Holland America Line

With Reuben Goossens

Cruise’n’Travel Journalist, Cruise reviewer & Maritime Historian

Please Note: Cruise-Australia and its associated pages are 100% non-commercial and privately owned cruise sites and are NOT associated with any cruise company or travel agency! Although the author has been in the passenger shipping industry since 1960 and is currently semi-retired, but continues to write cruise and ship reviews and articles in order to better to inform cruise and ship enthusiasts and provide information for those intending a cruise in the future.

News Updates

The ms Oosterdam cruising from Australian and New Zealand waters during the 2013 & 14 summer season!

Introduction.

It is a well known fact that I consider Holland America Line (HAL) to be one of the finest cruise companies in the business! This company has been in the passenger shipping industry since 1872 and the company continually set’s the standards and has received numerous awards and accolades for being one of the highest rated Cruise Line many years in a row, something few other cruise lines can boast!

Below are just a few of the Awards and Accolades handed to Holland America Line – and having cruise with then, I believe that they deserve it:

“Top Cruise Master Chef for 2012” – Porthole presented by Editor-in-Chief Mr. Bill Panoff.

“Holland America Line recognised for Best Art Collection at Sea” – Porthole Magazine 2012.

9 Major Awards in 2011 – from the well cruised readers of the famed Porthole magazine – (see item below)

“The Highest Rated Cruise Line” – Conde Nast Travellers Readers; Choice Travellers Awards; Travel & Leisure Word’s Best Awards.

“Best Overall Cruise Value” – 17 consecutive years – World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society.

“High Deluxe Five Star Rating” - World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society.

“International Five Star Diamond Award” – The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences.

“Cruise Line with the Highest Client Satisfaction” – TravelAge West.

In 2010 Holland America received the following awards - “Best Cruise Operator” and “World’s leading GREEN Cruise Line.”

“Best Cruise Operator” (Internationally based) - AFTA award 2010 AFTA (Australian Federation of Travel Agents) National Travel Industry Awards.

“Gold 2010 Rear Admiral William M. Benkert Environmental Protection Award” - from the U.S. Coast Guard.

“World’s Leading Green Cruise Line Award” and the “Blue Circle Award” - from the Port of Vancouver.

Yet another 11 significant Awards were presented to HAL in 2011 & 2012 - See this page for details!

For interest: In 1989, Holland America Line became a wholly owned subsidiary of Carnival Corp; however, HAL has remained quite separate from Carnival camp as all Holland America ships remain registered in Rotterdam The Netherlands, whereas P&O UK and the Princess Cruises ships for example, have been reregistered in Hamilton Bermuda. For interest, in Australia, Holland America Line, quite unlike P&O, Princess Cruises and Cunard, etc., are not sold nor marketed by Carnival Australia, but remain totally independent.

Reuben Goossens.

Cruise‘n’Ship Reviewer, Maritime Historian, Author and Maritime Lecturer.

Commenced in the Passenger Shipping Industry in 1960.

After reading this page …

-Also visit my other Holland America Pages-

Page One … “The History of Holland America Line and Today’s Modern Fleet”

1872 to 2000

Page Two … “The History of Holland America Line and Today’s Modern Fleet”

1993 to 2015

-Holland America Line Ships featured on Cruise-Australia-

ms Rotterdam - ms Volendam - ms Zaandam - ms Oosterdam & ms Nieuw Amsterdam

ms Prinsendam & ms Statendam - (A 4 page ship review)

-Cruise and Ship Reviews by the Author-

NEW - ms Oosterdam 2013 Cruise’n’Ship Review

ms Volendam Cruise Review - ms Amsterdam Ship Review

HAL ~ News Updates!

ms Oosterdam and ms Volendam

Return to Australia/New Zealand For 2013-14 Season

This Series of Cruises feature has 12 Collectors’ Voyages with 10 itineraries!

ms Oosterdam seen in Sydney

April 2013: Holland America Line’s ms Oosterdam and ms Volendam will return to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific islands for the 2013-14 season with a series of sailings that will visit more than 50 ports of call. During the voyages guests will have the opportunity to experience the region’s incredible wildlife on land and in the sea, including the outback and the Great Barrier Reef, during a complete circumnavigation of the continent.

Guests can select from a series of multiple departures ranging from 10 to 14 day sailings round-trip voyages from Sydney, Australia, or Sydney to or from Auckland, New Zealand, between October 2013 and March 2014. These New Zealand itineraries give guests a chance to experience some of the most amazing scenic cruising in the world, including the dramatic Fiordland National Park and Bay of Plenty, renowned for its majestic beaches. These itineraries also visit both the North and South Islands of New Zealand with calls at the popular ports of Wellington, Napier and Tauranga.

