It’s not very often a company celebrates its 150th anniversary, and just as rare is the opportunity to work for one. As the new blog manager for Holland America Line, I recently had the opportunity to board the newest ship in its fleet before its transatlantic voyage to Rotterdam, the Netherlands, retracing (in reverse) its original journey 150 years ...

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam arrived at New York City yesterday morning on its maiden call to the city following a transatlantic crossing that departed Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Oct. 15. The ship is nearing the end of a 15-day cruise that is recreating the maiden voyage of Holland America Line’s first ship — Rotterdam I — that departed Rotterdam 150 years ...

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam VII departed the city of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, today on its historic 150th Anniversary Transatlantic Crossing. The 15-day journey recreates Holland America Line’s maiden voyage of Rotterdam I that departed the city 150 years ago today. The crossing follows the path of that first sailing to New York, with calls at Le Havre, France, and Plymouth, ...

Holland America Line recently relaxed our health requirements on most voyages, which opened cruising to a wider range of guests. Now we’re making it easy to find out what protocols are required for your cruise. With a new Health Protocols Tool on Holland America Line’s website, booked guests can simply enter their booking number and the exact vaccination and testing ...

Holland America Line’s Volendam departed Rotterdam today, completing a charter with the city and the government of the Netherlands that began in April. For the past six months, the ship has been home to families from Ukraine who fled the war there. Over the past several weeks, the families have been resettling with relatives or moving to more permanent accommodations ...

As our 150th anniversary approaches April 18, 2023, Holland America Line is adding a second commemorative transatlantic crossing aboard Rotterdam to the schedule of celebratory events. Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 4, 2023, the 16-night itinerary sails to Rotterdam, the Netherlands, retracing in reverse the company’s first voyage. From Fort Lauderdale, the ship heads to New York City ...

It's official! While Rotterdam has been cruising since the fall, today in the city of Rotterdam we formally welcomed her as the flagship of our fleet in an affair fit for a royal! Following a tradition that started in the 1920s, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands christened the ship in a ceremony attended by local dignitaries and ...

Rotterdam is set to get the royal treatment at a naming ceremony in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, May 30, 2022. Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands will be the ship’s godmother, carrying on a Dutch royal tradition that began in the 1920s. Rotterdam’s special seven-day “Rotterdam Naming Celebration” cruise sails roundtrip from Amsterdam, Netherlands, departing May 29 and also ...

Today is National Happy Hour Day, and there's no better way to kick off the celebration than with a cocktail from our new Half Moon Bar, exclusively aboard Rotterdam. Our newest outlet is an immersive experience looking at the history of Holland America Line and cruising through the lens of a cocktail. Each cocktail comes with a fascinating tale of ...

Holland America Line ships have long been regarded as floating art galleries for their extensive collections of museum-quality pieces. Rotterdam is no exception, and guests are in for a visually rewarding journey with some of the most thought-provoking, striking and bold pieces in the fleet — including historical works and memorabilia from beloved previous sister ships. Rotterdam’s art collection is ...

Yesterday, our new Rotterdam departed on her maiden voyage! The ship's arrival has been long-awaited, and we are excited that she's finally underway! The milestone was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and fanfare at the terminal as guests embarked. Guests Rick Encarnacion and Ernest Schenk cut the ribbon to open boarding, surrounded by (from left) Entertainment Director Phillip Morgaman, Captain ...

Holland America Line announced today that when Rotterdam is named next spring, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands will be the ship’s godmother, carrying on a tradition that began in the 1920s. Holland America Line’s connection to The House of Orange goes back nearly a century to Prince Hendrik launching Statendam III in 1929. Since then, members of ...

What are the policies for vaccinated guests? What recommendations do you have for guests traveling internationally? Dr. Brenda Barnetson, senior director of clinical services, answers your top questions on health protocols for Holland America Line cruise departures from the U.S. and Europe. For more details about our TravelWell® health protocols, please visit the Holland America Line website.

Holland America Line took delivery of Rotterdam today, July 30, 2021, officially making it the 11th ship in the fleet. A handover ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Italy the evening of July 29. The ceremony was attended by the ship’s master, Captain Werner Timmers, and Cyril Tatar, Holland America Group’s vice president of newbuilding services. Giuseppe Bono, ...

Holland America Line is lucky to have several company historians. Two notable figures are Captain Albert Schoonderbeek and Gerald Bernhoft, director Mariner Society. In anticipation of the launch of our new Rotterdam this month, the two brand experts sent in fun facts and information about the previous six Rotterdam ships that have carried the name for our company. Enjoy learning ...

In less than a month, Holland America Line will welcome Rotterdam to our fleet! Did you tune in to Holland America Line Brand Ambassador Seth Wayne’s “Ramping Up to Rotterdam” update this week on our Facebook page to see the progress of the ship? Once again he spoke with Stan Kuppens, new builds projects, hotel, who was live at the ...

