Rotterdam on 4/10 Help! What to Take?

[BOS]

We're leaving April 10 on the Rotterdam for the Transatlantic/Mediterranean cruise, and I realize I need advice on what to take. Can you more experienced cruisers tell me what to expect weather wise during this period from mid April to early May? Will it be hot, will it be cold, or a mix in between? What is it like crossing the Atlantic? Also, husband wants to know if blue jeans are OK for shore excursions or are they not worn that much in Europe? Any help gratefully received.

[grannynurse]

We were on the Rotterdam for 34 days last summer, crossed the atlantic both ways, and the summer before eastbound.

It will be cool for the first part of your crossing but you will be alot farther south than we were. This is right at the boundary between North and South Atlantic. The seas can be choppy here too, but less so than more northerly.

You will lose an hour a night for 7 or 8 nights during the crossing as clocks will be set forward periodically.

Pack to dress in layers while at sea. I assume that you're leaving from Ft. lauderdale and perhaps stopping at HMC, then across to Madeira or the canary Islands. We took parkas and wore them the whole trip. You will not need winter jackets but at least take a hooded sweatshirt and rain gear.
Also some type of cover-up as the dining room can be chilly.
Do bring a few long-sleeved tops for both of you.

We wore jeans in Europe in most ports. The only time they are not appropriate is if you're visiting cathedrals or attending some shore excursion event. If it's dressy and it's a HAL shorex, they will recommend a dress code.

Plan to use local ATM's or a credit card, as the dollar is not valued very highly. Euro's were $1.53 last summer. There will be currency exchange on board but HAL charges a commission, it's cheaper not to go this way even tho it's so convenient. Most European countries have a VAT arrangement so you can file the forms at your departure airport and get refunds; there are stipulations however, and it's hard to remember to collect your VAT receipts everywhere you shop. You can't get them unless you spend a certain amount, and it's not valid on all items.
If you have specific questions feel free to email me at grannynurse@cox.net.
I'll try to help.
Our pix can be found under the Rotterdam transatlantic thread.
GN