Carolyn

Age: 27
Occupation: HR Director
Number of Cruises: 1
Cruise Line: Holland
Ship: Oosterdam
Sailing Date: October 24th, 2004
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean

This was our first cruise and we had a blast! My fiancee (we got engaged the morning of the cruise) had a room on the 8th floor while my room was on the 4th floor (couldn't feel the movement of the boat here either). I received a free upgrade through Expedia. Rob's room was a little cramped but mine was great.

Food: we thought that the food was really good. I am a culinary instructor so I was afraid that the food would be bland (like many of the reviews imply). The reviews were wrong! The Dining hall had several good dishes each evening (we didn't make it to breakfast or lunch in the dining hall). We ate in the pinnacle lounge twice and had great service and food. They have a smoked appetizer featuring black cod that was out-of-this world! I now must get a smoker and some black cod.

Entertainment: we only went to one show but it was very amusing and we enjoyed it quite a bit. The casino was fun.

The pools were not overcrowded and we were able to relax.

We were also afraid that we would be the only ones under the age of 60 but were relieved to find many others our age (twenties).

Excursions: we took the Golden Eagle excursion on St. Martin and it was worth every penny. If you don't take the excursion, rent a jeep (about $80)and drive around St. Martin (get away from Phillipsburg unless you are wanting to shop only).

Tortola - our favorite island. Take a bus tour around the island - inexpensive and was so much fun. we got to go to the only remaining rum distillery and see such beautiful sights. The spice company was also very interesting.

Half Moon Cay - get off the boat early so that you can lie on the beach all day. This private beach is unbelievably beautiful! Take some money for drinks, snorkeling, etc.

The only thing that we did not like was that there are very few clocks on board! No clocks in the bedrooms. Be sure to take a watch with you. While this wouldn't be an issue if there weren't any activities, you must be on time to dinner. Also, there was only 1 cooking class - and it was during my spa treatment!

All in all we had a wonderful time and would definitely do it again.