed to “make things right” when something was lacking. Even though their had many passengers to serve, they never failed to take the time to chat, and were truly a pleasure to get to know. Especially Tammy, who proved in the Indonesian Crew Show that he could sing and dance as well as the ship’s cast -- though, perhaps, he would have preferred dressing as one of the ladies!!!!!

The lounge staff were excellent, particularly the stewards in the Ocean Bar ... on a ship of 1800+ passengers I never cease to be amazed that these people can learn my name and my normal cocktail of choice.

The Hotel and Beverage Staff are all under the able direction of the Hotel Manager, Mr. James Deering, who is, truly, an excellent officer. Knowledgeable in his field and in the history of cruising, I must say that HAL has chosen well in taking him back into their service from a competitor Cruise Line. Needless to say, I am impressed with his abilities and his wealth of knowledge, and I hope to cruise, again, on a ship where he is serving.

The Ship’s Cast was excellent. I have often found HAL’s professional entertainment staff to be able, in not a bit too frenetic, but on the Oosterdam I found the cast to be capable in their areas of specialization and a joy to watch. Excellent singers and dancers, all, they are to be commended. Sadly, I cannot say the same for the entertainment which they brought aboard for this cruise ... by-and-large, I could have done without most of them.

The Itinerary:

I suppose a few words should be said about the Itinerary. This was the “Mexican Riviera” cruise out of San Diego, with port stops at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.

In Cabo I took the basic “Coastal Highlights” tour, which gave me excellent views of the harbor from Giorgio's Restaurant, a stop at Cacti Mundo to view an amazing array of Cacti, a trip to San José del Cabo where I toured a Mission Church and did a little shopping, and a stop at a glass blowing factory.

In Mazatlan I took the Deluxe City Tour with Papantla Fliers. This was an excellent overview tour, which provided a trip to the downtown Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, a shopping stop where I was able to purchase local handicraft, and an excellent Mexican and native cultural show including the performance of the Papantla Fliers (nothing something to be missed).

In Puerto Vallarta I went on the “Dolphin Encounter” excursion, where I got to swim with, pet, ride, and kiss a wonderful bottle nosed Dolphin. It was, truly, an experience to remember.

Conclusion:

If you are a fellow HAL Mariner who has been apprehensive about the size and passenger compliment of the Vista class ships, and have avoided them up until now, I’m here to tell you that you should set your concerns aside and give these ships a try! The Oosterdam, with her excellent wonderful crew, is an exemplary addition to the Holland America Line! I had a wonderful cruise aboard her, and am looking forward to future cruises on Vista Class ships like the Westerdam and the new Noordam. And, of course, I would return to the Oosterdam in a heartbeat. While I think I still prefer the S and R class ships for their smaller size, these Vistas are handsome vessels indeed!

[DCT61]

Wonderful review! (as usual) Interesting to see James Deering is with HAL now. He was on the NORWEGIAN DAWN (NCL) when I was on her in 2003 and did an outstanding job with that ship (IMO) It was one of my favorite cruises. Thanks for taking the time to write the review. Im anxious to try HAL someday.

[haywood]

What a wonderful, detailed review. It gives you a good sense of what we can expect when we take our cruise on 4/9. We (3 of us) are also in a J cabin (hoping for an upgrade as we're Mariners...not sure if that really means anything). I am sure most of our time will be out of room so we can flex our elbows.:p Did you happen to get a feel as to how the KIDS program was running...i.e, were there a lot of kids on your cruise? Did they look :) or :( . Can you tell I really need a vacation ?????? Again, many thanks for your insightful review.

J.T. Faison

[Sea Island Lady]

I'm printing the review out for bedtime reading.

Can't wait to see your new photo's! Any idea when you will get them posted on your web site?

[sail7seas]

Thanks for your excellent review, Greg. I enjoyed reading it. Glad you enjoyed your first "Vista Cruise".

[localady]

Thanks for your great review Rev Neal! Glad you enjoyed the "O", we might just have to try sailing her!:D

[HeatherInFlorida]

Greg, wonderful review. You always tell of your experiences in such painstaking detail and I want you to know that I most certainly appreciate your efforts.

