Completed in 1997, the Rotterdam measures 59,652 tons and is the sixth HAL ship to bear this famous name. A few design elements recall the previous Rotterdam (1959-1997), but basically we have a new ship built to conform to the company's largely homogeneous fleet. The sole exception is the much smaller 37,845-ton Prinsendam. Several features that set the Rotterdam apart from the Statendam class—enough for the Rotteram to qualify as HAL's flagship—include marginally more space per passenger, additional higher-category cabins, and an enhanced speed of 25 knots, thus permitting more ambitious itineraries. Unfortunately, the increased speed also means more vibration. Mostly Dutch officers and an Indonesian and Filipino crew of 593 look after 1,316 passengers.
Holland America got its start in 1872 as a transatlantic carrier, burgeoning into one of the largest and most successful shipping lines. In the 1960s, HAL began to operate increasingly as a cruise line and by the early 1970s regular Atlantic crossings had ceased. In 1988, Holland American became part of the Carnival Corporation, though maintaining separate headquarters in Seattle, Washington.
With its long-standing reputation as a traditional cruise line, Holland America passengers are generally older, with fewer kids aboard, than those who populate Princess or Royal Caribbean even the 7-day cruises. The tipping-not-required policy has been dropped; tips are now welcome.
In the summer, the Rotterdam is positioned in Scandinavia and the Baltic. In the fall she cruises the Mediterranean before heading south to her winter base in South America, from whence she makes trips to Antarctica, but no landings.
Rotterdam's distinctive range, size and style of public rooms is impressive. An elaborate replica of a 17th-century Flemish clock with 14 timepieces flanked by sculptures of dolphins, mermaids and snakes dominates the three-story atrium with its sweeping staircase. The Crow's Nest, an appealing lounge for daytime reading or a quiet pre-dinner drink, comes alive with dancing at night. Aft of some clunky stone statues, a vast lido deck with a pool, wading pool, two octagonal whirlpools, and two bronze statues of dolphins is protected by a retractable roof. Most public space is on Upper Promenade and Promenade decks, with the two-level Queens Lounge seating 557. The very popular Ocean Bar has a sit-up counter, several seating arrangements, a band and a dance floor. A nearby casino draws gamblers. The Explorer's Lounge on Upper Promenade Deck has a maple dance floor, a red piano, and a mural depicting historic Amsterdam. The Explorations Cafe—a combination library, Internet lounge and coffee bar—is a popular gathering spot for reading, chatting and checking e-mail. Promenade Deck features the cozy Java Cafe and a 165-seat cinema with fresh popcorn. Cooking demonstrations take place here. Outdoors, two pools, paddle tennis courts, a wraparound promenade, and quiet recesses with deck chairs consume leisure hours. The spa has a beauty salon, sauna, steam room, massage, and a good selection of gym equipment.
Outdoor tables extend the large, 400-seat, air-conditioned Lido Restaurant and its several serving stations. The spectacular, bi-level La Fontaine Restaurant serves from an international menu, seats 750, and has an orchestra balcony flanked by a double staircase and a glass ceiling. There are views out to sea in three directions. Two side rooms can be booked for small groups and celebrations. The two sittings each have two separate starting times a half hour apart, spreading out the demand on the galley. Open seating for dinner with a wide window of hours is now being phased in. Reservations are taken or you can just take your chances and appear at the maitre d' desk. One alternative dining option is the 88-seat Pinnacle Grill, by reservation only and with an extra charge. The lido buffet also serves a casual dinner.
The 658 standard cabins (mostly outsides) occupy three lower decks and feature twin beds convertible to queens. Some have baths with tubs. The 121 deluxe cabins fill Verandah Deck and boast sofas, chairs, stools, coffee tables, vanities-cum-desks, TVs with VCRs, minibars, refrigerators, and twin or queen beds with wonderful new mattresses that really do result in better sleeping. The tiled baths have jetted tubs, hair dryers, and good stowage under sinks. Four penthouses and 36 suites with lounges, studies, and very large verandas fill the Navigation Deck and offer concierge service, useful for shore excursions and private touring. A private lounge is supplied with magazines and newspapers. There are 23 wheelchair-accessible cabins.
This Rotterdam, with more space and more speed, is a slight cut above the Statendam Class ships, sharing the flagship role with the newer Amsterdam.
