A Fresh Spin on Tradition

By Diane Tierney

Holland America Line turns heads with its sister act, the Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam.

When Holland America Line launched its Nieuw Statendam with the Rolling Stone Rock Room (a bar featuring super-cool rock-and-roll musicians) passengers not only came early and packed the place, late-comers stood in the aisles and stayed until midnight too.

The Rolling Stone Rock Room has injected such a strong dose of youthful energy into the ship’s vibe that the Music Walk entertainment hub, including B.B. King’s Blues Club and Lincoln Center Stage, now rocks on until the wee hours.

ROLLING STONE ROCK ROOM

Music, art and dining are hallmarks of the cruise line and the Nieuw Statendam and nearly identical sister Koningsdam have been turning heads since they sailed. While their exteriors are as traditional as ever with dark blue hulls and boxy booties, the moment you step on board there’s an undeniable atmosphere of ‘50 is the new 40.’

Even the artwork has a sense of humour. Passengers line up to take selfies while standing next to the clear plastic statue of Michelangelo’s David who’s holding a cellphone. Another selfie hit is the giant ‘melting’ electric guitar. Passengers rent headsets and take self-guided tours of the $4-million collection to find out the stories behind each piece.

RUDI’S SEL DE MER RENDERING

Adding to the cruise ship charisma, these sisters can cook. Holland America Line cares about cuisine and must-taste venues are Rudi’s Sel de Mer with its quirky dishware, Tamarind, Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, Nami Sushi and the new Club Orange.

NAMI SUSHI

Nieuw Statendam’s godmother is Oprah Winfrey – a high-energy choice who’s known for touting ‘travel that transforms.’ In fact, the cruise line has not only also transformed passengers with shore excursions that dig deep into a destination, it has transformed its own image with a fresh and fun approach without sacrificing elegance, class or quality.

OPRAH WINFREY GODMOTHER OF NIEUW STATENDAM