Holland America Line celebrates its 150th anniversary next year, and the cruise line will commemorate its milestone birthday with a pair of transatlantic sailings that will highlight the company’s history through activities, entertainment, and onboard cuisine. By Alison Fox
The cruise line will celebrate its 150th anniversary on April 18, 2023. Holland America Line, which first started as a shipping and passenger line called the Netherlands-American Steamship Company, is planning the two epic celebratory trips for October and April.
Itinerary of the cruises going across the Atlantic
“A milestone like a 150th Anniversary doesn’t come around often for most companies, and our celebrations will bring to life our century-and-a-half of amazing history,” Gus Antorcha, Holland America Line’s president, said in a statement shared with T+L. “Holland America Line has touched the lives of millions of people throughout the years — whether by bringing them to a new life in America or providing a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. We have some really special experiences planned over the next several months to honour our heritage.”
The first transatlantic sailing will depart on October 15 on the company’s Rotterdam VII ship, which made its maiden voyage on October 15 exactly 150 years ago (before Holland America even incorporated). The trip will recreate Holland America Line’s first sailing by crossing the Atlantic Ocean over 15 nights from Rotterdam, Netherlands. The ship will end its journey in Fort Lauderdale, making stops in Plymouth, England; Le Havre, France; and New York City.
Then, on April 3, the Rotterdam will leave Florida and once again head up to New York City for an overnight stop before spending eight days crossing the Atlantic, eventually arriving on the cruise line’s anniversary, April 18, back in the Netherlands.
The cruise line will celebrate the milestone on these transatlantic sailings with special events, including live entertainment when the Rotterdam docks in New York City on October 26, as well as when it docks in the Netherlands on April 18. Guests will also be treated to special programming on each voyage along with anniversary-inspired souvenirs, which travellers will be able to purchase in the onboard shops.
This story first appeared on www.travelandleisure.com
(Main and Feature Image Credit: Courtesy of Holland America)
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