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10 Jul 2012
Celtic Enchantment
Prinsendam - 14 nights ex Amsterdam, Netherlands
Past Sailing
All aboard the Prinsendam over 14 relaxing nights on this Celtic Enchantment cruise exploring Europe - Western & British Isles. Your ship departs from Amsterdam and visits 11 ports in 3 countries before returning to Amsterdam. This 5 star voyage from Holland America Line has forward departures, but is unfortunately sold out for this departure.
| Day | Date | Port of call | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tue 10 Jul 2012 | Amsterdam, Netherlands | 5.00pm | |
The fascinating and historical Dam Square, dominated by the Royal Palace with its classical facade and fine sculptures cannot be missed. The impressive history of the square is well documented at the Historical Museum. Other famous squares include Rembrandtplien - lined with restaurants, cafes and pubs and the vibrant and colourful Leidseplein. Then, of course, there is the Red Light District that includes the calm haven of the Oude Kirk (Old Church) with attached houses, built in the Gothic-renaissance style, and the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, the oldest stock exchange in the world. Cruise along some of the delightful and historic canals in this ‘Venice of the North’ and you cannot possibly leave without seeing windmills as there are eight stunning windmills in at the heart of the city just waiting to be admired. Visit the delightful parks, the largest being Vondelpark right in the middle of the city, and thoroughly appreciate the experience of the ‘do-it-yourself for all ages’ voyage of discovery between fantasy and reality. The NEMO Science and technology Centre which also offers breathtaking views of the city, is a fantastic experience, as is a visit to Coster's diamond cutting factory where one is shown the secrets of cutting and polishing diamonds. more/less... |
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| 2 | Wed 11 Jul 2012 | Guernsey, United Kingdom | 2.00pm | 10.00pm |
Discover Guernsey by on the number 7 or 7a bus, coach, mini bus, taxi, or on foot. Tours of St Peter Port, St Sampsons Harbour, the cliffs, Lihou Island and the hidden Green Lanes are all available. If interested in the history of the island then be sure to visit the German Occupation Museum, the Little Chapel, Hauteville House - the home of author Victor Hugo during a 15 year self-imposed exile, Castle Cornet and the German Underground Hospital. The Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum and the Guernsey Museum are both well worth visiting as is the Gallery of artistic work at St Peter Port. Relax with a visit to the Sculpture Garden of Saumarez Manor in St Martins or visit Cobo to walk along the beach and pop into Cobo tea rooms to sample their gorgeous cakes. Indeed there is a large range of local gourmet specialties that should be tried. more/less... |
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| 3 | Thu 12 Jul 2012 | Plymouth, United Kingdom | 7.00am | 6.00pm |
The Smeaton’s Tower built in 1759 is one of the world’s most famous lighthouses, and the Wheel of Plymouth at 60m in height is awe-inspiring and a ride provides wonderful views of the city. With over 70 sharks from more than ten different species that range in size from the small dogfish to the large Sand Tiger Sharks, the National Marine Museum is well worth visiting. Other places well worth visiting are the Mayflower Steps in the Barbican area of the city and the 16th C Elizabethan House with its carved oak features and period furniture. Close to Plymouth is Saltram, the Parker family home with its original contents. With three centuries of sophistication and extravagance, it provides a fascinating insight into country-estate life throughout the centuries. more/less... |
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| 4 | Fri 13 Jul 2012 | Milford Haven, United Kingdom | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
For those interested in past events, Custom House is definitely well worth a visit to gain an interesting insight into the town's history as both a fishing centre, and more particularly, a whaling town. There are many beautiful beaches to visit nearby and wonderful, relaxing walks to be found. Golfing, riding, boating, and fishing can all be found within the local area. Also popular with many are the cafes, restaurants and smart shops, while the nearby Fort Hubberstone - built in 1863 to defend the port - is a very popular visitor drawcard. more/less... |
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| 5 | Sat 14 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 6 | Sun 15 Jul 2012 | Foynes, Ireland | 7.00am | 4.00pm |
more/less... |
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| 7 | Mon 16 Jul 2012 | Londonderry, United Kingdom | 10.00am | 8.00pm |
It was once a major port of embarkation for Irish emigrants to North America, and played a vital part for the Allies in WWII. During the war's longest running campaign, the Battle of the Atlantic eventually resulted in the surrender of the German U-Boat fleet at Lisahally on 8 May 1945. more/less... |