Sadly, I couldn't be quite as complimentary as you have been but I certainly agree she's a magnificent vessel and she never seemed crowded (well, except for the Lido at lunch). And, of course, it's entirely possible there have been improvements since we cruised in November and I'm delighted they have obviously taken place. Our crew was overworked and tired, yet always terribly nice and so desireous to do their very best. Our cabin steward, also, was amazing ... our cabin seemed to clean itself as if by magic:D .

Many thanks! I really enjoyed reading this:)

[jhannah]

Excellent work as always, Greg. Thanks for taking the time to be very specific about what you observed. Now you've got me really wanting to sail on the Oosterdam and the other vista ships besides Zuiderdam (which we really enjoyed.)

[RuthC]

Greg, thank you for another well-done report. I always respect your point of view.

May I ask your opinion of this ship in Alaska? I'm planning to take my (will be then) 15 1/2 year old grandgirl in '06. I was hoping to sail an S-class round-trip out of Vancouver, but no S-class are doing that route.
So-o-o-o, the choices are: different route or different type ship. I think the choice on that route are Volendam or one of the Vista's.
What say you?
Thanks for anything you can add to my thought process.

[bepsf]

Thanks for the review Greg! Sounds like you had a great time!

Now you understand why I like Oosterdam so 'Dam' much...
:D

[zdude]

Thanks for your great review Rev Neal! Glad you enjoyed the "O", we might just have to try sailing her!:D

Does it not go without saying these days that revs like "O"'s.

Its a joke.

[Sea Island Lady]

an announcement was made (along about 2:45) informing us that our staterooms were ready.
That's late for cabin availability isn't it? I was under the impression that the cabins are opened at 1:00.
Glad your luggage was not one to be dumped!;)


Sadly, I cannot say the same for the entertainment which they brought aboard for this cruise ... by-and-large, I could have done without most of them.

Could you elaborate on this entertainment, please?

[dakrewser]

Greg -

You reassure me that I wasn't mistaken in my impressions of the O'dam which, as you know, I also was apprehensive about. I find I can't disagree with anything you had to say. And I do have to agree that Mr. Deering is a wonderful host (and an avid CC reader!)

[Peggy Sue]

Rev .. Excellent report! Thanks for sharing your experiences .. glad to read you had a great time and enjoyed the vista class experience!

Our first HAL experience was on the Zuiderdam .. We had a great time and loved the ship. Second was the Volendam .. Beautiful..but think we like the zuiderdam better..liked the more upbeat vibe on the zuiderdam. next up..zaandam..which I followed your review of last fall...we're headed to alasaka .. if the O dam was sailing from vancouver..we would have booked in a heart beat...but, I'm sure we're going to enjoy the zaandam too.

Thanks again for sharing your experiences....sincerely appreciate the time and effort it takes to compile ones experiences..

So...when is your next cruise!!??

Peggy Sue

[Cauvet]

Great review. I was on the O last summer in Alaska and yes, RuthC, it does a very nice 7 day Alaska stopping at Sitka. I can't believe the luggage went over the side! What a nightmare!

[WillK]

Great review and a very nice writing style! Thanks-Will

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Greg, I am so glad you liked the Oosterdam. She is definitely one of our favorite ships. If not our favorite right now it is a toss up between her and the Ryndam.Your review was great, did you get a chance to see the pictures of your Bon Voyage. I got some good pictures of you on the ship and the ship leaving at night.

So glad everything went well:)

[Bfson]

Greg-we sail on the O'dam this coming Saturday. Thanks for the timely update. After several cruises on Celebrity this is our first on HAL. You make it sound oh so wonderful (except of the longshormen dumping the luggage-but HAL has no control over them.)

[Bill S]

Greg: thank you for an another excellent review from you about your latest cruise! You voiced a lot of similar thoughts and concerns that I have about a first cruise on a Vista-class ship, having become quite at home on the S-class ships and the Amsterdam. As a result of your review and other recent reviews of the Oosterdam, I am more confident that we will find the Oosterdam to our liking come May 7 on her first cruise to Alaska for this year. Glad you had a good time - your thorough observations are appreciated!

[RevNeal]

Can't wait to see your new photo's! Any idea when you will get them posted on your web site?

