Sea42

Yeah, I personally would be OK. I haven't cruised that many times but I have never spent much time in the Crows Nest. For scenic sailing areas I'm always outside, even when we were in the Arctic Circle. I found the sea spray usually makes for windows that are not the best for viewing. What I was responding to was the suggestion that this could happen during the Panama Canal transit. To me, that's just playing the What If game to get people riled up. I do agree that this was not a good idea on HALs part and hope they will not do it in the future.

I would also suggest talking with the teens themselves. Giving them realistic expectations for what is and is not available on the cruise is a great way to prepare them for the experience.

We always bring our own, small umbrellas. The huge ones that are provided are too big for me to carry around all day, I like something I can slip into my day bag.

But it wasn't closed every sea day. It was closed some of the evenings on the cruise, for the most part during dinner hours. Do you really think HAL would close the Crows Nest during the canal transit? That to me would warrant "outrage" but I think this is more to stir the pot than a valid concern.

Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experiences. I appreciate it!

I really need to spend more time checking out the buffet area!

No, I've spent a bit of time on the website this morning looking for cruises and had no problems. My account also was fine when looking at my booked cruises. Firefox and Windows 11 on a laptop.

Oosterdam is scheduled for dry dock 5 April 2025 - 19 April 2025 as per your list at the top of the post PLANNED DRY DOCKS Noordam 24 November 2024 – 08 December 2024 (Singapore)? Oosterdam 05 April 2025 – 19 April 2025 Volendam 19 October 2024 – 09 November 2024 Zaandam 18 January 2025 – 08 February 2025

That's an interesting point about using gift cards onboard that I hadn't thought about.

Wow, that seems expensive for a 14 day, OV, with no inclusions. Our 22 day, South America w/Antarctica (2025) is that price, all in. It is for a veranda cabin and includes gratuities, WiFi, drinks and 3 specialty dinners. We also were able to choose our cabin. What itinerary is this?

But 10 days for a confirmation isn't really a drop everything situation or an unreasonable expectation.

I did not try them. I wasn't in a hurry so I waited for freshly made.

That was available on NS during our cruise in May.

We loved the BbKing bands on our last few cruises! Unfortunately, on the Oosterdam, only Rolling Stone is offered. I'll hope for the best.

And if you actually like production shows. I don't but will be happy to hang out and listen to the band in Rolling Stone. Something for everyone!