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| 8 | Tue 17 Jul 2012 | Belfast, United Kingdom | 7.00am | 4.00pm |
Among the fascinating places that tourists visit is the Belfast Castle with its restaurants, small heritage centre, and beautiful views of the whole city. The City Hall with its impressive dome that dominates the city’s skyline, its grand staircase and seven stained glass windows attracts many visitors, and within walking distance from here there’s the Logan Weir and Lookout that has emerged as a prominent attraction. For something really different, visit the Ice Bowl which, in addition to ice-skating, offers 20 lanes of computerized tenpin bowling. The Belfast City Skin Works houses what must be one of the most unusual Belfast museums: 'The Celtic and World Tattoo Museum' that covers artistic, cosmetic and religious tattooing from all over the world. All shopping enthusiasts love Belfast as it has become a centre for diverse shops. For example the store in Rosemary Street, Fresh Garbage, is a rarity in jewelry shops, as it has great atmosphere, some fascinating clothing and, as you'll notice, it smells good too. more/less... |
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| 9 | Wed 18 Jul 2012 | Portree, United Kingdom | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
Of interest to most visitors are: the Edinbane Pottery that provides an excellent choice of hand-made pottery, the Aros Experience that is the town’s biggest commercial complex and which was designed to bring to life the history of Skye, and the Royal Hotel - once known as MacNab’s Inn - that was the setting of a fascinating story about Bonnie Prince Charlie. Play a round of golf in nearby Sconser or go pony trekking at Skeabost. Skye is also the ideal place for fly fishing and bird watching on guided walks. Then sample the local whisky at the Talisker Distillery in Carbost or simply find a quiet spot to admire the views. Other opportunities include numerous tours such as a sea eagle and wildlife boat trip, the opportunity to play inside a Wowball, go horseback riding, or take a boat trip into the bay to see the seals and sea eagles. The centre of life in Portree has to be its harbour. This is in a superb natural setting, being surrounded by high ground and cliffs. Some visit the peninsula to the south, known as ‘The Lump’, that once provided a spectacular setting for public hangings on the island. more/less... |
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| 10 | Thu 19 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 11 | Fri 20 Jul 2012 | Liverpool, United Kingdom | 8.00am | 11.00pm |
Also of note are Croxteth Hall and Woolton Hall, and within the city centre the Grade 1 listed Bluecoat Chambers that was constructed in British Queen Anne style. Then there are the two famous cathedrals, the Anglican Cathedral, regarded as one of the greatest buildings of the 20th century, and the Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral that breaks the traditional longitudinal design. Take a ride on the Mersey Ferry that has become an increasingly popular tourist attraction within the city, with daytime River Explorer Cruises providing passengers with an historical overview of the city and the surrounding areas. Recently there has been significant regeneration, so be sure to visit Liverpool One that provides new retail, commercial, residential and leisure space. Liverpool also has more galleries and national museums than any other city in the United Kingdom apart from London. Famous among these are the Tate Modern - the largest exhibition space dedicated to modern art in the United Kingdom, the FACT centre that hosts touring multimedia exhibitions, and Ceri Hand Gallery opened in 2008, to name but a few. more/less... |
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| 12 | Sat 21 Jul 2012 | Dublin, Ireland | 8.00am | 10.00pm |
Dublin has many landmarks and monuments dating back hundreds of years. One of the oldest is Dublin Castle, which was first founded in 1204, while one of the newest is the Spire of Dublin, a conical stainless steel spire rising to 121.2 m and lit at night it provides a beacon in the sky. Then there is the Ha’penny Bridge - one of Dublin’s iconic landmarks, many magnificent churches and cathedrals, the Mansion House and the Custom house, the Anna Livia monument and the Molly Malone statue. Visit Phoenix Park that is home to not only a herd of wild fallow deer, but also the President of Ireland’s residence, Ashtown Castle, and the Dublin Zoo. Shop at Grafton Street the main shopping street with its large shopping centre and then relax at the surrounding park, St Stephen’s Green. Visit the excellent museums, take a walking tour through the Georgian streets of Merrion Square or ride on top of the city's hop-on hop-off double-decker tour buses. On the other hand you may prefer to just kick back at the St. James's Gate Guinness Brewery and enjoy a tasty pint with a perfect frothy head. more/less... |
