rotterdam cruise ship inside

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2,668 guest

984 ft. length

114.8 ft. width

Our newest ship, Rotterdam , delivers the best of everything we do: exquisite cuisine, award-winning service, superbly appointed staterooms and suites, and world-class entertainment. Dance the night away at B.B. King’s Blues Club or relive your favorite rock classics at Rolling Stone Lounge. Experience Rotterdam ’s Pinnacle Class luxury and find a mastery of the details that keep our guests returning again and again.

Explore Rotterdam

Cruise activities on board.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our 7-piece band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Movies On Board

Enjoy recent-release films in the movie theater on select ships or in the comfort of your stateroom.

Screening nightly in the movie theatre (on select ships) are recent-release films and perennially popular classics. You can also watch movies any time in your stateroom or suite. And aboard  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam , watch your favorite stars light up the night on a giant outdoor LED movie screen by the Lido Pool.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

Dining Experiences On Your Cruise

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi's Sel De Mer

Rudi's Sel De Mer offers a modern twist on classic French dishes and seafood.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. Menu selections include whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt, oysters on the half shell, fruits de mer, and salt-crust baked branzino, as well as favorites such as steak frites, duck cassoulet and coq au vin. Conclude your dinner with a classic dessert and fine French cheeses.  

Meals at Sel de Mer are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant is available on  Rotterdam ,  Koningsdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , but on other ships, the Rudi’s Sel de Mer menu is available on select evenings in Pinnacle Grill.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

With many flavors to choose from and ingredients like Sicilian pistachios and amarena cherries, each frozen spoonful transports you to Italy.

At “G” Gelato, you can indulge your sweet tooth with a classic European gelato (ice cream), made fresh on board each day by chefs trained at the Carpigiani Gelato University. Choose from among 12 delightful flavors, two of which are rotated daily. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, this tasty treat is served in a variety of ways, including gelato popsicles and the flavors of G, composed shots with layers of caramel, nuts and gelato. Love pistachio?  Select ingredients like Sicilian pistachios make our pistachio gelato out of this world!

Club Orange Program Benefits

Club Orange offers an added level of luxury on Holland America with expanded dining menus, special events and priority access. Learn more about Club Orange.

See the  full Club Orange benefits  (PDF)

Join Club Orange to experience a new level of luxury, from priority check-in and disembarkation to premium dining amenities. Club Orange benefits include a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a special event chosen by the captain and priority check-in and disembarkation. Read on for a full list of Club Orange benefits.

Please  contact us  for Club Orange pricing and availability or to enroll.

Morimoto By Sea (Pop-Up)

Masaharu Morimoto, our Fresh Fish Ambassador brings his innovative style to Morimoto by Sea, a specialty restaurant on board Nieuw Amsterdam and a pop-up dining experience on the rest of the fleet.

Chef Masaharu Morimoto, our Global Fresh Fish Ambassador brings his innovative style to Morimoto by Sea, a pop-up dining experience that will take over Tamarind or Pinnacle Grill at least once per cruise. The pop-up’s menu features artfully presented dishes, exclusive alcoholic beverages, and tantalizing desserts. Nieuw Amsterdam offers our full Morimoto by Sea restaurant.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Suites & Staterooms

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
• Ice service

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads.

Vista Suite

With a verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower, mini-bar and refrigerator.

Signature Suite

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity and large shower. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

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Rotterdam Interior Cabins

• 3. Promenade
• 4. Beethoven
• 5. Gershwin
• 7. Schubert
• 8. Navigation
• 10. Panorama
• 12. Observation
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• Family Oceanview
• Signature Suite
• Neptune Suite
• Pinnacle Suite
• Ship info and tracking
• Cabin Check

Listing of Rotterdam Interior stateroom and cabins that we have ACTUAL pictures and/or videos of. Cruisedeckplans.com features links to actual stateroom and cabin pictures and videos.

The following is a listing of all the cabins we have pictures or videos for on this ship and also on the sister ships. The cabins on sister ships are usually similar but that is not always the case. Click on any cabin number link to view pictures and/or videos. Youtube column will say "YouTube" if there is a video for that cabin. You can filter the results using the search box. You can also sort by column headings.

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The evolution of heritage: A first look at Holland America's new Rotterdam cruise ship

Tradition has always been at the forefront for Holland America Line , a company with roots that reach as far back as 1873, when the then-named Nederlandsche-Amerikaansche Stoomvaart Maatschappij (Dutch-American Steamship Company) ferried passengers back and forth between Rotterdam and New York City.

HAL's first ship was Rotterdam; since the line began operations, it has just about always had a vessel with that name in its fleet.

In November, I sailed on the line's newest ship -- the seventh to bear the name for Holland America. With its modern take on passenger cruising, it's a far cry from the original Rotterdam -- and from many other Holland America ships -- but it still finds plenty of ways to pay homage to its predecessors while innovating in ways that both retain what matters to its stalwart passenger base and make space for new generations of cruisers without being too flashy.

Here's how the newest Rotterdam handles dining, cabins, entertainment and more.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Dining and drinks

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: Holland America's cuisine is seriously underrated.

Whether you're eating in an added-fee specialty restaurant, grabbing a meal in the included main dining room or snagging a snack from the cafe, the quality and presentation of the food on HAL's ships are consistently superb. It's one of the few cruise lines that doesn't require passengers to pay extra in order to enjoy a truly delicious or fancy meal.

The complimentary two-deck dining room is open daily for breakfast, lunch (on sea days) and dinner. Apart from a few fun lighting fixtures, the space is fairly neutral and nondescript, leaving all eyes on the food itself, and it doesn't disappoint.

I thoroughly enjoyed my French onion soup, Caesar salad and salmon with capers and dill. The menu offers several more exciting selections, too, some of which incorporate port-sourced ingredients. There are also several options for vegetarians and cruisers who can't eat dairy or gluten.

Among the other complimentary dining outposts are the Lido Market buffet, which is crew-served and open for all meals with an astounding variety of options; the Grand Dutch Cafe, which offers out-of-this-world grilled ham and cheese sandwiches and pea soup, plus complimentary coffee and extra-fee alcohol and prepackaged Dutch candy and pastries; and New York Deli and Pizza, overlooking the main pool.

Unfortunately, my slice of pizza looked (and tasted) like it had been under a heat lamp for hours. (It was the only subpar dining experience I had on the entire sailing, but other passengers I spoke with said their experience was fantastic.) Room service is available 24 hours a day, and it's also free, with the exception of select items that are noted on the menu.

Pinnacle Grill, the ship's added-cost steakhouse, is a favorite of Holland America fans, and it's one of the most dress-up-worthy venues on board.

Designed for carnivores, the menu does offer a couple of vegetarian choices, but the star of the show is the meat. I drooled over the candied bacon appetizer — designed by chef David Burke and served on a clothesline -- which was so good one of my travel companions joked he'd be ordering it again for dessert.

My 7-ounce filet mignon arrived cooked to perfection, along with sauces and shareable sides like asparagus, lobster macaroni and cheese and roasted baby beets with blue cheese. Anyone looking for something more substantial will be pleased to find that a 36-ounce tomahawk steak is also available to order.

Rudi's Sel de Mer is an upscale for-fee restaurant that focuses on fish and seafood, but steak, duck and lamb also make an appearance on the menu, as well as a few vegetarian selections. You can't go wrong with the jumbo Alaskan crab legs, which come cracked and ready to eat with a side of drawn butter.

For dessert, I highly recommend Rudi's Face to Face Chocolate, which consists of fruit and chocolate arranged on a plate in one of chef Rudi Sodamin's signature Food Faces designs.

Tamarind, the added-fee Asian restaurant that shares real estate with Nami Sushi, is located at the very aft of the ship. I found it difficult to access initially, but it's a stunning, elegant space with an interesting list of dishes such as a satay sampler with Malaysian, Chinese, Thai, Indonesian and Vietnamese small bites; cashew barramundi with red Thai curry; wasabi- and soy-crusted beef tenderloin; and Mongolian barbecue lamb chops.

I absolutely loved the spicy dan dan noodles with a side of steamed jasmine rice.

Also worth noting are Canaletto, an Italian restaurant that takes up residence at the Lido Market at night and levies a supplemental charge, and the Club Orange dining room, which is free to passengers who are booked in suites. Cruisers not booked in suites are able to pay for access to Club Orange and a slew of other perks.

As with most ships, Rotterdam has a large number of bars, but a few stand out.

The most impressive is the Half Moon Bar, which is new to the fleet and features a menu that's a mix of science and history. In addition to wine and beer, this watering hole -- located where the Blend wine mixing bar is found on other Pinnacle-class vessels -- boasts seven exclusive cocktails, each with its own story and ties to Holland America's maritime history.