“Over the past few years the popularity of the Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific region has grown tremendously because of its beauty and diversity,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “Our array of itineraries includes popular ports, stunning island visits, extended stays, overnight calls and enticing pre- and post-cruise options to make the trip in this spectacular region a memorable experience.”

Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Voyages:

In 2013-14 Oosterdam sails a total of four 14-day Australia and New Zealand cruises from Auckland to Sydney or reverse Oct. 27 and Nov. 10, 2013, and Feb. 2 and 16, 2014. Featured ports of call include Melbourne, Hobart; Dunedin, Akaroa, Wellington, Napier, Gisborne and Christchurch, New Zealand, and scenic cruising at Fiordland National Park. Cruise fares begin at AU$1,799 per person, double occupancy.

Three 14-day New Zealand Discovery voyages depart on Oosterdam round-trip from Sydney Dec. 8, 2013, and Jan. 19 and March 16, 2014. During those voyages throughout New Zealand port calls include Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Akaroa, Gisborne, Milford Sound, Napier, Tauranga and the Bay of Islands. Cruise fares begin at AU$1,699 per person, double occupancy.

Five additional sailings to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific include Oosterdam’s 14-day Pacific Treasures cruises round-trip from Sydney Nov. 24 and Dec. 22, 2013 (holiday voyage), and Jan. 5 and March 2 and 30, 2014. Those cruises feature more exotic and lesser-known tropical ports at the South Pacific islands of Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Fiji. Cruise fares begin at AU$1,499 per person, double occupancy.

Longer Unique Itineraries including Australia Circumnavigation:

Holland America Line offers several longer itineraries throughout the season, including Volendam’s 34-day Australia Circumnavigation. This voyage is round-trip from Sydney Oct. 20, 2013, and features more than 20 ports as well as scenic cruising in the remote Ribbon Reef and Far North Regions. Calls during the counterclockwise trip around the continent include Brisbane, Hamilton Island, Townsville, Cairns, Darwin, Exmouth, Freemantle (Perth overnight), Esperance, Port Lincoln, Adelaide (overnight), Kangaroo Island, Melbourne, Burnie and Hobart; Komodo Island, Indonesia, and a beautiful sunrise call at Lizard Island and sunset call at Booby Island off the coast of Australia. The ship also visits the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Cruise fares begin at AU$5,199 per person, double occupancy.

19-day Great Barrier Reef:

Travel Melbourne to Singapore on the Volendam departing Nov. 20, 2013. Featuring two days of scenic cruising in The Great Barrier Reef with stops at Sydney, Burnie, Hamilton Island, Cairns and Darwin; Komodo Island, Bali and Semarang, Indonesia before arriving Singapore. Cruise fares begin at AU$2,499, per person, double occupancy.

Trans-Pacific Crossing Itineraries:

One-of-a-kind itineraries also are offered at the beginning and end of the season sailing from North America to the Pacific region. Volendam’s 21- or 24-day South Pacific Crossing departs Los Angeles, Calif., or Vancouver, B.C., for Sydney Sept. 25 and Sept. 28, 2013. Oosterdam’s 24- or 27-day South Pacific Crossing departs Los Angeles, Calif., or Seattle, Wash., for Sydney Sept. 29 and Oct. 2, 2013, and includes an overnight call at Honolulu, Hawaii. Oosterdam returns to North America on a 28- or 29-day South Pacific Crossing from Sydney to Seattle or Vancouver April 13, 2014. The repositioning cruises provide an excellent opportunity to visit the South Pacific and Hawaii, as well as enjoy more relaxing days at sea. Cruise fares for the trans-Pacific sailings begin at AU$1,899 per person, double occupancy.

Collectors’ Voyages:

Ranging from 28 to 58 days, Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Collectors’ Voyages on Oosterdam and Volendam are perfect for avid explorers who seek a more extensive cruise experience. The voyages combine back-to-back itineraries and represent the best per-day value for guests. Holland America Line sails a total of 17 Collectors’ Voyages, affording the most in-depth exploration of this diverse region with extended itineraries visiting multiple destinations and more days at sea. Cruise fares for the Collectors’ Voyages begin at AU$2,799 per person, double occupancy.

For a Holland America Line cruise brochure or for more information on their superb cruises from Australia or throughout the world, consult “The Cruise Specialists”, a Travel professional or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

View some of the ms Oosterdam interior images down the page!

