After working with DFDS Seaways for four years and having only ever been on the ferries to have a taste of their newly launched menus, filming some fun music videos (yes, that was me in the Parrot outfit) or having some very civilised meetings with staff onboard, I felt it was only right for me to experience my own mini cruise on the Newcastle-Amsterdam sailing…and needless to say, it lived up to all of my expectations and more!
I feel like I am repeating this line from all of the marketing communications we talk about everyday but from the moment I stepped on board my holiday began.
My partner and I quickly found our cabin, dumped our bags and went up into the Mermaid bar and the atmosphere was incredible!
The night didn’t stop there as we dined in the Explorer Steakhouse and finished our night in the Columbus Club watching lots of Dutch and German bikers, who were returning from the Isle of Man TT, let their hair down and enjoy what was probably the last night of their holidays.
Arriving in Amsterdam to what was unfortunately a very overcast day; we got onto the coach which took us directly into the city centre. A short 15min walk and we had arrived at the NH Grand Hotel right in Amsterdam Square (woooee!) for our extra overnight stay.
It took me a while to find our bearings but went straight out for a wonder. Within that day/evening we managed to squeeze in the Anne Frank museum (well worth the visit if you haven’t been before), a canal trip, a few local bars which were all very friendly and welcoming, a lovely Argentinean steak house for dinner (not very local I know!), the Ice Bar and even got to try on some over-sized clogs!
The following day was just as relaxing and very laid back. Fortunately the sun paid us a visit and we spent most of the day soaking up some Vitamin D by Central Station in a lovely beer garden…heyyy it was my holidays after all!!
Our trip back to the ferry was seamless and the bus filled up pretty quick so there wasn’t much waiting around. Straight back on the ferry and I knew we were in for a good night again with lots of entertainment and cocktails. We made sure to try the 7 Seas buffet for dinner on the way back and the selection was outstanding. We had an early night, after too much sun during the day (oops!) and slept like a baby in my cabin.
For anyone who hasn’t tried this experience yet, it is definitely not one to hesitate at. I thoroughly enjoyed my time onboard and in Amsterdam and may consider going further afield if we go back.
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