My favorite? The Rotterdam VII: smoked gin and maraschino. It's a smokey drink that actually appeals to those of us who prefer sweeter tipples. Plus, the presentation is one you won't want to miss. (Be ready to snap a photo or take a video.)

My second-favorite beverage outpost is the Grand Dutch Cafe for its cappuccinos and nibbles as much as its mixed drinks. The former are fabulous, but if you're looking for a sugar rush, you'll also want to try the Dutch take on an Aperol spritz -- De Kuyper Oranje Bitter mixed with Sprite. Be warned: it's over-the-top sweet, but it pairs perfectly with one of the cafe's complimentary pastries.

For those seeking some quiet time reading, playing board games, doing puzzles or simply gazing at the sea, head to the Crow's Nest. The lounge's Explorations Cafe ensures you won't have to go far to grab a cozy coffee or tea, but this location deserves a shout simply because it's the only place on board where I was able to find my favorite Dutch treat, stroopwafels.

Then there's the Sea View Bar, which offers standard poolside drinks near the adults-only Sea View Pool. The starboard (right, when facing the front of the ship) side of the area is dedicated to smokers, which is a turnoff, but otherwise, there are comfy seats, twin hot tubs and, of course, the pool itself, which is backlit by color-changing mood lighting at night and complemented by breathtaking vistas of the ship's wake by day.

Below the suite level, cabins on Rotterdam comprise the usual categories: insides, outsides and balconies all with neutral, subdued color schemes that are almost exclusively white, cream, brown and tan with light woods. The only pops of black, slate gray and light blue come from a few throw pillows, the bed runner and curtains (in oceanview and balcony cabins). The houndstooth carpet pattern also stands out.

Even the most standard staterooms are outfitted with touches many mainstream lines don't bother to incorporate, such as glass showers and shaving bars in the bathrooms; shoeshine baskets and tie racks in the closets; and USB charging ports near the beds in the main cabin, as well as DVD players to go along with the interactive televisions.There's also an impressive selection of free movie titles from which to choose.

Makeup-lovers will appreciate enhanced lighting near each cabin vanity, as well as standalone makeup mirrors, which can be found in the drawers alongside a hairdryer.

Passengers looking for more high-end digs will appreciate Rotterdam's selection of suites, which include Vista Suites (basically a slightly larger balcony cabin), Signature Suites (with a murphy bed, dual-sink vanity and full-size whirlpool bath) and Neptune Suites (large sitting area, Neptune Lounge access and a private concierge in addition to Signature Suite amenities).

All are elegantly appointed and offer a bit more space than standard cabins.

All cruisers booked in Neptune Suite accommodations have complimentary Club Orange access, entitling them to meals in the exclusive Club Orange dining room, as well as other perks like priority embarkation and disembarkation. Passengers not booked in suites are able to join Club Orange by paying for those extras.

Forty cabins across several categories, including suites, are tailored for accessibility. Of those 40, 13 are ambulatory accessible for passengers who use canes or walkers. The rest are fully accessible for cruisers with wheelchairs or scooters; they are equipped with roll-in showers and other accommodations .

Additionally, the ship provides 12 cabins for solo travelers. All are found in a cluster at the front of Deck 12 (the Main Deck) and are fairly small.

Entertainment

Entertainment on Holland America ships is generally more subdued than what you might expect when sailing with some other lines, but that doesn't mean it's boring.

New to the fleet with Rotterdam's debut is "Origin Story," a high-tech, live-hosted documentary-style show that chronicles HAL's history -- from the original Rotterdam through the pandemic-related shutdown of 2020 -- in a way that will leave you wanting to see it more than once. (Bring tissues.)

The World Stage, where "Origin Story" is shown, serves as the ship's main theater and also plays host to dance performances and doo-wop groups, among other nightly shows.

A highlight of the onboard entertainment scene is Music Walk, a promenade dotted with four performance venues that house different musical experiences and other offerings, allowing passengers to find something that caters to their specific tastes.

The Rolling Stone Rock Room features a live band that plays nightly rock tunes, while B.B. King's Blues Club puts the focus on bluesy hits and comedic acts.

Billboard Onboard, which also serves as the home base for daily trivia competitions, pits dueling pianists against one another for decade-specific tunes, Hot 100 songs and even requests.

Lincoln Center Stage spotlights instrumental performances, covering genres like classical, Latin and French. I was surprised to see that some of the nighttime venues had people dancing as late as 1 a.m.

Some of the other options for fun-seeking travelers include casino play, poolside movies, afternoon tea, pickleball, board games, basketball shooting competitions, spa seminars, dance and mixology classes and wine tastings.

Public areas

Rotterdam's public spaces are elegantly designed and feature plenty of nooks and crannies for relaxing, finding some quiet time or grabbing a drink. The ship was at less than 40% capacity when I sailed, so I can't speak to how crowded it might feel when it's full, but I had no trouble escaping for a few quiet moments now and then.

Some of the notable public areas include the Greenhouse Spa and Salon, where passengers can receive a variety of for-fee treatments like massages and manicures, have their hair done or check out the thermal suite; the fitness center (which is equipped with several cardio and weight machines, as well as free weights and studio space for added-cost yoga and spin classes); the top-deck jogging track for fresh-air laps; and the onboard shops, selling everything from HAL logo wear and duty-free items to toiletries you might have forgotten to pack.

The vessel's main pool is the Lido Pool on Deck 9. Thankfully, it lacks bright, kitschy, tropical decor that seems to be synonymous with cruise ships and, instead, boasts plenty of loungers, a retractable roof to allow swimming in any kind of weather, three hot tubs and easy access to bar service, gelato and the buffet, as well as the deli and pizzeria, which is one deck above.

The Sea View Pool, also on Deck 9, is the adults-only pool. There, the focus is on the passing scenery and the ship's wake. There are also two hot tubs, and elegant lantern lighting is reminiscent of an upscale beach club.

New additions

As the third ship in Holland America's Pinnacle Class, Rotterdam is the product of evolution. It's worlds away from some of the line's oldest vessels, yet still the same in all the ways that matter: comfort, service, food, tradition, serenity and understated elegance.

New on Rotterdam are the previously mentioned Half Moon Bar; the onboard library, which gives me serious Barnes & Noble vibes and is fully stocked with sections for travel, young adult, mystery, poetry, fiction and science fiction, among others; and the onboard art collection, comprising 2,500 intriguing and eye-catching pieces from artists around the world.

Bottom line

With Rotterdam and the other vessels in the Pinnacle Class, Holland America has managed to please its most loyal demographic while offering plenty to keep younger cruisers satisfied and entertained. Although it doesn't attract large numbers of children, it's absolutely suitable for multigenerational family trips.

Service is great across the board; cabins are well-appointed, elegant and comfortable; and the food in just about every eatery is simply excellent.

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• Deck plan Rotterdam

Rotterdam Deck plan

2668 Passengers (2668 with upper beds)

• Ship information/Review
• Contacting the ship
• Current position

Stateroom categories

• Inside deck 1, 4 and 6-7
• Inside deck 1 and 4-8, midships
• Inside deck 5-8 and 11, bow/stern
• Inside deck 4-7, bow/stern
• Inside deck 4, bow
• Single Outside deck 1, bow
• Outside deck 1, midships
• Outside deck 7 and 11, bow
• Outside deck 1 and 4, bow
• Outside deck 1, stern
• Outside Comfort family stateroom, deck 1, stern, 2 bathrooms
• Wellness incl. oceanview stateroom, deck 10, bow
• Wellness incl. interior stateroom, deck 10, bow
• Wellness incl. Neptune Suite with balcony, deck 10, bow, partly metal covered balcony
• Wellness incl. balcony stateroom, deck 10, bow
• Balcony Comfort deck 5-8, midships
• Balcony Comfort deck 6-8, midships
• Balcony Comfort deck 4, 8 and 11, bow/stern
• Balcony Comfort deck 5-6, bow/stern
• Balcony Comfort deck 5-7, bow/stern
• Balcony Comfort deck 7-8, bow/stern
• Balcony Comfort deck 4 and 8, bow, partly metal covered balcony
• Balcony Comfort deck 4, midships, partly obstructed view
• Balcony Comfort deck 5-6 and 8, stern
• Junior Suite w/ Balcony Vista Suite, deck 4-7, midships
• Junior Suite w/ Balcony Vista Suite, deck 8, midships
• Junior Suite w/ Balcony Vista Suite, deck 4 and 7, stern
• Junior Suite w/ Balcony Vista Suite, deck 4 and 6, bow/midships, partly metal covered balcony
• Suite w/ Balcony Pinnacle Suite, deck 7, midships
• Suite w/ Balcony Neptune Suite, deck 7, midships
• Suite w/ Balcony Neptune Suite, deck 4-8, stern
• Suite w/ Balcony Neptune Suite, deck 11, bow, partly metal covered balcony
• Suite w/ Balcony Signature Suite, deck 7, midships
• Suite w/ Balcony Signature Suite, deck 5, bow, partly metal covered balcony

Observation deck (12)

Sun deck (11), panorama deck (10), lido deck (9), navigation deck (8), schubert deck (7), mozart deck (6), gershwin deck (5), beethoven deck (4), promenade deck (3), plaza deck (2), main deck (1).