Holland America Line increases Capacity in Asia

With two Ships for 2013-14 Season

ms Rotterdam and ms Volendam to sail new 14-day round-trip Singapore itineraries

One including Myanmar – and exciting series of Collectors’ Voyages

ms Volendam has a single modern funnel, whilst her sister the ms Rotterdam has twin stovepipe uptakes as funnels

Holland America Line will has announced that they will position both the popular ms Volendam and her superb sister ms Rotterdam in Asia for the 2013-14 season. This will certainly increase capacity and add more interesting itineraries in this popular region. New expanded Singapore departures make it easier to sail round-trip from this bustling port and experience exotic calls at destinations like Myanmar and India.

The diverse 14-day itineraries as well as the ever popular longer “Collectors’ Voyages”, that combine back-to-back itineraries into longer cruises, also feature extended and overnight stays at some of Asia’s most iconic cities and provide travellers with ample time to explore the region’s diverse historical and notable landmarks.

One of the special features in 2014 will be two extensive 51- and 53-day “Collectors’ Voyages” in January and March respectively that will provide comprehensive explorations of the region with visits to Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Indonesia whilst sailing either from or to Europe.

“Asia continues to flourish as a popular cruise destination, so the timing is right to increase our capacity in the region and provide our guests with a variety of exciting travel options to this magical area of the world,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “The enhanced itineraries offer guests an opportunity to take in the rich Asian culture and even go inland to see some of the most well-known sites.”

New 14-Day Asian Adventure Voyage:

Departing Feb. 17, 2014, from Singapore, Volendam sails on a new round-trip itinerary that stretches up to Myanmar and explores Malaysia, Thailand and India. The 14-day cruise calls at Malacca, Penang, Porto Malai and Port Klang (overnight), Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; Rangoon (overnight), Myanmar, and Port Blair, India. Port Klang is the gateway to the city of Kuala Lumpur, famous for its diverse architecture, Malay mosques, Hindu temples and 222-acre Lake Gardens. With an overnight at Rangoon, guests will have time to visit the Shwedagon Pagoda — one of Asia’s greatest religious sites — with its gilded domes that hover over the city protectively.

New 14-day Indonesian Discovery Voyages:

Rotterdam will sail a series and Volendam will offer one departure of new round-trip Singapore itineraries in 2014. The 14-day voyages include calls at Jakarta; Semarang (Java); Lembar (Lombok); Komodo Island; Makassar (Sulawesi); Probolinggo and Suabaya (Java), as well as an overnight stay at Bali. Guests will have the opportunity to come face-to-face with the infamous Komodo dragon on Komodo Island, while an overnight at Bali gives time ashore to take in a traditional fire dance performance or visit Besakih Temple, considered by the Hindu Balinese to be their mother temple. Departure dates are Jan. 6, Feb. 14 and 28, and March 14, 2014.

14-day Far East Discovery Voyages:

Volendam’s 14-day Far East Discovery voyages sail between Hong Kong, China, and Singapore and feature calls at Koh Samui and Bangkok (overnight), Thailand; Sihanoukville, Cambodia, and Phu My, Nha Trang, Da Nang and Halong Bay, Vietnam. Departure dates are Dec. 9, 2013 (12-day sailing), Jan. 6 and 20, and Feb. 3, 2014. The ship also offers a special 16-day Holiday voyage Dec. 21, 2013, with overnights at Hong Kong, Phu My and Laem Chabang (Bangkok). The overnight at Bangkok enables guests ample time to do some shopping at the spectacular Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, or those looking for a more peaceful experience can explore the serene golden temples and the Grand Palace.

14-day China and Japan Voyages.

For Volendam’s China and Japan voyages, guests can choose to sail between Hong Kong and Kobe (Osaka), Japan, or round-trip from Kobe. The 14-day cruises include overnight calls at Xingang (Beijing) and Shanghai, China, and day calls at Dalian, China; Pusan, South Korea, and Nagasaki, Japan. Departure dates are March 17 and 31, 2014. South Korea is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations in Asia, and guests will have the opportunity to visit the country’s Beomeosa Temple or the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gyeongju. Beijing brings millennia of history with a variety of sites in and around the city, including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the 2008 Olympic Games National Stadium (aka the "Bird's Nest").

19-day Great Barrier Reef:

Travel Melbourne to Singapore on the Volendam departing Nov. 20, 2013. Featuring two days of scenic cruising in The Great Barrier Reef with stops at Sydney, Burnie, Hamilton Island, Cairns and Darwin, Australia; Komodo Island, Bali and Semarang, Indonesia before arriving Singapore.

