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From Large to Small, Choosing Your Ideal Holland America Cruise Ship

The Perfect Balance: Why Mid-Sized Cruise Ships Are Just Right

All of Holland America’s mid-sized ships offer the ideal blend of small-ship intimacy and large-ship amenities. Think of it as the “Goldilocks of cruising”: not too big, not too small — just right. While all our ships feature sophisticated décor, spacious staterooms, and European-inspired design, each of our four ship classes offers a slightly different experience.

A smaller Holland America cruise ship moving through the Panama Canal.

Choosing Your Ideal Ship Size

With 11 ships carrying between 1,432–2,668 guests, our fleet provides an uncrowded experience and more room at the rail.

Pinnacle Class: Largest Ships

A performer singing in the mic with the BB Kings Blues Club sign in the background and other.
  • Ships: Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam
  • Capacity: About 2,650 guests
  • Highlights: Newest and largest ships; highest number of Specialty Dining and entertainment venues including Tamarind, Gelato, the Grand Dutch Café, and B.B. King’s Blues Club.

Signature Class

  • Ships: Nieuw Amsterdam, Eurodam
  • Capacity: About 2,100 guests
  • Highlights: Morimoto by Sea restaurant on board Nieuw Amsterdam; High Score! family game room; Tamarind Specialty Dining venue; entertainment by Third Avenue West.

Ready to experience our perfectly sized ships? Find your next cruise.

Vista Class

  • Ships: Noordam, Westerdam, Oosterdam, Zuiderdam
  • Capacity: About 1,900 guests
  • Highlights: Smaller than Signature and Pinnacle Class ships; entertainment by Third Avenue West; High Score! family game room on board Oosterdam.

“R” Class: Smallest Ships

  • Ships: Volendam, Zaandam
  • Capacity: About 1,430 guests
  • Highlights: MIX piano bar; Grand Voyages and longer itineraries; access to smaller ports (such as Montréal) beyond the reach of megaships.

What You’ll Find on Every Ship

Two adults on the deck of a Holland America cruise ship gazing at each other.

Regardless of size, every Holland America ship offers:

  • A Relaxing, Intimate Atmosphere:
    Spacious open decks, quiet lounges, and elegant public areas — refreshingly free of amusement parks.
  • Destination Dining™:
    With local ingredients sourced directly from port to plate, our Destination Dining™ tells the story of each region through its unique flavors. Find out more about our onboard dining.
  • Activities & Entertainment:
    From trivia and live music to destination experts, your days and nights are filled with unforgettable experiences. Find out more about the activities and entertainment on board our ships.
  • Wellness & Recreation:
    Rejuvenate your senses at sea with our onboard pools, Spa & Salon, Fitness Center, and Retreat and Lido cabanas.
  • Exceptional Service:
    Our 1:2 crew-to-guest ratio ensures that every moment on board is filled with care and connection.
  • Spacious Accommodations:
    Thoughtfully designed suites and staterooms.

Access to Spectacular Destinations

Our perfectly sized ships can weave through narrow waterways with ease. Here are a few of our spectacular scenic cruising experiences:

Find Your Perfect Fit

With each of our 11 ships offering a unique blend of size, style, and service, there’s one that’s just right for you. Whether you desire the variety of a larger ship or the intimacy of a small ship, you’ll find comfort, elegance, and personalized service on board.

Explore our mid-sized cruise ships and find your perfect match.

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