The Holland America Oosterdam is a gorgeous cruise ship that caters to those who are searching for luxurious travel options. With an emphasis on sophistication and elegance, the Oosterdam stands out as one of the most impressive cruise ships of its kind. In this Holland America Oosterdam review, we will explore everything the ship has to offer, from the accommodations to dining options and onboard activities.
Holland America Oosterdam Review
Cruising aboard the Holland America Oosterdam is a truly unforgettable experience. From its sleek and sophisticated design, to its luxurious suites and amenities, this upscale cruise ship offers a perfect blend of elegance and innovation for all travelers – no matter if you’re interested in adventure, relaxation, or something in between.
Onboard the Oosterdam, you will be treated with outstanding service and hospitality from start to finish as you traverse the open seas in style. Enjoy captivating entertainment options, exquisite cuisine inspired by different cultures around the world, and enriching excursions at various ports of call – the possibilities are countless!
Read on to find out what makes sailing aboard Holland America Oosterdam luxury liner such an exceptional experience – sure to be talked about years after return from your voyage!
First Impressions of Holland America Oosterdam Cruise Ship
The Holland America Line is known for its gourmet food, spacious staterooms, fascinating excursions and great service. And it’s true that embarking on the Holland America Oosterdam is an experience that is sure to impress even the most seasoned cruisers. From the moment you step aboard, you are greeted by friendly crew members who set the tone for your entire vacation.
The Oosterdam is one of Holland America’s Vista-class ships. Built to accommodate a maximum of 1964 guests, she boasts an elegant ambiance, with public areas that are tastefully designed for maximum comfort and relaxation. Surrounded by luxurious amenities, passengers can indulge in exceptional dining options, receive pampering at the spa, or simply unwind by one of the 2 pools.
Holland America Oosterdam Cabins
The cabins on the Holland America Oosterdam are spacious and well-appointed, with a choice of interior staterooms, ocean view staterooms, and balcony staterooms. The cabins are elegant, with soothing colors, and many have a private verandah where you can relax and take in the views.
They are equipped with flat-screen TVs, a safe and a hairdryer. Our aft stateroom, 5184, had two single beds made up as a queen-size bed with a comfortable sofa, chair and desk area with a stool. There was also a convenient curtain that you could pull across to separate the main cabin area from the hallway, which worked well to block out any light at night.
We definitely recommend booking this stateroom or one close to it, for its huge balcony. Ours had two sun loungers and chairs and measured 359 square feet including the outside space.
The bathroom was well designed, with a proper bath and overhead shower, a retractable clothes line and ample storage for toiletries. The Elemis body wash, shampoo and conditioner dispensers were also a nice touch. You can easily request a blanket, extra hangers or ice refill via the Navigator App.
Holland America Oosterdam Suites
The Oosterdam also has spacious suites that are perfect for families or groups of friends. These suites all come with a private balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows and luxurious amenities.
Oosterdam suite guests can enjoy fresh flowers, a pillow menu and concierge service. There are also additional perks depending on the suite category.
Signature Suites vary in size from 372 to 384 square feet and include binoculars for use during the cruise, premium bathrobes, a double sink, shower and full size whirlpool bath.
Neptune Suites range in size from 500 to 712 square feet. They boast two lower beds that convert to one king-size bed. There’s a full-size whirlpool bath with shower and an additional shower stall. Neptune Suite guests benefit from use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, as well as other perks such as priority boarding for tenders, complimentary laundry and priority restaurant booking.
Pinnacle Suites come with all the above advantages, as well as a whirlpool spa bath on the balcony, a guest bathroom, dressing room and pantry spread over 1,150 square feet. Neptune and Pinnacle Suite guests can enjoy breakfast daily in Pinnacle Grill.
Related post: Most Luxurious Cruise Ship Suites
Dining on Holland America Oosterdam
The Holland America Oosterdam has an impressive selection of dining options. From continental breakfast to a late-night snack, every craving is satisfied with the utmost attention to detail. Sink your teeth into the juicy tenderness of a perfectly cooked steak, or relish in the rich flavors of a lobster bisque.
For all guests, meals are included in the Dining Room, Dive-In and Lido Market. Basic coffee and tea, together with water in carafes are also included.