28-day Far East Adventure Collectors’ Voyage.

Volendam’s 28-day Far East Adventure Collectors’ Voyage from Hong Kong to Singapore departs Feb. 3, 2014, and combines back-to-back Far East Discovery and Asian Adventure itineraries. The trip includes overnight calls at Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Rangoon and Port Klang, as well as extended stays in many of the region’s favorite destinations. The itinerary includes ports in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar and India.

51-day Spice Route to Singapore Collectors’ Voyage:

Departing Jan. 8, 2014, from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, or Jan. 9 from Southampton, England, Rotterdam sets course for Singapore on a 51- or 50-day Collector’s Voyage that calls at ports in Portugal, Spain, Malta, Turkey, Greece, Egypt, Oman, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Highlights include a daylight transit of the Suez Canal, a late departure from Safaga, Egypt, and overnight calls at Muscat, Oman; Mumbai (Bombay), India, and Bali, Indonesia. On this extended journey, guests have the chance to visit some of the world’s most impressive landmarks, including Ephesus in Turkey, the Acropolis in Greece, Luxor and the Valley of the Kings in Egypt, the Taj Mahal in India and the temple of Borobudu in Java. Additional Collectors’ Voyage segments of 25-, 36-, 37- and 39-days are available on this cruise.

53-day Indonesia, Arabia and India Discovery Collectors’ Voyage:

Departing March 14, 2014, Rotterdam will sail a 52- or 53-day day Collectors’ Voyage from Singapore back to Southampton or Rotterdam visiting ports in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, Oman, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal, including a daylight transit of the Suez Canal. Highlights include Java and Komodo Island, Indonesia; Port Klang, Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; Colombo, Sri Lanka, and overnight calls at Bali, Mumbai (Bombay) and Muscat. Additional Collectors’ Voyage segments of 25-, 38- and 39-days are available on this cruise.

Cruise fares begin at $1,948 per person, double occupancy for the 14-day Far East Discovery sailings; $1,669 for the 14-day China and Japan cruises; $1,999 for the 14-day Indonesia Discovery departures; $2,498 for the 19-day Great Barrier Reef; $3,798 for the 28-day Far East Adventure Collectors’ Voyage; $6,299 for the 51-day Spice Route to Singapore Collectors’ Voyage and $6,698 for the 53-day Indonesia, Arabia and India Collectors’ Voyage.

For a Holland America Line cruise brochure or for more information on their superb cruises from Australia or throughout the world, consult “The Cruise Specialists”, a Travel professional or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

Holland America Line

A Celebratory Tulip Created for

Holland America Lines 140^th Anniversary!

Holland America Line is partnering with the world-famous Keukenhof Spring Gardens in the Netherlands to develop an exclusive tulip for Holland America Line to celebrate their 140th.anniversary in 2013. Master tulip grower Mr. Jan Pennings, exhibitor at Keukenhof Gardens, chose a white-pedalled variety to honour the company that was originally founded in Rotterdam on April 18, 1873, as a Trans Atlantic Cargo and Passenger Company.

Jan Pennings handed over the first bulbs to Holland America Line Captain Edward van Zaane and Martin Schröder, Loyal Mariner and member of the Holland America Line Dutch advisory board to launch the planting of the new tulip that will be harvested during the northern hemisphere spring. The event took place on November 16, 2012 by the full size windmill that was donated to the Keukenhof Gardens by Holland America Line back in 1957.

Jan Pennings hands over a basket of white tulip bulbs to Captain Edward van Zaane and guests

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

When the tulip blooms in spring, an official christening and naming of this new tulip will be held in April 2013 at Keukenhof.

Keukenhof is known as the “Garden of Europe” and it is the world’s largest flower garden and it is situated between Amsterdam and The Hague in the magnificent Bulb region close to the town of Lisse in the Netherlands. There are over seven million flower bulbs covering some 1,600 varieties that are planted annually in the park. But due to the flowering period, Keukenhof is only open for two months per year, from March 21 through May 20, and attracts more than 800,000 visitors from around the world. For more information visit: http://www.keukenhof.nl.

