DFDS Mini Cruise Newcastle to Amsterdam Review
DFDS Mini Cruise
Newcastle to Amsterdam
1-3 December 2014
Reviewed by Sue Trish
We arrived at the Newcastle North Shields Ferry terminal at 3.30pm, after a tiring three hour car journey. We easily found a car park space in the secure car park, which was well signposted and just a short walk from the main terminal entrance.
The ship looked really impressive as we looked across the terminal and we were both very excited!
The check in desk was clearly marked and we found it easily as we entered the terminal. Check in was fast and smooth and check in staff were happy, polite and knowledgeable.
We had a short wait before the gates opened for us to embark, and once again the staff were really polite and helpful. We boarded the boat and were met by some of the crew who kindly showed us to our room. We were given a commodore plus cabin which was spacious and clean with an en suite bathroom, but it had a double bed rather than the twin ones which my mum and I had expected to see. The addition of a small complementary mini bar in the cabin and toiletries in the bathroom were a nice welcome touch.
We unpacked and checked over our itinerary to see what we had to do next. On closer inspection I noticed the information we had stated we should have been given a commodore deluxe room on a different deck. There was a fair bit of noise and some really loud music coming from nearby cabins which immediately filled us with dread so we decided to nip things in the bud and let the staff know of the disturbance and double check if we were in the right cabin or not.
We headed down to the service desk on deck seven, which was well signposted and easy to find, and told the crew about the possible mistake with our reservation. They were extremely helpful and noticed the booking reference stated we were in the right cabin but the information pack stated we were supposed to be in an upgraded one. After a short conversation with the manager we were told that there was a deluxe cabin available and we would be moved right away. A crew member followed us to the room and helped us to take our bags up to deck 10. Once again they were so helpful, even returning my boots that I had unknowingly left in the previous cabin. The deluxe rooms were set apart from the rest by a glass door which we entered using our key card. The hallways were beautiful, bright and clean. Our cabin was excellent. Spacious with and en suite bathroom, twin beds, twin wardrobes, a sofa, coffee table and chairs and a dressing table. We unpacked and sat for a while taking it all in and reading the information file let in the cabin. The commodore deluxe cabin also has the added advantage of a private lounge so we went to explore. The lounge was excellent. Comfortable tables and chairs as well as a designated work space and free wifi made for a relaxing start to our trip. Complementary drinks and snacks in the lounge were an excellent addition. Plenty of drinks to choose from including red, white and sparkling wines, beer, soft drinks, bottled water and a variety of teas and coffees. Snacks included olives, crisps, crackers, biscuits and pastries, all of which were restocked when needed by the lovely crew members.
We headed downstairs to have a look around and explore our home for the next two days. There was so much to see and do! Our first stop was the onboard shops, they were well stocked with loads of bargains to be had! We then stopped at one of the many bars and lounges to have a drink and take it all in. Service was quick and, as usual, the staff were excellent. Prices on board were not hiked up as people are led to believe about hotels and cruises etc…, and the range and selection of drinks was incredible. We continued to walk around the ship and visited the casino for a quick flutter and a friendly chat with the croupiers who were extremely helpful and welcoming, then on to the wine, beer and whiskey tasting bar and the navigators bar where the service and price continued to be excellent.
Dinner was reserved at the Blue Riband a la carte restaurant and we were greeted outside by our lovely waiter, Ferdinand. Seated quickly we ordered our drinks and were handed our menus. The two or three course a la carte menu was beautiful. We both opted for beef tender loin which was cooked to perfection with possible the best sauce I have ever tasted, served with new roasted potatoes and kale it was delicious. After ordering desert and more drinks Ferdinand cleared our table and came over to chat to us, he was funny, polite and excellent at his job! Desert was cheesecake gateaux and it was light, creamy and delicious!
The service and the food were second to none at the Blue Riband restaurant and we would both highly recommend people pay it a visit!!
We headed to the navigator for some drinks and live music by Steve – what a wonderful night!!
Full up and tired we headed back up to deck 10 to the private lounge for a coffee before retiring to bed. The beds and pillows were really comfortable and I can honestly say we had a really restful night’s sleep.
We were up bright and early the next morning and headed down to the restaurant for our buffet style breakfast. We were shown to our seats and asked if we would like tea or coffee which was waiting for us when we got back from getting our food. Breakfast choice was excellent, everything from cereals and fruit to sausage and eggs with all kinds in between. Breakfast was excellent.
We waited in one of the lounges with a coffee until the on board announcements gave us our instructions to leave the ship and board our coach for the short ride to Amsterdam city centre.
With clear instructions from our driver as to where we would be picked up and at what time we headed off to explore the city.
With plenty of shops and sightseeing tours we were spoilt for choice! Although we were a little disappointed that there was not a Christmas market in sight! We followed our map and headed to the famous Anne Frank house. After this we walked towards the city square to see street entertainers performing and crowds gathering – it was fantastic.
After plenty of shopping we decided to spend the last hour at Madame Tussauds which was an amazing experience and a must see for any visitor!
After a spot of lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants we headed to the Magna Plaza for some more shopping before walking back to our coach pick up point.
The return journey was once again smooth and we boarded our ship with no hiccups and were soon relaxing in our cabin as we started the journey home.
Dinner again was fantastic this time serving lamb shank and roasted veg, again the service and quality of food was second to none.
After a drink in the Columbus lounge before a game of bingo and some excellent live entertainment, we retired to the private lounge for some complementary drinks before bed.
The journey home was a little bumpy but it didn’t take the shine off what a lovely couple of days we had.
The staff, the service and the quality of everything was second to none and we would highly recommend this short break for anyone who wants to experience a mini cruise with a bit of luxury!
Rating: 5/5 
For more information or to book your own mini cruise visit www.dfds.co.uk or call 0871 574 8235.
DFDS Seaways
DFDS Seaways sails up to twice a day between Newcastle and Amsterdam. Prices for mini cruise packages start from as little as £79 per person.
Sailing overnight, the break starts as soon as you board one of DFDS Seaways’ cruise ferries. With plenty to do onboard, including a children’s play area, casino, cinema and in-room films on demand, as well as a variety of bars and live entertainment, passengers have the space to relax and spend time with their loved ones and plan the details of their short break. Guests can also enjoy a delicious meal in one of the three onboard restaurants and then take a refreshing stroll on deck to admire the great views before heading off to their en suite cabin for a peaceful night’s sleep. Next morning, passengers will wake up refreshed for their time ashore.
To find out more information and to see the latest special offers, visit www.dfds.co.uk or telephone 0871 574 8235.
Amsterdam Tourist Information
For further information about visiting Amsterdam, log onto www.iamsterdam.com for more details.