It’s been two days at Sea since we boarded the ms Volendam in Sydney with Captain Peter Bos at the helm.  Stormy skies sent us off as we cruised under the Sydney Bridge, passed the grand Opera House and headed out to the Tasman Sea towards our destination, New Zealand.  I didn’t realize how much you could do on a cruise ship, and for an active passenger like me, Holland America has provided a myriad of activities.
In the past 48 hours, we’ve learned some cha cha & swing dancing, strengthened our cores in a pilates class, walked the promenade deck for fresh air, and learned new recipes like “Mint-Pistachio Pesto Crusted Australian Lamb Chops over White Bean & Wild Mushroom Cassoulet”.  Some of us participated in Trivia Contest games, an Art Auction, and we even heard there was a $25,000 Jackpot Bingo game!  In the evenings, we’ve had the choice to go see Broadway Musical Shows to Comedy Shows, or kick back in the ship’s theatre and watch a movie with popcorn.  With over 60 events a day, everyone’s interests are catered to and there’s always something to do.

The five restaurants on the ship offer a range of meals that are delicious and impressive.  Each of our dietary requests has been attended to whether it’s gluten-free, dairy free, vegetarian.  The chefs and their kitchen staff are there to please and ensure we enjoy the culinary pleasures of Australia and New Zealand.

We are looking forward to our excursions in New Zealand, but it’s good to know we have a couple days at Sea after our New Zealand ports of call so we can enjoy more events and activities on the ship before returning back to Sydney!