For a Holland America Line cruise brochure or for more information on their superb cruises from Australia or throughout the world, consult “The Cruise Specialists”, a Travel professional or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

Visit the author’s … ms Oosterdam feature

Arrival of ms Oosterdam

Holland America Line’s ms Oosterdam arrived in Sydney for her Inaugural Cruise Season …

In the Australian, New Zealand and South Pacific region on Wednesday October 24, 2012

Here we se the ms Oosterdam slip by the Sydney Harbour Bridge as she is about to berth at her maiden arrival on October 24, 2012

The Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, because of her size she cannot pass under the Bridge!

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

The arrival of ms Oosterdam’s arrival into Sydney Harbour has marked the first time one of Holland America Line’s (HAL) new generation of ships being based down-under for the Australian summer cruise season.

Although early in the morning as the Oosterdam sailed through Sydney heads it quite hazy, but as she came up the harbour it started to clear and by the time she had reached the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge the weather had turned simply perfect and she made a grand entrance into Circular Quay and she gracefully berthed at the Passenger Terminal, which will be her home when in Sydney as at 82,305-ton and her height she is too big to go under the bridge!

But for Australian’s she has so much to offer, as the Oosterdam has a far greater number of staterooms that offer a private Verandah overlooking the ocean, however, it worth to note that even a value for money inside cabin will have a comfortable sofa and a chair, thus a lounge area, unlike most cruise ships! In fact all cabins have this, be they a stateroom with a window or a Verandah.

The ship also offers a wonderful hydrotherapy pool located at the superb Greenhouse Spa and for the food lovers, something that Holland America has become famed for, for this is one of the most talked about dinning venues on the seven seas, the world acclaimed *“Pinnacle Restaurant and Bar,” But obviously there is so much on this luxury ship! Guests on the Oosterdam will be spoiled with dinning options for they can enjoy exceptional dining in the magnificent two deck grand Restaurant, complete with a band stand on the upper level, and the menus are ever changing, but best still prepared by some of the finest and acclaimed chefs! Then there is the Excellent Italian Canaletto Restaurant and the Lido Restaurant (Buffet) for more casual dinning, but with superb mealsd on offer! Not enough, then head for the Terrance Grill and enjoy their delights! Want to learn about food and cooking? Well that is possible for the Oosterdam has enriching experiences onboard such as culinary demonstrations in the Culinary Arts Centre or join the Digital Workshops that are powered by Microsoft Windows. For those who love to read, here is a good library, for entertainment there is a three level Showroom, as well as The Queens Lounge and other venues, such as the Explorer Lounge, Ocean Bar, Piano bar and the Northern Lights Night Club and Disco to mention just a few! There are two main pools, plus a pool for the younger set, who also have the finest facilities possible! But for photographs of most of the facilities and photographs see the Oosterdam feature!

Mr. Tony Archbold, HAL’s Sydney-based Director of Sales, had been looking forward to welcoming the grand 82,305-ton ms Oosterdam to Sydney. For a little earlier he had said; “The arrival of the Oosterdam means a 25 percent increase in capacity compared to previous seasons and a wider range of itineraries for our guests to enjoy,” he said. “It’s also the first time we’ve had two ships sailing in the region simultaneously.” - “Since opening our dedicated Australian sales office last August, the number of Australians sailing with us in the South Pacific and in overseas destinations has grown impressively.” He added: “Aussies know a great value holiday when they see one and now is ideal time to book a Holland America Line cruise.”

The *“Pinnacle Restaurant” is at a reasonable optional cost! However, having dined there myself as a passenger4, I can highly recommend it, for it is not just a magnificent and a sublime meal, but the whole event is more of a spectacular and it is one that not be missed!

Here we see a small section of one of HAL’s signature lounges, this being the Explorers Lounge, where there is nightly music at the bandstand

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

Here we see the grand three deck high Vista Show Lounge

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

ms Oosterdam is a grand and elegant 82,305-ton luxury cruise ship with the ultimate facilities on board with service, cuisine and entertainment to match!

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

Accommodations

Twin or double inside rooms are rather spacious and bright with a nice lounge area!

Remember you are looking at the cheapest stateroom on the ship, yet it still has a lounge area

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

This is a standard outside twin or double stateroom again with a lounge

No matter the accommodation you choose, all staterooms are very spacious

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

Here we see one of the superior Verandah staterooms – living with additional space

There are also the standard Verandah staterooms and those magnificent HAL Suites to spoil yourself!

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

2013 departure highlights:

The 2013 season offers premium cruising for incredible value. Guests can choose from 10 to 28 day voyages onboard the ms Oosterdam.

Embarking Sydney 26 January 2013, ms Oosterdam will venture to the idyllic and culturally rich South Pacific islands for an 11-day cruise round trip Sydney. Guests will enjoy six full days of exploration in Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia. There are other departures.

