We choose this cruise for its itinerary which began in Venice where we arrived 5 days early for a Venice experience. Cruise is 12 days with 9 additional ports and extra night aboard ship in Barcelona. We stayed an extra 4 nights in Barcelona on Las Ramblas to explore and experience Barcelona. During our cruise, we took 2 excursions through the ship, 2 through Smart Cruise Tours and, otherwise, went on self guided adventures.

HAL Oosterdam was the right size for us and we enjoyed the many amenities provided. Staff is wonderful. Dining rooms are lovely and serve great quality food and drink, including the Lido buffet. Ship has a variety of very talented entertainers and brings on one night specialty acts. We took advantage of the Digital Workshops and learned some cooking tips at America's Test Kitchen. There is a nice selection of in room movies and TV viewing that is available on demand. We would relive every minute of this adventure in a heartbeat.