Holland America Line launched their first ship, Rotterdam I, in October 1872, sailing from Rotterdam to New York, this led to the founding of the company in 1873 and inspired the company's name.
The newest ship to join the fleet, Rotterdam VII, will be replicating the inaugural voyage on the 15th of October 2022. Holland America Line has planned special events, galas, cocktail parties and other celebrations onboard Rotterdam VII to mark its 150th Anniversary. Offering state-of-the-art amenities, a luxurious ambience, multiple dining options and entertainment venues, Rotterdam VII will be the pinnacle of modern luxury with traditional elements to honour the history and traditions of Holland America Line.
Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands will be Rotterdam VII’s Godmother, with the naming ceremony to be held on the 30th of May 2022. The president of Holland America Line Gus Antorcha said, “We are deeply grateful that Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet will once again act as godmother to a Holland America Line ship, carrying on a long tradition with the Royal Family that continues to honour our Dutch roots.”
Find out about Rotterdam VII's Captain, Werner Timmers
Following the celebrations, for the 150th Anniversary, Holland America Line has more anniversaries to celebrate in 2022. Holland America Line will celebrate their 75th Anniversary since it first explored Alaska, this was before it became a state. Six ships will be exploring Alaska in 2022, with Holland America Line being experts in the region; the itineraries will feature highlights such as Glacier Bay National Park. Pinnacle-class Koningsdam will have her maiden Alaska sailing in summer 2022.
Half Moon Cay, Holland America Lines Private Island, will celebrate 25 years in 2022/23 with over 80 sailings combining a visit to the Island and the Caribbean. The history surrounding Half Moon Cay dates back to Columbus who is believed to have visited the Island. The 2,400-acre Island has a distinctive crescent bay, with a white-sand beach with most of the Island dedicated to being a nature preserve and for the last 2 decades, it has been voted as the most authentic highest-rated private Island experience. The Island is the perfect place for horseback riding, snorkelling, sailing and has a children's water park as well as private cabanas and villas and is a highlight of the itineraries it features on.
With an exciting time ahead, we look forward to welcoming Rotterdam VII to the seas and seeing what the future holds for Holland America Line.
