Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam Full Ship Tour and Information

Author

Reads 806

Peaceful canal in Amsterdam with lush greenery and houseboats under sunny skies.
Credit: pexels.com, Peaceful canal in Amsterdam with lush greenery and houseboats under sunny skies.

The Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam is a stunning ship that offers an unforgettable cruise experience. With a capacity for 2,106 passengers, it's the perfect size for a relaxing and intimate cruise.

The Nieuw Amsterdam features 11 dining venues, including the Pinnacle Grill, which serves up premium steak and seafood, and the Tamarind, offering Pan-Asian cuisine. These options will keep your taste buds engaged throughout your journey.

The ship's staterooms are designed to provide maximum comfort, with amenities like a private verandah, a marble-lined bathroom, and a sitting area. You'll feel right at home in your luxurious accommodations.

From the moment you step on board, you'll be treated to exceptional service from the friendly and attentive crew.

Who Is Best Suited For?

The Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam is a great option for many types of travelers. The line's Dutch roots are a nice touch, but most of the passengers are American, with a mix of other nationalities on board, especially during the European summer season.

Take a look at this: Hamburg America Line

Close-up view of Holland America Line cruise ship docked in Vancouver's harbor.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up view of Holland America Line cruise ship docked in Vancouver's harbor.

You'll find a diverse group of passengers, with up to 40 or 50 different nationalities on board, although English is the primary language spoken. This is great for travelers who want to connect with others from around the world.

The passenger profile on Nieuw Amsterdam tends to skew older, with many couples or solo travelers in their 50s, 60s, and up to 70s. However, during school vacation time, you'll find more families on board, and the age profile also shifts to include younger couples in the Caribbean.

Here's a breakdown of the typical passenger profile:

  • Early 60s is the average age, with many couples or solo travelers in their 50s, 60s, and up to 70s.
  • Average age reduces in school vacation time when more families come on board.
  • You'll find quite a few children and families on the ships in peak holiday periods.
  • Age profile also reduces in the Caribbean when younger couples choose this line.
  • Age profile increases on repositioning transatlantic crossings and long grand voyages, best suited for people with plenty of leisure time.

Ship Information

The Nieuw Amsterdam ship is truly a marvel of modern design and luxury. Nieuw Amsterdam received high honors from the Travvy Awards for its ambitious design and exceptional experience on board.

You can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean while sipping a drink at the Silk Den lounge, or take a dip in the Lido Pool, which features a retractable roof. The Lido Pool is located on the top deck midship.

Explore the majestic Geiranger Fjord in Norway with a luxurious cruise ship surrounded by towering mountains.
Credit: pexels.com, Explore the majestic Geiranger Fjord in Norway with a luxurious cruise ship surrounded by towering mountains.

The ship also boasts an impressive art collection, including works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, which you can view on board. Free workshops taught by Microsoft-trained "techsperts" make sharing your cruise memories a breeze.

Here are some of the ship's notable amenities:

  • Lido Pool with retractable roof
  • Silk Den lounge with panoramic ocean views
  • Free workshops taught by Microsoft-trained "techsperts"

New Ship Information

The Nieuw Amsterdam ship is a premium vessel with many exciting features. It received high honors from the Travvy Awards for its ambitious design and exceptional experience on board.

One of the ship's standout features is its innovative pan-Asian restaurant, Tamarind, which offers a unique dining experience. This restaurant is part of the ship's efforts to expand its premium brand.

The ship's design also includes a Silk Den lounge, which is surrounded by panoramic views overlooking the ocean expanse and the Lido pool. This lounge is a great spot to relax and take in the views.

Nieuw Amsterdam has a range of accommodations to suit different tastes and preferences. The ship's staterooms are elegant and spacious, with many featuring ocean-facing views and teak-lined verandahs.

A luxurious cruise ship moored at the bustling Miami port with the city skyline in the background.
Credit: pexels.com, A luxurious cruise ship moored at the bustling Miami port with the city skyline in the background.

Here are some of the different types of accommodations available on the ship:

  • Interior staterooms feature a comfortable bed, premium massage showerheads, and a host of amenities.
  • Oceanview staterooms include an ocean view, a signature Mariner's Dream bed, and premium massage showerheads.
  • Verandah staterooms have a private verandah, a sitting area, and a bathtub with premium massage showerheads.
  • Signature Suites feature a spacious living room, a private terrace, and a large jetted tub and shower.
  • Neptune and Pinnacle Suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, a separate dressing room, and a range of complimentary services.

