Holland America Line marked its 149th anniversary on Monday, April 18. The cruise line celebrated the occasion on board with grand desserts, special champagne toasts and festivities for guests and team members. It will continue the celebrations through early June with the restart of Noordam (April 24), Oosterdam (May 8), Zaandam (May 12) and Westerdam (June 12), bringing the entire fleet of 11 ships back in service. Additionally, the official naming ceremony for Rotterdam will be held on May 30 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The line is also celebrating 75 years of Alaska exploration this year.
“As Holland America Line moves closer to the 150th anniversary of our founding, these past couple of years have shown us the importance of celebrating our milestones,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “This April is an important month with Holland America Line leading the return to Canadian cruising, the restart of Noordam and our anniversaries of our founding and travel to Alaska. We are grateful to be moving along a positive path, not only as a brand, but as an industry.”
Though transportation and shipping were the mainstays of the line’s business in the 19th century, the company began offering cruise vacations in 1895. Today, Holland America Line operates 11 ships that visit nearly 400 ports across all seven continents.
The line’s newest ship, Rotterdam, was delivered in July 2021, but the official naming ceremony will be held May 30. Princess Margriet Francisca of the Netherlands will be the ship’s godmother, carrying on a tradition that began in the 1920s.
Rotterdam will depart Amsterdam on May 29 for a seven-day “Rotterdam Naming Celebration” itinerary that explores the landscapes of Norway. When the ship arrives at Rotterdam on May 30, a private ceremony will be held for guests. During the voyage, guests can enjoy events exclusive to the naming ceremony voyage, including a celebratory gala dinner and a chance to participate in the blessing of the ship’s bell, along with surprises and commemorative gifts.
For more information, visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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