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Holland America Line

MS Rotterdam (VI)

Your Rating:
Reviewed by:Gert Tanski
# previous cruises: 6
Date of Trip: December 19, 1999
Itinerary: Caribbean

This ship is the most elegant in the HAL line. (we're booked on the Amsterdam this fall, so that may change) It was exactly what one should expect on a cruise. Very low key elegance, fabulous decor, friendly staff. Felt as if we had been taken away in comfort.

Public areas are very, very comfortable - our very favorite was the Crow's Nest, with its leather recliners and great service and outstanding views of the ocean...also a prime place for early breakfast coffee and watching the sun rise.. Didn't like the piano bar, so we went to the others which were really very nice.

The service in the Dining Room was not the best this line has to offer. In fact, it was really lacking...our dining room steward told us they were out of lemon (for water)...seems he didn't feel like looking. Also, since we ate there only twice during the 14 days, we tipped accordingly (although it's not required, they do expect something) and we found our phone ringing several times during the last evening on board with a few rude comments. Too late to report it, but did follow up.We ate most of our meals in the alternative Odysseus Dining Room, which is exquisite and the food the very best on any cruise we've taken. The food, overall, was A+. The high tea had the very best pastries and tea. We loved it.

We cruised in the Penthouse on the Rotterdam. I think that says it all.

Entertainment was a head above the usual HAL presentations. They have improved the quality and variety tremendously since our first cruise on the Westerdam.

You do whatever you please from the itinerary. It was whatever the mood struck.

We are always very fortunate with tablemates. Only one uncomfortable couple. They suggest you ask for a new table, but we solved it by using the alternative dining. We still communicate with the very first couple we met, and six others who were at our table at various cruises. I would definitely invite them to dinner. We also have been invited to visit them in their home states. I feel that HAL makes an effort to seat age-compatible guests together.