Tradition with a modern twist: onboard Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam

Isabella from our Ringwood branch recently had the opportunity to board Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam for a 5 night cruise from Portugal. Holland America Line (HAL) celebrated 150 years of sailing in 2023, and their motto “Travel is our Tradition” is very appropriate given their history. Founded in Rotterdam in 1873 as a shipping and passenger line, HAL primarily carried immigrants from Europe to the United States, bringing more than two million people to a new life in the New World. In 1895 the company offered its very first leisure cruise, and in 1973 the focus of the business finally changed when they sold the whole cargo division. Today HAL offer cruising in the classic style of ocean travel, operating 11 cruise ships to seven continents and carry more than 800,000 cruise passengers a year.

Nieuw Statendam is the second of HALs Pinnacle Class ships, and carrying just over 2000 guests, this spacious mid-size ship is delight from the moment you step onboard, “The staff were immediately very welcoming, it was lovely to be greeted with smiles. The ship was spotless and very grand. The check in process at guest services was very clear and swift,” confirms Isabella. Nieuw Statendam ‘s design draws inspiration from the fluid lines and elegant curves of musical instruments and musical influences can be found throughout the ship with each deck named after a famous composer and the Rolling Stone Lounge, B.B. King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard in-room music and the stunning two-level World Stage for performances. Isabella really enjoyed the onboard entertainment, “BB King's Blues Club is great for getting up and dancing and DJ ACE is more than happy to take requests to ensure his sets are right for the guests present. The musical performances and comedian were fantastic, and the entertainment caters to a broad age range.”

Isabella stayed in a Verandah cabin, which she confirms is “spacious, clean and comfortable.” Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook a private verandah and include a sitting area and a bathtub with massage showerheads for a relaxing soak after a hard day’s cruising. Isabella advises, “There is no need to bring shampoo, conditioner or a towel as these are all provided. Flip flops for around the pool are good to pack!”

There are plenty of onboard options when it comes to food. The Dining Room is the venue for inclusive dining, alongside the Dive In poolside grill, New York Pizza and the Lido Market, all offering casual inclusive dining options. If you fancy a change then Pinnacle Grill steakhouse, Canaletto Italian, Grand Dutch Café, Tamarind Asian Fusion, Rudi’s Sel de Mer and Nami Sushi are all available for an additional charge, and of course there is 24-hour room service. “I loved trying the American side dishes at the Pinnacle Grill,” says Isabella, “and really enjoyed the different types of burgers and hot dogs offered at the Dive In.” We pinned Isabella down on her favourite taste sensation from the trip, “It’s so hard to choose! But I have to say the cake selection at the Lido was varied and delicious. And the pizzas at New York Pizza were exceptional!”

There is a wide variety of activities onboard, with HAL’s Explorations Central (EXC™) program adding context with destination focused talks and experiences, as well as all the cruise favourites. “I enjoyed the Mixology Class as the presenters were very funny! There is also a whisky tasting experience,” says Isabella. There are plenty of places to relax for some downtime too, “There was plenty of seating wherever I went in the ship. The public spaces were very clean and calm. The large sofa-style sunbeds above the pool deck offer a gorgeous view and the chance to lay down in the sun with lots of personal space.”

Isabella’s cruise took her from Porto in Portugal and called at Lisbon, Gibraltar, Cartagena and finally Valencia in Spain. “All the destinations were beautiful cities with ancient architecture, and you can have a wonderful time just walking around,” says Isabella. Her advice for enjoying them is, “Consider the age of the architecture around these historic cities, it is best to take your time, if you have any accessibility issues, you will need to plan your trips carefully as the streets are often hilly, narrow and cobbled.” At Cartegena she took an excursion to the Palmeral de Elche, where the unique microclimate has enabled the creation of one of the largest palm forests in southern Europe, with nearly 250 000 palm trees, “Elche was very beautiful and I loved seeing the botanical gardens,”

Isabella summarises her trip, “The quality of the food and the staff, and the relaxing atmosphere created as a result, absolutely stand out for this operator,” she continues, “Holland America created a truly relaxing holiday experience, allowing guests to unwind surrounded by attentive staff, fabulous food and comfortable rooms. It is a lovely taste of American and Dutch Dining! I would emphasise the calmness of this cruise, with entertainment and bars over by 11-12pm, and it suits anyone who enjoys fine dining, live music and a more understated vibe.”

You can find Isabella at our Ringwood branch.

If you would like to discuss Holland America Line cruises please contact your nearest branch

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