MS Nieuw Amsterdam’s inaugural cruise took place in July and I joined journalists and travel industry representatives from around the world for a four-day round trip from Venice to Dubrovnik. The cruise was packed with ceremonies and behind-the-scenes tours of Holland America Line’s newest ship, the line’s 15th and an almost identical sister to the Signature Class Eurodam, which launched in 2008.
To date the trip has been amazing on many levels, and while I do want to talk about the destinations we've visited, there are a few things from the last blog about the ship which I want to share with you.
It's been a long time since I took a cruise during such a high-anticipation time as the Christmas holidays, and I guess you could argue it was risky to embark attempt it on a ship and a new line.
If you have a medical condition of any kind, or travelling with someone who has, it’s crucial to plan ahead before you set off on your cruise. Health problems may spoil your holiday and costs can be crippling.
South America is huge and offers a variety of hugely different ports, from the hot beaches of Rio in summer to the southern most parts of the continent.
The Eastern Mediterranean is a long way from home for our local cruising population. So once you've decided to book your cruise in the Occident what ports should you look out for on ship itineraries?
She's the most specious ship yet from luxury line Oceania Cruises. James Sitters tells Rose Kelly and Peter Lynch what's on board the new class of ship, including restaurants, spas and suites.