11-day Pacific Treasures start at $1,099 AUD per person, based on double occupancy:

For guests seeking to explore the hidden gems that lie throughout the land of the long white cloud, the 14-day New Zealand Discovery may just be the ticket. Departing 12 January 2013 ms Oosterdam will make its way to Hobart before venturing across the Pacific to the South and then North Islands of New Zealand. There are a good number of departures.

This port intensive voyage includes eight days exploring a wide variety of ports including the picturesque town of Akaroa in Christchurch and the rugged coastal town of Waitangi. There will be no shortage of spectacular scenery and exciting shore excursions for guests to partake in.

14-day *New Zealand Discovery start at $1,599 AUD per person, based on double occupancy: *A similar itinerary is offered as one way Sydney to Auckland and reverse!

The Oosterdam departs Sydney on her very first Australian cruise on October 24, 2012

Photograph provided by & © Holland America Line

For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s voyages, consult your Cruise Specialist or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322, or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

Visit the author’s … ms Oosterdam feature

Famed Porthole Magazine Gives HAL Two 2012 Awards!

Holland America Line’s Rudi Sodamin Named Top Chef

In Cruise Industry by Porthole Cruise Magazine

HAL also awarded Best On-Board Art Collection by editor-in-chief

Holland America Line’s President and CEO, Mr. Stein Kruse is seen accepting the 2012 Porthole Award from Editor-in-Chief Mr. Bill Pano

Holland America Line’s culinary consultant Master Chef Rudi Sodamin was once again named Best Cruise Line Chef by Porthole Cruise Magazine. One of the world’s leading cruise travel publications, Porthole also recognized Holland America Line as having the Best On-Board Art Collection. Chosen annually by Editor-in-Chief Bill Panoff, the Porthole Awards are a selection of his current favorites from the cruise and travel industries.

“Chef Sodamin’s talent is legendary,” said Panoff. “Year after year Chef Sodamin continues to be the most innovative and inspiring chef in the cruise industry. Always looking to elevate the culinary experience for cruise guests, Rudi’s leadership and mentorship of chefs has expanded the many possibilities for gourmet cuisine at sea.” An internationally recognized food authority and one of the hospitality industry's most innovative chefs, Sodamin has directed the evolution of fine dining and unique menu options at Holland America Line since 2005 through his role as consulting Master Chef.

Sodamin’s distinctive vision has been instrumental in the development of Holland America Line’s interactive culinary program on board as well. He also chairs Holland America Line’s Culinary Council, which was formed to enrich the line’s culinary program and is composed of internationally renowned chefs Jonnie Boer, David Burke, Jacques Torres, Charlie Trotter and Marcus Samuelsson.

“Rudi is a leader in the industry and his forward-thinking approach to cuisine has enabled us to consistently deliver an exceptional culinary experience onboard,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Lane. “We are proud that Rudi’s hard work and dedication earned him this recognition once again, and we look forward to continuing to leverage his creative ideas to ensure the best dining at sea.”

Sodamin is the author of numerous internationally published cookbooks, including “Seduction & Spice” and Holland America Line’s Signature of Excellence cookbook series that includes: “A Taste of Excellence,” “A Taste of Elegance,” “A Taste of Celebration” and “A Taste of Appetizers.” Sodamin belongs to the Academy Culinaire de France, and is an honoree member of the “Club de Chefs des Chefs.”

Master Chef Rudi Sodamin is the author of numerous internationally published cookbooks, including “Seduction & Spice” (2000) and Holland America Line’s

“A Taste of Excellence” (2007), “A Taste of Elegance” (2009) and “A Taste of Celebration” (2010). All books are published by Rizzoli

“I am deeply honoured to win this award for the third year for my achievements at Holland America Line,” said Sodamin. “The line’s commitment to culinary excellence has made it possible for me and the culinary team to expand dining opportunities and restaurant concepts to create exciting options for our guests and fresh inspiration for our chefs.”

In addition to recognizing Sodmin, Porthole Cruise Magazine also honoured Holland America Line for its extensive on-board art collection. Valued at tens of millions of dollars, thousands of pieces of unique works of art and antiques are displayed throughout the line’s 15 ships.

