Holland America Line MS Zuiderdam Ship Review and Guide

The Holland America Line MS Zuiderdam is a mid-sized cruise ship that's perfect for those looking for a more intimate and laid-back cruise experience. It has a capacity for 1,964 passengers.

The ship features a variety of onboard amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options. You can also enjoy live entertainment, from Broadway shows to live music and comedy acts.

One of the standout features of the MS Zuiderdam is its extensive art collection, which features over 2,000 pieces of art. This is a great way to experience the ship's culture and history.

As you'd expect from a Holland America ship, the MS Zuiderdam has a strong focus on food and drink. You can enjoy a range of cuisines, from fine dining to casual buffets.

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The Zuiderdam is a cruise ship that boasts classic nautical finishes and modern amenities. Its annual Grand World Voyage makes it a popular choice for travelers.

You'll find a wide range of dining options, including the Pinnacle Grill for steak, Dive-In for burgers and fries, and Canaletto for exquisite Italian cuisine.

The Zuiderdam also features music clubs like the Rolling Stone Lounge and Billboard Onboard, where you can enjoy your favorite tunes all evening long.

The Zuiderdam is a stunning cruise ship, and let's take a closer look at its specifications.

The Zuiderdam was built in 2002 and is owned by Carnival Corporation & PLC, with Holland America Line as its operator.

It's a large ship, measuring 285 meters (935 feet) in length and 32 meters (105 feet) in width.

The ship's gross tonnage is 82,820 gt, and it has a maximum speed of 22 knots (41 km/h or 25 mph).

Here are some key specifications at a glance:

The ship has 11 decks, with 7 of them featuring cabins, and a total of 985 cabins available for guests.

The Zuiderdam has a capacity for 1,970 to 2,364 passengers, and a crew of 817.

The MS Zuiderdam has a varied itinerary program, catering to different types of travelers. It operates round-trip Grand World Voyages from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which can last up to 125 days.

In the summer, the ship focuses on Alaska cruises from Seattle, Washington. This is a great time to see the stunning natural beauty of Alaska.

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One notable Grand World Voyage itinerary is the "Easter" themed voyage, which starts on January 4, 2025, and ends on May 9, 2025. The prices for this voyage start from USD 22354 for double occupancy.

Here's a breakdown of the Grand World Voyage itinerary:

You'll be happy to know that ms Zuiderdam has a range of dining options to suit every taste and preference.

The main dining room features large windows and a unique layout that separates the upper and lower sections, making conversation easier and more enjoyable. You'll find a variety of themed stations at the Lido Buffet, serving up everything from sandwiches to stir-fries.

The ship's main restaurant, Vista Dining Room, is a two-story venue that's open for all three meals of the day. You can choose to dine at a fixed seating or opt for the "Any Time" dining option between 5:15-9 pm.

Here are some of the ms Zuiderdam's dining options:

So, let's talk about the staterooms on the MS Zuiderdam. You've got a total of 985 staterooms to choose from, spread across 30 different grades.

Most staterooms are a comfortable size, ranging from 170-205 square feet (16-19 square meters). And the good news is that nearly 70% of them come with private step-out balconies.

The largest accommodations on the ship are the Pinnacle Suites, which are a whopping 830 square feet (77 square meters) in size, with a massive 320 square foot (30 square meters) terrace to boot.

You can choose from a range of stateroom categories, including inside cabins, oceanview cabins, and balcony cabins. The smallest inside cabins are around 21 square meters, while the largest veranda cabins are a spacious 33 square meters.

Here's a breakdown of the different types of staterooms on the ship:

And if you're looking for some extra perks, you might want to consider booking a suite - they come with all sorts of goodies, including a private dressing room, a bathroom with a shower and a large spa bath, and a private hot tub on the veranda.

The food on a Holland America cruise is truly exceptional. You'll have a wide range of options to choose from, including the main dining room, buffet, and specialty restaurants.

One of the main dining rooms, the Vista Dining Room, is a two-story venue with large windows and a five-course dinner served every night. You can choose to dine in either an assigned or open format, known as As You Wish dining.

The Lido Restaurant is a more informal option, offering cooked-to-order specialties and a large buffet. It's a great place to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely meal. You can also grab a snack at the Dive-In Grill.

If you're looking for something a bit fancier, you can try the Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto, both of which offer à la carte dining for a fee. Pinnacle Grill serves Pacific Northwestern cuisine, while Canaletto offers Italian food.

Here's a list of the restaurants and food bars available on the ms Zuiderdam:

And if you're ever feeling peckish in the middle of the night, you can always order room service, which is available 24 hours a day.

The ms Zuiderdam offers a wide range of entertainment options, including live performances at the Atrium, Vista Lounge, and Queen's Lounge. You can catch a musical performance with B.B. King's Blues Club experience five nights a week.

The Digital Workshop, powered by Microsoft, is a dedicated computing education venue where you can learn new skills. Complimentary 24-Hour Room-Service is also available for your convenience.

The ship features a variety of bars and lounges, including the Piano Bar, Sports Bar, Pinnacle Bar, Ocean Bar, and Northern Lights Disco & Nightclub. You can also grab a drink at the Casino Bar or Sports Bar.

