Emerald Star Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We had often thought about cruising from Amsterdam to Budapest. Friends said it really didnt matter much which line you used, they all go to the same places, and when you walk through other ships at ports they are all very similar. So when Emerald launched into the NZ market with sharp entry prices we picked on price. Always warry about "you get what you pay for" our first impressions at the quality of the bags put us into a positive frame of mind, shallow as that may seem.
On 27 May we embarked on the Emerald Star in Amsterdam for a cruise to Budapest.
The plus
Cabin Review
My low cabin score is due to noise!
We were on bottom deck. There is no noise between cabins BUT toilet doors slide and the noise carries from side to side and from above. The toilets are electric. They sound like an aircraft carrier launching a jet.
Going through the locks at night is noisy and there is a sensation similar to an earthquake. Fellow passengers from Christchurch or other places that have experienced quakes had problems with flash back.
When the boat goes in a lock the water slops around the side of the ship. This triggers a response in many bladders!! SO...the doors slide NOISILY. The grinding sliding noise is then followed but a squadron of jets being launched as toilets flush. Some nights you get no sleep.
After the first night we complained. The receptionist said there was an extra tank under our room, they might be able to shift us to another room on that deck. However cruise director said, "That's just the way it is. Its 130€ a night for better room".
Port Reviews
Cologne
Great walk. excellent guide
Wurzburg
Really enjoyed this informative tour
Nuremberg
Fascinating place to stroll around. Didnt pay to think too much about its history
Passau
would have liked more time here
Bratislava
Great guide. Interesting city. "Visit with locals " was great. Really great place to have this
Budapest
Such an interesting place to visit