As somebody who loves making an attempt new issues, I couldn’t wait to set foot on Holland America’s latest gem, the MS Rotterdam. Launched in 2021, this gorgeous vessel is the seventh ship to hold the long-lasting Rotterdam title, and boy, does she reside as much as her legacy! With room for two,668 passengers, she’s the proper measurement for individuals who need a mixture of grandeur and intimacy.
I used to be instantly struck by the Rotterdam’s elegant design and considerate facilities. Once I stepped on board, I knew this Pinnacle Class ship would completely mix basic Holland America attraction and fashionable improvements. The ship’s give attention to music and artwork provides a contact of sophistication that I recognize.
As I explored Rotterdam, I used to be wanting to discover all she needed to provide. From the mouthwatering eating choices to the charming leisure, I knew I used to be in for a deal with.
And don’t even get me began on the comfortable staterooms and the limitless actions! Are you prepared to hitch me on this thrilling journey by Holland America’s newest masterpiece? Beneath are all my pictures from my expertise on this distinctive cruise ship. I hope you get pleasure from them.
Historical past and Overview of MS Rotterdam
I’ve had the pleasure of crusing on the MS Rotterdam on the Vikings Sage cruise from Holland America, which left from Rotterdam and sailed to Norway by the fjords and several other unbelievable cities. Right here’s a video of my expertise. Learn my full day-by-day itinerary from the cruise.
This cruise ship is steeped in historical past but brimming with fashionable facilities. This stunning vessel carries a proud legacy and presents immediately’s cruisers an unforgettable expertise.
Ship’s Legacy and Holland America Line
The MS Rotterdam is the seventh ship to bear this iconic title for the Holland America Line. I used to be thrilled to be on board for its maiden voyage in 2021. At 99,800 tons and capable of host 2,668 company, it’s an ideal mid-size ship.
Holland America’s roots go method again to 1873, and the Rotterdam title has been a part of that story from the beginning. I like how this new ship nods to custom whereas embracing the long run. The basic teak promenade and chic art work mix seamlessly with high-tech leisure and eco-friendly methods.
Considered one of my favourite spots is the World Stage Theater. Its 270-degree LED screens make exhibits really feel extremely immersive. And don’t get me began on the eating! Many scrumptious choices exist, from the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse to Rudi’s Sel de Mer seafood brasserie.
Staterooms and Lodging
I’ve spent loads of time exploring the cabins on the MS Rotterdam, and I’m excited to share my insights. The ship presents many choices to go well with totally different tastes and budgets. Let’s dive into the small print of what you may anticipate.
Suites and Verandahs
The suites on MS Rotterdam are actually spectacular. The Pinnacle Suite, which spans over 1,290 sq. ft, wowed me. It’s like a luxurious condominium at sea! The suite has a separate bed room, front room, eating space, and an enormous balcony with a whirlpool.
For a extra modest splurge, I like to recommend the Vista Suites. They’re about 260-356 sq. ft and have a non-public verandah. The facilities are top-notch, together with a Bose Bluetooth speaker and a mini-bar.
Verandah staterooms are my private favourite. They’re cozy at 228-405 sq. ft however provide that all-important non-public balcony. I like having my morning espresso whereas watching the ocean roll by.
Inside and Ocean-View Cabins
Don’t fear if you happen to’re on a tighter funds. The inside and ocean-view cabins are cozy and well-designed. The inside cabins are the smallest, at about 143-225 sq. ft. They’re an awesome selection if you happen to plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship.
Ocean-view cabins are related in measurement however have a window. I discovered them to be brilliant and cheerful. Each cabins have all of the necessities: a comfortable mattress, loads of storage, and a non-public lavatory.
Membership Orange Facilities
I used to be fortunate to attempt the Membership Orange program on my final cruise. It’s an improve nicely price contemplating. You get precedence embarkation and disembarkation, which is an actual time saver.
The perfect half? Entry to a non-public eating room. The menu right here is extra in depth than the primary eating room, and the service is further attentive.
Membership Orange members additionally get in-room perks like a premium bathrobe and a particular room service menu. It’s an awesome choice so as to add a contact of luxurious to your cruise with out spending a fortune on a full suite.
Onboard Eating Expertise
The MS Rotterdam impressed me with its mouthwatering array of eating choices. From upscale specialty venues to informal eateries, there’s one thing to fulfill each craving and event.
Pinnacle Grill and Specialty Eating places
I beloved the elegant Pinnacle Grill, Holland America’s signature steakhouse. The menu options premium beef cuts and recent seafood. I indulged in a wonderfully cooked filet mignon paired with a daring cabernet. For Asian delicacies, Tamarind was a standout. The restaurant’s gorgeous ocean views complemented ingenious dishes like wasabi-crusted beef tenderloin.
Canaletto presents a style of Italy in an intimate setting. I loved sharing antipasti plates and selfmade pasta with my tablemates. The nice and cozy service made it really feel like eating at an Italian household’s residence.
