Holland America Rotterdam

As the co-flagship with the MS Amsterdam, the MS Rotterdam sets Holland America’s standard. Setting sail on its first cruise in 1997, this Rotterdam class ship is based on the 1959 vessel of a similar name and offers spacious accommodations for about 1,404 people. The ship currently travels various European and South American itineraries. Since inception, the MS Rotterdam went through a series of Signature of Excellence upgrades in 2009. The most noticeable are the Lanai staterooms and spacious public areas with works of art. As well, elegance dining rooms, $2 million worth of art and antiques, a teak deck, private verandas, new furnishings, and expanded stateroom amenities complete the improvements travelers may notice.

Accommodations

The Lanai Staterooms begin with Holland America’s standard accommodations, which are also offered in Interior and Ocean-View options. Here, however, sliding glass doors open to a stunning view of your surroundings and take you down to the Lower Promenade Deck. As well, new spa staterooms, located by the Greenhouse Salon and Spa, expand the relaxation and beauty amenities offered. The Retreat Resort further upgrades the experience – it’s like being by the pool, but only more luxurious. For rooms, the Vista and Neptune Suites upgrade the Lanai features. Travelers in these ultra-luxurious spaces have access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, can serve drinks from the mini-bar, can have fresh flowers or high tea upon request, and can use a one-touch phone for calls. Dining, too, was upgraded. The La Fontaine Dining Room serves five-course continental meals, including low-carb and vegetarian options, with an extensive wine list. Travelers, as well, can still enjoy the Pinnacle Grill’s haute cuisine, the relaxed atmosphere and fresh flavors of the Lido Restaurant, Italian flavors at Canaletto, or terrific coffee in the Explorations Café. Taking the quality up a notch is Taste of De Librige, based on the mainland Dutch restaurant of the same name. This one-time taste experience, with meals from the original establishment’s menu, is served in the Pinnacle Grill. For drinks, the MS Rotterdam now includes Mix, with three specialty venues. Champagne is perfect for mimosas and other mid-day celebrations, while Martinis, as the name implies, has the perfect space for sipping a few Grey Goose cocktails. Spirits and Ales turns into a pub for savoring choice microbrews and malts and getting sports updates.

What to Do

During the day, get an educational experience when you’re not in port. The Digital Workshop, with Microsoft-certified professionals, teaches cruisers to take quality photos and, later, to edit movies and images, create scrapbooks, and share everything on social media. Or head to the Culinary Arts Center to watch a world-class cooking demonstration. The evening becomes a choice between show-stopping performances and nightclubs. The Queen’s Show Lounge is home to professional singers, acrobats, comedians, and variety shows, while the new Showroom at Sea offers a top-notch nightclub atmosphere. Travelers can both dance and enjoy the view from the Crow’s Nest, which features a 270° view of the surroundings. For children, Holland America has appropriate spaces and activities covered. Club HAL is built for those 3 to 12 years of age, while The Loft offers enjoyment for those 13 to 17. Experience Holland America’s top-tier experience with the MS Rotterdam. To schedule your trip, browse and make reservations through Direct Line Cruises.