Deck Plan

The Nieuw Amsterdam's deck plan is designed to make navigation easy, with a layout that's straightforward to figure out.

The ship is small enough that you can easily get from your cabin to restaurants, entertainment, and the pools without much hassle.

Deck 1 is mostly cabins, with an atrium and guest services located here.

Decks 2 and 3 are where you'll find the main indoor areas, including the casino, entertainment, and dining options.

Most cabins are located on Decks 4 through 8, with Deck 4 home to the lifeboats.

Book a cabin on Decks 6, 7, or 8 for a lifeboat view, as those on Decks 4 and 5 might have a lifeboat view.

Deck 9 is where you'll find the buffet, two pools, the spa, and fitness center.

The Retreat cabanas and some sports facilities are located on Deck 10, which also overlooks the pool.

Deck 11 is split, with Tamarind located on the aft side and the Explorer's Lounge on the forward side.

Service History

Elegant empty corridor interior of a luxury cruise ship with stylish design.
Credit: pexels.com, Elegant empty corridor interior of a luxury cruise ship with stylish design.

Nieuw Amsterdam was laid down on 15 July 2008 and completed on 30 June 2010. It was a significant milestone in the ship's history.

The ship was christened by Princess Maxima of the Netherlands in Venice, Italy on 4 July 2010, before embarking on its maiden voyage from Venice on 5 July 2010.

Nieuw Amsterdam has had its fair share of exciting moments, including being driven ashore at Santa Cruz Huatulco, Mexico on 10 October 2017, due to strong winds that snapped its lines.

Here are some notable incidents in Nieuw Amsterdam's service history:

  • On 10 October 2017, Nieuw Amsterdam was driven ashore at Santa Cruz Huatulco, Mexico.
  • On 15 May 2020, Nieuw Amsterdam aided a sailing vessel in distress in waters off of Cape Town, South Africa.
  • On 24 March 2024, while on a cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Nieuw Amsterdam suffered a steam release in an engineering space, resulting in two crew member fatalities.

Nieuw Amsterdam's service history is a testament to its ability to handle challenging situations and continue to provide safe and enjoyable experiences for its passengers.

Ship Accommodations

The Nieuw Amsterdam's staterooms are truly impressive. They offer a range of options to suit every traveler's needs.

You can choose from interior staterooms, which feature two lower beds that convert to a queen bed, a signature Mariner's Dream bed with a plush Euro-Top mattress, and a host of amenities. These staterooms are perfect for those on a budget or who don't mind not having an ocean view.

View of the iconic Erasmus Bridge over the Nieuwe Maas with Rotterdam skyline.
Credit: pexels.com, View of the iconic Erasmus Bridge over the Nieuwe Maas with Rotterdam skyline.

Oceanview staterooms, on the other hand, offer a spacious cabin with an ocean view, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed, and a signature Mariner's Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. If you want to wake up to the sound of the waves, this is the way to go.

If you're looking for a bit more luxury, consider a verandah stateroom. These staterooms are filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, and feature a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed, and a bathtub with premium massage showerheads.

For the ultimate in luxury, check out the Signature Suite, which features a spacious living room with picture windows overlooking a private terrace, two lower beds that convert to a queen bed, and a sleeper sofa for one person. The bathroom is also a highlight, with double sinks, a large jetted tub and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Or, if you're feeling really fancy, consider the Neptune & Pinnacle Suite, which offers a private verandah, a large sitting area, and a separate dressing room. You'll also get access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge, and an array of complimentary services.

Here's a breakdown of the different types of staterooms available on the Nieuw Amsterdam:

  • Interior Staterooms: Two lower beds that convert to a queen bed, signature Mariner's Dream bed, and a host of amenities.
  • Oceanview Staterooms: Ocean view, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed, and a signature Mariner's Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses.
  • Verandah Staterooms: Private verandah, sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed, and a bathtub with premium massage showerheads.
  • Signature Suite: Spacious living room, private terrace, two lower beds that convert to a queen bed, and a sleeper sofa for one person.
  • Neptune & Pinnacle Suite: Private verandah, large sitting area, separate dressing room, and access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge.

Dining

People walking in rain by iconic Amsterdam canal houses, showcasing urban life.
Credit: pexels.com, People walking in rain by iconic Amsterdam canal houses, showcasing urban life.

Dining on the Nieuw Amsterdam is a treat for the senses. The ship features a range of restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience.

From classic burgers and fries at Dive-In to fine dining at Pinnacle Grill, there's something for every palate. Pinnacle Grill, the ultimate steakhouse at sea, features a refined menu with 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks.

