Holland America’s Rotterdam VII departing the city of Rotterdam, the Netherlands on October 15th on its historic 150th anniversary transatlantic crossing. The 15-day journey recreates Holland America’s maiden voyage of Rotterdam I that departed the city 150 years ago today. It’ll follow the path of that first sailing to New York City, with calls at Le Havre, France and Plymouth, England.
Holland America invited fans to come to Cruise Port Rotterdam and Wilhelminapier for a festive shoreside sailaway party, recreating a departure from centuries past when ships were sent off with lots of fanfare. Fireboats spraying water and a flotilla from a local yacht club came to see Rotterdam off, while revelers were given souvenir handkerchiefs to wave.
“Today is historic for our brand as we depart 150 years to the day that Holland America Line’s very first ship began its journey to New York,” said Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha. “In that time, we’ve carried immigrants and cruising vacationers, soldiers and refugees and earned a reputation for extraordinary care and welcoming all those guests as if into our own homes. As we sail into our next 150 years, that environment of service will be our hallmark as we create exceptional experiences for guests around the world.”
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During the crossing, guests will journey through Holland America’s history with onboard programming, recreations of dishes from a bygone era, and exclusive entertainment. The festivities will continue during an overnight call in New York City on October 26th with a performance on the World Stage by past and present Lincoln Center Stage performers.
Fans who missed out on this crossing can book the April 6, 2023 150th Anniversary Transatlantic from New York City, ending in Rotterdam on April 18th — the cruise line’s 150th birthday.
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