Maasdam / Amsterdam / Westerdam – Holland America Line

ms Massdam – Holland America Line

ms Massdam

This elegant cruise ship was named for the Maas River in the Netherlands. At 720-feet, Maasdam is slightly smaller than most of Holland America’s ships, yet feels very spacious. Many staterooms feature spectacular ocean views, and each suite has a private balcony. Featuring an interior design that pays homage to the historical Dutch East and West India companies of the 17th through 19th centuries, the centerpiece of this elegant ship features Luciano Vistosi’s “Totem,” a monumental sculpture using nearly 2,000 glimmering pieces of glass, prominently displayed in a soaring three-story atrium.

You can escape your daily stresses aboard this ship. It has fun places, like Mix, which is a lounge with separate areas to get beer, champagne and martinis. With mirrors, flashing lights and the excitement of a big payout, the casino gets a lot of hearts beating onboard. The dance floor at Crow’s Nest, which has great views, is the place to show your moves. And when you’re ready to unwind, the Maasdam has relaxing spots and one of the most comfortable beds at sea.

Passenger Capacity: 1,266
Year Built: 1993
Last Refurbished: 2011

ms Amsterdam – Holland America Line

ms Amsterdam

Amsterdam was named for the Dutch capital. Built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy, the ship blends shipbuilding technology with the artistry, with personalized touches and world-class service. At the heart of Amsterdam is the Planeto Astrolabium, a commissioned signature sculpture soaring in a three-story atrium. The stunning Astrolabe tracks constellations, the planets, world time and ship time. Dutch heritage and tradition is displayed throughout the ship in original Art Deco pieces.

For rejuvenation thru exercise, Amsterdam cruise ship offers fitness classes through Yoga, Pilates, spinning, aquarobics and cardio Ki-Bo circuit training are available for students of all levels.

The Amsterdam also represents the culinary traditions of Holland America with delicious and beautiful meals offered at the casual Lido restaurant and the intimate Pinnacle Grill.

Passenger Capacity: 1,380
Year Built: 2000
Last Refurbished: 2013

ms Westerdam – Holland America Line

ms Westerdam

The Westerdam embraces the latest industry and environmental technologies such as her use of a diesel-electric power plant for optimal energy efficiency and an Azipod propulsion system. Most of her staterooms have ocean views and many have private verandahs.

The theme of Westerdam’s art collection is Dutch heritage in the New World. Art ranges from paintings of historic Dutch ships, such as Henry Hudson’s Half Moon, to a huge Indian silver-overlaid wood palace doorway, a bone tobacco pipe carved in the shape of a woman’s head to a collection of 5,000-year-old pre-Columbian carved limestone figures from Ecuador. Contemporary pieces include an original Andy Warhol portrait and signature sculptures by Sedona artist Susanna Holt.

Westerdam is a family-friendly ship. While onboard, the family can stick together or split up and enjoy the features they really want to see. Mom can indulge with a facial at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon while dad gets in on a pick up game of basketball. The kids will be busy all day and into the night at Club HAL where trained childcare professionals will be leading the kids in scavenger hunts and arts and crafts projects. And teenagers will enjoy The Loft, a teen hangout where they can take tech classes and participate in a talent show. The family can always regroup for dinner and a show at the Westerdam’s Vista Show Lounge at night.