These two Guardians statues date from the Ming Dynasty, the 15th.century, at the side are two wooden palace doors from the 18th.century

The two Lion Guardian door holders are also from the 18th.century – On board the ms Amsterdam

Photograph by & © Reuben Goossens

A view into the Explorations Café & Library, complete with a statue and other art works – On board ms Amsterdam

Photograph by & © Reuben Goossens

From classic maritime paintings by artist Stephen Card to 5,000-year-old pre-Columbian carved limestone figures from Ecuador, the pieces play an integral part of the elegant and sophisticated décor. Guests wanting to learn more about the collections can take a museum-quality, self-guided art tour aboard each ship using a hand-held iPod device that can be rented out free of charge. In addition, the tours are available for download to a home computer or handheld device from the Holland America website at http://www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-vacation-onboard/Activities.action.

Opposite the Pinnacle Grill are a number of superb ancient ceramic Asian ceramic towers and a vase - On board ms Volendam

Photograph by & © Reuben Goossens

For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s voyages, consult your Cruise Specialist or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322, or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

For more information on Porthole Cruise Magazine, visit www.porthole.com.

Holland America Line

Receives yet another Award!

The British and American’s Award’s - Holland America Line!

The elegantly appointed MS Nieuw Amsterdam

Let me commence with the UK: For the “2011 Cruise Critic U.K.” awards, Holland America Line received the award for having the “Best Cabins” of all cruise companies and that is certainly no mean feat. Obviously having sailed with HAL personally, I love their cabins, for they are spacious, even their lower grades, for they have bedrooms and a separate sitting area, with so many fine features and excellent bathrooms. I agree with the3 Cruise Critic, they are top Class indeed and for one who has been on 125 voyages/cruises HAL has the best of them all. The Award is based on standard cabins and not necessarily on suites, etc., although they are superb!

In addition, Holland America Line has also just earned top honours with nine “2011 Readers’ Choice Awards” from the renowned “Porthole Cruise Magazine,” being one of the world’s leading cruise travel publications. The awards included “Best Alaska Itineraries”,” Best Medium-Sized Ship” for the ms Nieuw Amsterdam and four other categories as listed below!

“The readers of Porthole are knowledgeable and well-travelled, having extensively experienced first-hand the voting categories,” said Bill Panoff, publisher and editor-in-chief of the magazine. “Our readers appreciate the quality cruise experience both on board and ashore that Holland America Line continues to deliver year after year.”

Holland America Line's 2011 Readers Choice Awards include:

Best Medium-Sized Ship for ms Nieuw Amsterdam.

Best Private Island for Half Moon Cay.

Best Alaska Itineraries.

Best Central America Itineraries.

Best Canada/New England Itineraries.

Best Shore Excursions.

Best Computer Facilities.

Best Medical Facilities.

Best Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers.

“Holland America Line is honoured to be recognized by the discerning readers of Porthole Cruise Magazine once again,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president of marketing, sales and guest programs. “We continually strive to deliver the ultimate premium cruise experience and these awards validate our efforts and dedication to excellence.”

For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s voyages, consult your Cruise Specialist or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322, or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

Holland America Line names Tony Archbold

as Director of Sales in Australia

ms Amsterdam seen bow-on at Circular Quay, Sydney, February 2010

This is an official HAL News release: “Holland America Line has named Tony Archbold director of sales in Australia. Mr. Archbold is responsible for managing all aspects of sales activities including developing the sales strategy, implementation and directing sales programs, and staff for both Holland America Line and Seabourn.

“Tony’s extensive experience in sales in Australia and in the tourism industry will be an asset in this important role,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president of marketing, sales and guest programs. “Australia is a key international market and with Tony’s expertise we are poised for success, especially given the rapid growth in Australia and New Zealand and an increase of 25 percent capacity at the homeport, Sydney, with the addition of ms Oosterdam. He has worked with and earned the respect of many of the same key tour operators and travel agencies that have strong relationships with Holland America Line.”

Mr. Archbold joins Holland America Line from Creative Holidays, the Australian FIT division of The Travel Corporation, where he held the position of National Sales Manager since 2003. In this role Mr Archbold doubled sales and lead the sales team for Creative Holidays to win five consecutive International Wholesalers of the Year awards as well as Hall of Fame entrance at the National Travel Industry Awards.

Mr. Archbold also held sales management positions with Rosenbluth International, SBT Business Travel Solutions, Transport & Distribution Consultants Pty Ltd, Eva and Northwest Airlines, and Thai Airways. He brings more than 29 years of strategy, marketing and sales experience to his new role. Mr. Archbold completed a Master of Transport Management degree at the University of Sydney.”

The author of Cruise-Australia wishes Mr. Archbold much success and I am sure that this superb cruise company will continue to grow in success, for it is indeed one of the great cruise lines offering some of the best ships, service, cuisine, entertainment and without a doubt as proved by the countless awards received, one of the best cruise products around!