I'm processing photos right now ... should have them ready to upload by the end of the weekend ... hopefully by Sunday night. I took a lot of photos, but I'm trying to select the best and the most representative.

[RevNeal]

May I ask your opinion of this ship in Alaska? I'm planning to take my (will be then) 15 1/2 year old grandgirl in '06. I was hoping to sail an S-class round-trip out of Vancouver, but no S-class are doing that route.
So-o-o-o, the choices are: different route or different type ship. I think the choice on that route are Volendam or one of the Vista's.

Personally, I would choose the Volendam. As much as I love the Oosterdam, I must say that my preference is till for the Volendam or one of the other S/R-class ships. I still prefer the small HAL ships.

In Alaska one of the critical issues would be ship-size relative to the ports of call. Things can be congested-enough in those ports with other cruise lines and their floating mega-hotels, so I would be tempted to try and minimize the size of ship. The extra 400-500 passengers could be critical.

[Quendryth]

Rev

Have you decided not to join us on the Veendam in November? In looking at your future cruises, looks like you will be elsewhere. We will surely miss you.

Q

[RevNeal]

Could you elaborate on this entertainment, please?

Oooh, that's a difficult one. One of the entertainers was a juggler. I suppose he was ok, but that just wasn't my cup of tea. Another fellow was a singer ... last name of Black. I'm sure he was good ... he could sing well ... but I didn't appreciate his program. Specifically, he did a romantic song in which he invited all the couples to stand and dance, right there where they were sitting. I was the only single person in the midst of a whole bunch of couples, and so I was left sitting, alone, while others towered over me, dancing in front of their seats. It was very conspicuous, very uncomfortable situation. Solo-cruising can sometimes be awkward-enough without having my being alone rubbed in my face by the entertainment.

I wasn't the only person caught in this exceedingly uncomfortable moment.

[RevNeal]

And I do have to agree that Mr. Deering is a wonderful host (and an avid CC reader!)

Yes, indeed ... he even recognized me from my CC photo. :)

[RevNeal]

Thanks again for sharing your experiences....sincerely appreciate the time and effort it takes to compile ones experiences..

So...when is your next cruise!!??

Thank you and you're welcome, Peggy Sue. Next up -- as of right now -- is the Westerdam and a back-to-back East/West Caribbean this November. There is an outside chance I'll be taking an Alaska or a Canada/New England Cruise this summer just for the "heck" of it. :) One never knows! I have a lot of free time this summer, since I'm not teaching in any mission schools. So ... we'll see. As of right now, however, the only cruise booked is a November back2back on the Westerdam! :)

[RevNeal]

Your review was great, did you get a chance to see the pictures of your Bon Voyage. I got some good pictures of you on the ship and the ship leaving at night.

Thanks a bunch! It was GREAT meeting you and your husband! Would love to see the photos you took ... I'd appreciate seeing them if you'd like to email a few.

I'll have my photos up by Sunday (I hope), but I'll upload the photo of the three of us and link to it below!

:)


http://www.revneal.org/infrontoost2sss.jpg

[Vic The Parrot]

Good review Greg!


I'm almost done with my leftover bits, so keep your eyes peeled.
We have to collaborate on some 'subjects'.
Watch your email for my suggestions.



:-D

[doone]

Welcome home, RevNeal. Great review, thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on the Vista Style ships. I will sail the Zuiderdam in March, first time on a Vista. Then I sail the Volendam, one of my favorite HAL ships, I will be eager to see the differences and if I enjoy the Zuiderdam or not. OH GOD, WHAT AM I TALKING ABOUT, I'LL BE ON A CRUISE WITH 4 OF MY CLOSESTS FRIENDS, OF COURSE I'LL HAVE A GREAT TIME.

[sail7seas]

Rev.....


Did you go to the Captain's Welcome Aboard Reception? Were you in the showroom when he introduced his Officers before the 8:00 dinner seating?

Please tell me you were!!! :) I'm hoping you can share about it!!!

[shipcafe]

Rev : Thank you so much for the thorough review on your cruise experience! I'm glad that you had a chance to share words with Mr. Deering.

[JaniceB]

Thank you for your review. It sounds like really you enjoyed the ship and its crew. I am glad your luggage made it safely to your cabin and was not sitting on the bottom of the bay. I can't wait to see your photos.

