Captain Jonathan Mercer March 28, 2012: Our passages up the coast of India have been busy. Apart from the coastal trade shipping, there have been vast amounts of fishing vessels. Every coastal community seems to have a fleet of these boats, ranging from reasonably large, in the 9-10 metre range, (28 feet or so), to…   read more of “Around the World…”

A few days ago we visited Funchal, Madeira, part of Portugal that is well-known as a Port wine place, as well as the flower island of Portugal. The city was nice, clean and friendly. I bought some wines and souvenirs, and enjoyed the scenery and wonderful weather. It’s a nice place to be added on…   read more of “Magnificent Sights…”

Thanks to Cam Dightman for sending in this photo of the ms Amsterdam anchored at Easter Island. It was a beautiful day on a magical island. — Cam Dightman

In Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia, a warm welcome of “Tahitian Drums and Tattoos” awaited our guests as they left the ship to explore this beautiful island paradise.

I just got back from a cruise and snapped this picture of the Nieuw Amsterdam leaving Fort Lauderdale. Thought you might like it! — HAL Mariner Lynn Hardey

I want to commend Lisa and Captain ‘Henk’ for providing a lovely “Renewal of Vows” ceremony for my wife and I’s 25th anniversary on March 16th, 2012. From the moment we stepped aboard the ship, we knew about the ceremony with the beautiful floral arrangement and champagne waiting for us in our verandah suite. We…   read more of “Vow Renewal on…”

Last night we hosted a theme event called “The International Gala Dinner” with flowers from Madeira, Portugal, in front of the La Fontaine Dining room. Crew and guests blended in with the theme with different attire from many counties including the United States, India, the Middle East, Indonesia, China, Spain, Japan and many more. We…   read more of “Prinsendam’s…”

I thought I share with you … my snapshot from this week in Nawiliwili. Csaba Desvari is Oosterdam’s culinary operations manager.