Choosing the right cruise ship can make all the difference in your vacation experience. Holland America Line offers a diverse fleet, each with its unique features and charm. But which ships stand out as the best, and which ones fall short?
In this article, we’ve gathered honest feedback from cruisers who have sailed on various Holland America ships. From exceptional service and dining to areas needing improvement, discover which HAL ships made the top of the list and which ones didn’t quite meet expectations.
How I Ranked Holland America’s Ships
To rank Holland America Line’s ships, I went through a variety of resources to collect diverse opinions. I visited popular forums like CruiseCritic and CruiseLine, where cruisers discuss their firsthand experiences and provide detailed reviews. Additionally, I went to review sites such as TripAdvisor to capture a wider range of passenger sentiments.
Besides the forums, I read expert reviews from other cruisers to get more professional insights. Social media sites like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter were also important as they gave me a wide range of opinions from many people.
Eurodam
Class: Signature Class
Launched: 2008
Capacity: 2,104 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
Eurodam, part of the Signature Class, is one of Holland America Line’s most iconic ships. From its spacious staterooms to its variety of dining options, guests often remark on the ship’s friendly staff and warm atmosphere.
Whether it’s relaxing on a deck lounger or enjoying live music in the lounges, HAL’s Eurodam tends to appeal to those seeking a quieter, more refined cruise experience. Offering itineraries from the wilds of Alaska to the sunny Caribbean and beyond, this ship suits both thrill-seekers and those who just want laid-back days on the water.
Highlights:
- Friendly, attentive staff. As one guest shared, “Our veranda cabin was quiet and comfortable, the room stewards were great and the overall service staff were great.”
- Classic ship design with a wide promenade deck.
- Generally high-quality dining
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process.
- Great for a more relaxed, less crowded cruise.
Drawbacks:
- Dining portions can be small and have issues in variety/quality: One passenger remarked, “They seem to be cutting back on food and drinks everywhere. The Lido food is more like cafeteria food and the amount you get is a struggle constantly.”
- Areas of the ship show signs of wear and tear: A cruiser observed, “We saw a few areas of things that needed repair but that is to be expected.”
- Entertainment options can feel limited
- Policy changes occasionally frustrate some
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Westerdam
Class: Vista Class
Launched: 2004
Capacity: 1,964 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)
Westerdam is praised by many for its comfortable public spaces and inviting atmosphere, offering a traditional cruise feel with modern touches. Guests often mention the helpful and polite crew, whose friendly service helps create a welcoming environment.
On board the Westerdam, passengers can find a range of dining options, from relaxed buffets to more upscale specialty venues. Though Westerdam isn’t the newest ship on the market, it still provides the classic charm that long-time cruisers appreciate—especially those seeking a laid-back pace.
Highlights:
- Warm, friendly service
- Classic cruise feel with traditional décor.
- Comfortable staterooms and suites
- Good range of itineraries
Drawbacks:
- Some ship areas feel dated.
- Limited or repetitive entertainment offerings
- Occasional issues with dining variety and availability.
- Slow or crowded dining venues at peak times.
- Inconsistency in excursion quality and organization.
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Noordam
Class: Vista Class
Launched: 2006
Capacity: 1,972 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)
Noordam is admired by many cruisers for its classic charm and relaxed atmosphere. Passengers often enjoy the friendly, attentive crew, who work hard to keep everything running smoothly. With its mid-sized layout, Noordam provides an intimate feel—perfect for those who want to spend time savoring views from open decks or enjoying quiet corners around the ship.
The ship also provides a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to more refined specialty restaurants, giving you a chance to discover new favorites on board. If you want a more low-key, timeless cruise experience, Noordam remains a great choice.
Highlights:
- Classic and less crowded ship layout. As one guest shared, “We loved the wide promenade on this class of ship.”
- Generally appealing dining options. Another cruiser stated, “The food was outstanding, and the accommodations were great.”
- Smooth embarkation and disembarkation process
- Scenic itineraries, especially in Alaska and Asia
Drawbacks:
- Some areas of the ship feel dated
- Entertainment can be limited
- Occasional dining hours or venue restrictions
- Shore excursions can be pricey or involve long travel times
- Reported slow or unreliable internet connections
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Oosterdam
Class: Vista Class
Launched: 2003
Capacity: 1,964 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1/5)
Oosterdam is celebrated by many travelers for its relaxed vibe and friendly service. As a mid-sized ship, it feels easy to navigate, yet it still offers a solid variety of dining and entertainment options—especially if you prefer a laid-back atmosphere over larger, flashier ships.
The ship’s décor has a more traditional feel, and many guests appreciate the touch of Holland America’s classic style. Whether you’re admiring ocean views from the promenade deck or enjoying a leisurely lunch in the Lido buffet, Oosterdam tends to charm cruisers looking for a comfortable journey.
