While we’ve spent a lot of time previously on this ship in Europe, this is our first holiday cruise. For those of you who follow this ship, we will post a few updates.
The ship is decorated for the holidays with poinsettias, greenery and a few trees. The food in the dining room is excellent. We are seated in the second fixed dining at 8 pm. “As You Wish” dining, which debuted when we were on board last May, appears to be fine-tuned, with few apparent waits. AYW dining won’t be used, however, for the upcoming South America and Mediterranean Grand Voyages.
The Pinnacle Grill continues to deliver outstanding food and service under manager Ferdinand and chef Scott.
Passengers on board include intergenerational families, with about 20 children and teens. The kids seem well entertained by Carlos and other cruise staffers.
The Java Café now charges for cappuccinos. The Culinary Arts Center has offered classes every day (most without charge) hosted by Party Planner Laura.
We miss the port lectures by Frank Buckingham. Rather than port lectures, there are two port shopping ambassadors onboard, Ivan and Dan.
Explorations Speakers include Danny Catt, a biologist and photographer, and Jackie Hedgpeth, a biology educator.
It is Captain Turner’s last cruise on the Prinsendam as he is moving to the Zuiderdam. Francois Birarda is the Hotel Manager. JT Watters is the cruise director.
We are looking forward to the Officers & Crew Choir tonight on Christmas eve, before a all denomination service at midnight.
Happy Holidays!
— Travelin Jones