[obriendan]

Rev,

Thanks for a wonderful review. Well written and balanced with the good and not so good. A much needed antidote for the Veendam Feb. 5th "Hell" Week type review!

[nobbync]

Thank you RevNeal for your review. It's so nice to see 3 great reviews of Oosterdam only 9 days before our trip. Living in San Diego I have seen all the HAL ships pull in and always wanted to try it. I always felt HAL is the style I like more then any. Still I ended up going on Vision of the Seas and Regal Princess before trying HAL in 9 days...

I was hessitant at first because I read many of those negative reviews about the Vista class ships and HAL in general. Most of what I read really sounded more like people who will look their hardest to find a problem instead of enjoying what they have. Or the reviews were of people who really did want more of a "wild" cruise....to each his own...

I think after reading your review and the other 2 that are going on now I am more at ease. Your review sounds much more realistic then others I have read. You do point out problems that you saw but at the same time you also point out that on a ship that size there will be problems. I expect that it will not be perfect but I am so happy to read that overall it sounds like an outstanding ship. I know every Saturday I drive by and can see myself boarding on Feb 26....

THANKS FOR THE GREAT REVIEW AND LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR PHOTOS.

Nobby

[cruznon]

Greg,
Thank you for the comprehensive review of the "O". So glad you had a great cruise! WE sail on her Saturday and reading this raises my excitement level even more.
The crew on a ship can make a cruise so special and it sounds as if we are in for a really wonderful experience.
I begin packing today and can hardly wait to step aboard the "O" Saturday.
Thanks again for your generous sharing of information and all the glorious photos that make us feel a part of your yoyage.
I'll drink a toast to you as we leave the harbor! :)
Peggy

[SHayesShip]

Thanks for the great review.
I will be going on the "O" in November and am confident that I will enjoy the cruise.

Steve Hayes

[Sea Island Lady]

I'm processing photos right now ... should have them ready to upload by the end of the weekend ... hopefully by Sunday night. I took a lot of photos, but I'm trying to select the best and the most representative.


Specifically, he did a romantic song in which he invited all the couples to stand and dance, right there where they were sitting. I was the only single person in the midst of a whole bunch of couples, and so I was left sitting, alone, while others towered over me, dancing in front of their seats. It was very conspicuous, very uncomfortable situation.
Please post a separate thread to let us know your photo's are ready to view.

I don't blame you for feeling uncomfortable when everyone was asked to stand and dance. I feel uncomfortable doing that and I have a DH! :D Don't care for the jugglers either and the comics are all beginning to sound the same.:rolleyes:

I was waiting to hear back from you about the "official" time that passengers are allowed to arrive at the pier, when check-in time begins and also what time the staterooms are suppose to be ready? We want to arrive as early as possible. We don't mind a wait as long as we are one of the first on the ship. Just our opinion and personal preference as it makes the ship a little easier to navigate without many other passengers onboard. Thanks!

[Nebraska Admiral]

Rev
Thanks for your review on the Oosterdam. I am sailing on her a week from Sat. I was able to get a $100 shipboard credit last August on the Z thanks to you. Are there any PROMO codes that you were able to use on your cruise on the Oosterdam?
Thanks again for the help last time.
Dick

[Vicar]

Great review Rev, thank you for sharing .

Glad that you had a great time and that you were so pleased with the ODam

[beachprincess]

great review! i truly appreciated the details and i love how you elaborated on each category. glad you had such an enjoyable time!

[ekerr19]

Greg-

Superb review, as always! I love reading your reviews, they are so complete, comprehensive and objectively written. :)

We are sailing on your favorite ship in about 30 days - hopefully she will become one of our new favorites too!

Thanks again for sharing your experience with us - I knew you were a bit leary of the Vista class and I'm glad it was a good cruise.

[kruzkeen]

The Oosterdam:

The Queens Lounge is a very nice, medium sized show room, however it is not conducive to showing movies ... the heads of one’s fellow passengers get in the way.

The Windstar Cafe is a nice idea, however during our cruise aboard I didn’t notice it receiving much business; I, myself, didn’t use it at all. The Hotel Manger, Mr. James Deering, mentioned to me a suggestion which he will be making to the Home Office that the Windstar Cafe be replaced with a third alternative dining venue ... like an Italian Bistro. This sounds like a workable idea that, perhaps, should be explored.


