Snapshot

Holland America is perfect for people who enjoy a sophisticated and refined environment built on a long maritime heritage. Holland America has been transporting passengers around the world for more than 140 years. Traditions are maintained with up-to date additions, and you will find a focus on food, with fine dining and cooking demonstrations on the Nieuw Amsterdam.

Decor is somewhat subdued and full of art and maritime artifacts. Launched in 2010, the 86,000-ton ship is designed to celebrate the glamour and history of New York City, formerly called Nieuw Amsterdam, with its themed interior design and art collection. The artworks are valued at more than $3 million, ranging from antiques by traditional Dutch masters to creations by renowned contemporary artists. Some pieces reflect the Dutch Golden Age while others, such as the spectacular centerpiece in the atrium, an eye-catching abstract sculpture of the inverted New York skyline made from clear translucent blocks that hang upside-down. The sculpture was created by husband and wife Italian artists Gilbert Lebigre and Corinne Roger of Creazioni Lebigre & Roger. The significant collection, which includes works by celebrated artists Andy Warhol, Richard Estes and Roy Lichtenstein, continues with astounding displays throughout the ship.

You will find entertainment that focuses on the classical and classics, with most passengers preferring to sit around the piano in the piano bar singing popular tunes than club dancing the night away. You will find talks about the history and culture of destinations you will visit. You will not find water slides, high energy on deck games and round-the-clock partying on the ship.

Who is Nieuw Amsterdam best suited for?

Despite the line’s Dutch roots, most of the passengers are American. Though most cruises can have up to 40 or 50 different nationalities on board. During the European summer season, the British and the Commonwealth countries, such as Australia and Canada, are well represented.

The language spoken on board is English in all announcements and publications, although they will cater to other language groups as needed. The entertainment appeals to a North American and English speaking sensibility.

The passenger profile changes based on the itinerary and this is worth bearing in mind when considering which cruise will be best for you. The following is worth noting:

• Passenger profile tends to be in their early 60s as an average, with many couples or solo travelers in their 50s, 60s and up to 70s on board
• The average age reduces in school vacation time when more families come on board.
• You will find quite a few children and families on the ships in peak holiday periods
• The age profile also reduces in the Caribbean when younger couples looking for a calm and sophisticated break choose this line
• The age profile increases on the repositioning transatlantic crossings and on the long grand voyages. This is due to the time of the year that they happen in and the time required which means they best suits people with plenty of leisure time.

Where the Nieuw Amsterdam sails

Nieuw Amsterdam has a full plate of itineraries. From spring to fall, the ship sails Alaska's Inside Passage with 7-night sailings out of Seattle.

From fall to spring, the ship offers a number of Panama Canal crossings plus 7- to 14-night sailings in the Caribbean.