First-time cruiser embraces Holland America’s Oosterdam in Mediterranean
The seven-night voyage from Civitavecchia to Barcelona featured four port calls, two sea days and multiple dining choices.
A first-time cruiser said her initial nervousness eased after boarding Holland America Line’s Oosterdam in Civitavecchia, north of Rome. She and her partner embarked alongside just under two thousand other guests and found the ship felt spacious.
Their verandah stateroom included a balcony accessed through floor-to-ceiling glass doors, as well as a desk, couch, television and combined shower and bath. The ship’s specialty dining options were identified as the steak and seafood restaurant Pinnacle Grill and the Italian venue Canaletto. Holland America also offered complimentary room service around the clock.
The Western Mediterranean itinerary began in Rome and ended in Barcelona. Port days included Portofino in Italy, Ajaccio and Marseille in France, and Gibraltar, with two sea days also scheduled.
The report said Oosterdam is due to become the first of six Holland America Line ships to receive a major refurbishment in 2027. By the end of her second day aboard, the traveler said she was researching other Holland America itineraries and considered herself a cruise convert.