Happy 20th Birthday Newcastle-Amsterdam with DFDS Seaways

On 18th May, DFDS Seaways celebrated 20 years of their Newcastle-Amsterdam route. We helped them celebrate in style with a special day sailing on board KING Seaways. Our family travelled with Princess Seaways during our Easter trip to Amsterdam Zoo so it was lovely for us to enjoy some time aboard her sister ship.

Heidi waiting to board

A warm welcome to families as we boarded KING Seaways

We started the celebrations up on top deck where we we enjoyed panoramic views of North Shields Fish Quay and Tynemouth as we left port. The sun was shining and we enjoyed a nice cold drink and ice creams. The views as the ship sails through the mouth of the Tyne really are spectacular and not to be missed.

As soon as we were at sea, our tummies started rumbling and we headed down to the 7 Seas restaurant where we were to be treated to a special celebration afternoon tea.

We all enjoyed our scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream and the homemade chocolate truffles. We were a little disappointed not to be asked if we would like a drink (and we could never catch any staff to ask), especially after such a positive experience in 7 Sea's during our previous trip. Trying to eat sandwiches and scones without a drink is not ideal and I ended up stealing some of my son's juice. I don't really think the afternoon tea showcased the best food that DFDS Seaways had to offer however it filled us up and was quick and hassle free which is what we wanted. 

Next, we headed over to the Wildlife Centre which is unique to King Seaways. I was very impressed with this room which supports the dolphin charity ORCA. There were lots of facts to learn, games to play and wildlife crafts to try.

We met with the on board wildlife expert who went through with us the 20 animals we were most likely to see from the ship including a variety of dolphins and seabirds.

The wildlife officer kindly pointed out the free on-board binoculars that you are welcome to borrow. We grabbed a couple of pairs and headed out to deck with our spotters sheet.

Jack is certain he spotted a Hump Back Whale (which has been known)

There was lots of entertainment on board ranging from a Michael Jackson tribute act, birthday cake, Captain's speeches, balloon modelling and face painting.  We prefer the simple life though and our favourite thing to do was to sit on deck spotting local North East landmarks.

We had a little time to quickly catch up with a few friends......

Gemma - founding member of Northumberland Mumpreneurs

Chloe - New Girl in Toon

Karen who blogs at Adventures of a Monkey Footed Mummy who I also run the North East Network of Brilliant Bloggers with.

.....but before we knew, it was time to head home. We had a really lovely day on board King Seaways - day sailings are a wonderful way to spend some time with family and friends whilst enjoying some fantastic facilities and a spot of sightseeing. Our children were very excited to be spending the day on a ship too! 

We made a short 60 second video below which I think sums up our day perfectly.

As part of their 20th Birthday Celebrations, DFDS Seaways are asking you to share your favourite DFDS Seaways memory for your chance to re-live your trip. Click here to upload your photograph.

The next day sailing trips will be for the Sunderland airshow on 25th and 26th July. Find out more information here and enter our competition for your chance to win a Sunderland airshow day sailing ticket for your family.