Holland America Maasdam

Named for the Maas River in Holland, the MS Maasdam is the cruise line’s third vessel bearing this description. But much like when a river’s compared to a vast ocean, the MS Maasdam presents a smaller, more intimate experience, with a length of 720 feet and accommodations for 1,158 passengers. Debuting in 1993, this ship features a teak-deck and two-tiered dining room and has received recognition in the Signature of Excellence Program twice, with the last being in 2011. 2006 saw the ship go through a retrofitting, which involved adding the Culinary Arts Center, new dining options, and changes to cabins. As is the case with most Holland America ships, the MS Maasdam centers around an art collection, with the theme here being homage to the Dutch East and West India Companies. Luciano Vitstosi’s Totem sculpture is the centerpiece, while other striking works of art include two murals and a collection of iron teapots and a brazier from Japan. Currently, the ship makes Caribbean, Panama Canal, Canadian, and European itineraries throughout the year.

Accommodations

Service on Holland AmericaTravelers have a choice of living arrangements. The “basic” rooms begin with the Interior, Ocean View, and Lanai options, which feature such luxurious accommodations as a Euro-top bed, bathrobes, salon-quality hairdryers, fresh fruit, and a television with DVDs. The Neptune and Pinnacle Suites offer the peak of elegant, luxurious traveling. Features are upgraded to include laundry service, a mini-bar, fresh flowers, high tea on request, one-touch phones, and access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge. Dining offers a similar array of choices: Rotterdam Dining Room: Savor a five-course continental meal in a traditional dining room, with an extensive wine list available. Vegetarian and low-carb options are available. Pinnacle Grill: An intimate, elegant environment enhances delicious steak and seafood meals. Holland America complements each with Bvlgari china and linens. Lido Restaurant: A casual, relaxed atmosphere sets the stage for cooked-to-order, fresh meals. Canaletto: Taste delicious Italian cuisine, no matter where in the world you are. Explorations Café: Holland America’s coffeehouse and library makes the perfect spot to start your day with a delicious cup of Joe and the morning paper.

Activities

Bars on Holland America Cruise ShipsAs you go about your travels, fully preserve your memories by utilizing Holland America’s Digital Workshop. Microsoft-trained experts assist with photo-taking and altering, movie editing, creating scrapbooks, and sharing on social media. For a different type of demonstration, there’s the Culinary Arts Center – the perfect place to have a professional show you cooking techniques. To start your day or finish once you’re back in port, go over to the Greenhouse Salon & Spa to try a new look or relax with a massage. In the evening, the Rembrandt Show Lounge offers professional performances from vocalists, dancers, illusionists, comedians, and variety acts, while the Crow’s Nest, a space with a 270° view, turns into a nightclub. With children onboard, let them interact with their peers at Club HAL, for those 3 to 12 years of age, or The Loft, for those 13 to 17. See the world in luxury with Holland America. To book a trip, browse Direct Line Cruises to find the right itinerary.