Ocean Diamond

All cabins have an exterior view, although a few cabins are obstructed. The views may be through a traditional picture window or through portholes as are found on deck 3. Doubles, triples, and balcony cabins accommodate guests on five decks. The spacious balcony cabins are found on deck 7.

The décor is basic with duvets covering the beds. Beds can be configured as twins or queens. The mattresses aren’t as comfortable as they could be. 

A larger desk has a few European 220 outlets. One of the drawers can function as a safe as it has a key and lock. The bathroom does have a 110 volt shaving outlet located next to the hairdryer. The small bathroom includes an equally small shower with dispensers for soap and shampoo. 

There is adequate closet space, with two compartments. Each guest gets their own personal flotation device (PFD) for zodiac excursions and the more traditional PFD is also stored in the closet. Drawers for storing items are found in the closet and also in the desk and two bedside tables.

In addition to the chair for the desk, there is another upholstered chair for relaxation. The flat screen television comes with a DVD player (there is a collection of DVDs in the library) with limited channels, but movies and programs feature topical content.

Ocean Diamond does not include accessible features. Staterooms and bathrooms feature high curbs. Accessing exterior decks also involves negotiating high curbs. As many ports are reached via Zodiac, it’s necessary to descend steep stairs to the launching spot. This presents more physical barriers for those with mobility issues. There is an elevator on board. Some guests make use of mobility aids while visiting ports where the ship is able to dock.

Located on deck 3, the main dining room offers both buffet style dining as well as full-service dining. Tables are not assigned nor is dining set for a designated time; rather, hours of service vary, depending on the day and circumstances. For example, buffet service takes place when most people are on the ship. When the majority of guests are on shore, a full a la carte menu is offered.

Depending on the number of guests on Ocean Diamond, a second smaller dining room on deck 4 may be opened. Reservations should be made for this restaurant, which operates during designated dining hours. 

Food at the buffet, reliably hot and tasty, caters to all tastes, including vegetarian. Guests serve themselves from the buffet, which is set up in the middle of the dining room, making negotiating around tables difficult when the dining room is full.

Beer, wine, specialty coffee, and cocktails come with an extra charge. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate are offered throughout the day. Afternoon tea is also served daily and usually includes small sandwiches, a sweet, and coffee and tea, of course. 

Food on Ocean Diamond is sourced locally–80% of what is used onboard comes from local providers. Fish must be MSC-certified (Marine Stewardship Council) to be served on the ship.

Bar options include The Club on deck 4 and the Observation Lounge on deck 7. Wine, beer, and cocktails are served. Beers include some Icelandic varieties. Every day, there is a $5 drink of the day displayed and available in both of the bars.

The real entertainment on an expedition ship and itinerary such as an Iceland circumnavigation is the scenery, port talks, and lectures. A resident piano player moves between the two bar areas. Lectures on a variety of topics, including the ports, take place regularly. Some of the staff have additional talents and perform accordingly. One Icelandic woman gave language lessons, while another trained opera singer sang and shared information about trolls.

There is a small library with a nice collection of books and DVDs. This is one of the public areas that offers free WiFi.

Massage and a few treatments are available in a small room that serves as a treatment room. Another area contains exercise equipment. With a destination ready for exploration, the ports themselves provide opportunities for physical fitness.