On April 18, 2023, Holland America Line is celebrating its 150th anniversary, making it one of the longest-operating travel companies in the world. To commemorate the milestone the cruise line is planning special events and activities, including two commemorative transatlantic crossings.
During the October and April 150th anniversary transatlantic crossings, Holland America Line is planning memorable experiences that will weave the company’s history into the menus, activities, entertainment, special guest speakers and more.
“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,” said Gus Antorcha, Holland America Line’s president. “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 honor our heritage.”
150th Anniversary Commemorative Celebrations
On October 15 Rotterdam VII will depart Rotterdam (the Netherlands), exactly 150 years to the date of the departure of Rotterdam I’s maiden voyage, which took place before the company was incorporated. The crossing will recreate Holland America Line’s first sailing, leaving from Rotterdam and visiting Plymouth, England, and Le Havre (Paris), France, before crossing the Atlantic Ocean to New York City for a rare overnight call. The cruise line will kick off its 150th anniversary year with a special ceremony aboard Rotterdam when the ship overnights in New York City on October 26, 2022, including a memorable stage performance to mark the historic night. The following day the ship sails on to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
On April 4 Rotterdam will depart Fort Lauderdale and head to New York City for an overnight call. The ship will then spend eight leisurely days at sea crossing the Atlantic Ocean, calling at Plymouth and Dover (London), England, before arriving on April 18 – Holland America Line’s 150th anniversary – in Rotterdam. When the ship arrives in Rotterdam (the Netherlands) it will receive a grand welcome on its 150th birthday in the city of the company’s founding. During the overnight call, guests and the city of Rotterdam will help mark this historic milestone at an evening event on board.
During the crossings, guests will be treated to a host of experiences, including commemorative historic menus and cocktails offering a taste of the brand’s history, live music with special performances by guest artists, presentations reliving the history and roots of Holland America Line, and an Olympic-style event with classic cruise sporting activities and games.
The anniversary year will include additional special anniversary themed cruises that help relive Holland America Line’s history of exploration through unique ports visited. Specially designed. limited-edition 150th Anniversary retail items will be available in the shipboard shops.