Here's a list of some of the entertainment venues on board:

The ms Zuiderdam also offers a range of activities, including yoga, swimming, and spa practices. You can even join some sport courses like yoga and pilates or use the gym machines.

Onboard Entertainment is a highlight of any cruise, and ms Zuiderdam is no exception. With a wide range of activities and venues to choose from, you can create your own unique entertainment experience.

The main show room is a must-visit, with live performances every night, featuring singers, musicians, Broadway-style productions, and comedians. It's a great place to be before or after dinner.

You can also test your luck in the lively casino or cool off in the refreshing swimming pools. The basketball and volleyball courts offer a more active way to spend your time.

Duty-free shopping boutiques and numerous bars and lounges are also at your disposal. The Crow's Nest observation lounge is a great spot to take in the views, and it transforms into a nightclub in the evening.

If you'd rather relax, the outdoor lounge seating, art gallery, library, and luxurious spa are all perfect spots to unwind. Don't forget to check out the Greenhouse Spa, which offers a range of treatments, including massages, manicures, and pedicures.

Here's a list of some of the onboard entertainment options:

ms Zuiderdam also offers a range of classes and activities, including cooking classes, wine tastings, and mixology classes at the Culinary Arts Center. You can even take part in a supervised kids program or let your teens enjoy the teen disco at The Loft.

The ms Zuiderdam's current itinerary is a 125-day round-trip Grand World Voyage, themed as "Easter". This cruise starts on January 4, 2025, and ends on May 9, 2025, with prices beginning at USD 22354 for double occupancy rates.

The ship departs from Fort Lauderdale, Port Everglades, Florida on January 4, 2025, at 19:00. It then heads to Grand Cayman Island, where passengers can enjoy the island's beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

On January 9, 2025, the ship navigates through the Panama Canal, one of the world's most impressive engineering feats. This is a great opportunity for passengers to learn about the canal's history and operation.

The itinerary includes a variety of ports in the South Pacific, including Easter Island, Tahiti, and Moorea. These islands offer stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting outdoor activities.

Here's a breakdown of the ship's stops in the South Pacific:

The ship also visits several ports in Australia, including Sydney, Moreton Island, and Cairns. These cities offer a range of cultural, historical, and outdoor attractions.

In total, the ms Zuiderdam's Grand World Voyage itinerary includes 34 stops in 23 countries, offering passengers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

One of the things I love about Holland America is the attention to detail in their special little touches. They use gorgeous fresh flowers throughout the ship.

The blue and white Royal Delft china is a nice touch in the dining rooms, adding a touch of elegance to every meal.

The Holland America Line MS Zuiderdam is a mid-size cruise ship that offers a unique blend of comfort, entertainment, and exploration. It spans 935 feet in length and 105 feet in width.

With a gross tonnage of 82,300, the MS Zuiderdam can accommodate up to 1,964 passengers. This allows for a relaxed and intimate atmosphere on board.

At Holland America Line, sustainability is a top priority. The entire fleet is shore power capable, which significantly reduces emissions when the ship is docked.

This means that the ship can plug into the shore power supply instead of relying on its own generators, minimizing its carbon footprint.

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Holland America Line is also committed to responsible seafood sourcing, and it's the first cruise line in the world to receive both MSC and ASC certification for sustainable seafood.

Guests can now enjoy high-quality seafood on board, knowing that it's sourced under strict guidelines that contribute to a sustainable future for the oceans.

Disposable products on board are reduced or recycled as far as possible, reflecting the company's commitment to minimizing waste.

The Zuiderdam has a pool area on the sundeck that can be closed with a large glass roof, allowing guests to swim and relax without restriction even in cooler weather.

The ship features a variety of dining options, including the Pinnacle Grill for steak, Dive-In for burgers and fries, and Canaletto for exquisite Italian cuisine.

You can enjoy your favorite tunes all evening long at music clubs like the Rolling Stone Lounge and Billboard Onboard.

The Zuiderdam has a spectacular art collection on board, adding to its classic nautical finishes and modern amenities.

Holland America Line has been a trusted name in international cruises for over 150 years, offering a high level of service that's gained a strong following in the German market.

Their ships cater to a range of preferences, with smaller vessels accommodating around 1,432 passengers and larger ones taking up to 2,668 passengers.

You can count on a German-speaking contact person on all cruises, but it's still a good idea to brush up on your English skills to get the most out of your trip.

Holland America Line has been offering international cruises for over 150 years, making it a seasoned player in the industry.

The cruise line has a strong reputation for quality, especially on the German market where it's gaining popularity.

Its ships range from smaller vessels with around 1,432 passengers to larger ones that can accommodate up to 2,668 passengers.

A German-speaking contact person is guaranteed on all cruises, making it easier for German-speaking travelers to navigate the experience.

English skills are still recommended, however, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Holland America Zuiderdam has undergone significant refurbishments over the years.

The ship's drydock refurbishment in April 2015 added new staterooms on Observation Deck 10, which are now shown in the updated deck layout.

