Btimmer's Blog of the Nieuw Statendam Inaugural Voyage

[stickey_mouse]

On 12/15/2018 at 12:35 AM, Btimmer said:

Unfortunately, it's definitely allowed.  If one leaves the World Stage towards the aft on Deck 3, you must run the gauntlet through the smoke of the casino.

 

Such a disappointment. HAL, get with the times! 

[ski ww]

This is a great way to start my day by catching up with your posts, thanks.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Catching up.

 

Food looks better in Canaletto than when we tried it a few years ago.

[puppycanducruise]

Thanks for sharing the pictures.

That food looks great.

[boards]

On ‎12‎/‎15‎/‎2018 at 6:53 PM, Btimmer said:

It's not the way the picture was taken.  It is crooked.

Yes it is, but it is still nice.

[Btimmer]

We just had an hour and a half presentation on the history of HAL by Captain Albert.  Fantastic!  He receding a standing ovation and should be considered a national treasure of HAL.

[Btimmer]

While at the front desk for the umteenth time to correct billing errors I spotted this new Christmas decoration in the Dutch Cafe.  It has two trains and multiple houses.

 

Then I had to have some Dutch pea soup & fries.

[Btimmer]

Earlier today, Drake, America's Test Kitchen host, was interviewed by Ross, our CD.  He gave insights into how the ATK operates.

[Btimmer]

We enjoyed our free dinner in the Pinnacle Grill with long time cruising friends, William and Carolyn.  It was a terrific time! food pron follows.  The Caramelized Bacon was sooo delicious.Tomato and cheese appetizer 

 

Caramelized bacon

 

Crab legs and lobster18oz ribeye

 

Fruit Plate for dessert 

[Btimmer]

And a few samples from the chocolate surprise tonight.  Simply scrumptious while listening to the dueling pianos (Nate & Debbie).

Edited December 18, 2018 by Btimmer

[ski ww]

The chocolate would be my down fall. Thanks for taking the time posting your blog. Merry Christmas & a very Happy New Year. Safe travels home.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Got behind again.

 

Your Pinnacle Grill food looks delicious.  The chocolate treats -- wow -- I could have them every night.

 

Enjoy your last day on the ship.

[Caribbean Chris]

Tim, Thank you for posting your orange celebration attire! You two really got into the spirit of things.

 

Also, I’m so grateful for all the excellent photos and comments you’ve provided, since we’ll be sailing NS in April. Especially enjoyed seeing all the quiet places around the ship.

 

Hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

[puppycanducruise]

This has been a very enjoyable read.  Your pictures are fabulous.

Thanks again.

[Btimmer]

1 hour ago, Krazy Kruizers said:

Got behind again.

 

Your Pinnacle Grill food looks delicious.  The chocolate treats -- wow -- I could have them every night.

 

Enjoy your last day on the ship.

We're on for 4 more days.

[St Pete Cruiser]

Thanks for all your informative posts with great pics as well.

[dfish]

3 hours ago, Btimmer said:

We're on for 4 more days.

Yeah!  That will help with the withdrawal pains.   Seriously, thank you for doing this.  It has been very enjoyable to see this new ship through your eyes. 

[CruiseLady88]

On 12/16/2018 at 9:31 PM, Btimmer said:

The tiny band on the BB King stage.  Good dancing music, and not too loud.

The little band - easy listeningdance floor

 

 

It is so nice to see people dancing. I am thinking of trying this new ship. Thanks for the photos.

[Btimmer]

Earlier today was the 'Ask the Captain' session and Captain de Boer gave a wonderful presentation assisted by his Hotel Director, Don.

 

Then this evening we were serenaded by a lovely sunset across the flat seascape.

 

As this segment comes to a close, thanks for your questions and comments.  I look forward to meeting some of you over the coming 4 days.  And, yes the blog and the pictures will continue.  We have some adventures planned.

[cat shepard]

Thank you for sharing. Great info and pics!

[sevenseasnomad]

Fabulous photos!  Wonderful commentary on this latest addition to HA's fleet.  Am looking forward to reading more during your 4-day cruise.  Are you staying on for Christmas?  If so, would love to meet you at our M & G next week.

[woodworker&knitter]

Thank you so much for taking the time to write your blog and post pictures. Very informative 

Barbara

[rafinmd]

Enjoy your day in Fort Lauderdale.  Will you be on deck at sailaway?

 

Roy

[Btimmer]

2 hours ago, sevenseasnomad said:

Fabulous photos!  Wonderful commentary on this latest addition to HA's fleet.  Am looking forward to reading more during your 4-day cruise.  Are you staying on for Christmas?  If so, would love to meet you at our M & G next week.

Unfortunately we are on only to 12/23.  We  need to fly home.

 

Thanks for your compliments.

[Btimmer]

1 hour ago, rafinmd said:

Enjoy your day in Fort Lauderdale.  Will you be on deck at sailaway?

 

Roy

I'll be all over the ship during the sailaway. Probably up on Deck 14 up front or deck 11 by the jogging track.