Holland America Eurodam
The 2100-passenger Eurodam is a mix of the traditional Dutch Holland America style coupled with some nouveau South Beach elements making this ship very much appropriate for the incentive market. Yes, there are a few things I would change like the drab colors in the main dining room and some of the orange carpet so often found in the hallways on HAL’s vessels, however, I applaud them for some very pleasing additions.
The new Pan-Asian inspired Tamarind alternative restaurant servicing complimentary dim sum for lunch daily and exquisite Asian cuisine nightly ($15 surcharge) is terrific. The Silk Den lounge just across the way decorated in beautiful shades of green, purple and platinum is the perfect tranquil hideaway for drinks before or after dinner. Don’t miss an opportunity to dine in the Pinnacle Grill for sumptuous steaks and many other specialties. Surcharge is $20.00 but well worth a visit!
The Lido Café is bright and airy, with an excellent selection of food, both premade and cooked to order. The potted orchids on each table make for a cheerful atmosphere. And lest I not forget to mention the fresh flowers throughout this vessel. What a change from most mass/premium market lines where there are either no flowers or the plastic variety. Well done.
Canaletto comes to life for dinner when a section of the Lido restaurant is transformed each evening into the Italian restaurant. Although reservations are encouraged for this casual dining venue, walk-ups will be accepted. No surcharge.
My favorite feature onboard this, and every HAL ship is the retractable dome (magradome glass) covering that completely shields the main pool area from the elements. Why others have not followed suit is a mystery particularly for companies cruising in Alaska. On HAL ships, you can enjoy the pool and outdoor dining regardless of the weather. Truly a fantastic point that should not be overlooked. The Eurodam is the first HAL ship to rent private cabanas by the pool. Rates differ based on location, day (more expensive on a sea day) and type of services requested. Great idea!
Staterooms onboard the ship are spacious and well appointed. Far and away they are the most comfortable at sea. Plush, thick mattresses make for a delicious night’s sleep… I only hope that someday HAL will join the ranks of the other cruise lines in attempting to make the bathrooms prettier. White, white and more white…with a speckled gray countertop. Oh well. How much time do you spend in the bathroom anyway?
Don’t miss an opportunity to visit the Queen’s Lounge for some entertainment or enjoy one of the many onboard culinary demonstrations or hands-on classes. Face it..not everyone is a fan of ice skating or rock climbing – so here’s a product that appeals to a different crowd, and HAL does it well!
The public lounges on the Eurodam are lovely and much more upbeat that others in the fleet. I applaud HAL for joining the new millennium! Bon voyage!