In 2019, the ship was drydocked in Freeport Bahamas for a USD 16 million renovation project.

The Retreat, an adults-only sundeck, was added on Sports Deck 11 in place of the two Canvas Cover areas there.

The MS Zuiderdam is a part of the Vista-class Holland America liners, along with its sisterships ms Oosterdam, ms Noordam, and ms Westerdam.

It was built in 2002, making it one of the older ships in the fleet.

This 2002-built cruise ship is currently flagged in the Netherlands, with an IMO number of 9221279 and a MMSI of 245304000.

The MS Zuiderdam is a 2002-built cruise ship that's part of the Vista-class Holland America liners, with sisterships like the ms Oosterdam and ms Westerdam.

It's registered in Rotterdam and currently flies the Netherlands flag, with an IMO number of 9221279 and an MMSI of 245304000.

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If you're looking for a great deal on a Holland America cruise, you're in luck! Holland America offers a Low Price Guarantee, ensuring you find the best price possible.

Their onboard credit, which is like spending money to use during the cruise, varies depending on the cruise and accommodations. You can find out the value of your onboard credit on Step 3 of the online booking process.

Pre-Paid Gratuities for the first two guests in the stateroom are also included, which can be a big perk. You can check if your reservation qualifies for this offer on Step 3 of the online booking process.

One of the benefits of booking with Holland America is their Insider's Club pricing, which offers additional perks. However, this pricing is not combinable with Onboard Credit or Pre-Paid Gratuities offers, unless noted otherwise.

Here are some of the perks you can get with Holland America's deals:

Keep in mind that these deals are only valid on new bookings made on or after April 21, 2021, on select cruises of six nights or longer departing on or after December 14, 2021.

The Ship Amenities on Holland America Line's MS Zuiderdam are truly impressive. With a variety of options to choose from, you'll never be bored on board.

The ship features two pools, a whirlpool, and a children's play area, perfect for families or those looking to relax and have some fun in the sun.

One of the standout amenities is the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, a tranquil oasis offering massages, facials, and other treatments to help you unwind.

The ship's fitness center is also well-equipped, with cardio equipment, free weights, and exercise classes to keep you active during your cruise.

The MS Zuiderdam is a medium-sized ship with a layout that's easy to navigate, making it perfect for cruisers of all ages. With 11 passenger decks, you'll find plenty of space to explore.

You'll be happy to know that nearly 70% of the ship's staterooms have private step-out balconies, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Most staterooms are sized between 170-205 ft2, providing ample space to relax and unwind.

One of the unique features of the MS Zuiderdam is the Pinnacle Suites, which boast an impressive 830 ft2 of living space, complete with a 320 ft2 terrace. These luxurious suites are perfect for special occasions or a romantic getaway.

The ship's layout can be a bit tricky to figure out at first, but don't worry, you'll get the hang of it in no time. Just keep in mind that deck 10 has some quirks, like the Crow's Nest being accessible only via the forward elevators/stairs, and Club HAL being accessible only via the mid-ship elevators/stairs.

Here's a breakdown of the ship's stateroom categories:

Whether you're looking for a luxurious suite or a cozy inside cabin, the MS Zuiderdam has something for everyone.

The promenade deck is a wonderful place to unwind and take in the ocean views.

You can walk laps around the wide, wraparound outdoor promenade deck at your own pace.

This allows you to get some exercise while still enjoying the scenery.

There are also padded loungers available for you to recline in and relax.

You can even take a nap or simply sit and enjoy the ocean sounds.

The promenade deck is a great spot to watch the ocean go by, and it's usually pretty quiet and peaceful.

If you're looking to explore unique ports during your Holland America cruise, you're in luck! Holland America offers intimate journeys to a variety of destinations.

You can transfer your booking to their team for a seamless experience. They'll take care of the details, so you can focus on planning the rest of your trip.

Their website also features a list of customer service resources, including links to view all FAQs, cruise port directions, and contact information.

One of the best things about booking a Holland America cruise is that you won't be charged any booking fees. This can save you money upfront.

To make the most of your cruise, be sure to book shore excursions and land tours through Holland America's website. They offer exclusive deals and packages to enhance your experience.

Here are some of the customer service resources available on Holland America's website:

By joining their Insider's Club, you can access exclusive member-only prices on Holland America cruises. It's free to join and can help you save even more on your dream vacation.

The Zuiderdam's history is fascinating. The ship was stretched during a major drydock refit in 2007 by adding a 130 ft / 40 m long midsection.

This addition made the Zuiderdam the first of Holland America Line's "compass ships", also known as VISTA-class vessels. Its sisterships are Noordam, Oosterdam, and Westerdam.

The name "Zuiderdam" itself means "South" in Dutch. You might notice this theme throughout the ship's design.

The Zuiderdam has a massive powerplant, featuring 5x Wartisla-Sulzer marine diesel engines with a combined output of 75.14 MW (100,764 hp). The propulsion is diesel-electric and based on 2x ABB Azipod thrusters with combined output 35.24 MW (47,260 hp).

The ship's registered shipowner is HAL ANTILLEN NV, while the registered manager is HOLLAND AMERICA LINE NV.