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ms Rotterdam

Former names: ms rotterdam vii, ms nieuw ryndam, ms nieuw rotterdam.

Cruise line Holland America

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Rotterdam (Netherlands South Holland)

ms Rotterdam current position

ms Rotterdam current location is at North Sea (coordinates 52.20683 N / 3.78340 E) cruising at speed of 18.8 kn (35 km/h | 22 mph) en route to Rotterdam. The AIS position was reported 4 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of ms Rotterdam

ms Rotterdam current cruise is 7 days, round-trip Viking Sagas . The itinerary starts on 01 Jun, 2024 and ends on 08 Jun, 2024 .

Specifications of ms Rotterdam

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

ms Rotterdam Itineraries

Ms rotterdam review, review of ms rotterdam.

The 2021-built MS Rotterdam cruise ship (initially named "Nieuw Ryndam") is the 11th vessel in the Holland America Line's fleet and the 3rd of the company's Pinnacle-class liners (HAL's newest and ever- largest ). Its sisterships are the fleetmates Koningsdam (2016) and Nieuw Statendam (2018) and also Cunard's Queen Anne . The new Rotterdam is HAL's 17th vessel built by Fincantieri .

On July 30, 2020, HAL announced that changes the ship's name from "Ryndam" to "Rotterdam" and that the newbuild will become the fleet's flagship. This is HAL's 7th liner to bear this name (aka "Rotterdam VII"). The last Rotterdam cruise ship was sold in July 2020 to Fred Olsen and later renamed "MS Borealis".

The new Rotterdam cruise ship (IMO number 9837470) is currently Holland- flagged (MMSI 245464000) and was delivered on July 30, 2021 (initially was scheduled for May 31st).

History - construction and ownership

Holland America Line (HAL) is a Seattle -based cruise company owned by Carnival Corporation (shipowner). Between 1873-1989, HAL was a Dutch cargo and passenger shipping company operating regular Transatlantic crossings between Holland and the Americas. HAL was founded in 1873 as "Dutch-American Steamship Company" headquartered in Rotterdam Netherlands . In 1989, HAL was acquired by Carnival Corporation for around EUR 530 million. Among the company's assets are the Westmark hotel chain (Alaska-Yukon), Worldwide Shore Services (warehouses-logistics) and Half Moon Cay (Caribbean/Bahamian private island).

The 3210-passenger ship Rotterdam was initially named "Nieuw Ryndam", which was announced on April 7, 2019. The name honored the company's first Ryndam ship, part of the fleet between 1901-1929. The ocean liner was originally named Rijndam - until 1923 when it received the English "Ryndam". In 1927, Ryndam I became HAL's first ship with a world cruise , although the liner was chartered as a floating school for that voyage. The 2nd (Ryndam II) liner served between 1951-1973. The 3rd (Ryndam, built 1994) was sold to the sisterbrand P&O Australia in 2015 and is currently operated as Pacific Aria .

The new MS Rotterdam is named after Rotterdam City (South Holland, The Netherlands).

HAL's ever-first liner was named SS Rotterdam, which maiden voyage (Rotterdam to NYC New York) departed on October 15, 1872. On April 18, 1873, was officially founded the Holland America Line. The 1878-built "SS Rotterdam II" was purchased from British Ship Owners Co in 1886. The 1897-built "SS Rotterdam III" served HAL until 1906. "SS Rotterdam IV" (1908-1940, capacity 3139 passengers + 472 crew) operated regularly scheduled Mediterranean roundtrips from NYC New York . "SS Rotterdam V" (aka "The Grande Dame", 1959-1997) started regularly scheduled Transatlantic crossings until 1969 when was converted into a cruiser. The vessel also operated Grand World Voyages and is currently moored in Rotterdam City serving as a hotel ship and museum. "MS Rotterdam VI" (1997-built) is now Fred Olsen Borealis .

Decks and Cabins

MS Rotterdam staterooms (1340 total, in 35 grades) include 164 Suites, 748 Balcony, 147 Oceanviews (including 32x Family Oceanview and 12x Studios/single cabins), 280 Inside. Most cabins as sized ~180 m2 (17 m2). Most cabin balconies are sized 50 ft2 / 5 m2. Nearly 70% of the ship's passenger accommodations have private step-out balconies. Wheelchair-accessible cabins are 27. The largest accommodation is the Penthouse/Pinnacle Suite (970 ft2 / 90 m2, with terrace sized 320 ft2 / 30 m2 and fitted with an outdoor Jacuzzi).

The boat has 13 passenger decks , of which 8 are with cabins.

Four distinct color schemes identify the spa, suite, verandah, oceanview and inside categories. Passengers enjoy the redesigned headboards with electrical and USB outlets on both sides of the bed, as well as stone tops on nightstands and decks, improved lighting and more storage.

Club Orange is an exclusive (Suite-only) venue integrated into HAL's "Club Orange" program providing exclusive amenities to passengers booked in the Suite categories Neptune and Pinnacle. Bonus perks by the Club Orange program include:

• priority services (check-in, disembarkation, tendering, dining reservations)
• 24-hour concierge service (assistance, information, reservations)
• exclusive dining venue (Club Orange Restaurant/deck 2) serving complimentary Pinnacle Grill breakfast and Dining Room dinner, plus exclusive dishes
• dedicated Concierge Desk (Guest Services and Tours)
• room service (a la carte breakfast menu with complimentary gourmet dishes - including smoked salmon, steak and eggs)
• sparkling wine (embarkation day), Club Orange tote bag, premium bathrobes (cabin use, available for monogramming and purchasing)

Club Orange Restaurant occupies the area of the former "Culinary Arts Center". Culinary Arts Center was a premium dinner-only restaurant (cover charge $39 pp, unlimited wine included) via partnership with the “Food & Wine Magazine”. This open-kitchen/show-kitchen venue was used daily for professional cooking shows, culinary classes and workshops (cooking and cocktail) presented in demonstration kitchens. In the evenings, the venue transformed into “Dinner at the Culinary Arts Center”. This specialty dining concept ("America's Test Kitchen") provided a top-quality gourmet experience - the ship’s chefs prepared dishes in the demonstration kitchen while the guests enjoyed each course with wine pairing. At the entry, there were 9 interactive TV displays allowing guests to explore personal lives, special recipes, cooking secrets and tips from famous food and wine industry celebrities. By Holland America Line’s partnership with Koppert Cress (microgreen specialist), the Culinary Arts Center had a live garden to grow fresh ingredients. This enabled the guests to enjoy farm-to-table items from the dinner menu (veggie fare, 5 choices, dessert, cheese plate). The ingredients were displayed in a glass-enclosed garden area and harvested just before being served. Once sown, the seedlings grew for up to 2 weeks. The list of microgreens integrated in the recipes included garlic, mustard, licorice.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

The 2-level MDR/main dining room restaurant serves open-seating breakfast and lunch, as well as a blend of flexible and set-seating restaurant-style meals at dinner. Breakfast hours in the MDR vary but start as early as 7 am on port days and 8 am on sea days, wrapping up by 9:30 am. Breakfast fare includes bread, cereals, French toast, blueberry pancakes, corned beef hash, egg dishes and yogurt parfaits. Portions are on the smaller side, so better opt for a second pastry. Lunch in the MDR is typically limited to an hour per day (from noon to 1 pm on sea days; closed when the ship is in port for an entire day). If you see a line of guests waiting to be seated, do not be deterred as the line moves fast and the tables are plenty. Lunch fare includes sandwiches, soups, light salads, fish and heartier entrees.

Holland America Rotterdam offers a total of 11 dining options. The MDR is a 2-deck high restaurant featuring floor-ceiling windows, curved architectural pillars (accentuating the high ceiling), modern glass lighting, custom-made furnishings. The restaurant's centerpiece is a copper sheath surrounding the 2-story wine tower showcasing an impressive premium wine selection. On the menu are HAL's classic selections, signature dishes, regionally inspired cuisine, Culinary Council recipes from the world-renowned chefs who compose the group, including Council Chairman and Master Chef Rudi Sodamin and international chefs David Burke, Elizabeth Falkner, Jacques Torres, Jonnie Boer and Mark Best.