Lido Market and Essential Eating Room
The Lido Market buffet was my go-to for fast, informal meals. A number of stations provide worldwide cuisines, made-to-order dishes, and grab-and-go choices. I beloved the recent salad bar and each day carving station.
In the primary eating room, I skilled attentive service and expertly ready dishes. The menu modifications nightly, that includes each basic favorites and inventive specials. I appreciated the flexibleness of eating anytime, although set seating instances are additionally obtainable.
Room Service and Snacking Choices
24-hour room service was excellent for lazy mornings or late-night cravings. The continental breakfast delivered to my balcony was a deal with. I usually grabbed a slice at New York Pizza or a gelato from Gelato for noon snacks.
I used to be impressed by the complimentary afternoon tea service. Delicate finger sandwiches and sweets paired properly with a choice of teas in a sublime setting.
Leisure and Actions
The Rotterdam presents full of life leisure choices to maintain company engaged all through their cruise. From dazzling exhibits to reside music venues, there are alternatives to go well with numerous pursuits.
World Stage Reveals and Performances
The World Stage Theater on the Rotterdam blew me away. This 714-seat venue includes a distinctive 270-degree wraparound LED display that creates an immersive expertise. The hi-def visuals improve the performances.
Throughout my cruise, I caught just a few of the brand new manufacturing exhibits. “Song & Dance” was a enjoyable tribute to Broadway and Hollywood musicals. “Class Act” introduced Vegas-style glitz with gifted feminine vocalists. The TV selection show-inspired “All That!” had me laughing and tapping my toes.
What impressed me most was how the exhibits integrated each singing and dancing. The performers have been true triple threats. I’d suggest arriving early to snag a very good seat – the exhibits are fashionable!
Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King’s Blues Membership
For reside music lovers, Rotterdam doesn’t disappoint. I spent a number of evenings rocking on the Rolling Stone Rock Room, the place the home band cranks out basic rock hits nightly.
On different nights, I received my blues repair at B.B. King’s Blues Membership. The gifted musicians had the gang on their ft with soulful tunes. Each venues have an awesome environment for having fun with drinks and dancing.
The ship additionally options the Billboard Onboard piano bar, the place dueling pianists take requests and get company singing alongside to chart-toppers throughout the many years.
Sea Days and Onboard Expertise
Sea days provide loads of methods to remain entertained. I attempted my hand at pickleball on the sports activities courtroom – it’s all the craze today. The health heart has nice views if you wish to squeeze in a exercise.
I loved trivia contests within the Crow’s Nest lounge for a extra relaxed vibe. I additionally had a nightly Previous Normal and performed chess with my spouse. This was my go-to for espresso.
The hack for my fellow caffeine lovers is to get your espresso right here. It’s method higher than the opposite spots. Additionally, they’ve a very cool real-time navigation dashboard the place you may test all of the enjoyable nautical stats.
The library is ideal for curling up with a guide, and film buffs can catch movies on the outside Dive-In theater by the pool.
Youngsters have their very own devoted membership areas. I noticed many households having fun with high quality time along with actions like cooking lessons and dance classes.
Wellness and Recreation
As I explored the MS Rotterdam, I used to be impressed by the big selection of wellness and recreation choices. The ship goes above and past to assist passengers calm down, keep match, and have enjoyable throughout their cruise.
Outside Monitor, Pickleball, and Basketball Courtroom
An enormous a part of being in a confined house for a very long time is having a number of choices to maneuver in and out. I beloved the pickleball courtroom, as you may see above. There have been tournaments a few the times and the observe was a good way to stroll whereas your on the open sea and likewise cruising by the fjords.
Greenhouse Spa and Health Middle
The Greenhouse Spa blew me away with its tranquil environment and an in depth menu of therapies. I handled myself to a sizzling stone therapeutic massage that melted away my stress. The thermal suite with its heated ceramic loungers was heavenly—I may have napped there all day!
The health heart has all the newest cardio and weight tools. I took a yoga class on the deck at dawn, which was magical. Additionally they provide private coaching and vitamin consultations that can assist you keep on observe together with your health targets.
Swimming pools and Open Deck Areas
I lounged by the primary Lido pool, sipping fruity drinks from the close by bar. The retractable roof is nice for all-weather swimming. For a quieter vibe, I beloved the adults-only Serenity pool space.
The jogging observe on the highest deck gave me wonderful ocean views throughout my morning runs. I additionally loved basketball and shuffleboard video games. At evening, the Lido deck transforms right into a film below the celebrities—so enjoyable!
Itineraries and Locations
The MS Rotterdam presents thrilling voyages to gorgeous locations all over the world. I’ve been fortunate sufficient to expertise a few of these unbelievable journeys firsthand. Let me share what I’ve realized concerning the ship’s routes and excursions.
Well-liked Routes and Seasonal Journeys
I like how the Rotterdam mixes basic and distinctive itineraries all year long. In summer time, she sails to Alaska, displaying off glaciers and wildlife. The surroundings blew me away! Fall and spring convey transatlantic crossings and European excursions. The ship visits gems like Rome, Barcelona, and Copenhagen. Winter is ideal for Caribbean cruises. I’ve basked on white sand seashores and snorkeled in crystal clear waters.
