Its ship, the Rotterdam, sailed into Rotterdam on April 17 to celebrate Holland America Line’s 150th anniversary.

A press release states that the ship arrived on the exact day of the cruise line’s 150th birthday, which kicked off all-day celebrations with royalty, local dignitaries, port officials, and guests.

“The 150th anniversary celebration is about more than just our history. Gus Antorcha, President of Holland America Line, said, “It’s about how we’re building on a great brand so it remains relevant for 150 years to come.” “We built our reputation by providing exceptional care from the beginning.” In fact, through the decades, regardless of whether the person was an immigrant, an industrial giant, a soldier or a vacationer, everyone was treated as though they were our own guests. Our brand still stands for it.

The fabric of history is woven from millions of stories, and each story has a person at its center. There are still many chapters to be written. In decades to come, I hope that we will gather on this very spot at Hotel New York to share them.”

At Hotel New York, Holland America Line’s headquarters from 1901 to 1977, Torch was joined by Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb and descendants of the original founders.

Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet poured champagne over a commemorative bell presented by Holland America Line to Hotel New York.

A 150th Anniversary gold-foil stamp designed by Frank Janse was also designed by Holland America Line with the Netherlands post office.

Among the founding families, a share of an original company will be preserved in Rotterdam’s City Archives as part of a special collection. In addition to Holland America’s team members, more than 60 of its top Mariners attended the Hotel New York ceremony.

In celebration of Holland America Line’s 70th anniversary, Antorcha invited guests to a party by the Lido Pool.

Dedicated to those who built, designed, saw and explored the world that we live in today. Our generations of crew members have watched over our guests from shore to shore. Last but not least, to all of the guests and passengers we have served over the years. Greetings to 150 years and many more to come,” Antorcha said.