In addition to Dining Room Restaurant, MS Rotterdam offers fine dining in alternative restaurants, including redesigned Lido Market (with themed food stations) the new French seafood brasserie Rudi's Sel de Mer, new suite-exclusive dining (Club Orange Restaurant), Canaletto (Italian), Tamarind (pan-Asian/sushi bar) and Pinnacle Grill (steakhouse/seafood restaurant).

BLEND is a glass-enclosed winery room (capacity 10 seats) where are hosted daily wine blending sessions. These are reservations-only events (90 min sessions, $129 cover charge) with sommelier service. The BLEND venue is via partnership with the winemaker Chateau Ste Michelle Winery (Woodinville Washington). Wine-tasting events are seminar-like (led by a wine expert). Each session includes a sampling of 5 red wines (single-vineyard) later combined with different vintages into a personal blend. After the event, you can bottle and take your newly created wine and consume it at the ship’s restaurants or in the stateroom. At the BLEND room all guests are allowed to see the wines offered in the Pinnacle Grill and Sel de Mer, and also to choose their vintage from the impressive selection of premium wines.

Follows the complete list of MS Rotterdam restaurants and food bars.

• Pinnacle Grill (reservations-only seafood/steakhouse restaurant with fine wines selection; free for passengers under 12 yo). The venue transforms into "De Librije" (US$69-89) from time to time, inspired by the land-based Dutch restaurant De Librije with two Michelin stars. A wine tasting is included with the meal (four 2 oz. pours). A wine pairing is also available for an additional US$20 per person (four 5 oz. pours).
• Rudi's Sel De Mer is a dinner-only specialty restaurant (French seafood brasserie) also serving traditional dishes from Southeast Asia, China, Japan. In comparison to Koningsdam's original Sel De Mer (upgraded during drydock 2018), the restaurant on Statendam and Rotterdam is by design larger (54 seats) but retains the curving shape and walnut wood-made, accordion-like column structure. The back wall is decorated with porcelain plates, all of which decorated with Chef Rudi's Food Faces culinary pop art (via a partnership with Bernardaud - French porcelain masters). The food plates are arranged from classic ingredients (caviar, fruits, root vegetables, peppers, etc). In January 2018, HAL released the coffee table book "Food Faces" - available for purchase on the ship. Signature dishes in the a la carte menu include Rudi's Seafood Tower, Fruits de Mer, Broiled Lobster Tail, Whole Dover Sole Meuniere, Clams au Beurre, Duck Cassoulet, Steak Tartare, Steak Frites, Souffle au Fromage, Salt Crust Baked Branzino. Signature desserts include Rudi's Face to Face Chocolate, Rudi's Souffle, Crepes Suzette, Profiteroles with Hot Chocolate Sauce, Apple Tarte Tatin, Artisanal French Cheese Plate.
• The Dining Room (aft Dining Room; features open seating Breakfast and Lunch, two Dinner options - 2 fixed seatings or "Any Time" dining between 5:15-9 pm)
• Canaletto Restaurant is a Lido Restaurant annex and also doubles as an Italian restaurant (dinner-only, reservations are required).
• Club Orange Restaurant serves exclusively HAL's Club Orange/Suite passengers (booked in categories Neptune and Pinnacle).
• Grand Dutch Cafe is a Holland-themed a-la-carte-priced patisserie bar for traditional Dutch snacks/sweets and beverages (including coffees and Heineken draft beer) as well as premium European beers.
• Dive-In is a complimentary fast-food bar / poolside bar offering gourmet burgers and fries.
• New York Deli and Pizza is a complimentary fast-food bar offering made-to-order sandwiches and pies.
• Gelato (ice cream bar)

Lido Market (capacity 386 seats) is the ship’s self-service buffet restaurant open for Breakfast (6-11 am), Lunch (11:30-2 pm), Afternoon Tea (3-4 pm) and Dinner (5:30-8 pm). Food is complimentary and displayed at 5 themed stations. The Lido Buffet is designed as a modern marketplace, with numerous on-the-go or made-to-order food choices. Differently themed food stations (walk-up service) offer fresh-made sandwiches, grilled food, International fare, salads, fruits, desserts, daily specials. The food stations are named Breadboard (fresh-baked bread, pastries, sandwiches), Wild Harvest (salads, fruits, healthy food bites), Homestead (comfort food, including egg dishes and grilled meats), Distant Lands (themed cuisine specialties, including from the current cruise itinerary’s regions), Sweet Spot (desserts).

Tamarind (aft on Deck 10) is a reservations-only Asian restaurant open for complimentary lunch and at-fee dinner (at surcharge per person). Tamarind Bar serves the restaurant with cocktails and other beverages. Part of the Tamarind is the Japanese food bar Nami Sushi (capacity 7 seats only, also serving popular Asian spirits). Nami Sushi is open for lunch and dinner but both are at surcharge PP. Tamarind's sushi menu is created by chef Andy Matsuda and additionally includes 4 of his signature rolls.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The World Stage is the ship's main show (theater) lounge, featuring 270-degree LED screens for multiple stage configurations. Lido Pool (one of the 2 swimming pools) has an outdoor movie screen, 3 whirlpools and 2 levels of cushioned lounge chairs. The central pool area (Magrodome) is on 2 levels to create glass-enclosed space. The lower level has traditional poolside elements, while the mezzanine level offers more seating, a huge LED screen for poolside movies, Deli and Pizza (complimentary fast-food bars).

Onboard live musical entertainment is concentrated in the Music Walk area (forward-midship on Plaza Deck 2) housing the music-themed venues Lincoln Center Stage & B.B. King's Blues Club, Rolling Stone Rock Room, and Billboard Onboard.

The 2-tiered Lincoln Center Stage & B.B. King's Blues Club (fka Queen's Lounge/decks 2-3) is a grand ballroom/concert hall/nightclub with two grand pianos (on floor 1), HAL fleet's biggest dance floor (floor 1), its own bar (floor 1), balcony seating (floor 2) and has a resident 8-man band (2 vocalists, 1 drummer, 1 pianist/organist, 1 bassist, 1 guitarist, 1 saxophonist, 1 trumpeter). The lounge hosts live musical performances (concerts, classical pieces, blues, popular hits from the 60s, sing-alongs) as well as a daily enrichment program (guest speakers, seminars, special events). Lincoln Center Stage is a collaboration with "Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts" (NYC) featuring classical/chamber music with a quintet combining piano and strings.

Rolling Stone Rock Room is a classic rock club (via partnership with Rolling Stone Magazine) where are offered live 5-piece band performances.

Billboard Onboard is a signature sing-along bar with live performances (pianists, guitarists, DJ) in a variety of genres (including pop, rock, classic, country). There are 3 programs per night (each lasts 45 to 60 min). The music bar hosts dynamic evening shows, has a central stage (with two grand pianos), wood-paneled walls, three large-size TVs, comfortable seating (plush sofas and chairs, round tables).

Other amenities include: complimentary 24-Hour Room-Service, supervised Kids Program ("Club Hal"), cruise ship weddings, Internet/WiFi access, Laundry Rooms (Laundromats). Ship's laundry rooms are not self-service (no passenger-use laundrettes). Laundry services are offered via hotel staff and at an additional charge.

Follows the complete list of MS Rotterdam bars, lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens and adults.

• Atrium (3-deck midship area with open-floor design and live performances). The Atrium features a stainless-steel sculpture emulating the sense of being inside and encircled by a musical instrument. The experience changes as passengers move around and through it, with no two perspectives being the same. The atrium is capped by Skylight (glass roof) which serves as the backdrop for HD video projections or live-streaming of the night sky.
• Stuyvesant Room (multi-purpose, used for cards playing, group meetings, presentations, Club HAL kids program)
• World Stage (theatre/main show lounge; also serves Holland America's enrichment program (via a partnership with BBC Earth)
• Lincoln Center Stage & B.B. King's Blues Club (fka Queen's Lounge) is a 2-deck grand ballroom/concert hall (with two grand pianos and a large dance floor) hosting live musical performances (classical/chamber music, blues).
• Digital Workshop (powered by MS Windows)
• Photo Gallery & Shop; Art Gallery
• Shore Excursions Desk; 4 Meeting Rooms
• Signature Shops (boutiques for duty-free tobaccos and liquor, perfumes, watches, clothing, HAL logo merchandise, souvenirs); Marabella Luxury Shop; Dive-in (scuba and diving equipment)
• Club Orange (suite-only restaurant)
• Ocean Bar (fka Explorer's Lounge & Bar) is an Atrium bar lounge with dance floor, stage (for live performances), wine tastings.
• Billboard Onboard (sing-along bar with live music performances)
• BLEND (glass-enclosed winery room)
• Neptune Lounge (club venue for Deluxe Suite and Pinnacle guests only)
• Sport Court (basketball, volleyball, soccer); Sun Deck; Promenade Deck, Walking/Jogging Track
• Club HAL (kids lounge, complimentary youth programming)
• The Loft (teens club lounge area, with Video Games Arcade, computers, PlayStations; teen disco)

The wellness complex (forward on decks 9-10) consists of Fitness Center (gymnasium with a separate Aerobics Room for classes) and Greenhouse Spa & Salon (Therapy Rooms, Treatment Rooms (for massages), Hydrotherapy Pool with heated seawater, Thermal Suites, Relax Lounge with heated ceramic loungers, Sauna Room, Aroma Steam Room, Relaxation Area, Beauty Salon/manicure-pedicure, barber services).