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| 13 | Sun 22 Jul 2012 | Waterford, Ireland | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
A visit to the House of Waterford Crystal visitor centre provides an opportunity to choose from the world's largest selection of Waterford Crystal, while the factory tour offers first hand access to all areas of traditional crystal production. Another place of interest is the Waterford Museum of Treasures that tells the 1000-year-story of the city from the treasures of Viking Waterford and the oldest civic urban building in Ireland, Reginald’s Tower. For shoppers the pedestrianised John Roberts Square is a main centre of the city’s modern day commercial centre, and not far away - with a fine commercial tradition - is Arundel Square. Those interested in Art appreciate the Waterford Municipal Art Gallery with over 200 paintings by Irish and international artists. Waterford's oldest pub can be found just outside the old 'Viking Triangle'. T & H Doolans, of 31/32 George's Street, has been officially active and open to the public for over three hundred years. A main element of the structure includes one of the original city walls, almost 1,000 years old, which can be viewed in the lounge area of the building. Also worth visiting are the Christ Church Cathedral and the beautiful Quaker Meeting House built in 1792 that is now home to the Garter Lane Arts Centre. This port of call founded by Viking traders in 914 has an exciting medieval flavour and riverside bustle, so certainly offers the complete holiday experience. more/less... |
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| 14 | Mon 23 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 15 | Tue 24 Jul 2012 | Amsterdam, Netherlands | 7.00am | |
The fascinating and historical Dam Square, dominated by the Royal Palace with its classical facade and fine sculptures cannot be missed. The impressive history of the square is well documented at the Historical Museum. Other famous squares include Rembrandtplien - lined with restaurants, cafes and pubs and the vibrant and colourful Leidseplein. Then, of course, there is the Red Light District that includes the calm haven of the Oude Kirk (Old Church) with attached houses, built in the Gothic-renaissance style, and the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, the oldest stock exchange in the world. Cruise along some of the delightful and historic canals in this ‘Venice of the North’ and you cannot possibly leave without seeing windmills as there are eight stunning windmills in at the heart of the city just waiting to be admired. Visit the delightful parks, the largest being Vondelpark right in the middle of the city, and thoroughly appreciate the experience of the ‘do-it-yourself for all ages’ voyage of discovery between fantasy and reality. The NEMO Science and technology Centre which also offers breathtaking views of the city, is a fantastic experience, as is a visit to Coster's diamond cutting factory where one is shown the secrets of cutting and polishing diamonds. more/less... |
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Prinsendam is a world traveller, usually visiting a port-a-day, offering the feel of a classic yacht and the service of a cruise ship. Until November 2013 cruises between the north Arctic and the Mediterranean, following the sun. It explores the Continental coastline, Baltic Sea (staying overnight at St Petersburg), and as far south as Egypt and the Holy Land. In November 2013 Prinsendam crosses the Atlantic to Fort Lauderdale. From there she sails the Caribbean. Note the special explorer voyage way up the Amazon River in November 2013. Then in January 2014 she makes a Grand Tour around South America – see Incan ruins, glaciers, sub-Antarctica, Cape Horn, and the great cities of this continent. The journey can be split in two, and the return itinerary also sails 1500 km up the Amazon River. This is an exciting ship suited to more mature travellers who want classic style cruising and contemporary conveniences. Holland America Line arranges excellent onshore tours.
Accommodation
Standard cabins are custom designed, spacious, and very well appointed, for example with walk-in closets, full length bath, and one or two single beds. Some have a third berth, and others have interconnecting doors. A few have a private balcony. All grades of cabins come with a basket of fresh fruit on request, flat-screen TV running movies, DVD player, bathrobes, hairdryers, make-up mirrors, kit of personal toiletries, plush bedding, and evening turn-down service. Filipino and Indonesian stewards give friendly and unobtrusive service. The décor is very pleasing and comfortable. Complimentary meals can be ordered for in-suite dining around the clock. Note that there are some single cabins, and four that are wheelchair-accessible. The self-service laundrettes are practical for the longer cruises.
