As 2024 draws to a close, there was one more trip to take – one with some of my favorite fellow travelers. I joined my parents for a Christmas Cruise this past week and an opportunity to sail on Holland America Line.

After three cruises on Norwegian this year, I was looking forward to trying something different as we embarked in Fort Lauderdale on Monday December 23rd. The Eurodam is a smaller ship than I was used to, 11 decks as opposed to the 17 and more found on many of Norwegian’s ships. This was a benefit in many ways – the ship rarely felt crowded, it was quick and easy to get on and off and to find a particular restaurant or lounge. Holland did a great job capturing holiday decor.

I was particularly impressed with my cabin. Originally, I’d booked a window cabin with a view of a lifeboat, but received an offer from Holland a few days before the cruise to upgrade to a balcony (verandah) cabin. Possibly the best $200 I’ve spent in travel upgrades – the cabin was huge, not unlike a regular hotel room.

I was especially excited to try the food on Holland America. I’d been a bit disappointed recently with Norwegian’s food quality and I’d heard that Holland is a step above. Whether dining room or specialty restaurant, it was SEVERAL steps above. I loved nearly everything I had!

The staff was so friendly throughout the ship – a stark contrast from the NCL transatlantic cruise I’d just sailed. The cabin attendants did a great job of cleaning the cabin while we were away and the lounge staff would remember your name and favorite drink. After 17 cruises with Norwegian, I think I’ve been introduced to a better experience – and one I’d be more apt to choose in the future.

Of course there were ports of call – our first was an arrival in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Christmas night. Old San Juan was decked out in its holiday best!

On Boxing Day, I took a tour to El Yunque, the rainforest about an hour outside San Juan. Despite an accident in the park blocking the road, we were able to see the observation tower and waterfall. Some of Puerto Rico’s radiant beauty.

Friday Dec 27th brought a visit to St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. Charlotte Amelie has a unique harbor viewpoint accessed via gondola, so I spent some time taking in the view of the ships in port that day.

The cruise finished with a visit to Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas – Holland America’s private Island. This was the only disappointment – the island is a bit run down and lacks attractions. NCL’s Great Stirrup Cay is a far superior private island. Still, I had a nice jet ski ride.

That’s a wrap for 2024!! I was lucky enough to do a ton of travel. I made 15 visits to various countries, second only to the 16 that I made in 2017. My first Olympics, first visit to Turkey, first visit to Canada’s Maritimes were all a part of this travel year. Wishing the best for you and yours in 2025!!