Spacious sundecks spread over 3 floors (decks 9-10 midship and aft, deck 11 aft) and are fitted with 2 swimming pools and 5 outdoor Jacuzzies (deck 9). The Lido Pool area (midship) is served by Lido Bar (beverages), Gelato (ice cream bar), Dive-In (fka Terrace Grill), New York Delly & Pizza (fast food) and Panorama Bar (beverages). The Sea View Pool area (aft) is served by Sea View Bar.

“Movies by the Pool Deck” is a 2-deck outdoor Cinema served by the New York Delly & Pizza (deck 10) with light snacks (including popcorn, sandwiches, pizza, fresh chips, nachos). During movie nights, loungers and blankets are provided, as well as chair-side waiter service from the food bars (Gelato, NY Deli & Pizza, Dive-In/Terrace Grill) and waiter service for drinks at the Lido Bar.

The Retreat (deck 12) is an adults-only sundeck/relaxation zone with private cabanas available for rent. Daily rent prices are inclusive of a massage tent, lunch, concierge service.

Explorations Central & Cafe (fka Crow’s Nest & Explorations Cafe/forward on deck 11) is an indoor observation lounge with panoramic windows (270-degree views), its own Bar (beverages), Cafe (patisserie, specialty coffees/teas), and a large dance floor. The lounge is also used for pre-scheduled events by HAL's enrichment program (daily dance classes, trivia games, card playing, karaoke, live grand piano and HAL Cats performances/8-piece party band in the afternoons and evenings). Explorations Central doubles as a disco/nightclub (with live DJ music, dancing contests) and a Library (1000+ volumes, resident librarians). Here are additionally offered multimedia series of interactive videos and guides related to the current itinerary's destinations. Explorations Central also provides digital media (videos, ebooks, maps) accessed via Wi-Fi (during the voyage) and also online (before and after the voyage). At Explorations Central, there are also paperback books and paper maps for the visited regions/destinations and ports of call.

The Casino is a large gaming lounge fitted with gambling tables, 140 slots and video poker machines, a PokerPro digital touchscreen table). It is served by Casino Bar and has a separate non-smoking area. In 2023, HAL conducted 5 wet-dock refurbishments to expand the casino space on its vessels in the Pinnacle-class (Nieuw Rotterdam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam) and Signature-class (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam).

Since 2023, all HAL ships have pickleball courts (installed on the top deck) operated via an exclusive partnership with PPA-Professional Pickleball Association. HAL also offers complimentary beginner lessons (led by onboard instructors), sells branded pickleball starter kits (at the ship's retail shops) and Play Pickleball tutorial videos are included in the cabin TV programming.

Itineraries

MS Rotterdam itinerary program was announced in late-July 2020. The new ship's maiden season was planned to be in Europe, with voyages in the Baltic Sea (Northern Europe) leaving roundtrip from homeport Amsterdam Holland .

The initial Maiden Voyage was scheduled for August 1, 2021. The 7-day itinerary was planned as one-way from Trieste to Civitavecchia-Rome. Between August 1 and October 10, the new ship was planned for deployment in Northern Europe visiting ports in Norway, the UK, Iceland.

However, despite the vessel's on-schedule delivery (on July 30th), in June HAL canceled all departures thru November 3 (the entire European season). The Inaugural Cruise date was rescheduled for October 20 (14-night Transatlantic repositioning from Amsterdam to Fort Lauderdale).

The new Rotterdam ship's homeport in the USA is Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale Florida) . The Caribbean itineraries are themed as:

• 10-day "Southern Caribbean Seafarer" - to Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk Island, Amber Cove Dominicana, Kralendijk Bonaire Island, Willemstad Curacao Island, and Oranjestad Aruba Island
• 11-day "Southern Caribbean Wayfarer" - to Philipsburg St Maarten Island, Castries St Lucia Island, Bridgetown Barbados, Fort-de-France Martinique, Basseterre St Kitts Island, Charlotte Amalie St Thomas Island, Half Moon Cay
• and the 21-day B2B/back-to-back itinerary "Southern Caribbean Seafarer and Wayfarer"
• 7-day "Eastern Caribbean" - to Grand Turk, San Juan Puerto Rico, St Thomas Island, Half Moon Cay
• 7-day "Western Caribbean" - to Half Moon Cay, Falmouth Jamaica, Grand Cayman Island, Key West Florida
• and the 14-day B2B "Eastern and Western Caribbean"

ms Rotterdam - user reviews and comments

Photos of ms rotterdam.

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Other Holland America cruise ships

• ms Koningsdam
• ms Nieuw Amsterdam
• ms Nieuw Statendam
• ms Oosterdam
• ms Volendam
• ms Westerdam
• ms Zuiderdam

ms Rotterdam Wiki

In late-January 2017, the shipowner Carnival Corporation announced 2 more shipbuilding orders. The new liners were ordered for the brands Princess Cruises (Royal-class / Discovery Princess ) and Holland America Line (Pinnacle-class / Rotterdam VII). On January 19, 2017, Carnival signed an MoA (memorandum of agreement) with the shipbuilder Fincantieri to construct both vessels, with scheduled deliveries in 2021 (Rotterdam for HAL, at Marghera yard) and 2022 (Discovery Princess, at Monfalcone yard). By the time when both shipbuilding contracts were finalized (February 2017), Carnival had a total of 19 new ships scheduled for deliveries between 2017-2022.

In 2019, Fincantieri had a total of 96 cruise vessels (built between 1990-2019) plus another 50 units on order or under construction . HAL's other "nieuw"/new liners are Nieuw Statendam (2018 - fleet's 6th "Statendam") and Nieuw Amsterdam (2010 - fleet's 4th "Amsterdam"). The new Rotterdam is the 14th cruise vessel built by Fincantieri Marghera for Holland America.

The vessel (Fincantieri Marghera yard/hull number 6278) is powered by four MAK marine diesel engines (model 12V43C) with combined power output 50,4 MW. The propulsion system is based on two ABB Azipods (azimuth thrusters) with combined output 28 MW.

The vessel's steel-cutting ceremony (hull number 6278) was held on March 13, 2019, at Fincantieri's yard in Marghera ( Venice ). On October 3, 2019, at Fincantieri's Palermo Shipyard (Sicily) was launched the vessel's forward lower section. The ceremony was led by Madrina/godmother Giuseppa Catalano who released a bottle of Champagne that smashed into the hull. This hull section (aka troncone) has length 82 m (269 ft), width 35 m (115 ft) and weighs 4400 tons. Following the launch, the section was towed from Palermo and to Marghera, where the liner was actually assembled. At Fincantieri Marghera were also constructed other hull and superstructure sections.

On November 21, 2019, at Marghera Shipyard was held the vessel's keel-laying ceremony during which was placed the first hull block (14 m long, 34 m wide, weight 500 tons) part of the midship section. The ship was launched (floated out from drydock) on October 1, 2020. The ceremony was attended by Madrina/godmother Mai Elmar ( Cruise Port Rotterdam 's Executive Director), Cyril Tatar (Holland America Line's VP of Newbuilds) and Antonio Quintano (Fincantieri Marghera's Director).

For the new MS Rotterdam, the shipbuilder contracted De Wave Group for the ship's interior outfitting.

• De Wave Group ( Genoa -based manufacturing company) specializes in newbuild cruise ships and yachts interior outfitting. The company was formed via merger of three companies - De Wave (cabins and wet units), Precetti (catering areas) and Spencer Contract (public areas).
• On MS Rotterdam, De Wave Group manufactured and supplied modules for the wellness complex (spa, gym, beauty salon) including Treatment Rooms (for massages/Decks 9-10), hallways (Deck 9), spiral staircase (connecting Decks 9-10), Fitness Center (gym, dressing rooms/Deck 9), Beauty and Hair Salon (Deck 9), Thermal complex (Turkish bath, sauna, swimming pool, showers).

