I will just touch on some of the notable things that set the Rotterdam off from other Holland America ships. The size of this ship is perfect, elegant, but with a cosy feel. The entire ship has a lovely harmony about it. The art objects are exceptional and hugely interesting; for example the lifesize Chinese warriors. All of the public rooms have a warm and inviting design and the Lido is the best I have seen with pale woods set off by periwinkle blue carpeting, tables with live orchids, and an uncluttered relaxing feel. The food here was also among the best I've had in any Lido. The library/computer room complex was so inviting it was always humming with activity. Comfy red leather chairs, lots of tables, a terrific book selection and neat plexiglass tables with the NY Times crossword puzzles that could be wiped off. And right in the midst of it the coffee bar.

The computer help on this ship was outstanding. The decks were superb. Open, uncrowded,and with iron railings that provided maximum views and two balcony areas overlooking the adults only pool at the rear of the ship. heaven! Here soft music was the norm. The promenade deck went all around and the padded teak lounges were a delight. Thank god, a ship that remembers the importance to many of us of the old Promenade! Dining room meals were mixed with one or two outstanding, and a few, a little disappointing. The Pinnacle grill, which we tried one night, was fantastic! Entertainment was decent. The 3 ship tours we took( Acropolis, Ephesus, and Olympus) were outstanding. There is, however, one problem that needs to be addressed.

The ship has only one security screening machine and that results in ridiculously long lineups at each port return. I also thought that they were a bit lax in tendering resulting in that being a long affair as well with our arrival in Santorini two hours later than we thought we would be up there exploring. Either they put more tenders down or lengthen the port time. Port time was not long enough in Katakalon (Olympus) and everybody departs the ship for tours so go down to the lounge to get your tender ticket long before the supposed time. Malta is just the darndest port. They have no shuttle and it is a demanding up hill walk to reach the city gates. Taxi drivers there are a mean-spirited bunch. Someone told me that they once barricaded the port so that the ship's buses couldn't take people up. Read more