Rotterdam Cruise Reviews

Featuring Holland America's renowned port-focused itineraries, state-of-the-art amenities, and world-class entertainment, Rotterdam was designed with seasoned travelers in mind. The ship offers ample opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. Spend a night listening to chamber music at the ship's Lincoln Center Stage. Take the afternoon to explore Rotterdam's multimillion-dollar art and antiques collection. Experience luxurious treatment at Greenhouse Spa.

In partnership with well-known brands such as Microsoft, Holland America’s Rotterdam cruise ship offers plenty of hands-on learning and enrichment activities. These include culinary workshops' courtesy of America's Test Kitchen and wellness presentations sponsored by O, The Oprah Magazine. Cruisers looking for liquid refreshment won't want to miss MIX Lounge. This unique venue is divided into separate wine, martini, and spirits and ales bars, and for live entertainment. B.B. King's Blues Club features vibrant Memphis-style music and shows.

Kids aged 3 through 17 can find engaging, supervised activities and entertainment through Club HAL. Teen travelers have their own spaces, too. The Oasis is a casual outdoor retreat. The Loft supplies PlayStations and computers, and has a dedicated dance area.

Built in 1997, Rotterdam is the lead ship in the Holland America's R-class. In a 2017 refurbishment, the ship's suites were updated, receiving new furnishings and carpets, LED reading lights, and interactive television. The ship, which accommodates up to 1,404 passengers, also underwent several cosmetic updates, such as a new coat of exterior paint and a refreshed Lido Deck.

Rotterdam itineraries and departure ports

Voyages range from 7 to 32 days with cruises exploring themes such as Norse legends, Viking sagas, and the majestic fjords. There are also weeklong Caribbean holiday cruises which sail around and during Christmas. Other destinations include the British Isles, the Holy Land, and the Panama Canal. Rotterdam's cruises depart from ports in Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, San Diego, Rome, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam.

Before you book

This ship is best for: Particularly on longer cruises, Rotterdam tends to attract an older demographic. The ship's laid-back atmosphere, world-class entertainment, and hands-on learning experiences appeal to mature, seasoned travelers.

You should know: Although there are formal children's programming through Holland America's Club HAL, most onboard activities cater to mature travelers. Families traveling with young children will likely prefer a ship designed with greater multigenerational appeal.

Activities on Rotterdam

While Rotterdam offers traditional cruise ship activities such as casino gambling, dazzling stage shows, and luxurious treatments at the Greenhouse Spa, it also provides plenty of hands-on learning opportunities for passengers looking to cultivate new skills. With esteemed partners like America's Test Kitchen, Microsoft, and O, The Oprah Magazine, Holland America brings travelers digital workshops, culinary classes, and personal growth activities. Cruisers can learn more about the ports of call at the ship's Explorations Central. They can also gain new insight into the natural world through BBC Earth Experiences' groundbreaking concerts and films.

For younger cruisers, Club HAL offers engaging, age-appropriate activities such as arts and crafts, puzzles, scavenger hunts, and themed parties. Teen travelers will also enjoy spending time at The Loft, where they can get in computer time, play a video game, or just socialize.

Rotterdam ship highlights

• BBC Earth Experiences
• Greenhouse Spa and Salon
• O, The Oprah Magazine wellness programs
• America's Test Kitchen cooking demonstrations
• Explorations Central
• Digital workshop sponsored by Microsoft
• Club HAL complimentary youth program for kids aged 3 through 17
• Teen spaces including The Loft lounge and The Oasis outdoor retreat
• Explorer's Lounge & Bar
• MIX Lounge, including Mix Martini cocktail bar, Mix Champagne wine bar, and Mix Spirits & Ales sports bar
• Lido Deck pool area, featuring a retracting roof and two large whirlpools
• Casino
• Sports courts: basketball, tennis, and shuffleboard
• Canaletto Italian restaurant
• B.B. King's Blues Club

Rotterdam cabins

Cruisers can choose among five main types of accommodations: interior, oceanview, balcony, and lanai staterooms as well as suites. Travelers staying in lanai staterooms have direct access to the Promenade Deck through sliding doors, which are mirrored for privacy, with reserved deck chairs just outside.

All of Rotterdam's staterooms have two lower beds which can be converted to a single queen unit upon request. Each cabin also includes a sitting area, comfortable Euro-top mattresses, and a soothing massaging showerhead. Suites include minibars, refrigerators, and whirlpool baths, and Neptune and Pinnacle suite also include a private concierge and access to the private Neptune Lounge.

Rotterdam dining

From 24-hour room service to elegant multicourse meals in the ship's main dining room, Rotterdam has a dining option to suit every mood. At the Lido Market's sprawling buffet, travelers choose from a multitude of hearty entrees, freshly baked bread, and crisp salads. Cruisers who want to grab a burger on the go will appreciate the casual poolside atmosphere of Dive-In. There are also several specialty dining options, including Canaletto for classic Italian fare, and Pinnacle Grill, which celebrates the flavors of America's Pacific Northwest.