Oosterdam - Just got off

We went on a three day cruise with friends and had a great time. First time on a Vista Class ship and were very impressed.

We now have been on 23 HAL cruises - so you can see that we are hooked - but please don't missunderstand critizisim - I would hope that they can always improve on the product.

Embarkation - We arrived at Canada Place at 11:30 and were one of the first people on the boat. Even with that the sign in was very very very slow and people who arrived later said that they waited 2 hours in line. They were taking a digital picture of each passenger at each sign in station. They seemed to be having alot of problems with this.

The Ship - This was our first time on a vista class ship and we were very impressed. The ship was well though out and had several small hideaways to talk or read a book. Several great new ideas like the observation area, outside behind the crows nest. The only glaring fault that I found was the disjointed layout in the Lido.

Service - As always the service was top notch in all departments.

Food - We always take advantage of the Pinnacle prices on the first night and it was great since we had a group of six. Food and service was excellent. After dinner I took the check and one couple (first time HAL cruisers) insisted on paying for theirs. After the tuging on the bill he got a separate bill. When he looked at it he said "this can't be right" It was the best $10 meal you will every get. Food in the main dinning room was good, though portions remain smaller than in past years. Coffee was very good.

****** Special Note --- At the aft pool were two big signs that said "ADULT ONLY POOL" then below " Yep No Kids" We have all been on cruises were the kids will take over a pool and adults just stay out. I hope that this trend carrys over to all ships. --- Now for the topper --- beleive it or not they actually enforced the rule. Two kids got in the pool and in short order they were having splashing contest. Then a uniformed supervisor comes up and very nicely spells out the rule and they left for the center pool. I just hope that this is not a passing fancy.

Entertainment - It was very good according to those who went - I never do.

Cabins -- We had a VA cabin. It was nice but where did the drawer space all go ?? The only drawers we had were the night stands. The bathroom is now an all fiberglass module. I still can't get over the mattresses. I want to buy one for the house.

Much prefer a two or three week cruise but this was fun and being from the Seattle are it was very convenient.

Just about to watch Oosterdam set sail from Seattle - full house today in Seattle! : Diamond Princess, Sun Princess, Oosterdam.

Dear CC people,

I've read on may occasions that there aren't any drawers in the bedrooms for storage....having just returned from the ship, I can promise you that there are indeed 2 large drawers that pull out from under the end of the beds.

Not that I noticed until I looked for a missing shoe upon packing to disembark and darned if they weren't there!

David

Thanks D AllanTCY - Never looked there