Setting sail in 2016, the Holland America Line Koningsdam is the first in a new class of ships known as the Pinnacle class, representing a blend of Holland America Line's rich and storied heritage combined with the most modern and innovative technology. This flagship Cruise ship redefines what can be expected from cruising, with classic hallmarks of Dutch seafaring heritage and modern enhancements that create a truly spectacular experience on the world's waters.
At 99,500 gross tons and the capacity to accommodate 2,650 passengers, the Koningsdam is the largest ship under Holland America Line's prestigious fleet. Spanning across 12 decks, it retains an intimate, boutique hotel-like feel on board while offering many signature features that have made Holland America Line a beloved name in the Cruise industry, as well as several brand-new enhancements.
The Dutch DNA of Holland America Line flows throughout the ship, from design elements inspired by the Netherlands - such as tulip motifs, oceanic-indigo color schemes, and shimmering silver accents - to hallmark features like the esteemed Culinary Arts Center. This unique and multi-faceted entertainment space, presented by Food & Wine Magazine, offers cooking demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and a dedicated space for arts and crafts. In the evening, the Culinary Arts Center transforms itself into a farm-to-table eatery where diners can watch the chefs create delicious offerings using locally-sourced ingredients from the ship's port of call.
Fine dining aboard the Koningsdam is elevated to an art form, with several specialty dining options available for passengers to enjoy. The Pinnacle Grill, a Holland America Line classic, showcases Pacific Northwest cuisine, with the freshest seafood, premium Iowa USDA beef, and a selection of delicious vegetarian dishes. Other options include Canaletto, an Italian kitchen that combines family-style dining with regional Italian specialties, and Tamarind, a Pan-Asian fusion restaurant that takes the best of Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines into an exquisite fine-dining experience.
A new addition to the Holland America Line's culinary offerings is Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French seafood brasserie created by the line's renowned master chef Rudi Sodamin. This elegant seafood brasserie offers passengers the opportunity to indulge in fresh seafood, including a raw bar, whole Dover sole, salt-crusted whole branzino, bouillabaisse, and a variety of fish and shellfish dishes. The chic and intimate atmosphere of Rudi's Sel de Mer allows for a personalized dining experience, as guests watch their dishes come to life behind the show kitchen.
The Music Walk venues onboard the Koningsdam create the ultimate nightlife zone, with a variety of entertainment genres and spaces for passengers to enjoy. A partnership with the legendary jazz club BB King's Blues Club brings the energy and emotion of live Memphis music to the Queen's Lounge, while Billboard Onboard offers an interactive musical experience combining the talents of live musicians and chart-topping hits. Classical aficionados can also savor the sight and sound of a world-class quartet at the Lincoln Center Stage.
For those seeking refreshment and relaxation, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon aboard Koningsdam offers a myriad of luxurious spa treatments. Among the various indulgences offered by the salon are thermal treatments, massages, facial therapies, and a spa pool complete with hydrotherapy showers.
The ship's spacious staterooms and suites ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay for all guests. Ranging in size from a cozy solo ocean-view cabin to the expansive, 1,290-square-foot Pinnacle Suite, there is an option for every preference and budget. The excellent Family Oceanview staterooms are specifically designed to accommodate families of up to five people, while the Neptune and Pinnacle Suites offer a grand and palatial cruising experience with their expansive living areas, private balconies, and walk-in closets, as well as access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge.
Children and teens onboard the Koningsdam will be fully entertained at Club HAL, a professionally-staffed club that offers age-appropriate activities, games, and workshops. Teenagers can also enjoy the teen-only Loft and Oasis areas, where they can socialize with peers, attend parties, or simply lounge by the pool.
When it comes to destinations and itinerary options, the Koningsdam explores an array of beautiful global locales, from the sun-soaked Mediterranean and the idyllic Caribbean to the scenic Norwegian Fjords and the historic cities of Northern Europe. As Holland America Line is known for its emphasis on cultural immersion, passengers can expect to experience enchanting ports of call in comfort and style.
In conclusion, the Holland America Line Koningsdam is an exquisite blend of cutting-edge technology, modern amenities, and classic elegance, which offers passengers a memorable and extraordinary journey. With its unparalleled dining options, diverse entertainment venues, intimate spaces, and luxurious accommodations, the ship sets the standard for cruising as a Luxury Travel experience.