The Main Dining Room is certainly larger, and while several improvements (including lovely new chairs and side-seating arrangements) have been made, the center of the Dining room is taken up by a large central music stand and service area. This may be more convenient, but it takes up critical central dining space, robs the room of it’s open feeling, and it is -- essentially -- impossible to hear or even know if music is being played on the stand from a table on the lower level in the aft or side galleries. Frankly, I’m not sure anything can be done to repair this problem ... it may just be an unfortunate fact that on a ship the size of the Oosterdam not everyone is going to have a dining table well-positioned for seeing what’s going on throughout the meal.


And, finally, I must say that the Vista Ship’s lacking the self-service laundry is a hindrance to taking longer-range cruises. I would suggest HAL consider retrofitting the ships with at least one or two laundries for the use of those of us who “travel in steerage.”



Thank you for your excellent review. I agree with you that it is a wonderful ship. I also agree with you that some things that are not so fine.
Queens Lounge is no substitution for a Wajang Theatre.
I thought that the dining room seemed congested and noisy.
Not everyone needs the self-service laundry. Those of us not in suites do make use of it on the other ships.

What I do find interesting is that the under utilized Windstar Cafe might be converted to an Italian Bistro. This is a great idea. I do miss the Marco Polos on the V class ships. The Pinnacles are fine, but they are basically Steak Houses with some fish and chicken.

The problem might be: where do those who want a speciality coffee go to? According to the SoE Update page the Vista ships are not to have an Explorations Cafe.

[RuthC]

Greg, thanks for your thoughts on Vista vs. Volendam for the grandkid and me. You know I reeeealy like the S-class.
You're right---I don't want to be standing in an Alaskan port when it sinks due to all the tourists!

[longtimecruiser]

Excellent review, Greg. Makes me want to try a Vista class ship. I never thought I would ever want to try that size ship. Your review certainly gives me another point of view to think about. Thank you for a well done job!!!

[RevNeal]

Did you go to the Captain's Welcome Aboard Reception? Were you in the showroom when he introduced his Officers before the 8:00 dinner seating?

Please tell me you were!!! I'm hoping you can share about it!!!

Yes, I did. I even took a little video of the captain's words of welcome. About 2 minutes worth. I plan on converting it to a RealPlayer stream file and upload it so people can watch it. :)

What was it you want me to comment on?? :)

[RevNeal]

I was waiting to hear back from you about the "official" time that passengers are allowed to arrive at the pier, when check-in time begins and also what time the staterooms are suppose to be ready? We want to arrive as early as possible. We don't mind a wait as long as we are one of the first on the ship. Just our opinion and personal preference as it makes the ship a little easier to navigate without many other passengers onboard. Thanks!

In San Diego the earliest you're allowed on the pier to begin check-in is 11 am. I think you can get on the ship by about 11:30 am. That, of course, will depend upon the kind of cleaning they're having to do.

Frankly, I never found too much traffic aboard. Even around the Lido during Breakfast and Lunch. :) But, then I usually ate Breakfast around 7:45 am and lunch around 1 pm ... so ... perhaps there wasn't as much traffic at those hours. :)

[RevNeal]

I'm in the process of editing my Review and expanding it with a few thoughts that didn't make it into my first edition of the review. When it is finished I'm going to post it on my own site, illustrated with photos, and I'll post links to it here.

Just so that everyone knows, I'll be away for the next 3 days ... I'm serving as Spiritual Director for an Emmaus Retreat and will be busy until Sunday. Everyone heading to sea, have a blessed cruise!

[Sea Island Lady]

I'm serving as Spiritual Director for an Emmaus Retreat and will be busy until Sunday.
Thank you once again and enjoy the "walk." ;)

[sail7seas]

Yes, I did. I even took a little video of the captain's words of welcome. About 2 minutes worth. I plan on converting it to a RealPlayer stream file and upload it so people can watch it. :)

What was it you want me to comment on?? :)
__________________



Did you videotape the part where the Captain got down on one knee and asked his lady to marry him? On the Stage. At the end of his Introduction of his Officers and Welcome Aboard. Not something passengers enjoy seeing on every cruise. :)


(She said "yes".....) ;)


Congratulations to them both and wishes for many happy years together.

