The year isn’t even two months old and already our colleague Phil Reimer of Ports and Bows has been on four cruise ships, but we’re planning to catch up. Meanwhile, this week Phil is willing to share his point-by-point assessment of the four ships with our readers.
Today: Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam
Brand of ship: Traditional.
Number of passengers: 2,104.
What’s unique: The chandelier in the Atrium is an upside-down version of the city.
My favorite spot: The bow on deck 11, with the Explorations Café and its specialty coffees and pastries (the coffees cost), the Internet room and the Crow’s Nest, a room that can hold a large crowd but with a sweeping view of what’s ahead.
My second-favorite spot: The Sea View Pool area on the stern off the Lido. It’s also a good place to sit and talk, either under cover or out in the open.
Best people-watching place: The Ocean Bar in the Atrium.
If money is no object: Cabanas that overlook the pool ($45, or $75 at sea) and a corner one overlooking the ocean and the pool ($115).
Strangest sight: Why do people stand and wait for the dining room to open when they have assigned seating?
Conclusion: There’s not much difference between Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. Colors have more earthy tones. More artwork related to New York like the chandelier in the Atrium. A few minor changes such as eliminating the bar in the guest services area, which won’t be missed. The public areas for the most part are large on this ship. On a wet and windy day at sea, the glass dome is most appreciated because it can be closed to keep everybody dry, even if it is somewhat humid.