Highlights:
- Scenic Itineraries, Especially in Alaska and Asia. One reviewer said, “Glacier Bay was gorgeous and the reason we chose this itinerary.”
- Friendly and attentive crew
- Relaxed, easy-to-navigate layout
- Generally good dining experiences
- Classic, comfortable atmosphere
Drawbacks:
- Some Areas of the Ship Feel Dated. A guest noted, “the decor is quite outdated and really needs refreshing.”
- Entertainment Can Be Hit or Miss. A reviewer commented, “The ‘Entertainment’ was almost nonexistent. It was mediocre at best.”
- Reported issues with Wi-Fi or internet speeds
- Food variety occasionally seen as limited
- Minor maintenance or refurbishment concerns
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Zuiderdam
Class: Vista Class
Launched: 2002
Capacity: 1,964 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1/5)
If you’re looking for a solid, traditional cruise experience, HAL’s Zuiderdam is an excellent choice. It is frequently praised for its elegant design and cozy, mid-sized ambience. Some travelers also remark on the friendly, attentive crew—a major highlight that keeps guests feeling welcomed throughout their cruise.
Highlights:
- Attentive and welcoming crew
- Comfortable, mid-sized ship with a cozy atmosphere
- Good variety of dining options
- Scenic itineraries, particularly in Alaska and Canada/New England
- Generally smooth embarkation and disembarkation
Drawbacks:
- Some areas showing signs of age
- Daytime entertainment is limited
- Occasional long waits in dining venues
- Wi-Fi connectivity can be spotty
- Certain nighttime shows/activities are underwhelming
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Nieuw Amsterdam
Class: Signature Class
Launched: 2010
Capacity: 2,106 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Nieuw Amsterdam is often praised for its welcoming service and easygoing ambiance. Passengers love the layout of the ship, noting it’s large enough to offer plenty of dining and entertainment options without feeling overwhelming.
Staterooms aboard Nieuw Amsterdam tend to be comfortable and well-designed, with many guests appreciating the classic decor and spacious layout. Despite its traditional roots, the ship also provides some modern perks like specialty restaurants, varied bars, and of music venues.
Whether you’re on a family trip, a romantic getaway, or cruising solo, the Nieuw Amsterdam is a fantastic choice.
Highlights:
- Attentive and polite crew
- Comfortable and well-kept staterooms
- Relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere
- Wide selection of dining options
Drawbacks:
- Some entertainment options feel limited
- Occasional slow bar service during busy times
- Certain areas of the ship can appear dated
- Minor communication issues for guests with special needs
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Rotterdam
Class: Pinnacle Class
Launched: 2021
Capacity: 2,668 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Holland America’s Rotterdam impresses many travelers with its sleek, modern design and spacious layout. As one of the newest ships in the fleet, it offers stylish decor, comfortable lounges, and an appealing mix of music venues, such as the Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King’s Blues Club.
Guests often praise the ship’s relaxed, sophisticated vibe—perfect for slow-paced sea days and leisurely dining. Even with a mid-sized capacity, the ship feels roomy and not overly crowded, which helps create a more laid-back atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Sleek, Modern Decor in Public Areas. A reviewer mentioned, “The ship itself is undeniably beautiful and well-appointed.”
- Plenty of Dining Venues. Another cruiser stated, “We enjoyed the food, the wonderful onboard staff, our cabin, and the gym facilities.”
- Comfortable staterooms with good storage
- Generally uncrowded for a mid-sized ship
Drawbacks:
- Entertainment Can Be Limited. A reviewer commented, “Entertainment was repetitive and lame.”
- Mixed Reviews on Food Quality and Portion Sizes. One passenger remarked, “the food was quite mediocre and left much to be desired.”
- Occasional communication or scheduling issues
- Certain onboard activities can feel geared to older demographics
- Extra charges for specialty dining or beverages
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Koningsdam
Class: Pinnacle Class
Launched: 2016
Capacity: 2,650 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
Koningsdam, launched in 2016, is a relatively modern ship well-liked for its modern style and music-inspired decor. Many passengers enjoy the spacious public areas and appreciate features like the retractable pool roof, varied dining options, and friendly service throughout the ship.
Whether it’s relaxing at the World Stage theater or sampling global flavors at the Lido Market, Koningsdam generally offers a laid-back cruise environment that appeals to a wide range of travelers. A few guests also note how embarkation and disembarkation in home ports like San Diego can be particularly smooth.