The Lido Market offers a world of culinary possibilities, with a curated selection of delicious options that can be grabbed on the go or made to order. You can also enjoy Italian classics at Canaletto, with pasta made fresh daily.

Tamarind is a great place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China, and Japan, with exotic fare like wok-seared lobster and sushi.

Here's a list of some of the dining options on the Nieuw Amsterdam:

  • The Dining Room: elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch, or unforgettable multi-course dinner
  • Lido Market: modern marketplace with a curated selection of delicious options
  • Pinnacle Grill: ultimate steakhouse at sea with refined menu and impeccable service
  • Canaletto: Italian classics with pasta made fresh daily
  • Tamarind: culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China, and Japan
  • Dive-In: burgers, grilled chicken, and hot dogs by the main pool
  • New York Pizzeria: made-to-order personal pizzas, salads, and desserts
  • Explorations Cafe: comfortable environment with espresso drinks and pastries
  • Nami Sushi: tempting array of sushi rolls created by sushi master Andy Matsuda

Bars & Dining

Dining on Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam is a culinary adventure. The ship's team of world-class celebrity chefs, led by the Culinary Council, has crafted menus to satisfy every craving.

Credit: youtube.com, Amsterdam’s Best Restaurants & Bars 2024: Where Chefs Eat

You'll find a range of restaurants to suit your taste, from classic burgers and fries served poolside to fine dining at Pinnacle Grill. The Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, offering exceptional menu items and impeccable service.

The Dining Room is your destination for an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch, or unforgettable multi-course dinner. The menu is carefully crafted by the Culinary Council and onboard executive chefs to bring each dish to perfection.

If you're in the mood for something more casual, Lido Market is a great option. This modern marketplace offers a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order. Steps from the Lido pool, it's the perfect spot to refuel.

For a taste of Italy, head to Canaletto. Enjoy classic dishes like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri, or garlic shrimp ravioli. Don't forget to save room for dessert – tiramisu, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more are all on the menu.

If you're craving something a bit more exotic, Tamarind is the place to be. This Southeast Asian, Chinese, and Japanese-inspired restaurant offers dishes like wok-seared lobster, barramundi in banana leaf, and sushi, all paired with chilled or heated sake.

Black and white nighttime street scene in central Amsterdam showcasing bikes, traffic, and historic architecture.
Credit: pexels.com, Black and white nighttime street scene in central Amsterdam showcasing bikes, traffic, and historic architecture.

For a quick bite, Dive-In is a great option. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with secret sauce. Or try a Nathan's Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries.

If you're looking for a unique pizza experience, New York Pizza is the way to go. Choose from a variety of 9-inch, thin-crust pies, each named after one of New York's famous five boroughs. Your pizza will be made to order with only the finest ingredients.

Finally, if you're in the mood for something a bit more low-key, Explorations Cafe is the perfect spot. Enjoy elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in the fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book, or browse the web.

Here's a quick rundown of the dining options on Nieuw Amsterdam:

  • The Dining Room: Elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch, or unforgettable multi-course dinner
  • Lido Market: Curated selection of delicious options for a quick bite or made to order
  • Pinnacle Grill: Ultimate steakhouse at sea with exceptional menu items and impeccable service
  • Canaletto: Classic Italian dishes with pasta made fresh daily
  • Tamarind: Southeast Asian, Chinese, and Japanese-inspired cuisine with chilled or heated sake
  • Dive-In: Burgers, hot dogs, and fries for a quick bite
  • New York Pizza: Unique 9-inch, thin-crust pizzas made to order
  • Explorations Cafe: Elegantly prepared espresso drinks and fresh pastries
  • Nami Sushi: Tempting array of sushi rolls created by sushi master Andy Matsuda

Dining

Dining on the Nieuw Amsterdam is a true culinary delight. With a variety of options to suit every taste and craving, you'll never go hungry.

Credit: youtube.com, How Royal Caribbean's Main Dining Room works

The Dining Room is the perfect spot for an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch, or unforgettable multi-course dinner. It's where you can enjoy dishes crafted by the Culinary Council, an elite team of seven world-renowned chefs.

Lido Market offers a world of intriguing culinary possibilities, with a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order. It's located steps from the Lido pool and is open most of the day.

You can also try Pinnacle Grill, the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of the finest meals you'll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks, meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality.

If you're in the mood for Italian, head to Canaletto, where you can enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno and tiramisu. They even make pasta fresh daily!

