This was my second cruise on Holland America Line (HAL) and my first time to the Baltic. Previously a single cruiser, this was also my first time cruising with a partner. This was my companion's first cruise ever and I have incorporated her insights into this review as I have gone along. This cruise was a back to back (B2B) cruise with about 200 of the 1300 or so passengers continuing on from Rotterdam to the Mediterranean.

The Ship

The Rotterdam is scheduled for a major overhaul this fall, so I am not going to spend a great deal of time discussing the condition of the ship. The Rotterdam seems to be in excellent condition, given its age. As other reviewers have noted that is most likely because of the vigorous, continual maintenance efforts of the crew. As with all HAL ships, navigating around the ship is extremely easy, with many deck plans and signs posted on the various decks. Read more