You can also indulge in room service at no extra charge on the Holland America Oosterdam. Savor decadent dishes created by world-class chefs, all within the comfort of your luxurious accommodations.
The main Dining Room is perfect for those looking for a relaxed breakfast or elegant evening meal. There is open seating, which means that you can dine here without booking, but it is best to reserve in advance at peak times. Located on Deck 2, aft, the Dining Room opening hours are from 6.30 am to 8.30 am and 5 pm to 9 pm.
The ship also has the Dive-In poolside grill for burgers and dogs on Deck 9, mid which is open from 11.30 am to 5.30 pm. We really liked the burgers and the make-your-own tacos here.
Head to the Lido Market on Deck 9, mid for casual dining. Here, the chefs celebrate the flavors of each port of call, with a selection of tasty dishes. We recommend the healthy salads made to order, the Asian food station and sweet treats. You can indulge in complimentary late snacks from 10.30 to 11.30 pm.
For an additional cost, the Pinnacle Grill restaurant on Deck 2, mid and Canaletto specialty restaurant on Deck 9, mid offer an intimate dining experience. No matter which option you choose, you can be sure to savor the flavors of gourmet cuisine while enjoying the stunning views.
Oosterdam On Board Amenities
The Oosterdam offers an array of sophisticated amenities that are sure to impress even the most discerning traveler. Among these amenities is the ship’s stunning main swimming pool area, which features a retractable roof for all-weather enjoyment.
Guests can soak up the sun in style, surrounded by elegant loungers and comfortable seating areas. And for those looking to unwind after a long day of exploring the ports of call, the Oosterdam features a number of hot tubs where guests can relax and rejuvenate in true elegance and style. Whether you’re looking to stay active or simply relax and unwind, the Oosterdam’s amenities are sure to delight and impress.
For pampering, there is the Greenhouse Spa and Salon on Deck 9. You can indulge in a relaxing massage or other spa treatments in this thermal suite. We paid for a 7 day pass, and used the relaxation room, steam rooms and whirlpool path daily.
We also booked and enjoyed a 50 minute Couples Swedish massage. I liked the Red Carpet Blowout, which included a blow dry, eye treatment and application of sun bronzer.
Guests can also book one or more days at The Retreat, a secluded outdoor space with private cabanas, sun beds and a dedicated bar service. There is also a well-equipped fitness center open to all from 6 am to 9 pm on Deck 9, a jogging track, and Sports Court on Deck 11. Some of the fitness classes have an additional cost, while some such as Sunrise Stretch are complimentary.
Learn how to play pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the U.S. Holland America Line is the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. The pickleball court has fantastic top-deck views.
The Promenade Deck can be found on Deck 9. Additionally, the Oosterdam features a casino, a nightclub, and a range of bars and lounges for socializing and meeting new people such as the Gallery Bar on Deck 2 and Explorations Café on Deck 10.
Activities On Board Holland America Oosterdam
A Holland America Oosterdam cruise offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained throughout the day. From Pure Form Yoga and Tai Chi, to the enriching lectures where you can learn about upcoming destinations, there’s something for everyone on board.
Hit the dance floor at the Rolling Stone Lounge (previously known as BB Kings) or test your musical knowledge at a trivia quiz. There’s a good selection of performances on the World Stage.
Holland America schedules repeat performances, so you can choose to eat early or late and won’t miss the shows. Seating is first come, first choice with plenty of room for everyone and no tickets are needed.
We really enjoyed The Step Once Dance Company: In Tandem performance on the Mainstage, together with two shows by comedian Steven Scott who appeared on America’s Got Talent. Don’t miss Origin Story, a fascinating look at Holland America’s 150 years of history with Cruise and Travel Director Ed.
We also had fun at the bookable mixology class where you can learn how to make 3 different delicious cocktails using De Lijn Gin. This cold infused Nieuw Western Dry gin features a blend of Dutch inspired botanicals and has been exclusively crafted for Holland America Line. It’s these little touches of elegance and sophistication that make the Oosterdam stand out from the crowd and offer an unforgettable experience for its guests.