The preliminary sea trials were conducted in April 25-27, 2021. Adriatic Sea trials were successfully completed in May 3-6, 2021, with the Navigation Bridge team led by Captain Werner Timmers and Chief Engineer Stefan Dullaert. The boat was officially delivered (at Fincantieri Marghera) in the evening of July 29, 2021. The handover ceremony was attended by Cyril Tatar (Holland America Group's VP of Newbuilds) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO), as well as other shipowner and shipyard executives. Via live video link also participated Jan Swartz (Holland America Group's President) and Gus Antorcha (HAL's President).

Following the delivery, Rotterdam VII remained in non-passenger shipping status until the Transatlantic crossing (scheduled for October 20, 2021/14-night from Amsterdam to Port Everglades). The Caribbean Maiden Voyage was scheduled for November 3 (4-day roundtrip to Half Moon Cay Bahamas and Key West Florida).

Fun fact is that "Nieuw-Rotterdam" was named the capital of Suriname's Nickerie District (South America), built on Cordonspunt (Nickerie River's right bank) around 1820. After the town was sea-flooded in 1875, in 1879 on the river's left bank was built the District's current capital "Nieuw-Nickerie". Nieuw Rotterdam (formally abolished in August 1979) was populated mainly by merchants (trading with Guyana). The town was twice hit by severe storms from the Atlantic Ocean (and flooded) - in 1866 and in 1875.

Holland America Rotterdam liners (history)

The new MS Rotterdam has six same-named predecessors in Holland America Line's fleet.

• The first Rotterdam ship (Maiden Voyage from Amsterdam to NYC on October 15, 1872) led to the company's establishment in 1873 (on April 18).
• Rotterdam II (1878-built) was initially owned by "British Ship Owners Co" and acquired by HAL in 1886.
• Rotterdam III (1897-built) was with HAL until 1906.
• Rotterdam IV (1908-built) also served as a troopship (during WW1 / 1914-18) and after the war operated regular Transatlantic cruises leaving roundtrip from NYC to the Mediterranean.
• Rotterdam V (1959-built) initially operated Transatlantic crossings with two passenger classes, but in 1969 was converted to a one-class liner. After 38 years of service, in 1997 the vessel was retired and is currently permanently docked in Rotterdam City serving as a hotel and museum.
• Rotterdam VI (1997-built) was the first of HAL's R-Class ships. In 2020, the vessel was sold to Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and is currently named Borealis .

On October 17, 2021, HAL officially announced the name of Rotterdam VII's godmother - HRH Princess Margriet Francisca of the Netherlands (1943-born, from the house of Orange-Nassau/van Lippe-Biesterfeld). Princess Margriet is the 3rd daughter of Queen Juliana Louise Emma Marie Wilhelmina (1909-2004) and Prince Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld (1911-2004) and is an aunt of Holland's current monarch Willem-Alexander Claus George Ferdinand (1967-born, King of the Netherlands since 2013).

• HAL's connection to The House of Orange-Nassau (Huis van Oranje-Nassau/Dutch Royal Family) started in 1929, when Duke Henry of Mecklenburg-Schwerin (1876-1934, Prince of the Netherlands and husband of Queen Wilhelmina between 1901-34) godfathered Statendam III (1927-built passenger liner).
• Princess Margriet named 4x HAL liners - Prinsendam I (1972), Nieuw Amsterdam III (1983), Rotterdam VI (1997), Oosterdam (2003).
• Queen Maxima Zorreguieta Cerruti (1971-born/spouse of King Willem-Alexander) named 2x liners - Nieuw Amsterdam (2010), Koningsdam (2016).
• Princess Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard (1938-born) named Statendam IV (1957) and Queen Beatrix (reign 1980-2013) named Eurodam (2008).
• Queen Juliana named Rotterdam V (1958).
• Queen Wilhelmina Helena Pauline Maria (1880-1962) named Nieuw Amsterdam II (1937).

The boat's official christening ceremony was on May 30, 2022, held in Rotterdam City. The event was part of the "Rotterdam Naming Celebration Cruise" (7-day roundtrip itinerary from Amsterdam to Norway's Oslo, Kristiansand, Stavanger, Flam, Sognefjord). The naming ceremony was attended by Princess Margriet (godmother), Captain Werner Timmers (the ship's Master), Arnold Donald (Carnival Corporation's President and CEO), Jan Swartz (Holland America Group's President), Ahmed Aboutaleb (Rotterdam City's Lord Mayor), David and Gisela Gere (Mariner Ambassadors). Other VIP guests included the executives Stein Kruse (Carnival Corporation's Senior Advisor to the Chairman and CEO), Randy Weisenburger (Carnival Corporation's Board Member), Keith Taylor (Holland America Group's Fleet Operations Executive VP), Nico Bleichrodt (HAL's and Seabourn's International Sales VP), as well as Boudewijn Siemons (Port Rotterdam's COO-Chief Operating Officer) and Jaap Smit (King Willem-Alexander's commissioner).

Inaugural cruise itineraries 2021

The ship's Maiden Voyage (first departure) is currently scheduled for October 20, 2021 (14-night Transatlantic from Europe to Florida), and the inaugural Caribbean departure for November 3rd.

Despite the vessel's on-schedule delivery, in mid-June HAL canceled the ship's schedule from August 1 thru November 3 (a total of 18 itineraries).

Next tables show the inaugural itineraries (by theme) with lowest prices in USD per person (with double occupancy).

(canceled) 7-day "Inaugural Cruise" from Trieste to Civitavecchia-Rome ($1600 pp)

(canceled) 14-day "Jewels Of The Baltic" ($2400 pp)

( MAIDEN VOYAGE ) 14-day Transatlantic crossing from Europe to Florida-USA (Amsterdam to Fort Lauderdale) - from $1500 pp

(inaugural Caribbean voyage) 5-day "Private Island Bahamas Escape" ($720 pp)

(B2Bs) 11-day inaugural "Southern Caribbean Wayfarer Cruise" ($1350 pp) and 10-day "Southern Caribbean Seafarer" ($1300 pp) are combinable into a 21-day B2B ($2520 pp).

(2022) 7-day "Eastern Caribbean" ($750 pp) and 7-day "Western Caribbean" ($700) are combinable into a 14-day B2B ($1380 pp).

Holland America MS Rotterdam Cabins & Staterooms With Pictures

Everything you need to know about staterooms on the hal rotterdam.

Welcome aboard the luxurious Rotterdam cruise ship, where sophistication meets coziness in each of its 1,300+ staterooms. From the modern & light wood tones to contemporary art and sophisticated patterned carpet, the ambiance is designed to soothe. Stepping into the cabins on the MS Rotterdam feels like entering a luxury suite at a Four Seasons or Ritz Carlton hotel (albeit smaller). The light-blocking curtains and velvet throw pillows add a touch of elegance to the space. Each cabin includes a large flat-screen television, safe, and mini-bar stocked with beverages (for purchase). 

What truly sets the Rotterdam apart are its balconies where you can take in the ocean breeze and soak up the stunning views while enjoying your morning coffee or evening cocktail. Balconies are available in nearly 70% of the ship’s suites and staterooms, considered a high ratio of terraces for this size ship. 

Families can opt for one of the 32 Family Ocean Views, complete with a third berth that opens from the ceiling and two bathrooms one with a shower and sink, and another with a bathtub/shower, sink, and toilet. These stateroom types are exclusive to the newer Holland America Line cruise ships (The Pinnacle Class)

No matter what stateroom type you choose, expect intelligently designed spaces with plenty of electrical outlets, adjustable bedside reading lights, and ample closet space. Holland America’s Mariner’s Dream Beds have firm and comfortable Euro-Top mattresses and pillows available in down and foam. While we found the pillows to be a little uncomfortable, the room steward did offer to swap them out for different pillow types towards the end of the cruise. 

The MS Rotterdam offers a good variety of television programming and a selection of complementary movies, old and new. News outlets provided include BBC, MSNBC, and Fox.

Verandah Staterooms on MS Rotterdam

“Verandah Staterooms” or balcony cabins are the most plentiful and popular cabin types on the Rotterdam cruise ship. While this may be a typical room, the balcony cabins are quite comfortable and feel anything BUT typical when compared to other cruise lines. The standard balcony cabin or Verandah Stateroom is equipped with a mini bar, queen bed, sofa, and desk area perfect for getting ready in the mornings (it’s also the only place the included hair dryer will be reasonably useful). Storage is plentiful in the closets and drawers and there’s plenty of room under the beds for storing luggage. 

A nice touch found in the rooms was a hair dryer, makeup mirror, robes, an umbrella as well as blankets to use on the balcony during chilly evenings (a VERY Dutch thing to have!)

