A first-time cruise-goer, Stewart, shares his experiences on a two-week Panama Canal voyage aboard Holland America line’s Eurodam. Initially hesitant about the cruise, Stewart found himself pleasantly surprised by the relaxed pace of life on board. The cruise ship offered comfortable cabins, excellent service, and a variety of activities to keep passengers entertained. Despite the predominantly mature demographic, Stewart found it easy to make friends and enjoy the inclusive nature of cruise life.
The highlight of the Panama Canal cruise was the journey through the historic Gatun Locks, where the massive ship navigated through the narrow canal with just a foot of clearance on either side. The awe-inspiring experience was complemented by commentary from onboard experts, providing insights and anecdotes about the canal’s history and significance. Stewart also enjoyed exploring the different ports of call, from the vibrant streets of Cartagena in Colombia to the active Pacaya volcano in Guatemala.
While the entertainment and activities on board catered mostly to the mature demographic, Stewart found plenty to enjoy, from bingo games to cocktail classes. The food on the cruise was excellent, with a variety of dining options available, including premium restaurants with additional charges for a special culinary experience. The service from the crew was exceptional, with attentive staff catering to passengers’ needs and preferences.
Despite the high cost of wifi packages on board, Stewart found himself disconnecting from the outside world and embracing the laid-back lifestyle of cruise ship living. Making friends with fellow cruisers, including Susan and Bill who invited him for champagne and hors d’oeuvres in their suite, Stewart embraced the social aspect of cruising. From beach days in Mexico to trekking in Costa Rica, the cruise offered a mix of relaxing and adventurous experiences for passengers to enjoy throughout the voyage.
As the cruise came to an end in San Diego, Stewart reflected on his unexpected enjoyment of the trip and contemplated the idea of staying on for an additional week. While initially apprehensive about being stuck on a ship for an extended period, Stewart found himself relaxing into the experience and appreciating the unique lifestyle that cruising offered. Despite being a younger passenger among an older crowd, Stewart found that the all-inclusive nature of cruise life and the friendliness of fellow passengers made it easy to have a good time.