The Rotterdam additionally does longer voyages. I’m dying to attempt their 35-day Australia and New Zealand journey. Or perhaps the 128-day world cruise! Shorter 7-10-day journeys are nice for busy of us.
Port Excursions and Land Excursions
Holland America presents wonderful shore excursions at every port. They’re a bit overpriced as you may guide immediately for less expensive, however the choices are normally aplenty. I opted for kayaking by the Eidfjord, which was actually unbelievable.
Lively vacationers can attempt kayaking, mountain climbing, or biking excursions. Foodies will get pleasure from cooking lessons and wine tastings. I recommend mixing it as much as get the complete expertise. Don’t neglect to depart time to wander by yourself, too. A few of my finest recollections are from stumbling upon hidden gems in port cities.
Ship Facilities and Companies
The Rotterdam presents many facilities and providers to make your cruise expertise clean and pleasing. I used to be impressed by the number of choices obtainable, from helpful retailers to useful visitor providers.
Library
Considered one of my favourite gems was the library onboard. It was totally stocked; they even had a give-a-book, get-a-book part. You might learn as many books as you wished free of charge. Easy issues like this might help you embrace sluggish journey for these sea days and actually take a second to calm down.
Or, even perhaps learn up in your favourite journey information… 🙂
Onboard Procuring and Boutiques
As I walked round Rotterdam, I found some nice purchasing spots. The ship has a number of boutiques promoting jewellery, watches, perfumes, and Holland America-branded objects. I picked up a cute HAL t-shirt as a memento. There’s additionally a duty-free store with good offers on alcohol and cigarettes.
Considered one of my favourite stops was the picture gallery, the place I may view and buy skilled photographs taken all through the cruise. For any forgotten necessities, there’s a small sundries store stocking toiletries, snacks, and fundamental medicines.
Visitor Companies and Data
The visitor providers desk was my go-to spot for questions and help. The pleasant workers helped me with every part from dinner reservations to shore tour bookings. They even assisted me after I wanted to change some forex for a port go to.
I discovered the digital screens across the ship helpful for checking each day actions, restaurant hours, and my onboard account steadiness. A devoted concierge service presents customized help for Membership Orange members like me.
The Rotterdam additionally has a medical heart staffed 24/7 for any well being issues. Whereas I didn’t want it, it was reassuring to realize it was there.
MS Rotterdam Deck Plan and Ship Particulars
As soon as you already know just a few key suggestions, getting across the MS Rotterdam is a breeze. I’ll share my insights on the ship’s structure and learn how to transfer about simply.
Deck Plans and Orientation
I discovered the Rotterdam’s structure fairly intuitive. The primary public areas are on decks 2 and three, with the eating room spanning each. The Lido Market buffet and the swimming pools are up on deck 9.
I like to recommend grabbing a pocket-sized deck plan from Visitor Companies once you board. It’s a lifesaver for the primary day or two. The ship has a logical circulate, with most sights within the center. One trick I realized is that odd-numbered cabins are on the port aspect, even on starboard. This helped me orient myself rapidly.
Right here’s a full abstract of the deck plan:
Accessibility and Visitor Motion
Rotterdam has 12 elevators, which I discovered to be loads. I by no means waited lengthy, even at peak instances. There are additionally broad staircases if you happen to desire to stroll.
The ship could be very accessible for company with mobility points. Broad corridors and doorways simply accommodate wheelchairs, and a number of accessible cabins can be found.
I used to be impressed by the marked wayfinding indicators all through the ship. They use giant textual content and intuitive icons. At evening, delicate lighting within the hallways guides the best way.
My prime tip: Use the midship elevators for the quickest entry to most areas. The ahead and aft ones are usually much less busy, too.
Cruise Fare and Worth
I’ve cruised on the MS Rotterdam and located it presents good worth general. The fare covers loads, however there are some further prices to recollect. Let’s break down what’s included and learn how to get essentially the most bang on your buck on this ship.
Inclusions and Bills
My base fare on the Rotterdam included fairly a bit—my cozy stateroom, tasty meals in the primary eating room and buffet, and most onboard actions. I beloved having fun with reside music, comedy exhibits, and poolside enjoyable with out paying further. However I did should funds for some extras. Drinks, specialty eating, and shore excursions weren’t included. I additionally paid about $12 per day for gratuities.
Wi-Fi and spa therapies additionally price further. To economize, I purchased a drink package deal upfront and picked just a few key excursions relatively than reserving one thing in each port.
Assessing General Price
The Rotterdam presents extra worth than land holidays or pricier cruise traces. For what I paid, I visited a number of locations whereas solely unpacking as soon as. The meals high quality impressed me, particularly in the primary eating room.
I took benefit of free actions like trivia and cooking demos to maximise worth. I additionally seemed for port days after I may discover independently as an alternative of reserving excursions.
Whereas not the most cost effective choice, Rotterdam’s mixture of consolation, service, and inclusions made it definitely worth the fare. Simply make sure you consider these further prices when budgeting!