Food and Dining
The ship has a variety of formal and casual dining areas. The La Fontaine Dining Room with its extensive ocean views serves open-seating breakfast and lunch. There are two seatings at dinner, at assigned tables, set with fine crystal and china ware. One section allows for guests who prefer to dine at their own schedule. Two nights in seven are formal nights, perhaps preceded with pre-dinner drinks, then after your meal retire to the Showroom at Sea or a musical recital. The alternative restaurant The Pinnacle Grill is well worth the additional cover charge, with meals served in most elegant settings. The venue specialises in fine steaks and seafoods. Ask about wine packages.
Entertainment
At night the tiered Showroom At Sea offers twice-nightly quality cabaret acts. Singles and older couples mingle sip drinks in elegant surrounds at the upper deck Crow’s Nest Lounge with its wrap-around views of the ship’s progress, the beautifully crafted Explorer’s Lounge, and the Ocean Bar. Evening entertainment includes the casino.
Welcome to our Roll Call forum for Prinsendam's "Celtic Enchantment" departing 10 Jul 2012. Here you can meet fellow cruisers, swap ideas, plan tours, share with others and make friends before you even leave!
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View the current location for Prinsendam here!
Cruise summary
Cruise: Celtic Enchantment
Duration: 14 nights
Ship: Prinsendam
Star rating: 
Departs: Amsterdam
Returns: Amsterdam
Ports of call: 11
Forward departures:
What's onboard? ▼
- Staterooms
- Atrium social centre
- Art collections
- Shops duty free
- DINING
- Dining venues (6)
- Traditional & As You Wish
- In-room dining 24 h
- Formal dining nights
- Late night chocolate, snacks
- Ice cream bar
- Wine packages
- Afternoon tea, High Tea
- Lounges and bars
- ENTERTAINMENT
- Show Theatre
- Cinema
- Nightclub, music, dancing
- Casino
- ACTIVITIES
- Pools (2)
- Whirlpools (4)
- Sauna, steam rooms
- Fitness Centre
- Classes, walking, jogging
- Spa & Salon
- Enrichment presentations
- Digital Workshop
- Culinary Arts Centre
- Sports court, table games
- Photo gallery
- Golf putting green
- Golf simulator
- Shore excursion desk
- Pre/post cruise tours
- Wedding packages (value!)
- Library
- Single guests program (most)
- UNDER 18
- Club HAL (5-7,8-12,13-17 y)
- OTHER
- Medical centre
- Laundry self-serve (pay/coin)
- Special dietary requests
- Internet, Wi-Fi (pay)
- Mobile phone roaming
- Telephone, fax ship-shore
- 110V power
- Wheelchair access
- Daily newsletter
What's included? ▼
- Accommodation as booked
- Flight/s and/or transfers as specified
- All main meals on-board
- Open/anytime or traditional/set time & multi-venue dining
- In-cabin dining at no charge
- Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor
- Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
- Activities - organised & individual
- Bridge director on select cruises
- Kids clubs & teen programs (3-17 yrs) (Prinsendam 5-17 yrs)
- Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
- Special needs requests & service animals allowed
- Ship-shore-ship transfers
What's excluded? ▼
- Airfares, accommodation & transfers not specified
- Shore & land excursions and meals not specified
- Alternate specialty dining venues (unless specified)
- Casino gaming, bar expenses
- Passport & visa fees
- Insurances of all kinds
- Increases in third party charges or taxes
- Customary land tour gratuities are welcome
- Service charge: USD 11.50 pp/night (suites USD 12). Adjust wth Guest Relations Manager if service inadequate
- Service charge: bar and Dining Room wine 15%
- Items & services of a personal nature
- Medical services, vaccination costs
- Laundry and/or valet charges
- Wi-Fi, Internet, satellite/mobile phone & fax charges
Recent testimonials
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