My partner and I have wanted to do this trip for several years. We had two night stay in Amsterdam prior to the cruise. Unfortunately my partner injured knee several days prior to the trip, so we were grateful for the short ride from the hotel to the ship (it normally would have been an easy walk}. Upon arrival, after check in we were greeted with a welcome reception in the Panorama Lounge. Our first impression of the stateroom was that it was larger than imagined and very well appointed. The wall sized french balcony really added to the room. The bathroom and especially the shower was large enough that you did not feel confined. Along the lines of the room our room steward was Katy who I swear kept the room so squared away I kinda felt guilty messing it up.

I definitely appreciated all the hard work she put in to make our experience exceptional. We had the opportunity to sign up for some excursions while arranging the cruise, in addition to those that were included. We were concerned about my partners ability to take part in the events. As it turned out there was no need to be concerned as among all the passengers there were others with some mobility concerns. I believe that almost all excursions had a gentle walker option so all could be included, While we tried to take advantage of all that was offered we finally gave in and took an afternoon off. All of the excursion guides were very well informed locals who were able to communicate not just the basics of their tour but engaged with the participants.

when it came to the food, well, I don't believe we expected to eat that well or that much. We ate breakfast in the restaurant each morning but found the lunch in Panorama Bistro more to our liking as we don;t usually eat three full meals a day. The supper in the restaurant was always a pleasant experience, sometimes trying new foods.Alex the bartender was everywhere as the staff seem to do multiple jobs. He was always making sure that everything was going well. We expected cold rainy weather which fortunately skipped us. It was sunny, 70 degrees and dry. The only time we bundled was cruising past the castles early one morning as we were viewing from the sky deck. We experienced a very happy involved crew on halloween as they were all decked out in costume. It brought extra smiles all around. All of the crew worked so well together and interacted with the passengers, almost like friends. The one person I have to give special attention to is the cruise director Rasia. Rasia while professional,knowledgeable, and interactive with passengers was a bundle of positive energy. Her ability to multi task and make everyone feel like they themselves was her priority was more than extrdinary. Read more