The bathrooms in the balcony cabins are beautiful and well designed. The first thing you’ll notice is how good the lighting is. Unlike many cruise ships with horrible bathroom lighting, Holland America really put some thought into how people use the mirrors in the bathrooms to get ready in the evening, requiring decent light. Additionally, there is a wonderful glass shower with a rain head and intuitive controls. Gone are the days of the shower curtain sticking to you the entire time you try to bathe!

360 Degree Tour – Verandah Stateroom on the Holland America Rotterdam

The balcony (360 view) on the ms rotterdam.

This was taken from an Aft cabin – overlooking the Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug) in Rotterdam, NL!

The Bathroom (360 View) on the HAL Rotterdam

Suites on the holland america rotterdam , vista suites.

The Rotterdam cruise ship offers various suite categories with different sizes and amenities to cater to the diverse preferences of guests that HAL is known for. The Vista Suites, which measure between 260 and 356 square feet, have an inverted layout with a sitting area off the entrance and a bedroom that opens onto the verandah. The bathroom is equipped with a shower featuring a massage head, fresh flowers, and binoculars are provided to Signature and Vista Suite guests during the cruise.

Signature Suites

The Signature Suites are larger, measuring between 393 and 400 square feet. They feature floor-to-ceiling windows with a verandah, a sitting area, and a bedroom with two twins that convert to a queen or king-size bed. The bathroom has a dual sink vanity (whereas regular cabins have a single sink), a whirlpool bath with shower, and a separate shower.

Neptune Suites

The Neptune Suites, measuring between 465 and 502 square feet, are even more spacious, featuring full-length windows with a verandah twice the length of those in a typical Verandah Stateroom, a large sitting area, and a bedroom with two twins that can be converted to a king size bed. The bathroom is equipped with dual sinks and can either have a whirlpool bath with a separate shower or just a separate shower.

The Pinnacle and Neptune Suites offer additional perks, such as upgraded Elemis amenities, complimentary laundry and dry cleaning services, exclusive access to the Neptune concierge lounge, and dining at Club Orange. Most of these top-tier suites are situated on Deck 7 closer to the Neptune Lounge. Guests in these categories also enjoy priority embarkation, tendering, and dining and seating requests, on top of all the amenities available in lower categories. 

Pinnacle Suite

Finally, the Pinnacle Suite is the largest suite available, measuring 1,290 square feet. This luxurious suite features a spacious living room with a sofa bed, a separate dining room with a pantry, microwave, and refrigerator, a bedroom with a king-sized bed, and a huge verandah with a private whirlpool. The marble bathroom is equipped with a whirlpool tub and separate shower, and there is an additional guest bathroom with a sink and toilet. Guests in the Pinnacle Suite are also provided with a private concierge to cater to their needs.

Special Cabin Types on MS Rotterdam

Spa suites and staterooms.

The Spa Suite cabins are basically typical Verandah rooms with a few extras and is really the only seemingly worthless option on Holland America Line (personal opinion of course). These cabin types are equipped with robes, slippers, and a yoga mat, therefore they are now called “Spa” cabins. However, unlike most other cruise lines with similar cabins,  you do NOT get access to the thermal suites / spa with a Holland America “spa” cruise cabin.

Accessible Rooms

Accessible rooms are equipped as expected with larger doorways, showers, and accessible features for passengers with mobility issues. 

Connecting Rooms

There are a limited number of connecting rooms available which makes it convenient for parties traveling together. We have friends that regularly travel in groups and they absolutely insist on connecting cabins! These cabins are also perfect for multi-generational families traveling together on an HAL cruise. 

Studio Single Ocean View Staterooms

For solo travelers, the Rotterdam offers 12 Single Ocean Views, which may be small at 127 square feet, but they are a more affordable and supplement-free option for solo / single cruisers. Being able to cruise without the ridiculous single supplement is a great trend in the right direction for people who travel alone (Thank NCL for pioneering the solo cabins!)

Holland America MS Rotterdam Cabins To Avoid (If Possible)

As on any cruise ship, there are less desirable cabins which should be avoided if possible. However, many people who book promotional rates such as “best available” or even free rooms for casino promos may not have the choice of room or room type. 

Good To Know

If you are on a promotion and cannot pick your cabin, upgrade to the Club Orange and one of the perks is getting the best cabin in the class you’re booked, therefore being able to choose your location. 

Rooms directly below the Lido pool

Some people say they can hear movement from above when the ship is at capacity, but normally only during the day, since the pools are effectively closed in the evenings. So, avoiding these rooms is only important if you are a napper during the day.

Staterooms directly above the World Stage

Again, some passengers say they hear noise from the World Stage, but most of those shows end relatively early, so unless you’re a person that turns in for bed by 10 pm, there’s probably no worry about these cabins.

Cabins under the BB King Stage

The biggest complaint from passengers are those with cabins on Deck 1, below the music walk and performance areas like the BB King music stage. Passengers sometimes feel the sound is so noticeable that earplugs are necessary. This is subjective of course, as some people will be more sensitive to sounds than others. It’s worth noting, however, that the bands stop at 12 midnight sharp, so if you aren’t one to go to bed before the entertainment is over, then this location likely won’t be a problem for you.

Obstructed View Verandah Stateroom

Some people may hate the idea of an inanimate object staring at them, but you’ll see by the picture, that even though the stateroom is classified as an “obstructed” view, it’s not bad at all. So for the right price, this may appeal to cruisers who want the outdoor space or the ability to open a door for fresh air and may not care that there’s a lifeboat near the balcony. 

Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

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Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom

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The Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom feels just right for a large, premium cruise ship. However, there are some drawbacks worth knowing.

In this review

• Room ratings
• The living space
• Spacious Rotterdam verandah
• Generously sized bathroom
• Storage space
• Verandah Stateroom floor plan
• Rotterdam Stateroom positions

The Verandah Staterooms on Rotterdam are cozy, stylish retreats. While modest in size, clever design enhances the sense of space. This is especially so in the chic bathroom – a real surprise. Also, there is a genuinely spacious verandah with reclining deck chairs.

The decor in the Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom can best be described as ‘Dutch-modern’. There are beechwood cabinets as well as soft furnishings in tones of grey and cream. Brushed silver highlights give it a stylish lift.

It’s all very smart. Indeed, Rotterdam’s Verandah Staterooms feel just right for a large, premium cruise ship. However, there are some drawbacks like poor soundproofing. Indeed, public announcements or even guests talking in the corridors may be enough to disturb light sleepers.

The living space is modest in size, but clever design makes it feel more roomy. Also, there are thoughtful features that are sure to please modern cruisers.

The Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom has a combined sleeping and sitting area. There is a comfortable Mariner’s Dream bed as well as a plush Euro-Top mattress. It can be configured as a queen or twin-bed setup. The choice is yours.

In addition there is a padded headboard, as well as night stands on either side of the bed. These are ideal for storing spectacles and reading material. There are also night lamps and multi-directional reading lights.

Also, there are bedside power outlets as well as USB slots for charging mobile devices. However, it’s worth noting these are not compatible with new USB-C connected devices.

In the sitting area there is a small sofa and a little coffee table. Though it has to be said, this table did tend to get in the way. There is also a writing desk with three US and two European power outlets, as well as USB-A connectivity.

The Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom has a large, wall mounted interactive TV. It is sure to be appreciated by modern cruisers, with movies on-demand and the ability to view your itinerary or see your shipboard account.

The living space also has a small bar area with room for glassware and bottles.

The glass-fronted verandah might just be the best part of the Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom. It is surprisingly spacious and delightfully private.

There is ample room for outdoor furniture which includes two reclining armchairs with ottomans, as well as a cocktail table.

The verandah is a private hideaway, and a great place to enjoy solitude – especially on busy sea days.

The real surprise in the Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom is the bathroom. It’s not just the generous size that pleases, but also its bright and modern design.

There is a large walk-in shower with a glass door that closes tightly, so there are never any leaks. Also, there is a good sized basin as well as a stone vanity – it has plenty of space for toiletries. In addition there are glass storage shelves and extra storage space under the vanity.

The Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom has just enough storage space. There is a closet with hanging room for two large cases full of clothing. In addition there is a small set of drawers.

It’s worth noting that there are two extra drawers under the foot of the bed. These are great for storing bulky clothing or items you might use less often.

Also, there is plenty of room to store even the largest hard shell luggage cases under the bed.

The Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom measures just 21.2 sq. m. / 228 sq. ft. including the verandah. However, some of the staterooms have extra deep balconies which are 16.4 sq. m. / 177 sq. ft. larger. It’s important to note that the inside space of these staterooms remains the same.

The Rotterdam Verandah Stateroom floor plan is typical for a premium cruise ship. There is a combined bedroom and sitting area with writing desk. The closet is in the hall and there is a well proportioned bathroom. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead on to the balcony.

