HAL offers new larger Vista-class ships that are 50% bigger than their older vessels and carry up to 1,884 passengers.  Onboard are a variety activities and shore excursions that go along way to ensure a fun time is had by cruisers of all ages.  One of the most popular seven-day cruises is on the ms Oosterdam, the second of the Vista-class ships built.  In 2006, this ship will sail roundtrip from Seattle, Washington every Saturday, commencing May 6th, with the last cruise leaving Sept. 16.

 

 

The first few days onboard the Oosterdam are at sea, a terrific way to unwind or, for the more energetic, to partake in all that the ship has to offer. This includes an extensive children’s’ program called Club HAL with a computer learning center, small cinema, and eating area and for the teens there is a disco and two video arcades.  A pastime enjoyed by many a mom onboard is perusing the shops – especially the jewelry counters, which often can be cheaper than at the ports.

There are two big pools, one of which has a dome above.  There is an exercise area, and the Greenhouse Spa and Salon that offers a full range of facial, body, nail and hair treatments. It's a perfect place to unwind while the kids are enjoying Club HAL.

 

The Oosterdam hosts 924 staterooms within 26 different categories of cabins, which are constantly being improved to what Holland America calls their "Signature of Excellence" upgrades.  These upgrades are pillow-top European mattresses on the bed, made up with Egyptian cotton bed sheets and down comforters, plus thick comfy towels in the bathrooms.  About 60% of the Oosterdam staterooms boast of verandas.  The upper category suites have DVD players, and top-of-the-line suites have flat screen televisions.  There are WIFI hotspots in most public areas and an Internet Café.

 

 

The Oosterdam’s signature restaurant is The Pinnacle Grill at The Odyssey Restaurant - a seafood and steakhouse with Asian/French fusion flare suited for older children who like to partake in fine dining experiences.  It will set you back a $20 supplement for dinner, or $10 for the first night dinner and lunches while at port, but to indulge in this quality multi-course dinner at your local steak eatery would could cost you 10 times more.  Tell your kids to go hungry at lunch but order the evening porterhouse – it is to die for!

 

This ship is constantly being renovated.  There is a new wine cellar and tasting center that has been recently added. In addition, a complete culinary arts center was introduced with a professional kitchen onstage with video capabilities and mirrors for viewing.  There will be guest chefs demonstrating special cooking programs.

 

The showpiece of the Oosterdam is the Vista Show Lounge that spans three decks and seats 1,000 people.  The Broadway shows are produced by a company owned by singer Barry Manilow and are of “The Great White Way” caliber.  Rounding out the week’s entertainment are variety acts such as magicians, jugglers and comedians.  Another entertainment area onboard is the Queen’s Lounge where movies are shown and best of all - popcorn is served.

The Oosterdam’s ports include stops in Alaska’s state capital – Juneau, located on the Gastineau Channel, followed by a day onboard viewing the spectacular Hubbard Glacier – Alaska’s largest. Then, it’s off to Sitka, the former capital of Alaska when it was under Russian rule. In 1867, the Americans bought it for US$7.2 million, less than two cents per acre.  The following day finds you in picturesque Ketchikan on the shores of the Tongass Narrows, with a final stop being an evening in Victoria - British Columbia’s provincial capital. From there, it’s back to Seattle for a Saturday morning disembarkation.

 

Holland America offers a plethora of onshore excursions from sightseeing to adventures you will never forget, like taking a helicopter up to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau followed by dog-sledding.  Other adventures include flying in a floatplane, ice climbing, horseback riding through the backcountry, river rafting, kayaking, canoeing, biking, fishing, whale watching or a vigorous nature hike.

 

Kathryn's Cruise Tip: Be forewarned that inclement weather plays a big part on whether a tour proceeds or not, and Alaska’s weather can often wreak havoc with your dream excursions.  Holland America puts safety first before trying to make a buck on these side trips and, if at all possible, they will reschedule you on an excursion less affected by the bad weather (such as a city bus tour.)

 

Duty-free shopping is great in Alaska, if you can pull yourself away from the jewelry counters. There is also a lot to see.  In Juneau, you can visit the Alaska State Museum and the Last Chance Mining Museum, or climb aboard the Mt. Roberts Tramway for a birds-eye view of the city and of your cruise ship docked at port.

 

In Sitka, tourists can check out Russia’s past at St. Michael’s Cathedral with its onion dome.  You can stroll around the Sitka National Historical Park, the downtown district, the Raptor Centre or the Sheldon Jackson Museum filled with crafts and Russian relics.  Also offered on most of Sitka’s bus tours is a performance by the New Archangel Dancers – these are American women who dance to the Russian beat.

 

While visiting Ketchikan, you can shop on Creek Street, visit the Tongass Historical Museum, Totem Bight State Park and Saxman Village or take a floatplane trip to Misty Fjords National Monument. The Ketchikan Duck Tour is guaranteed to make you laugh; this amphibian vehicle allows you to check out Ketchikan both on land and sea.

 

In Victoria, many of the attractions offer extended cruise season hours to accommodate passengers.  Must see attractions in downtown Victoria include the Royal British Columbia Museum, the newest attraction that opened in Spring 2006 – The BC Experience, with an interactive 10-million-dollar, multi-media experience showcasing the regal city, the Craigdarroch Castle and  The Butchart Gardens.

 

To book your Alaskan sojourn on the five-star ms Oosterdam call your travel agent or 877/724-5425, ext. 54 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.