Holland America Line Eurodam 11-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise Review
The Eurodam, part of Holland America Line’s esteemed Signature-class fleet, made its grand debut in 2008. This vessel, a harmonious blend of classic elegance and contemporary luxuries, offers an array of experiences and amenities. Spanning across 11 decks, it can comfortably accommodate over 2,000 passengers, making it a floating city of sorts.
The Eurodam is renowned for its diverse dining options. The Main Dining Room, with its multi-level design and exquisite menu, is a haven for culinary enthusiasts. The Pinnacle Grill offers an upscale steakhouse experience, featuring premium cuts and a refined ambiance. For those craving flavors from the East, Tamarind’s Asian fusion cuisine provides a tantalizing experience.
Entertainment aboard the Eurodam is as varied as it is exciting. The Mainstage showcases world-class performances, from musical acts to illusionists. The B.B. King’s Blues Club, a homage to the Memphis music scene, offers live performances that get passengers dancing. For a more relaxed evening, the Piano Bar is the perfect spot for a cocktail and soothing melodies.
The Greenhouse Spa & Salon, an expansive facility on the Eurodam, promises relaxation and rejuvenation. With a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and thermal therapies, it is an oasis of tranquility. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the well-equipped gym and the variety of exercise classes available.
For those seeking adventure and fun, the Eurodam’s sports deck includes a basketball court and a jogging track, offering active pursuits with an ocean view. The Lido Deck, with its pools and hot tubs, is the heart of daytime socializing and relaxation.
Date: March 16 – 27, 2024
Itinerary:
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Fort Lauderdale, often referred to as the “Venice of America” due to its extensive canal system, has a history deeply rooted in the Seminole Indian War. The city’s modern development began in the 20th century, and it’s now known for its beautiful beaches, arts, culture, and events. From the historic Stranahan House, built in 1901, to the modern landmarks like the NSU Art Museum, Fort Lauderdale blends its historical roots with a contemporary flair.
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten – Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch Sint Maarten, was founded in 1763 by John Philips, a Scottish captain in the Dutch Navy. It’s a place where Caribbean warmth meets Dutch colonial style. The city is known for its historic buildings, such as the Courthouse, built in 1793, and Fort Amsterdam, constructed in 1631 as the first Dutch military outpost in the Caribbean.
St. Johns, Antigua and Barbuda – St. Johns, the capital and key port of Antigua and Barbuda, has been the administrative center of the islands since the country’s settlement by the British in 1632. It played a significant role in British colonial history, particularly in the sugar trade. Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, is a notable historical site, reflecting the naval history of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Roseau, Dominica – Roseau, the capital of Dominica, is steeped in French and British colonial history. Established by French settlers in the 18th century, the city’s architecture and street names reflect this dual heritage. Dominica itself is known as the “Nature Island” due to its unspoiled natural beauty and was the site of several Carib Indian settlements prior to European colonization.
Castries, Saint Lucia – The capital city of Saint Lucia, Castries, has a rich, albeit turbulent history, having been founded by the French in 1650. It has been a witness to battles between the French and British for control of the island, which was switched 14 times between the two colonial powers. Notable landmarks include the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and Derek Walcott Square, named after the Nobel laureate poet born here.
Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis – Basseterre, the capital of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, was founded by the French in 1627. The city is one of the oldest in the Eastern Caribbean and has a rich history evident in its well-preserved Georgian architecture. A key historical site is the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, known as the “Gibraltar of the West Indies” due to its historical military significance.
St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands – St. Thomas was originally settled by the Danish in the 17th century and served as a major trading post in the Caribbean. Its capital, Charlotte Amalie, named after a Danish queen, is known for its Danish colonial architecture and pirate legends. The island’s history is deeply connected to the colonial era and the transatlantic slave trade, with historic sites such as Fort Christian, built by the Danish in the 1670s.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas – Half Moon Cay, also known as Little San Salvador Island, is a private island owned by Holland America Line. While the island itself does not have a significant historical background, the surrounding Bahamian archipelago has a rich history dating back to the indigenous Lucayan people. The Bahamas became a British Crown colony in 1718 and played a role in the American Revolutionary War, the American Civil War, and the era of Prohibition.
Holland America Eurodam Accommodations
For this cruise, I was offered a guarantee free interior stateroom from a casino offer. A guarantee stateroom means that the cruise line will assign the room as the embarkation date gets closer. Guarantee rooms do not allow the passenger to pick location. A few days before embarkation, I was assigned stateroom 6171 which is located on Deck 6 all the way forward. This particular room accommodates up to two people with two twin beds that can be turned into a king.
Interior cabins on Eurodam, range from 150 to 200 square feet with most around 175 square feet, are well-suited for travelers who plan on spending most of their time out and about exploring the ship’s amenities or on shore excursions.
Each room comes with plenty of storage space, a safe, television, stocked mini-bar, Elemis bath products, and bathrobes, along with other standard amenities. For power, this particular room had two US and two European outlets located at the writing desk. During her last refit, USB ports were added. There are two located at the writing desk, and one on each side of the bed.
For a more detailed look at the room, including photos and a video walk thru, please visit the Day 1 report.