Rotterdam has a total of 851 Verandah Staterooms. These are spread across the length of the cruise ship from decks 4 to 11.

The Verandah Staterooms are sold in a range of categories including V, VA, VB, VC, VD, VE, VF, VH, VS. However, it Is important to note that the internal size is the same. The only difference is the size of the verandah, the view and/or the stateroom position.

VH category : These staterooms may have obstructed views due to the placement of lifeboats in front of the verandahs. VS category : These staterooms are aft-facing with wake views. VB and VF categories : These staterooms on deck 4 have larger verandahs. V, VA and VH categories : These staterooms have a preferred midship location. If you are prone to seasickness I recommend selecting a stateroom in these categories.

The author sailed as a guest of  Holland America Line .

About the Author: Jason Kerr

Rotterdam Overview

Rotterdam dining, rotterdam nightlife, rotterdam wellness.

I immensely enjoyed your presentation and had previously sent an e-mail to you that mentioned one small erroe you made. My dad was in the navy during world war 2 and this is what he told me:

1) the fastest way to get seasick is to lounge in a deck chair and watch the railing and the sea go up and down I tried that as we were in the caribbean but the water was to calm. We had one woman who did get seasick waiting to be seated for dinner and THE SHIP HAD NOT YET LEFT PORT.

2) the place to avoid seasickness is to be at the bow or the stern of the ship but not the midship as the bow dips and rises and the stern rolls but you get both in midships.

3) if you start to feel seasick get up and walk but do not lie on your bed as it will get worse

4) your stomach needs food in it which helps to combat seasickness, You may throw it up but keep on eating

I was with my dad watching TV in july 1978 and we hear that 30 foot waves were hitting the Queen Elizabeth 2 in the Atlantic sea. My dad started laughing and when I asked him why he said that 30 foot waves were nothing as his ship would periodically have 100 foot waves come crashing down on their ship which was a corvette.

Dear Christopher

Thank you for your kind words and your insightful comment. My observations are twofold:

1. Navy vessels of WWII did not have stabilisers. These are used in all modern cruise ships to ‘even out’ the rolling motion of the waves. In doing so they make the position of shortest moment (midship) most stable.

2. Personal experience on board many cruise ships in rough weather leads me to midship locales for a smoother ride.

It’s interesting stuff!

Regards Jason Kerr Managing Editor

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Retracing the Beatles' steps in Liverpool is the highlight of this British Isles cruise

LIVERPOOL, England – Sixty-four years ago the Beatles embarked on a long and winding road toward international superstardom, ultimately becoming what many consider to be the most influential, culturally significant and celebrated band in pop-music history.

All these decades later, Beatlemania has barely missed a beat.  

Nowhere is this more apparent than this city on the River Mersey in northwest England, where John, Paul, George and Ringo were born, raised and played their first gigs together.       

The Beatles’ far-reaching and colorful legacy is one of the main reasons Liverpool attracts more than a million tourists each year – double the city’s population. According to a government report, Beatles-related tourism to Liverpool brings in more than $150 million annually and supports 2,500 jobs.

I recently joined the throng of nostalgia-hungry Beatles fans during a visit to Liverpool, a port stop midway through a two-week cruise around the British Isles on the 2,668-passenger Holland America Rotterdam. 

Day-tripper: Seeing the Beatles sites in Liverpool in 1 day

Unfortunately, I had to cram all of my Beatles sightseeing — including visits to two museums and venues where the group honed their musicianship and the places that inspired some of their songs — into just one jam-packed day before our ship set sail for Wales.

Yes, to borrow the words of Lennon and McCartney, I was a day-tripper.

I was on a sold-out tour with 43 fellow cruise-ship passengers called “In the Footsteps of the Fab Four.” The excursion was led by John Bruce, a Liverpool musician and guide who proudly noted that he was born in the same hospital as John Lennon. 

“She’s got a ticket to ride,” he quipped as a woman boarded the bus at the start of the tour. It was the first in a day full of references to Beatles songs and amusing — and sometimes poignant — stories.

John Lennon's orange glasses and the famous bronze statue of the Fab 4

We started on Liverpool’s waterfront at the Royal Albert Dock, a mid-19th-century complex of dock buildings and warehouses that also houses several museums, hotels, bars and restaurants.

At the dock a sign in front of the popular Beatles Story museum beckoned us inside to learn “the story of the band that changed the world.” It features re-creations of key locations and events in the band’s career and includes fascinating pieces of original memorabilia. There are sections on each band member’s solo career following the group’s breakup in 1970. 

It was especially moving to see John Lennon’s iconic orange-tinted spectacles, which he was wearing when he wrote the 1971 song “Imagine.” Lennon was fatally shot outside his New York City apartment nine years later. 

Two blocks away is the most popular selfie spot in Liverpool: a bronze statue of the Beatles, inspired by a 1963 photo of the group strolling along the River Mersey. The statue was unveiled in 2015 to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the Beatles' last performance in Liverpool.  

Exploring the Cavern Club and other Beatles haunts on Mathew Street

Many of Liverpool’s must-see sites related to the Beatles are clustered on Mathew Street, less than a mile east of the Beatles statue. You’ll know you’re in the vicinity when you pass the Hard Days Night Hotel, the Hey Jude Hair and Beauty Salon and the Rubber Soul bar.

Mathew Street is home to the legendary Cavern Club, where the Beatles played an astonishing 292 times between 1961 and 1963 when they surged to prominence on the Liverpool music scene. 

The original Cavern Club was demolished in 1973 but reopened 10 years later at a spot 20 yards down the block, using the same dimensions and many of the club’s original bricks. The Cavern Club still hosts live music; McCartney performed there as recently as 2018. 

Across the street is a statue of a young John Lennon and the Wall of Fame, which showcases 58 records from Liverpool-based artists that reached No. 1 on the U.K. singles chart. Besides the Beatles, Liverpool has produced numerous other hitmakers, including Gerry and the Pacemakers, the Searchers and Cilla Black, who once worked as a hat-check girl at the Cavern.

The Liverpool Beatles Museum, another attraction on Mathew Street, has more than 1,000 items of Beatles memorabilia displayed on three floors. I especially enjoyed seeing two of the original seats from Shea Stadium, where the Beatles played a landmark concert in 1965 in front of 55,000 screaming fans. The museum is owned by the family of Pete Best, the Beatles’ original drummer who was fired by the group in 1962 and replaced with Ringo Starr.

Seeing Penny Lane and Strawberry Field in south Liverpool

After visiting Mathew Street, we drove through south Liverpool and passed by the Beatles’ childhood homes and schools. We stopped at Penny Lane, which Paul McCartney immortalized in a 1967 song that was a tribute to his Liverpool upbringing. Over the years, Beatles fans have pilfered so many of the Penny Lane street signs that the city has had to affix them to metal posts.    

We also stopped at the entrance to Strawberry Field — formerly the site of a Salvation Army children's home — where John Lennon played as a child. It inspired him to write the 1967 song “Strawberry Fields Forever.”

Bruce, who has been leading Beatles tours for six years, played the two songs over the bus’s sound system — along with his own recording of “Let it Be” — while he offered his interpretation of the songs' meaning.       

“I’m a musician and I have a passion for the Beatles,” he says. “When you reveal the reasons about why they wrote some of their songs, it’s incredible. Sometimes I’ve had people at Penny Lane with big tears in their eyes because it means so much to them.”

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British Isles cruise on the Holland America Rotterdam

The cruise started and ended in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where the Holland America line was founded 151 years ago. The Rotterdam ship, which took its maiden voyage in 2021, is the newest addition to Holland America’s fleet of 11 ships. 

Our sailing was close to capacity, with more than 2,600 passengers, about half of whom were Americans. There was also a large contingent of Dutch passengers; all of the ship’s announcements were made in both English and Dutch. Cruises to the British Isles typically run from late April through October.    

We stopped in 10 ports over the course of two weeks in such places as Scotland, Wales, Ireland and the Isle of Man, a self-governing British Crown Dependency that was the birthplace of another famous pop group, the Bee Gees.

But it was Liverpool — and my pilgrimage to trace the footsteps of a group that produced so much groundbreaking and enduring music — that I’ll remember the most.     

Fittingly, as our bus returned to the cruise pier at the end of the tour, Bruce ended his commentary with yet one more reference to a popular Beatles song.

“Congratulations,” he told us. “You’ve just spent a day in the life of the Fab Four.”

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Cruise: British Isles and Beatles history

The Beatles Story:  beatlesstory.com .

Liverpool Beatles Museum:  liverpoolbeatlesmuseum.com .

Holland America Line:  hollandamerica.com .

Dan Fellner of Scottsdale is a freelance travel writer. Contact him at  [email protected]  or visit his website at  DanFellner.com .