Betty Brooks-Shades

Age: 57
Occupation: retired
Number of Cruises: 7
Cruise Line: Holland America
Ship: Oosterdam
Sailing Date: December 5th, 2004
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean

What a ship! Holland America has got it right. From Imbang, our cabin steward, to Capt. Mercer, all staff (except for two) were extremely helpful, friendly, and a joy to be around. Steve at the piano bar can play and sing anything. The DJ in the Sportman's Bar was very accommodating by playing "my special song" every time I came in. The crew in the casino allowed by service dog to lie down in the pit boss area while I played blackjack. Everyone wanted their picture taken with her. The head waiter/maitre-d/head honcho in the Lido Restaurant made a special effort to have someone carry my tray, help me find foods that I could eat, and then assisted me to the table.

I have been on Holland America's Zuiderdam and there is no comparison. The Oosterdam is 100x better.

My only complaint (and a minor one at that) is that the photographers kept setting up times for me to bring my dog for special photographs, and then they were never around.

We were not able to get off at Half Moon Cay due to high gale force winds. The Captain advised us that he tried positioning the ship but that it was too dangerous to disembark passengers onto the tenders. Captain Mercer advised us throughout the cruise where we were, what was going on, etc.

I can without reservation say that this was the BEST cruise ever! I'm going back next year on the same ship, and hopefully the same stateroom. If you have the funds. book a Deluxe Verandah Suite. The amenties are great - free laundry, access to the Neptune Lounge where food is always available, and the beds are so comfortable you don't want to get up in the morning.