Did you tune in to Holland America Line Brand Ambassador Seth Wayne’s “Ramping Up to Rotterdam” update this week on our Facebook page? Once again he spoke with Stan Kuppens, new builds projects, hotel, who offered insight into where the ship is at in the building process. Here are some photos shared by Stan and Seth, plus a few more ...

It was smooth seas and fair winds for Holland America Line’s newest ship, Rotterdam, which returned in the evening of May 6 to Fincantieri’s Marghera (Venice) shipyard in Italy, after successfully completing two sets of sea trials off the country’s Adriatic coast. Rotterdam left Marghera April 25 and performed the preliminary sea trials over two days before going into dry ...

Last week Brand Ambassador Seth Wayne flew to Italy to visit Rotterdam at the Fincantieri shipyards in Marghera and Trieste. Seth was at Marghera before the ship left for sea trials and made way to Trieste for a quick dry dock before returning back to Marghera. Not only did he spend time on the ship, he also spent time under ...

Today is World Art Day, and Holland America Line fans know how much we value art. Aboard our ships, art is used as a connector to the destinations we visit, pieces to create an immersive experience, not just added for decoration. When Rotterdam debuts this summer, the ship will carry an impressive collection from artists around the world. Today we ...

Last month "Ramping Up to Rotterdam" with Brand Ambassador Seth Way showed the gorgeous art that is going to be on display aboard the ship. For those of you who missed seeing progress photos, we have a new selection from the Fincantieri shipyard and our own Stan Kuppens to share with you. Carpets are being laid, staterooms are coming together ...

Did you tune in to Holland America Line Brand Ambassador Seth Wayne’s “Ramping Up to Rotterdam” update last week on our Facebook page? For the March edition, he spoke with Tal Danai from ArtLink, who is curating much of the ship's art. Here are some photos of some of the pieces that will be displayed on board, plus some of ...

Did you tune in to Holland America Line Brand Ambassador Seth Wayne’s “Ramping Up to Rotterdam” update last week on our Facebook page? Once again he spoke with Stan Kuppens, new builds projects, hotel, who offered insight into where the ship is at in the building process. Here are some photos shared by Stan and Seth, plus a few more ...

Holland America Line has a history that spans nearly 150 years, and with that comes a depth of talented crew who will be aboard Rotterdam when the ship is delivered in July. The cruise line has appointed Staff Captain Kevin Beirnaert, Hotel Director Wessel van Oorschot, Chief Engineer Peter Massolt, Staff Chief Engineer Wim Akkerman and Environmental Officer Michael Brown ...

Holland America Line has named Werner Timmers, a captain with nearly 40 years sailing for the cruise line, to take the helm of Rotterdam when the ship enters service in July 2021. Captain Timmers joined Holland America Line in 1984 and has worked on all classes of ship within the brand, most recently as master of Koningsdam. Captain Timmers will ...

Did you tune in to Holland America Line Brand Ambassador Seth Wayne’s “Ramping Up to Rotterdam” update this week on our Facebook page? Once again he spoke with Stan Kuppens, new builds projects, hotel, who offered insight into where the ship is at in the building process. The yard was back in full swing on Jan. 11 after Three Kings ...

We received these cool photos from Rotterdam’s Signature of Excellence dry dock upgrade. …

We were at sea and celebrated Easter with a Grand Show Buffet in the Dining Room Lower level during this Grand World Voyage. Of course, it wouldn't be Easter without some Easter bunnies. The Rotterdam dinning room team really got into the mood of the holiday. Komang Sumartha is Rotterdam's assistant dining manager.

You’ve got your list, and you’re checking it twice. You’re wondering what gifts would be really nice. Here are holiday gift ideas for the cruiser in your life: Holland America Line Gift Card Give the gift of travel and memorable experiences with our gift cards. Gift cards can be used towards existing or ...

Looking for cocktails to try this holiday season? Delight friends at your next jolly gathering using these holiday cocktail recipes: De Lijn Ginger Mojito Ingredients: 2 oz De Lijn Gin 2 oz Ginger Beer 0.5 oz Simple Syrup 3 Lime Wedges 8 Mint Leaves Garnish: Candied Ginger and Mint Sprig Instructions: Muddle ...

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned pro, Holland America Line is here to help you plan your cruise. From choosing your destinations to exploring shore excursions and onboard activities, we've got you covered. Here are 10 tips to help you plan your cruise vacation: 1. Find a destination that excites you. Whether it’s ...

When you join us on a South America cruise, you can visit breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites that represent the best of human heritage and the natural world. These sites and wonders are recognized for having outstanding universal value to humanity. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the wondrous sights that wait you: ...

The day after Thanksgiving isn’t just meant for yummy leftovers and post-turkey-trot naps. It’s one of the busiest shopping days of the year in the U.S. Though Black Friday often entails long lines to snag a good buy, what if you could delight in deals that take you on a different adventure? Consider sailing through Black Friday with these ...

