Holland America Oosterdam
Either I am getting older, or Holland America is getting younger. I am sure it is the latter! While the Oosterdam has some challenges in terms of hardware, she has most certainly impressed me in all areas of onboard product. This is truly a "feel good" vessel and one that will most certainly strike a positive cord with incentive buyers.
The ship itself is a duplicate of the Zuiderdam. There have been some improvements - most notably the addition of several restroom facilities on the public decks - however - for the most part the ships are twin sisters, simply with different décor. The color schemes on the Oosterdam resemble much of the Holland America fleet. The ship is not my personal taste, as I would not necessarily group purple, green and yellow together - however, nothing is overdone or offensive - and you quickly forget what the ship looks like once you experience the "software" she graciously has to offer her privileged guests.
First, let me begin by saying that Holland America has become young and upbeat. The entertainment was truly spectacular. The production shows were fresh, exciting and left you wanting for more. When is the last time that has happened to you? By the end, you are on your feet clapping, stomping and singing. It was delightful. The sing-along piano bar is a blast. The variety performers, most notably a house acapella boy band called The Mikes were akin to 'N Sync at sea. What fun! I wonder if Holland America will scare away the old timers - but since all I do is incentive travel, I don't particularly have a problem with it.
The food and service was first class all the way. Presentation in the dining room was the most creative I have seen in quite some time. A good example was the crème brule at dinner one evening. Instead of being served in a ceramic dish, this dessert was served in an edible chocolate cup, complete with chocolate saucer, cookie spoon and accompanied by a miniature pastry. Absolutely adorable and enjoyable. Variations of this were found throughout the cruise. All of the wait staff spoke fluent English and were happy to please the guests. The most remarkable dining experience onboard is the Pinnacle Grill at the Odyssey Restaurant. This is their $20 pp alternative-dining venue, seating about 130 passengers. The menu is superb, complete with seafood and beef selections. The actual pinnacle grill is a 1600 degree cooking surface that allows the chefs to sear and cook the highest quality beef to absolute perfection. Better than any steakhouse I have been to on land or sea. My only criticism of this restaurant is that it is "open" to the deck and atrium, so it is not the most quiet place onboard, and you do feel somewhat like you are in a fishbowl as other passengers walk by and gaze in. That said.you won't really care once you start to taste the cuisine! The casual Lido buffet is also quite good, with lots of variety, hot action stations, ethnic specialties and an extensive ice cream and dessert bar. I love the daily taco bar out on deck.
The cabins are still the best in the premium market. Large and luxurious with excellent storage space. The verandas are by far roomier than those of the nearest competitor, with comfortable cushioned furniture.
Holland America is instituting a new $225 million program called Signature of Excellence, whereby all cabins on all ships will be outfitted with the following:
This new program actually carries over into other areas of the onboard product as well.
A Culinary Arts Theater program will be introduced, allowing guest a true hands-on experience with master chefs.
The Club HAL children's program will be expanded, not only in daily hours, but will accept children from age three, as opposed to age five. Family programs will be encouraged, rather than discouraged.
A new Sidewalk Café/Exploration Center will be the hub of the enrichment programs and will provide a multi-dimensional venue focused on destination, relaxation and entertainment choices. In addition, HAL will expand its lecture series with more diverse offerings.
Half Moon Cay, the highest-rated private island experience in the Caribbean, will feature new options such as horseback riding, a stingray lagoon experience, a new Kids Aqua Park and a Wave Runner Park.
The company recently announced an early embarkation program across its entire fleet that features boarding as early as 11:30 am, and a leisurely disembarkation process at the end of the voyage.
Any way you look at it, Holland America is continuing its 130-year tradition of delivering an excellent cruise product to all segments of the market. When you consider the quality and the outstanding value, why wouldn't you look at Holland America for your next incentive program?
Visit their website for more specific ship and destination information at www.hollandamerica.com, and please let me know if I can provide you with a quote for an upcoming event.