Reuben Goossens.

For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s voyages, consult your Cruise Specialist or call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322, or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

Read my ms Amsterdam Ship Review

ms Rotterdam VI sister of the ms Amsterdam seen in Stockholm

Holland America Line receives environmental protection awards

‘Green’ Awards recognise Line’s Fleet-wide efforts

Holland America Line has been recognised for its environmental leadership with a series of recent accolades, including the “Gold 2010 Rear Admiral William M. Benkert Environmental Protection Award” from the U.S. Coast Guard, the “World’s Leading Green Cruise Line Award” at the World Travel Awards in London and a “Blue Circle Award” from the Port of Vancouver.

“We work diligently every day to reduce Holland America Line’s ecological footprint, and these awards validate our fleet wide efforts,” said Stein Kruse, president and CEO of Holland America Line. “We are grateful that the U.S. Coast Guard and our travel industry and seaport partners appreciate our commitment to the environment and have recognised our dedication to environmental stewardship with these awards.”

Holland America Line is a leader in environmental initiatives in the cruise industry with its comprehensive approach to managing impacts and reducing its overall carbon footprint. The line’s Environmental Management System was certified in 2006 and recertified in 2009. The company works diligently to conserve fuel and water, employs the latest technologies for wastewater and oily bilge water treatment, and uses innovative strategies to reduce and manage its solid waste stream. Holland America Line is an industry leader in exploring new environmental initiatives such as a whale conservation and protection program and using shore power in a growing number of ports.

The U.S. Coast Guard Benkert Award was bestowed by a panel of experts based on a thorough review of Holland America Line’s comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship. The premier marine environmental protection award recognises organisations for outstanding achievements in all aspects of marine environmental protection. The award was created to recognise outstanding achievements that go beyond mere compliance with industrial and regulatory standards.

The World Travel Awards were developed in 1993 to celebrate excellence and achievement in the travel and tourism industry, and winners comprise a “who’s who” of the travel community. The Wall Street Journal has called the awards the “Oscars of the travel and tourism industry.” Nominations for the World Travel Awards featured 5,000 companies from 162 countries across 1,000 categories. The winners were selected by thousands of industry professionals and consumers worldwide who voted online.

Under Port Metro Vancouver’s EcoAction Program for Shipping, the Blue Circle Award is a recognition reserved for only the highest emissions-reduction achievements. The Blue Circle Awards honour a company’s efforts to reduce air emissions, depending on the quality of fuel used and overall emission reductions.

For a Holland America Line cruise brochure or for more information on their superb cruises from Australia or throughout the world, consult a cruise specialist, who is a travel professional or in Australia call Holland America Line at 1300 987 322 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.au.

Holland America Line hopes to welcome you onboard very soon!

-Also visit my other Holland America Pages-

Page One … “The History of Holland America Line and Today’s Modern Fleet”

1872 to 2000

Page Two … “The History of Holland America Line and Today’s Modern Fleet”

1993 to 2015

-Holland America Line Ships featured on Cruise-Australia-

ms Rotterdam - ms Volendam - ms Zaandam - ms Oosterdam & ms Nieuw Amsterdam

ms Prinsendam & ms Statendam - (A 4 page ship review)

-Cruise and Ship Reviews by the Author-

NEW - ms Oosterdam 2013 Cruise’n’Ship Review

ms Volendam Cruise Review - ms Amsterdam Ship Review

The ever popular MS Rotterdam

Photograph from the cruise-australia collection

Who is the Author of Cruise-Australia & ssMaritime?

Commenced in the Passenger Shipping Industry in May 1960

Or go directly to the - Cruise-Australia.com - INDEX

Reuben Goossens.

Contact the Author …

Please name the ship you are writing about!

Cruise-Australia.com

& Cruise-Australia.net

Classic Liner enthusiasts visit

ssMaritime.com & ssMaritime.net

Where the ships of the past make history the 1914 built MV Doulos Story

Photographs on cruise-australia.com & .net and associate pages are: 1. By the author. 2. From the author’s private collection. 3. As provided by Shipping Companies and private photographers or collectors. Credit is given to all contributors. However, there are photographs provided to me without details provided regarding the photographer concerned. I hereby invite if owners of these images would be so kind to make them-selves known to me, that due credit may be given.

This notice covers all pages, although, I have done my best to ensure that all photographs are duly credited and that this notice is displaced on each page, that is, when a page is updated!