There are many reasons to take a South America cruise, from ports rich in culture to shore excursions that immerse you into each destination. Many places offer experiences like these though, so what is it about this continent that deserves a top spot on your travel wish list? Here’s why a South America cruise is a unique experience: ...

With so many things to do in Honolulu, you may wonder how to choose. If you’ve been dreaming of a Hawaii cruise with a stop in this famous port, you’ll want to plan ahead. Here are some of the best ways to spend a day in Honolulu: Explore the North Shore & Waikiki Beach ...

Did you know Hawaii is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world? At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site – you’ll discover towering volcanoes whose eruptions have modified the landscape and become home to unique animal species and plants. Every year, nearly two million people visit the ...

Are you on a mission to watch whales in the wild? Dreaming of icy-blue glaciers and mouthwatering fresh-fish flavors? With Holland America Line you can see more Alaska glaciers and have more access to Alaska wildlife than any other cruise line. You can also indulge in our global fresh fish and Savor My Catch programs, where you’ll savor the ...

Are you putting off a trip to Europe because you have limited vacation time to tour and explore? Cue the 7-day Europe cruise where you can enjoy the best of Europe with many different itineraries to choose from. There’s nothing like seeing European castles, or basking on the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean. Here are some of the things ...

Are cooler temperatures making you blue? Want to swap that pumpkin-flavored latte for a tropical cocktail in paradise? The fall season could be the perfect time to sail away to Hawaii on a Holland America Line cruise, or you could start your adventure in the spring when islands are in bloom. Whatever you choose, there are plenty of unique ...

It’s a whale! That’s a glacier! Those are the Big Five! There are many reasons to go on an Alaska cruise, from its treasured terrain to its wildlife. Whether you visit Alaska in the spring when mountains are coated with snow, or you sail in the summer hoping for warmer temperatures, there’s nothing quite like a cruise to the Great ...

When you cruise with Holland America Line, you’ll experience an incredible lineup of entertainment and live music that speaks to your heart and gets you moving to the beat. From the performances on the World Stage to our award-winning music clubs, there are plenty of sights and sounds to behold, and the one orchestrating the magic behind the scenes ...

From wild orange wigs and giant hats to boas and bowties, there’s plenty of fun fashion on display at Holland America Line’s iconic Orange Party. Combine that with live entertainment, cocktails and dancing, and you have an incredibly festive event! If you’re new to cruising with Holland America Line, you won’t want to miss the orange bash cherished by ...

‘Tis the season for pumpkins, ghouls and witch’s brew. If you love baking, here’s a treat for you. Inspired by tea time with Holland America Line, we’re sharing the Halloween recipe for our yummy Witch’s Hat Cupcakes. Don’t love cooking but enjoy decorating treats? You’ll also find some fun shortcuts below to achieve a similar look to our tasty ...

There are many reasons to cruise the Caribbean with Holland America Line, from flexible itineraries to our award-winning private island Half Moon Cay. With so many options, how do you choose which Caribbean cruise to go on to experience island magic, sun-kissed beaches and paradise-packed itineraries? Let’s dive into the different Caribbean getaways to help you choose your Caribbean ...

Who doesn’t love a good solar eclipse, especially when it happens while you’re cruising the world with Holland America Line? If you’re an eclipse enthusiast, then you don’t want to miss our 22-day Solar Eclipse Cruise aboard the Koningsdam for the total eclipse on April 8, 2024. In the meantime, consider satisfying your astronomical wanderlust during the upcoming annual eclipse ...

Holland America Line is known for providing award-winning personalized service thanks to our caring crew. Though we’re grateful every day for our incredible team, we want to take a moment during Customer Service Week – celebrated the first week of October – to thank our people from ship to shore for their time, talent and dedication to creating an ...

We recently caught up with Samantha Brown, celebrated travel expert, after her family vacation in Norway with Holland America Line. Here's what she had to say about their great adventure while sharing family travel tips along the way!  My family and I had the absolute time of our lives cruising Norway with Holland America Line. Not ...

From historic sites and coastal delights to late nights and lighthouses, prepare to soak up the many splendors of a Canada and New England cruise with Holland America Line. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can look forward to on one of these incredible cruise itineraries: Explore the shore Take a self-guided scavenger hunt ...

There’s nothing like cruising to the Caribbean for an island-hopping, paradise-packed vacation. Whether you want to kick back and relax all day every day, or embark on sunny adventures, Holland America Line knows how to make a Caribbean cruise unforgettable. Here’s a sneak peek of 7 days in the Caribbean:  Dreamy Destinations  From the sandy ...

Ready to see the world from your doorstep on a Holland America Line cruise? From kangaroos and lagoons to majestic beaches and rainforests, prepare to make unforgettable memories in places around the globe. Here’s a sneak peek of some of the destinations that will leave you awestruck: Asia Explore palaces and temples commissioned by emperors. ...