Holland America Shore Excursions
Holland America cruises sail to destinations such as the Caribbean, Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, Canada, and New England among others. The excursions that are offered differ according to the destinations. In Alaska, they include wildlife spotting and glacier viewing, while on the Mexican Riviera they feature activities such as local cuisine, shopping and walking tours.
The Holland America Oosterdam has some fantastic shore excursions that are perfect for those looking to explore new destinations. Our Mediterranean cruise excursions were all well organised and gave a great overview of the places that we visited.
Excursion tickets are electronic and viewable on the Holland America Navigator App. Our Holland America Oosterdam Mediterranean itinerary started with a luxurious private boat transfer from Venice airport to the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice on the uncrowded Giudecca island.
After an overnight stay, we transferred to Trieste by coach and embarked on Holland America Oosterdam. From here, we sailed to some amazing Mediterranean port destinations including Split and Korcula in Croatia, Santorini and Rhodes in Greece and Kusadasi close to Ephesus in Turkey. We disembarked in Athens, back in Greece.
We personally tried and can recommend the following Oosterdam Mediterranean shore excursions:
- Santorini – Thira on Your Own, which includes bus transfer from the port of Athinios to Thira and back.
- Rhodes – Palace of the Grand Masters & Archaeological Museum on Foot – two impressive Rhodes Town landmarks.
- Kusadasi – Ephesus tour for a great introduction to this ancient city.
- Piraeus – Scenic Athens & Plaka on Foot with Airport Transfer – gives a good overview for first time visitors.
No matter what type of activity you enjoy, you are sure to find something that you’ll enjoy on any of the Oosterdam’s excursions.
FAQ – Holland America Oosterdam:
What is the dress code on board Holland America Oosterdam?
Dress is casual during the daytime, with footwear, shirts or cover-ups always required indoors. During meal times and activities, the dress code is smart casual, meaning that shorts, tank tops, distressed jeans and swimwear are not appropriate.
Don’t forget to pack something orange, a nod to the cruise line’s Dutch heritage. There’s an Orange Night where guests are encouraged, but not required, to wear orange.
There’s also one dressy night, although it’s not obligatory. A nice cocktail dress or top and trousers for women, and a jacket and shirt with slacks for men will work perfectly.
Are there activities suitable for all ages on the Oosterdam?
The Kids Club, designed for children aged 3-17, offers a variety of engaging activities that are both entertaining and educational. Kids can take part in arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, sports challenges, and theme parties.
In addition, there is a new family game room, High Score!, available only on the Oosterdam. By day, it’s open to kids and teenagers, and at night it’s open for the whole family. There’s a video arcade, board games, tilting labyrinth, skee-ball and four-person air hockey.
And of course, adults can indulge in a wide variety of sophisticated activities such as wine tastings, culinary classes, and culinary demonstrations. There are Young Adult Meetups for guests aged 18-30 and also Singles and Solo Traveler Meetups.
How do you hear announcements on board Holland America Oosterdam?
Holland America don’t broadcast non-emergency announcements in your stateroom and no announcements are made before 8am, for your peace and tranquility. However, select the bow camera channel on your TV if you’d like to hear them in your stateroom.
What safety measures are in place on the Oosterdam?
The Oosterdam upholds rigorous safety measures at all times. In addition to the standard life jackets and safety drills, the ship features advanced fire suppression systems, state-of-the-art lifeboats and rafts, and an expertly trained crew that undergoes regular safety training and certification.
Even the ship’s advanced navigation and communication systems are designed to ensure the utmost safety of all passengers and crew. Rest assured that when you step aboard the Oosterdam, you can relax and enjoy your journey with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are in the safest of hands.
Conclusion: Holland America Oosterdam Review
Overall, the Holland America Oosterdam is a must-see for those who seek luxurious travel options. The cabins are spacious and elegant, the dining options are varied and delicious, and the onboard activities are sure to keep you entertained.
With its exciting excursions to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world, you are sure to have a fantastic experience on board the Holland America Oosterdam. It is the perfect ship for those who are looking for a sophisticated and elegant cruise experience.
We hope that you have enjoyed this Holland America Oosterdam review. Find out more about Holland America Line cruises on their website.
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