A record 5 passenger ships adorned the Port of Tyne on Tuesday of last week, bringing more than 10,000 passengers through the terminal and making the local news. The cruise ship we had come to visit that day was the Holland America line MS Koningsdam, which is the largest cruise ship ever to have docked at North Shields.
We were pleased to be given a cancellation invitation to visit the Koningsdam, which had been newly launched in April this year. We were not disappointed and in fact very impressed finding this newer ship even better than the Eurodam, which we visited last year. It could have been the fact that this is a newer ship or maybe it was the famously designed interiors that lifted it’s appeal.
On this ship visit we were able to view 3 rooms that were unoccupied on this trip, two of which were balcony rooms. The rooms were all about the same size, very neatly presented with small sofas and desk area included along with a comfy looking double bed. We were informed these were superior matresses but as we did not try out the beds I could not confirm this. Personally I found the rooms with balcony preferable to an inside room, but I’m sure many would be just as happy with an internal room. Indeed Holland America’s marketing manager did say that they are increasing the number of balcony rooms going forward as these are extremely popular and preferred.
There was much to view and enjoy on our day visit including entertainment and theatre areas which were superb. The pool and spa deck were very inviting. Guests were sunning themselves mid ship on this beautiful day thanks to the superb retractable roof which let in the sun’s rays on this very hot August day. Outside decks also had wonderful seating and private relaxing areas.
Our visit included a wonderful 4 course lunch with wine served by the very hard working staff. Again this did not disappoint. We also noted one of the decks had a running track should anyone feel they had the energy to keep fit after over indulging on their cruise. Judging by our meal and the wonderful food we noted while touring the ship this would be very easy to do.
As we have not been on a cruise yet we are finding these ship visits extremely informative from chatting to fellow visitors who have much experience of cruising to information received by the Holland America presentation. I do now have at least one cruise in mind, prompted by the presentation.
It remains for me to thank Steve our Silver Travel Advisor and all the staff for making this a wonderful and informative visit.
