Holland America Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest

Holland America Line has a fleet of 11 mid-sized cruise ships that range in age, style, and onboard features. Some ships were built in the late 1990s, while others are much newer. Each ship belongs to one of four classes, Pinnacle, Signature, Vista, or Rotterdam, and offers its type of cruise experience. Newer ships have more updated spaces, modern dining, and the latest technology. Older ships tend to feel more classic and relaxed. This list shows the ships from newest to oldest, making it easier for travelers to choose a ship that matches the kind of cruise they’re looking for.

Below table is the list of Holland America ships by newest to oldest with important information.

1. MS Rotterdam

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Rotterdam is Holland America’s newest ship, launched in October 2021. It can carry up to 2,668 guests with double occupancy and as many as 3,172 passengers at full capacity, with 1,048 crew members onboard. The name comes from the cruise line’s first ship, but everything on board is modern. It features World Stage, a theater with a huge wraparound LED screen, and popular music venues like the Rolling Stone Rock Room. Guests can enjoy eight dining spots, a relaxing spa, a casino, and fun for kids at the Kids Club. Rotterdam sails to the Caribbean, Europe, and the Panama Canal.

2. MS Nieuw Statendam

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Nieuw Statendam is one of Holland America’s newest ships, launched in December 2018. It can hold 2,666 guests at double occupancy and up to 3,170 at full capacity, with 1,036 crew members. This ship is part of the Pinnacle Class and focuses on stylish design and modern comforts. Guests can enjoy relaxing at the spa or pools, staying active at the gym or pickleball court, and joining fun classes like cooking or wine-blending. At night, entertainment includes live music and theater. With many dining options and Club Orange perks, Nieuw Statendam sails from Fort Lauderdale and European ports to top cruise destinations.

3. MS Koningsdam

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Launched in 2016, Koningsdam is a modern ship in Holland America’s Pinnacle Class. It holds 2,650 guests at double occupancy, up to 3,154 at full capacity, and has 1,036 crew members. Onboard, guests can relax at the spa, shop duty-free, take cooking classes, or lounge by the pool. The ship features 11 dining venues and a range of staterooms, from simple interiors to luxurious suites. Evening fun includes casino games, live music, and stage shows. Club Orange members enjoy extra perks like private dining and an in-room breakfast. Koningsdam sails from ports like Fort Lauderdale and Seattle to destinations across North America.

4. MS Nieuw Amsterdam

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Nieuw Amsterdam, launched in 2010, is a 2,106-passenger ship named after the old name for New York City. It’s known for its art collection worth over $3 million, with pieces by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein that guests can view on a free self-guided tour. Travelers can relax by the pool, enjoy the spa, or watch BBC Earth concerts and movies. Dining options include Asian dishes at Tamarind and casual spots like New York Pizza. Cabins range from basic rooms to large suites. Nieuw Amsterdam sails to Alaska, the Caribbean, the Pacific Coast, and the Panama Canal.

5. MS Eurodam

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Eurodam first set sail in 2008 and was updated in 2018. It can hold 2,104 guests at double occupancy and up to 2,731 total. The ship has 11 decks with a range of cabins, from Interior and Ocean View rooms to large Neptune and Pinnacle Suites. All cabins include Euro-Top mattresses and flat-screen TVs, while suites have been upgraded with new furniture, carpets, and extras like USB outlets and Bluetooth speakers. Guests can enjoy nine dining spots, including Tamarind for Asian dishes. Eurodam sails from ports like Fort Lauderdale and Seattle to places such as Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal.

6. MS Noordam

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Noordam started sailing in 2006 and was updated in 2015. It carries up to 1,924 guests with 811 crew members. Many travelers enjoy the ship's food, though some mention longer waits in the main dining room. Noordam has plenty to do, like wine tastings, BBC Earth shows, the Greenhouse Spa, and swimming pools. At night, guests can visit nightclubs, enjoy drinks in bars, or listen to live music. Cabins include Interior, Ocean View, Verandah, and Suites, all with soft mattresses, flat-screen TVs, and quality towels. Noordam sails from places like Seattle and Sydney to Asia, Alaska, and Australia.

7. MS Westerdam

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Westerdam can carry up to 1,964 guests and has 812 crew members. It began sailing in 2004 and was last updated in January 2023. Guests can enjoy live shows at World Stage, BBC Earth Experiences, the Greenhouse Spa, and swimming pools. For food, there are casual spots like Dive-In grill and fine dining at Pinnacle Grill. In the evening, passengers can listen to music at B.B. King’s Blues Club, watch a show, or visit the casino. Rooms include Inside, Ocean View, and Verandah cabins, plus three Suite types. Westerdam sails from ports like Seattle, Tokyo, and Singapore to Alaska, Asia, and more.

