Hull to Rotterdam November 2009
A short trip to Amsterdam was the order of the day, and this time it was by ferry from Hull to Rotterdam. The first thing to note is that, despite what the ferry companies may imply, Amsterdam is actually some way from Rotterdam. 103km in fact. Or, an hour and a half on a coach (in good traffic). So, don't imagine you'll step straight off the ferry into the delights of Amsterdam.
This time it was as a foot passenger, so it was just a simple drive to the port in Hull, leaving the car in a secure multi-story car park on site (£5 per day, payable in advance). Plenty of room, brigthly lit, and just a lift ride down to the embarkation hall.
Check-in was easy; a short queue with a handful of people waiting to board. A quick check of the ticket revealed that the booking didn't include the coach transfer to Amsterdam. This was quickly rectified in exchange, of course, for £20.
Boarding just after 7pm, it was time for a quick freshen up in the cabin. Outbound, this was a standard two bed inside cabin. So, no sea-gazing during the crossing but still well enough equipped to be relaxing and enough space to dump the bags and hang up the shirts. The top bunk folds away against the wall above the bottom, and a clean towel is provided on top of each bed (which are also equipped with a duvet and pillow).
Every cabin has an ensuite, and there's a shower, toilet, and wash basin. It never ceases to amaze that the showers on ferries are always so powerful - a true power shower with as much hot water as you could want.
One thing that seems common on all ferries is that the cabin is cold on first entering - presumably because the cleaners turn them all down to save energy. This cabin was no exception, and a quick turn of the dial on the ceiling-mounted vent quickly warms the room.
After freshening up, time for a quick walk around on deck and to catch the ferry sliding away from Hull port. There's a variety of publically-accessible decks giving great views from port and starboard. Smokers tend to congregate out here, because it's the only place they can indulge - there's a covered area which provides some protection from the elements, which is no doubt greatly appreciated for much of the year.
Once underway along the Humber and heading towards Spurn Point, thoughts inevitably turn to food, and on most crossings from Hull this means the all-you-can-eat buffet. Book in advance and it's a little cheaper, but don't worry if you forget - you can book onboard without a problem.
The buffet has something of a cult following amongst ferry travellers, and for good reason. There's a huge selection of starters, main courses, and deserts - both hot and cold. Food is constantly refreshed and is always immaculately presented. As usual though, this traveller went for the roast meat - a choice of two meats, on this occasion beef and turkey. Complimented with roast vegetables and gravy it makes a great start to your trip. The only problem is trying not to eat to much and save some space for drinks later on. Note that during the meal, a waiter will be on hand to provide whatever drinks you require (at extra cost, although not extortionate).
After a large meal like this, a stroll on deck is just the thing to revitalise before heading into one of the several bars. There's a choice of quieter or more lively venues, but get into the spirit and head to the Sunset show bar. Entertainment varies depending on time of year and crossing, but even if it's not the sort of entertainment you might usually choose, it usually ends up in a great night that get's you in the mood for your holiday - and tonight was no excpetion.
Drinks can be a little pricey (£3.30 for a bottle of Grolsch) but the staff are friendly and helpful, and service is quick and efficient. There are also drink promotions to take advantage of. Not surprisingly, you are not allowed to take your own drink into the bars (although this doesn't stop some people trying).
Before you know it, it's time to find your way back to your cabin - which can be more difficult than it sounds after a few drinks. This ship (Pride of Rotterdam) is big! Fortunately, you are provided with a disposable cardboard key, complete with a detachable strip with your cabin number - ideal in case you lose your key.
The sea was mercifully calm (just as the captain had announced before we set sail), and the gentle rocking of the boat actually seems to aid a deeper sleep. There's a little engine noise, but not enough to be distracting, and the bunks are comfortable - there's even a reading light above each bunk so you can read without disturbing your travelling companions. Given the choice though, an outside cabin with sea view would be preferable.
The following morning, however, is where a major gripe occurs (at least for this traveller who likes a good sleep!). Before arrival in Rotterdam port, an announcement is made direct into the cabin over a seriously loud public address system (the volume of which cannot be adjusted). Fair enough, P&O; don't want people sleeping in. But, then there's another announcement. And another. And another. All of these start well over an hour before arrival, so there's no need for so many - I guess they want people to head for breakfast (at additional charge, again cheaper if booked in advance), but for those who just want to get up, shower, and disembark without a car, it's a pain in the neck!
Breakfast, which you will likely give in and have, is a tasty affair with a choice of English cooked an the usual continental offerings. There's a good view of Rotterdam as the ferry makes its final approach whilst you finish breakfast.
Disembarkation is quick and easy, beginning almost as soon as the ferry has docked - just time to go through passport control (relaxed, and quick as is usally the way on the continent) and then board the coach for the hour and half journey to Amsterdam - which will be the subject of another post!
