Koningsdam Review
Rating by category
Additional details
This was our third cruise with HAL. Previous cruises were on the Niew Amsterdam (upgraded to Neptune Suite) to the Mediterranean several years ago (originated out of Venice but once past Dubrovnik we ran into severe weather eliminating the ports of Corfu and Kotor and later, Florence). We had a great cruise, non-the-less, as the Niew Amsterdam was lovely, clean and the staff, wonderful!
Last September we cruised out of Vancouver sailing through the stunning "inside passage" and later traveling by train to Anchorage, Denali (3 nights) and finally Fairbanks. This cruise was WONDERFUL. The Noordam was a nice ship and we again, stayed in the Neptune Suite. We did miss the Tamarind restaurant, however everything else was fine!
This past month we sailed on the beautiful Koningsdam! I wasn't sure what to expect as I had read so many reveiws by those who were disappointed by the Koningsdam new 'look' and amenities.
Cabin Review
Vista Suite with Verandah
Clean, size adequate (we are spoiled as our first two HAL cruises we had Neptune Suites); verandah fine. Only problem was the uncomfortable bed as I stated above.
Port Reviews
Rome (Civitavecchia)
Hired a private driver to take us to Hadrian' villa and Tivoli Gardens-EXCEPTIONAL!!! Then, in Athens, took a tour to the Acropolis and the new museum-WONDERFUL!!
Corfu
Palace was lovely although I was disappointed we couldn't access the second floor. Gardens were lovely and the private villa was the frosting on the cake! The lunch was delicious and Greek dancers were quite entertaining!
Mykonos
I was expecting more of Mykonos as I'd read it was the jewel of Greece islands. It was pretty but not as beautiful as Santorini.
Rhodes
Rhodes was the 'dark horse' of this trip. It was greener and more lush (less arid) than all the other stops in Greece and I'd go back again. Lots of history and character here! Plus, the shopping was enjoyable!
Santorini
We rented a convertible Mini-Cooper and drove around the entire island all day! Our favorite....Oia! BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL views all around!!!
Naples
I've been to Capri twice before but never got to the very top! Again, I'm all about scenic views and this area was spectacular (although the day was cool and windy).