Overall Score
| BERLITZ'S RATING |
| |
Possible |
Achieved |
| |
| Ship |
500 |
430 |
| Accommodation |
200 |
163 |
| Food |
400 |
283 |
| Service |
400 |
280 |
| Entertainment |
100 |
77 |
| Cruise |
400 |
313 |
| |
Oosterdam (sister ships: Eurodam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zuiderdam) is one of the latest generation of “Vista”-class ships for Holland America Line, designed to appeal to younger, more vibrant, multi-generational, family-oriented holidaymakers.
The twin working funnels are the result of the slightly unusual machinery configuration; the ship has, in effect, two engine rooms – one with three diesels, and one with two diesels and a gas turbine). A pod propulsion system is provided (see page 29), powered by a diesel-electric system, with a small gas turbine located in the funnel for the reduction of emissions.
There is a complete wrap-around exterior teak promenade deck, and teak “steamer” style sunloungers are provided. Additionally, there is a jogging track outdoors, located around the ship’s mast and the forward third of the ship. Exterior glass elevators, mounted midships on both port and starboard sides, provide fine ocean views from any one of 10 decks. There are two centrally located swimming pools outdoors, and one can be used in inclement weather due to its retractable sliding glass roof. Two whirlpool tubs, adjacent to the swimming pools, are abridged by a bar. Another smaller pool is available for children; it incorporates a winding water slide that spans two decks in height. There is an additional whirlpool tub outdoors.
The intimate lobby spans three decks, and is topped by a beautiful, rotating, Waterford crystal globe of the world. Adjacent are interior and glass wall elevators with exterior views. The interior decor, is bright, yet comfortable – designed to attract a younger clientele. The ceilings are particularly noticeable in the public rooms. In keeping with the traditions of Holland America Line, a large collection of artwork is a standard feature. Included are some superb paintings of former Holland America Line ships on the mid-ship stairwells by maritime artist Captain Stephen Card.
Also notable are many pieces reflecting the former Dutch East Indies. The cast-aluminum elevator doors are also interesting – the design being inspired by the deco designs from New York’s Chrysler Building.
There are two whole entertainment/public room decks. Without doubt, the most dramatic room aboard this ship is the showlounge, spanning four decks in the forward section of the ship. Other facilities include a winding shopping street with several boutique stores and logo shops, an internet center, library, card room, an art gallery, photo gallery, and several small meetings rooms. The casino is large (one has to walk through it to get from the restaurant to the showlounge on one of the entertainments decks), and is equipped with all the gaming paraphernalia and slot machines you can think of. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a basketball court, volleyball court, golf simulator. For families with children, Club HAL’s KidZone provides a whole area dedicated to children’s facilities and extensive programming for different age groups (5–17), with one counselor for every 30 children. The company provides free coffee at the Java Bar, and free ice cream at certain hours, as well as hot hors d’oeuvres in all bars.
This formula may not work well for those loyal repeat passengers used to the line’s smaller ships. However, Oosterdam does offer a range of public rooms with a reasonably intimate atmosphere and the overall feel of the ship is quite homely and comforting. Perhaps the ship’s best asset is its friendly and personable Filipino and Indonesian crew, although communication (in English) can be frustrating.
The information desk in the lobby is small and somewhat removed from the main passenger flow on the two decks above it. Many pillars obstruct the passenger flow and lines of sight throughout the ship. There are no self-service launderettes (something families with children might miss – although special laundry packages are available).
Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2010.
Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008