For a taste of Southeast Asia, China, and Japan, try Tamarind, where you can enjoy exotic fare like wok-seared lobster and sushi. They also offer chilled or heated sake to pair with your meal.

Woman Sitting on Bridge over Canal in Amsterdam
Credit: pexels.com, Woman Sitting on Bridge over Canal in Amsterdam

If you're looking for something quick and casual, Dive-In is the perfect spot, serving burgers, grilled chicken breast sandwiches, and hot dogs by the main pool. You can also try New York Pizza, which offers made-to-order personal pizzas, salads, and desserts.

For a unique experience, consider specialty dining options like Pinnacle Grill, which has a coverage charge of $39 per person, or Rudy's, a seafood restaurant that offers a charge of $49 per person for a single night.

Here's a list of some of the dining options available on the Nieuw Amsterdam:

  • The Dining Room
  • Lido Market
  • Pinnacle Grill
  • Canaletto
  • Tamarind
  • Dive-In
  • New York Pizza
  • Rudy's (seafood, one night only)
  • Explorer's Café (specialty coffees, small charge)

Room service is also available, and most of it is included in your cruise package. You can even pre-order breakfast by putting the card on your door the night before or call down to order a meal or snack.

Ship Amenities

The Nieuw Amsterdam offers a range of exciting amenities to enhance your cruise experience.

The ship features a retractable roof Lido Pool on the top deck midship, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying a refreshing swim.

Picturesque channel in Amsterdam with traditional houseboats near modern buildings in city outskirts against blue sky
Credit: pexels.com, Picturesque channel in Amsterdam with traditional houseboats near modern buildings in city outskirts against blue sky

You can also take in the fine art collection, including works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, or enjoy the spine-tingling glass elevators.

The ship has a gymnasium, which is the largest ever built for a Holland America Line ship, where you can work off some of the great meals.

Free workshops taught by Microsoft-trained "techsperts" are available to help you share your cruise memories.

Here are some of the ship's accommodations:

The ship also offers a range of entertainment options, including the Digital Workshop powered by Microsoft Windows, where you can learn how to share your digital memories, and the Culinary Arts Center, where you can take interactive gourmet cooking lessons.

Entertainment & Activities

On the Nieuw Amsterdam, you'll find a wide range of entertainment and activities to keep you engaged and entertained throughout your voyage.

The Digital Workshop powered by Microsoft Windows is a great place to learn how to share your vacation memories with family and friends. Free workshops taught by Microsoft-trained "techsperts" make it easy and fun, even for novices.

Picturesque scenery of modern vessel floating on calm channel with moored traditional boats amidst beautiful historic buildings and green trees in Amsterdam
Credit: pexels.com, Picturesque scenery of modern vessel floating on calm channel with moored traditional boats amidst beautiful historic buildings and green trees in Amsterdam

The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine Magazine, is a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen offering interactive gourmet cooking lessons taught by Master Chefs or culinary guests.

You can also enjoy live music at various venues on board, including the Mainstage with large production shows, Billboards with dueling pianos, and BB Kings for music all night.

The Lincoln Center Stage on board features beautiful instrumental music, and you can also catch nightly comedy shows with talented comedians.

Here are some of the entertainment options available on the Nieuw Amsterdam:

  • The Digital Workshop powered by Microsoft Windows: learn how to share your vacation memories
  • The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine Magazine: interactive gourmet cooking lessons
  • Mainstage: large production shows
  • Billboards: dueling pianos
  • BB Kings: music all night
  • Lincoln Center Stage: beautiful instrumental music
  • Comedy shows: nightly performances
  • Club HAL: dedicated youth facilities and activities for kids ages three to 12
  • The Loft: designed exclusively for teens to have fun, socialize and hang out with people their own age

You can also shop at one of the multiple shopping spots on board, including The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, and enjoy a Port to Table program that brings the culinary traditions of the destination to life on board.

Spa & Fitness

The Spa & Fitness area on the Nieuw Amsterdam is a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and rejuvenate during their cruise. You'll find the Greenhouse Spa & Salon on board, where you can indulge in a range of massage treatments and other therapies.

Charming view of the Walter Süskindbrug over Amsterdam's Nieuwe Herengracht with canal boats.
Credit: pexels.com, Charming view of the Walter Süskindbrug over Amsterdam's Nieuwe Herengracht with canal boats.

The spa offers indoor cycling, Pilates, and other classes to help you stay active and energized. Or, if you prefer to work out on your own, the gym is a great place to get a good sweat going.

