Nieuw Amsterdam Review
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This was my second trip to Alaska and my first time on Holland America. I was really impressed with this beautiful ship. It looked fresh and felt luxurious. There were plenty of elevators and lots of quiet places throughout the ship where one could settle in with a good book. The only time it felt crowded was peak times in the buffet.
I liked having breakfast and lunch in the dining room. They served steak and lobster on the 2nd gala night and it was very good. Other Dining Room menu items for dinner were hit and miss. The buffet was typical. I noticed they didn't have trays and the staff dished up most of the food for you, which I didn't really like but apparently it reduces the incidence of illness. Unlike some other cruise lines I've been on, there didn't seem to be any theme nights in the buffet. We dined in Canaletto, the Italian specialty restaurant, one night and the food and service were first rate.
I liked the films and talks showcasing Alaska. There were none of those dreadful "Vegas type" shows. There was an illusionist one night and a comedian. There was a dance group but it didn't appeal to me and I left. I loved the Lincoln Centre Stage featuring a piano quintette from Hungary and also the B.B. King Blues club. We had lots of fun at Trivia and Music Trivia.
Cabin Review
Large Outside Stateroom (fully obstructed views)
I was in an obstructed ocean view room but my view was only partially obstructed by the lifeboat so I could see the water and get an idea of the weather. I was very pleased with the floor to ceiling glass panels which made it feel like a balcony room without the balcony and let in tons of light. I also loved having a small sofa and real bathtub with shower.
Port Reviews
Glacier Bay
Beautiful. The weather was good if a bit hazy from the smoke of forest fires. There were lots of places to go outside so that one could get a good view of the glaciers and the wildlife.