Holland America Line has been a frontrunner in premium cruising for over 145 years. Its fleet of 15 elegant, mid-sized ships offers more than 500 sailings a year, visiting all seven continents. Among the ships sailing under the Holland America Line flag is the beautiful Zaandam. Launched in 2000, this elegant vessel exudes the charm and elegance that travelers have come to expect from Holland America Line's meticulously designed ships.
The Zaandam is a mid-sized Cruise ship, accommodating around 1,432 passengers and 615 crew members, ensuring that guests receive the finest attentive service. With a length of 781 feet and a width of 105 feet, this vessel offers a cruising speed of 22.5 knots and provides a smooth sailing experience with exceptional stability.
Though the Zaandam is now over a couple of decades old, she has undergone a series of refurbishments. The most recent facelift in 2017 saw the introduction of new furnishings, carpets, and renovations throughout public areas, rooms, and dining venues. The result is a ship with an elegant and timeless style that is both warm and inviting.
Onboard, guests are surrounded by a thriving art collection with various installations and sculptures that adorn the ship's plush interiors. The theme onboard the Zaandam is "The World In Harmony," which is reflected in the wide-ranging collection of art and musical memorabilia, including signed guitars and photographs of renowned musicians such as Queen, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie - drawing a connection between diverse genres of music and world cultures.
The staterooms on the Zaandam cater to various tastes and budgets, ranging from comfortable Interior and Ocean-view Staterooms to the more luxurious Verandah Suites and Neptune Suites. Each stateroom is well-appointed with Euro-top mattresses, fine linens, flat-panel TVs, luxurious bathrobes, and Elemis Aromapure amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests.
For those seeking a more indulgent experience, Neptune Suites offer guests access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, which serves complimentary snacks and beverages and offers personalized concierge service. The Pinnacle and Neptune Suite guests also receive priority seating in the main dining room and specialty restaurants, ensuring that they can make the most of their dining experiences.
Choose from a wide array of dining options onboard Zaandam, from casual fare to elegant, sophisticated cuisine. The main dining room, Rotterdam, features expansive windows, sparkling chandeliers, and offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with menus designed by the master chef, Rudi Sodamin. The Pinnacle Grill, an intimate reservation-only venue, takes its culinary inspiration from the Pacific Northwest, specializing in sustainably sourced seafood, premium steaks, and select regional wines. Canaletto, an authentic Italian eatery, serves classic dishes such as risotto, osso buco, and tiramisu in a cozy setting.
For those who prefer casual dining, Lido Market, with its open kitchen-styled stations, offers fresh salads, made-to-order sandwiches, a variety of international dishes, and hand-scooped ice cream. Additionally, a more informal poolside grill and pizzeria are available for a quick bite to eat between activities.
When it comes to entertainment, the Zaandam's offerings appeal to a variety of interests and ages. The World Stage, a state-of-the-art theater, hosts live performances by guest musicians, comedians, and illusionists, as well as spectacular production shows featuring talented singers and dancers. For something more low-key, the ship's Crow's Nest lounge boasts panoramic views, a comfortable and sophisticated ambiance, and is the perfect place for a cocktail while enjoying live piano music.
For those looking to burn off the indulgent meals enjoyed onboard, the recently refurbished Fitness Center provides all the equipment you need for a good workout. Fitness classes are also offered, including Pilates, spin classes, and yoga lessons for an additional fee.
Guests seeking to unwind and rejuvenate can head to the Greenhouse Spa and Salon, where they can indulge in a wide range of spa treatments, from thoughtfully curated massages to facials and acupuncture, as well as beauty services such as hairstyling and manicures.
The Zaandam itineraries vary and can take travelers on exciting journeys to destinations such as Alaska, South America, the Panama Canal, and Hawaii. The highlight of a Cruise with Holland America Line is their "Explorations Central", an enrichment program dedicated to providing expert information and guidance on the destinations visited, offering talks from destination experts, digital storytelling, and immersive onboard activities and workshops.
In conclusion, a Cruise on Holland America Line's Zaandam is a uniquely engaging experience for travelers looking for a blend of elegance, comfort, and excitement. With a wide range of dining and entertainment options, as well as an emphasis on destination immersion, the Zaandam offers something for everyone in its delightful world in harmony.
