Happy Queen’s Day! Today marks the day that Her Majesty Queen Beatrix is ending her reign after 33 years and passing the crown to her eldest son, Willem-Alexander. He will be the Netherlands’ first king since Willem III died in 1890. Holland America Line is proud of its roots in the Netherlands, from its founding… read more of “Happy Queen’s…”
Category: HAL History
Amsterdam’s 140th Anniversary cake was more than 3 meters tall and about 4-5 meters wide! It took more than a week to create and was made out of plywood and sponge cake covered in chocolate. It was made in separate sections and put together within one hour on the stage with help of the carpenters,… read more of “Amsterdam’s…”
Celebrating Holland America Line’s 140th anniversary, our dining room team presented a Dutch themed night to our guests. Dining Room staff worked diligently to create flags and banners and decorate the dining room. Mr. Lelono Fnu was responsible for making the banner with 140th anniversary logo and other decorative items.
In celebration of our 140th birthday, we organized a ship building contest among crew members aboard Zuiderdam. The ships were presented at the “History of Holland America-Then & Now” sales presentation for guests to vote on their favorite ships. Guests voted on “Favorite Ship,” “Most Creative Ship” and “Most Realistic Ship.” The ship voted as… read more of “Zuiderdam’s…”
Journalist Georgina Cruz recently sailed on Zuiderdam during the company’s 140th Anniversary celebrations. She sent in this lovely photo of the ship’s cake. Here’s a photo of the cake from the Zuiderdam — it was a great anniversary party! And what a cake! — Georgina Cruz
In celebration of our 140th Anniversary this month, we’re dedicating a post a day to the wonderful destinations, attributes and people that make a Holland America Line cruise so special. Today’s post is about: Our fabulous Pianist Michael Sara ODE TO A “dam” PIANO BAR By Eurodam Guests Carol and Randy (the President) Wright We… read more of “Celebrating 140…”
Here is our fabulous float — Captain’s Diner van Holland America Line — in the annual Bloemencorso Flower Parade. The parade featured 20 flower floats plus decorated cars and local bands. The theme was “Bon Appetit” and was held April 19 and 20, 2013, traveling 40 km from Noordwijkerhout to Haarlem, the Netherlands.
Our participation in the 2013 Annual Bloemencorso Flower Parade was not the first time we created a float for this event. In 1948, we entered a 35-foot flower float modeled on Westerdam that was awarded first place!