[Esme]

Unfortuntely Rev Neal was off the ship when handsome Captain van Doneselaar proposed to his lady love, GRM, Pam Kern on Sunday evening, Feb 13th.

Tuesday morning, Feb. 14th he sent me "the" photo and they both look so happy. To-day I received a couple photos of THE RING. Absolutely gorgeous and so unusual.

Sorry folks, I have no idea how to post the photos.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Unfortuntely Rev Neal was off the ship when handsome Captain van Doneselaar proposed to his lady love, GRM, Pam Kern on Sunday evening, Feb 13th.

Tuesday morning, Feb. 14th he sent me "the" photo and they both look so happy. To-day I received a couple photos of THE RING. Absolutely gorgeous and so unusual.

Sorry folks, I have no idea how to post the photos.

Esme, if you want to email the picture to me I can post it here for you.

[sail7seas]

:) I, too, have seen a lovely photo of them together on bended knees. So Romantic!!!

[cruisegirl]

Greg,
Thanks for your review. Can't wait to see your pictures. We'll be on this same cruise in November. We've cruised on HAL one other time several years ago and loved it. Am sure we'll feel the same way about this one.

Greg, I think I know you from West Gulf. I live in Oklahoma but am retired from the Women's Division. Am I right?

Ann Needham

[Bulkibagel]

We are about to try our 1st HAL cruise on the Oosterdam (April 23)

Thank you for the details.

Terence and Karen

RCCL Explorer of the Seas 4/02
RCCL Explorer of the Seas 9/03
NCL Sky 5/04

We leave in .......

64 days, 9 hours, 47 minutes and 22 seconds until April 23, 2005, at 4:00:00 PM(UTC time)

BTW, great photos too, I use one as my desktop.:)

[gizmo]

In Mazatlan I took the Deluxe City Tour with Papantla Fliers. This was an excellent overview tour, which provided a trip to the downtown Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, a shopping stop where I was able to purchase local handicraft, and an excellent Mexican and native cultural show including the performance of the Papantla Fliers (nothing something to be missed).


Rev,
Thanks for the great review. What did you think of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception?
I didn't see the Papantla Fliers but did see a video of the entire show. Very unusual !!

[RevNeal]

Greg, I think I know you from West Gulf. I live in Oklahoma but am retired from the Women's Division. Am I right?

Yes, Ann, we do know each other!!!! It's a SMALL WORLD!!:)

[cruisegirl]

Yes, Ann, we do know each other!!!! It's a SMALL WORLD!!:)

That's what I thought too. Glad you're doing some fun things like cruising. It's really the way to travel!

[Sillyjilly]

RevNeal,

I'm considering changing my Sapphire cruise in Dec. to the "O". We loved the Diamond with the many pools and plenty of deck chairs, but think maybe a change would be nice. Is there plenty of room by the pools or does it get crowded? On the NCL Star it was very difficult to find a vacant deck chair any where on the ship. The Diamond had so many, I don't think they ever could have filled them all. We like to relax, read and swim. Also, we live a hop, skip and a jump from the LA Pier. I'm driving my hubby nuts wavering back and forth on this. We are early 40's. Any advice? Thanks :)

[starysacz]

Thank you so much for the very objective report of the "O". We have stayed with the S-Class Ships and we were somewhat apprehensive of trying the Vista Class. Your report causes to consider the Vista ships. Right now we are booked on the Maasdam for May and in July. Hope we can make it as DH developed a medical problem last week. Will ask the Dr. for his permission this week. Looking for the photos.:)

[stanford's girl]

RevNeal,
Thanks so much for the great review. I like the way you write. It made me feel as if I was there with you. My husband and I are sailing on her Oct. 22nd are looking forward to our first experience with HAL. Have cruised the rest, now trying the best!!!! :D

[tiffnco]

Thanks for the great review!

We're sailing her over Thanksgiving and have been eagerly waiting your report...

Can't wait to see the pictures!

