2_1_DiscoverBenelux_22_Oct_2015_Scan Magazine 1 30/09/2015 20:47 Page 36
Discover Benelux | Rotterdam Special | Top Eat, Drink & Sleep Spots
There is no reason to ever leave the ss Rotterdam. Everything you need to eat, drink, sleep, celebrate, meet and work is available on board the ship.
The start of new memories TEXT: JANINE STERENBORG | PHOTOS: SS ROTTERDAM
Permanently moored in the Rotterdam harbour, the impressive Holland America Line flagship ‘ss Rotterdam’ has been renovated to its former glory. Containing spacious and comfortable hotel rooms, board rooms, restaurants and more, the ss Rotterdam is an ideal location for a wide range of events. The iconic steamboat sailed to New York and back as an ocean liner between 1959 and 1971 and later it also cruised to tropical destinations. After 41 years of service it was repurposed as a multifunctional centre opening to the public in 2010. “Her 254 nostalgic hotel rooms are equipped with all modern facilities you can expect from a hotel nowadays, as are the meeting rooms,” says marketing executive Isabelle Sigmond. Able to host meetings and events for up to 3,500 guests, the authentic Theatre and Grand Ballroom are perfect for product presentations and congresses, while the
36 | Issue 22 | October 2015
boardrooms serve well as a temporary office. Sigmond: “You can also hold meetings in one of the extraordinary halls, like the heavenly Sky Room and the authentic Library Room.” From many of the rooms, you have a magnificent view. “The metropolitan skyline is jaw-dropping. The comfortable design furniture, relaxed atmosphere and cruise-like hospitality add an inspiring dimension. If you want to see more of the ship, book one of our complete tours that take you to the upper decks, the machine room, or both.”
drinks: ss Rotterdam harbours two restaurants and two bars. “Enjoy, for instance, Dutch snacks like bite-sized croquettes in one of the bars, followed by culinary delights: modernised old-fashioned dishes are served in the Club Room.” The ship is easy to reach by car and public transport: ss Rotterdam provides 580 lower deck parking spaces and a water taxi moors at the side of the ship. Sigmond: “Upon arrival, the ship rises high above you: a breathtaking sight!” www.ssrotterdam.nl
It’s the location and historical setting that makes ss Rotterdam extraordinary. Sigmond: “The staircases are fully restored, showcasing stained glass artworks depicting the story of the ship’s journey.” And when boarding, you’re most likely welcomed by the music of Frank Sinatra. “The story goes he often enjoyed a whisky in the night club, which now is the Ambassador Lounge, after one of his performances.” Talking of