Holland America’s Eurodam

My last trip to the Baltic on the Eurodam with Holland America cruise line took us to Saint Petersburg, Russia. I was particularly interested in seeing the city, since the last time I was there is was still called Leningrad and, in time, things have changed.

One of the two shore excursions I took was with a guide riding on the subway trains to various stations to view the beautiful mosaic walls within the stations.

Since I was raised in New York City, I had been on the subway there and they are not anything like this. We huddled close since no one wanted to get disconnected from the group, and risk having to find our own way back. We all made it and giggled a bit about the experience.

I also wanted to see St. Catherine’s Palace, since the last time I was here it was being restored and it was closed. So I got my wish this time.

Both inside of the palace — especially the Amber Room — and the gardens are well worth a visit with a camera. I do suggest this shore excursion; it even included a visit to a cabaret to sample some typical food and a few varieties of vodka, and where we enjoyed some local entertainment. We then shopped for our own amber jewelry, which is very popular in the Baltic.

I would highly recommend Holland America’s Eurodam, which in my view is one of their most beautiful ships. On this second time aboard Eurodam, I did experience a higher suite category on this sailing. The comfort of having a siting area and a large balcony made the cruise so much more enjoyable.

Even though the weather was still cool in the Baltic, I did get moments to go on the balcony to view some of the sights and enjoy the fresh sea air. We got to see an incredible sun rise one early morning. I had seen lots of sunsets, but this was so unusual.

I liked all the options on board. The day prior to a port we had the opportunity to hear a very informed speaker who gave us some insight into what we will see and how to go about it.

We did book some lovely shore excursions and also walked on our own in ports of call. Upon our return to the ship we found the Observation Deck a great place to go to relax and have some quiet time just reading, or looking out of the windows and perhaps a cocktail.

Prior to the cruise we spent one night in Copenhagen and found this a delightful city with many things to see. I would suggest taking a canal cruise since you see other parts of the city as well as sailing by and stopping to see the famous statue of the Little Mermaid.

Very enjoyable and also good picture-taking moments.

Bunny Sandler

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