New to HL: Oosterdam Question

[ToBe]

We have never cruised HA. We have always used Celebrity, but we loved the itinerary of the Magic of the Med on the Oosterdam and we booked the trip even though we could not book a specific room. What is the ship like and what can we expect?

We would appreciate any help and advice.

[cruznon]

The Oosterdam is a beautiful ship. Wonderful crew and great service. We've sailed on her 3 times, then again next February. She's my favorite ship. You should enjoy the Oosterdam.

What category cabin did you book? What's the itinerary?

[Sale Away]

We've sailed twice on Celebrity and twice on HAL on the Oosterdam. There are many similarities you'll find in the "feel" of the experience. Food is subjective but we've enjoyed various dishes on both. Overall, the staff seems more relaxed on HAL. We definitely prefer the cabins on HAL as the bathrooms feel larger and every cabin verandah and above have tubs, not just showers. If you compare apples to apples with standard verandah cabins, Celebrity's are 212 sf incl the verandah while HAL's are 249 sf. I haven't sailed Celebrity since they made their most recent changes but the beds and bedding on HAL are wonderful. They put some land based hotels to shame. The Oosterdam is similar in size to Celebrity's Century class of ships (Galaxy, Mercury and Century).

[EastCoast]

Only positive comments and cherished memories when thinking of the Oosterdam. The Oosterdam is known to steal some hearts. There is a very loyal repeat following on this ship. You will not be dissapointed with the Oosterdam or HAL.

[dakrewser]

See this thread for a comparison of the Oosterdam to the Infinity I did in September '05.

[ToBe]

See this thread for a comparison of the Oosterdam to the Infinity I did in September '05.

Thank you for the info. I am even more excited about our choice.

temma