Cruise & Travel Lifestyles

Holland America Focuses on Music and Cuisine

Holland America Focuses on Music and Cuisine

Holland America Line’s lovely Nieuw Statendam, the second ship in the brand’s Pinnacle Class, was christened by Oprah in early February. Sister to the much admired Koningsdam, this ship is just as lovely and beautiful. Designed by the renowned Adam D. Tihany and featuring a wide-ranging and remarkable art collection onboard, this ship is a floating art gallery in many ways and with the musical design theme at every turn, there is a beautiful moment demanding guest’s attention in almost every space.

The cuisine is always highly regarded, and now in certain restaurants, it is exceptional. Alternative restaurant, Rudi’s Sel de Mer, is spectacular in every way, not just in terms of cuisine and décor but also for its wide-ranging seafood menu featuring ample choices. The menu is á la carte with reservations required and should be a must for every guest.

Other dining spots include Tamarind, the gorgeous Asian fusion restaurant with a separate Nami Sushi Bar by Master Chef Andy Matsuda. Everywhere on Nieuw Statendam, the food is impressive, ranging from the main dining room, to the pretty Canaletto for good Italian.

However, it’s the music that makes this Holland America ship a standout and the addition of the Rolling Stone Rock Room – in partnership with Rolling Stone magazine – is a massive hit. Packed nightly for each of the three sets, the audience loved this spot along Music Walk. It’s a powerful and wonderful addition with guests singing, dancing and clapping along. The house band consists of five guys who have come together to make great sound and who play some favourite tunes from the 60s up to the 90s, including the Eagles, John Mellencamp, the Stones, The Band, CCR and more.

Across the Rock Room one finds the duelling pianos of Billboard Onboard with audience requests happily received, and then down the hall, the B.B. King’s Blues Band belts out three sets most nights too.

This ship truly offers all manner of entertainment – in the main theatre, you may find an opera performance one evening and a Spanish guitar foursome on another; and of course the World Stage offers great production shows and some special evenings in conjunction with BBC Earth.

Nieuw Statendam is an elegant, modern explorer and the epitome of design with a beautiful musical theme. It’s a gorgeous ship with many favourite spots for repeat guests and an eye to the future for new-to-Holland America cruisers.

Check out the many cruises available here.

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Check out Holland America’s current “Who’s in Your Crew?” promotion featuring fares that are up to 50 percent off select Alaska and Europe cruise fares. Plus, third and fourth children or adults in the same stateroom sail free. Click here for more information.

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