Tiffany

[RevNeal]

SillyJilly,

I would definitely go with the Oosterdam. She's a wonderful ship, and you can easily relax and enjoy quiet days aboard her with PLENTY of deck chairs to choose. :)

[RevNeal]

I have edited and updated my review, and posted it on my own website, with photos to illustrate it. I'll have MANY more photos, and larger, in a few days.

Check out my updated edition of my review at:

http://www.revneal.org/oostreview.html

Hope you enjoy!

[stanford's girl]

Wow!!!!!! That cabin is HUGE!! I've written down the # for future cruises on this

ship. Thanks again for the great review.:D

[Iggipolka]

Great Review. Love the pictures!

[Sillyjilly]

RevNeal,

Three more questions. On the main deck did you have any problems with noise from above?
Are the pools salt or fresh water?
Are all the inside cabins this big?
Love your website. Can't wait to see more pictures!
Thanks so much, Jill

[RevNeal]

Two more questions. On the main deck did you have any problems with noise from above?
Are the pools salt or fresh water?

I didn't have any trouble with sound from above, but those in cabins on the port side, right under the Northern Lights, could hear a thumping of the music until late. It wasn't bad, they said, but they could hear it.

The pools are Fresh Water.

[Sillyjilly]

Wow, you are quick. Thanks. I assume you didn't hear the anchor dropping? We had that problems once. Uggg. Another time we were put under the casino. Uggg, Uggg,
I see room 1037 is avail for our sailing. Decisions, decisions.
Thanks, Jill

[RevNeal]

I assume you didn't hear the anchor dropping? We had that problems once.

Not at all. The cabin is amidships.

[Vicar]

Rev,

Loved the review and the pictures were great. What a beautiful ship, and your cabin was not only beautiful, but huge. I can see two people having more than enough room in there, for just yourself it must have been wonderful.

So glad you had such a great time, and as always, thank you for sharing your thoughts and pictures :)

[Sillyjilly]

Once again thanks!! Your review was wonderful and your quick replies were very kind. I hope my TA doesn't wanna kill me for changing AGAIN. :D

[smoosh21]

Very nice review. I was happy to see the picture of the aft verandahs. I have 5186 booked, and they aren't as open as I thought, there is actually quite a bit blocked out from above

[Sillyjilly]

Revneal,

I'm planning on calling the TA tomorrow and switching over to the "O" in Dec. I showed hubby your room and he said go for it. It'll be a nice change. Thanks for all the helpful info.
Can you tell me if a suit on formal nights and dress shirt and slacks on other nights will be okay? This is what we wore on Princess and we fit right in.
I just read on another "O" post that suits are worn daily and I assume tuxedos on formal night. Can we get away with the clothing we wore on Princess? Thanks again, Jill

[mechcc]

Revneal,

Thanks for the report on the "O" dam. My wife and I are taking the same cruse in April. It is our second cruse and first with HAL. My wife has been reading these postinigs for a couple of months now but today was my first time, now I know why she loves them, lots of good information.

This cruse is a celibration of sorts. I'm retiring on 31 March and we sail on 2 April. We booked an S cabin so we can celibrate my retirement on the veranda.

Keep up the good work and hopefully I can post more good info on the "O" dam.

hcc of mechcc

[SeaGypsy]

Thanks for the excellent review, very professional. We are boarding the Oosterdam, Marcy 12th, you have certainly alleviated any concerns we might have had and increased our excitement. Look forward to all your reviews as they are so interesting and informative. Thank you for the time and effort you put into them.

[AmyinVail]

How ironic! My mom retires on April 22nd and we're taking her on the "O" on April 23rd. She's never cruised before, so I hope that she enjoys herself. We will also be making a toast and celebrating on our S Suite verandah!! The "O" certainly is a ship with plenty of celebrations!!!

[mechcc]

I'll drink a toast to your mothers' retirement. But you need to drink a toast on the 24th for my birthday. Deal???

[RevNeal]

Can you tell me if a suit on formal nights and dress shirt and slacks on other nights will be okay? This is what we wore on Princess and we fit right in.
I just read on another "O" post that suits are worn daily and I assume tuxedos on formal night. Can we get away with the clothing we wore on Princess?