8. MS Oosterdam

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Oosterdam, launched in 2003 and last updated in 2018, carries up to 1,964 guests and 812 crew members. This ship is more colorful than others in the Holland America fleet. It offers six types of staterooms, from Inside cabins to large Pinnacle and Neptune Suites. All rooms include Euro-Top mattresses, flat-screen TVs, and good storage space. Guests can enjoy a large pool, a full spa and fitness center, and BBC Earth Experiences. Dining options include the main dining room, Italian meals at Canaletto, and more. Oosterdam sails to Europe, South America, and Antarctica from ports like Rome and Buenos Aires.

9. MS Zuiderdam

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Zuiderdam, launched in 2002 and refurbished in 2019, offers relaxing and enriching experiences like BBC Earth in Concert and cooking demos through Explorations Central. The ship carries up to 1,916 guests (2,587 max) and 812 crew members, keeping the service personal and friendly. Passengers praise the attentive staff, from bartenders to room stewards. Staterooms range from 151 to 233 square feet and include sofas, vanities, and flat-screen TVs. Beds can be arranged as a queen or twin. Dining options include the upscale Pinnacle Grill and classic dining rooms. Zuiderdam sails worldwide, including Canada, the Caribbean, Europe and beyond.

10. MS Zaandam

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Zaandam, launched in 2000 and updated in 2018, is a smaller ship that welcomes up to 1,432 guests (1,839 max) with 604 crew members. It appeals to older travelers who enjoy relaxing and learning while at sea. Activities focus on enrichment, like BBC Earth in Concert, Step One Dance Company shows, and programs through Explorations Central. There are also kids' clubs and places to stay active like the gym and pickleball courts. Cabins are spacious and comfortable, with sitting areas and queen or twin beds. Dining options include the Lido Market and Italian meals at Canaletto. Zaandam sails to many places, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Australia.

11. MS Volendam

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Volendam, launched in 1999 and updated in 2019, carries up to 1,432 passengers with 604 crew members, keeping a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio. Cabins include flat-screen TVs and soft Egyptian cotton towels, and Neptune suite guests enjoy a private balcony and lounge access. Guests can try their luck at the casino, relax at the Greenhouse Spa, or enjoy live shows on the impressive World Stage. Kids can join fun clubs while adults play pickleball or visit the piano bar. Dining options include the Pinnacle Grill Steakhouse. Volendam sails from ports like Fort Lauderdale and Montreal to the Caribbean, Amazon, and Canada.

Conclusion

Holland America’s ships cover a wide range of years, so there’s something for every kind of traveler. Some ships feel fresh and new, while others bring more of that classic cruise feel. Knowing the age of each ship can help you pick one that fits what you like. Maybe you enjoy newer spaces, or you like the charm of older ships. Either way, each ship brings its style and feel. No matter the year it launched, each one still carries that same Holland America touch.

FAQs About Holland America Ships

1. Which are the newest Holland America ships?

The newest ships in the Holland America fleet are Rotterdam (launched in 2021), Nieuw Statendam (2018), and Koningsdam (2016). These ships are part of the Pinnacle Class and offer modern design, fresh dining options, and a wide range of entertainment.

2. Which is the best Holland America cruise ship?

It depends on what you like. Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam get high praise for their modern feel and great onboard options. But if you like smaller ships, Zaandam or Volendam might be a better fit. Each ship has its charm.

3. What are the different classes of ships in Holland America?

Holland America ships are grouped into classes: Pinnacle, Signature, Vista, and R-Class. Pinnacle ships are the newest and largest. Signature and Vista ships are mid-sized with many modern features. R-Class ships are smaller and have a more traditional cruise feel.

4. When was Holland America Koningsdam last refurbished?

The Koningsdam was last updated in 2023. The refresh included updates to cabins, public spaces, and some tech features to improve the cruise experience.

5. Does Holland America Line have any new ships on order?

As of now, Holland America hasn't announced any new ships on order. Rotterdam was the most recent addition to the fleet in 2021.

6. Has a Holland America ship ever sunk?

No, Holland America Line has not had a ship sink during its modern history. The company has a strong safety record and follows strict safety rules.

7. Which Holland America ship is the smallest?

The smallest ship currently in the fleet is Volendam. It carries around 1,432 guests and gives a more intimate cruise experience compared to the larger ships.

8. How old is Holland America Zuiderdam?

Zuiderdam was launched in 2002, which makes it over 20 years old. It’s part of the Vista Class and has gone through updates to keep it fresh for guests.

9. Is Holland America considered a premium cruise line?

Yes, Holland America is known as a premium cruise line. It offers good food, friendly service, and a quieter onboard vibe compared to big party-style cruise lines. It’s popular with guests who enjoy classic cruising with modern touches.

10. What is the oldest Holland America ship?

The oldest ship in the current Holland America fleet is Volendam, which launched in 1999. It’s part of the R-Class and carries fewer guests than the newer ships. Even though it’s older, it still offers a classic cruise feel and has been kept in good shape with updates over the years.