One of the highlights of the spa is the hydrotherapy area, which is a great place to relax and unwind. Some of my friends even purchased the week-long hydrotherapy package and spent hours soaking in the spa – it sounds like a wonderful way to spend your time at sea!

The spa is also a great place to learn some new skills, with free workshops taught by Microsoft-trained "techsperts" to help you share your cruise memories.

Travel Tips

Traveling on the Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam is a unique experience, and here are some tips to make the most of your journey.

The ship's itinerary is carefully curated to ensure that you get to experience the best of each destination, with a focus on culture, history, and natural beauty.

Blurred cyclist passes by picturesque Amsterdam canal with historic buildings in summer.
Credit: pexels.com, Blurred cyclist passes by picturesque Amsterdam canal with historic buildings in summer.

Be prepared for variable weather conditions, as the ship's routes often take you through different climates. Pack accordingly to ensure you're comfortable throughout your trip.

The Nieuw Amsterdam has a range of onboard amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Take advantage of these to relax and recharge during your downtime.

Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the ship's specialty dining experiences, such as the Pinnacle Grill and the Tamarind. These offer a unique culinary experience that's sure to delight your taste buds.

The ship's crew is known for their exceptional service, so be sure to tip them generously for their hard work. This will ensure that you receive the best possible service throughout your journey.

Be prepared for some crowds and lines, especially during peak travel seasons. Plan ahead and make use of the ship's online check-in system to minimize your wait times.

The Nieuw Amsterdam has a range of onboard activities and entertainment options, including live music, theater productions, and educational lectures. Be sure to check out the ship's daily schedule to see what's on offer.

About Holland America

Stunning aerial view of Nieuwe Kerk in Delft showcasing historical architecture and cityscape.
Credit: pexels.com, Stunning aerial view of Nieuwe Kerk in Delft showcasing historical architecture and cityscape.

Holland America is a well-established cruise line with a rich history dating back to 1873. They have been offering memorable ocean voyages for over 140 years.

Their ships are designed to provide a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, with amenities like a spa, fitness center, and library. Holland America's ships are perfect for travelers looking for a more laid-back cruise experience.

The Nieuw Amsterdam, one of Holland America's ships, features a spacious stateroom with a private balcony, ideal for taking in the breathtaking ocean views.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line is known for its luxurious Signature-class ships. The Nieuw Amsterdam is one of them, and it's a real treat.

This ship celebrates historic New York City with its design and art collection, which is valued at over $3 million. I can only imagine the stunning artwork on display.

On board, you can enjoy regional cooking demonstrations and food and wine tastings through their Port to Table programming. It's a great way to experience the flavors of different ports.

You also have the option to dine in one of their specialty restaurants. The Greenhouse Spa & Salon is another great place to rejuvenate and relax.

Holland America Review

Futuristic escalator and glass roof design in Amsterdam train station.
Credit: pexels.com, Futuristic escalator and glass roof design in Amsterdam train station.

The Nieuw Amsterdam offers a luxury cruise experience that's perfect for those who want to feel like they're on a ship. The ship has a lot to do, but also allows for relaxation and unwinding.

The food on board is excellent, and the service is even better. The ship's health and safety protocols were in place during the reviewer's sailing, making them feel totally fine.

The WIFI on the Nieuw Amsterdam can be slow, especially for those who need to stay connected for work. The reviewer had the Surf package, but still experienced dial-up speeds.

Holland America is not an all-inclusive experience, especially for those who don't have the HAVE IT ALL package. The reviewer was surprised by the number of upcharges on their cruise.

Despite some minor complaints, the reviewer is seriously considering Holland America for their family's Alaska cruise. They're looking forward to booking another Holland America cruise in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam refurbished?

The Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam underwent a refurbishment in 2017. This update ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for its passengers.

What happened on Nieuw Amsterdam?

Two crewmen tragically lost their lives in an engine room explosion on the Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship on March 22. The incident occurred while the ship was docked at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas.

Is Holland a luxury cruise line?

Holland America Line is considered moderately upscale, offering a high-end experience without the extreme luxury of a premium cruise line. Its focus on quality service and smaller ship sizes sets it apart from more budget-friendly options.

Can you wear jeans to dinner on a Holland America cruise?

On a Holland America cruise, you can wear jeans to dinner, but they should be in good condition, not distressed

What is the dress code for Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam?

Dress code on Holland America's Nieuw Amsterdam is casual during the day and smart casual in the evenings. Avoid wearing shorts, beachwear, and distressed jeans in table service restaurants

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.