Dear Jill,

On Formal Nights a dark suit and tie is certainly acceptable. On the Feb 5th cruise I saw about 40-50% of the men dressed in suit and tie; about the same number were dressed in Tuxedoes. A very tiny minority didn't bother even trying to match the dress code ... they were VERY conspicuous on Formal evenings.

On Informal Night a jacket will need to be worn, and I saw some men wearing ties as well, but ties are not required on Informal night.

On Casual nights most men wore slacks and sports shirts of various kinds. I added a jacket to that several evenings simply because I like "dressing up" a bit.

A Tux is not necessary, though it is the Formal dress which the line does suggest. I own a Tux, so I bring and wear it on Formal Nights. But a dark suit, white shirt, and tie is certainly acceptable.

[Sillyjilly]

Thanks! I don't want to stand out like a sore thumb! You've got me really excited about trying this ship. Thanks for alleviating my doubts. I have been on the fence trying to decide for over a month and it feels good to know I am making the right decision. Have a GREAT day!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

[Himself]

Thanks for a wonderful balanced review of the OOSTERDAM. Sorry to hear about the luggage going in the Bay. I was on the Zuiderdam in its first year of operation. I think a lot of the negativity has to do with size and I think some have approched the Vista Class from the premise they are not "perfect" ships. None are perfect. I will be on the OOSTERDAM in May to Alaska. I have not tried the ZAANDAM yet but hope to be on that ship in the not too distant future.

I will look forward to your pictures.

HIMSELF

[rickcohen2]

It's AMAZING. It has been years since we were last on a HAL vessel, and of course never on the "O". But in reading this review and thread I'm ready to book if for no other reason than to again be a guest of James Deering's.

In searching the HAL board alone, I found 10 threads with his name. I wonder how many other Hotel Director names appear even once, on ANY board.

But I'm not surprised. Those of us who have sailed with him have experienced the best of the very best. Those of you on future "O" cruises are truely lucky.

[DNCButler]

Rev Neal-
I so have to thank you for your review. I'm taking a group on March 26th with many of my family members as well and I always worry when I have to escort them. I was a little worried about the dining room service and the entertainment (I won't sweat the entertainers though!) I'm looking foward to the Pinnacle Rest. and just finally getting a break for a week. Is there anything in the ports though that you think is a "don't miss this" type of excursion? Also, we arrive into San Diego around 10:30 so should be at the port by 11:00, do they have an area with enough places to sit until they start boarding?

Thanks again!

[Bfson]

In the cavernous waiting room that San Diego calls a cruise terminal there are places to sit.(there's even a small bar and snack shop) If you get there before 10:30 am you have to stand outside the pier and wait.

[DNCButler]

Great, thank you! I don't think we'll be there any earlier than 11:00 though by the time be make the usual potty breaks, retrieve luggage and hail a cab for the family! Can't wait to leave, the snow flurries are starting again right now!

[Bfson]

I'm sure Rev. Neal will add his thoughts but we felt the Pirate whale watching trip in Cabo was a "don't miss." The ship they use was built in the late 1800s. They have added a motor. You motor out, they cut the motor, raise the sails and sail out to watch whales. (They call it a pirate cruies because the Americans who run it wear pirate gear) They serve free drinks or water and fresh fruit (to prevent scurvy???).

[dakrewser]

I'm sure Rev. Neal will add his thoughts but we felt the Pirate whale watching trip in Cabo was a "don't miss." The ship they use was built in the late 1800s. They have added a motor. You motor out, they cut the motor, raise the sails and sail out to watch whales. (They call it a pirate cruies because the Americans who run it wear pirate gear) They serve free drinks or water and fresh fruit (to prevent scurvy???).

I'll second that, we thought it was the best whale watching trip we'd ever done (better than Alaska, Hawaii, San Diego, Victoria and others in Mexico...)

Note that it's the pirate ship Sunderland. There's another one which is no where near as good.

[Bfson]

The Sunderland crew was telling us that the other "pirate ship" was built as a movie prop and never designed for repeated voyages (it has no keel!) Much of it is made of particle board, they say. Yikes.

[RevNeal]

I must admit that I've never been on a Pirate ship excursion. :)

[Dutchman]

A great review as usual Greg. Lots of good usable information is included. Now how can I intise you to come to Alaska the second week of June 2006. We are once again gathering the barbershop singers and will perform on the ship?