The Holland America Rotterdam

As the sixth ship to bear the name, the flagship ms Rotterdam is the standard-bearer for Holland America Lines Atlantic fleet of five-star cruise ships. The first Rotterdam set sail in 1872, beginning a Holland America tradition and reputation that continued through the Rotterdam V, one of the most beloved ships of all time. In the grand tradition of the Rotterdam ships, fascinating Holland America memorabilia can be found throughout the ship, such as specially commissioned works of art ranging from oil paintings, to sculptures, to textile designs and much more. The ms Rotterdam completed all Signature of Excellence enhancements to her public rooms and staterooms in Spring 2005.

The ms Rotterdam ensures you the ultimate onboard experience with her graceful combination of classic cruise ship features and state-of-the-art amenities. Fine woods, exquisite art and antiques, larger staterooms, and a world-class spa and fitness center are only a few of the features that will make the memories of your Holland America cruise vacation unforgettable.

Signature features include:

• The two-tier La Fontaine Dining Room features impeccable service and an extensive wine list, and offers five-course menus, from continental cuisine to vegetarian and low-carb options
• The intimate reservations-only Pinnacle Grill offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience and features premium hand-selected cuts of Sterling Silver beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated "Excellent" by Wine Spectator - as well as distinctive Bvlgari china, Riedel stemware and Frette linens
• The Lido Restaurant offers a relaxed ambiance for all three meals and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties
• The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, is the setting for gourmet cooking demonstrations and interactive classes
• Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times, features the largest library at sea, as well as comfortable music listening stations and Internet access
• The Greenhouse Spa & Salon features thermal suites, a hydrotherapy and thalassotherapy pool, heated ceramic lounges and more
• The Queen's Show Lounge features Las Vegas-style productions, talented vocalists, illusionists, comedians and variety acts
• The Crow's Nest, where sweeping views make this observation lounge a top choice for relaxing during the day, and in the evening transforms into a hip, fashionable nightclub features top-notch DJs and live bands
• Club HAL, dedicated youth facilities and activities for kids ages 3 to 12
• The Loft and The Oasis, designed exclusively for teens to have fun, socialize and hang out with people their own age

Dining Aboard Rotterdam

The exceptional culinary staff offers sophisticated menus comprised of the freshest produce and the highest quality choice cut meats and seafood available. From a quick bite poolside to a formal five-course affair in the elegant Main Dining Room, the crew of Holland America Line knows how to orchestrate a truly memorable dining experience.

We are in the midst of introducing As You Wish™ dining throughout our fleet. With As You Wish dining, meals are based on your preferred schedule. Whether you prefer the classic fixed dining times or more flexible open dining, the choice is yours to make prior to departure for your cruise.

As You Wish dining - the latest addition to Holland America's Signature of Excellence initiative - makes onboard dining more inviting with options to suit every taste. Guests will be able to choose a traditional pre-set seating and dining time or a flexible, open seating schedule in the Main Dining Room. At the time of booking choose either flexible/open dining or classic pre-set dining time (early or main). If you choose the flexible/open seating program, you may make reservations daily up to 4 p.m. - or simply walk up during dining hours.

Dine as you please dining time for the Rotterdam is from 5:15pm to 9:00pm. Early Seating is set at 5:45 pm, and Main Seating is set for 8:00pm. You may choose from tables that seat 2, 4, 6, or 8 guests.

Last Updated: Tuesday, April 29, 2008