Highlights:
- Friendly and hardworking staff
- Wide range of dining venues and options
- Easygoing embarkation and disembarkation
- Spacious, modern staterooms with good storage
- Appealing music-themed design and decor
Drawbacks:
- Mixed reviews on food quality and variety
- Some venues feel crowded during peak times
- Limited entertainment or nightlife for younger guests
- Occasional app/internet connectivity issues
- Inconsistent scheduling
- Minor communication issues
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Volendam
Class: Rotterdam Class
Launched: 1999
Capacity: 1,432 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.4/5)
If you’re looking for a classic cruise experience on a smaller ship, HAL’s Volendam is a top choice. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a quieter getaway rather than a flashy, resort-like atmosphere. Despite showing some signs of age, the ship’s cozy design and smaller passenger count mean waiting lines typically stay manageable, creating a relaxed mood onboard.
Guests often praise the ship’s crew, who work hard to keep public areas neat and mealtimes enjoyable—even if the culinary variety can be hit or miss at times. Beyond the friendly service, Volendam’s itinerary offerings frequently draw guests looking for scenic destinations, like Alaska, New England, or longer grand voyages.
Highlights:
- Attentive, helpful crew
- Cozy, smaller-ship experience
- Generally smooth embarkation and disembarkation
- Classic Holland America atmosphere
- Scenic itineraries with fewer crowds
Drawbacks:
- Signs of age, with outdated décor in places
- Limited entertainment or nightlife options
- Some cabins and public spaces can feel cramped
- Inconsistent food quality
- Occasional maintenance or plumbing issues
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Nieuw Statendam
Class: Pinnacle Class
Launched: 2018
Capacity: 2,666 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.3/5)
Nieuw Statendam often charms travelers with its modern design and stylish decor. Many note the ship’s thoughtful layout, featuring a variety of music-themed venues and open public spaces. Reviews often praise the hardworking staff and generally pleasant atmosphere, making it a comfortable choice for those seeking a more relaxed cruise experience.
The ship’s dining scene is another highlight, with options ranging from convenient buffets to upscale specialty restaurants. Guests often praise the food’s overall variety and flavor. The ship’s cabins also tend to draw favorable mentions, especially for their modern touches and efficient use of space.
Despite these positive points, some travelers report inconsistencies in service and entertainment. At peak times, a few areas—like the buffet or popular music lounges—can feel crowded. Others find the lineup of onboard activities and shows somewhat limited compared to bigger, flashier ships.
Highlights:
- Friendly and Attentive Crew. As one guest shared, “We enjoyed the food, the wonderful onboard staff, our cabin, and the gym facilities.”
- Generally Good Dining Options and Specialty Restaurants. One guest stated, “New Statendam by far has the best food I’ve experienced on a cruise ship in years.”
- Modern, stylish ship design
- Comfortable, well-appointed cabins
- Quiet, relaxed atmosphere
Drawbacks:
- Entertainment Can Be Limited. A cruiser commented, “Entertainment was sadly lacking.”
- Occasional long lines at the buffet and venues
- Inconsistent service or scheduling issues
- Mixed reviews on value relative to onboard extras and packages
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Zaandam
Class: R-Class
Launched: 2000
Capacity: 1,432 Passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.3/5)
Zaandam is one of Holland America’s smaller, more intimate ships, well-liked for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. Many cruisers appreciate that it feels easier to navigate compared to larger ships, with less crowding in lounges and dining venues.
Inside, the ship features classic ocean-liner touches and music-inspired artwork that lends a traditional charm. Despite its age, guests frequently mention the staff’s dedication to keeping public areas and cabins well-maintained, adding to a cozy onboard vibe.
Despite these positives, some have found the dining and entertainment options are more limited than on newer, bigger ships. Others note that although the main dining room and specialty restaurants can be a highlight, the buffet doesn’t always meet their expectations.
Highlights:
- Friendly and Attentive Crew.
As one guest shared, “We were thoroughly impressed with the Zaandam. … Staff was as usual, just wonderful, so friendly and accommodating.” - Smaller-ship atmosphere, easy to get around
- Traditional cruise feel with classic décor
- Generally smooth embarkation and disembarkation
- Cozy staterooms that feel well-cared-for
Drawbacks:
- Mixed Reviews on Food Quality and Portion Sizes.
A reviewer noted, “the food was quite mediocre and left much to be desired.” - Occasional Long Lines at the Buffet and Venues. A reviewer noted, “the working times of the buffet and main dining room are very restricted.”
- Some onboard amenities feel outdated
- Limited entertainment or late-night options
- Occasional maintenance or plumbing issues
- Crowding at certain venues or busy times
Click here to explore more passenger reviews of this ship.
Which Holland America Ship Should You Choose?
Most of Holland America Line’s ships are solid choices for a fantastic cruise. Whether you prefer the sleek, modern interiors of Eurodam or the classic, cozy atmosphere of Westerdam, there’s a ship that fits your style.
However, not all ships are ranked highly by other cruisers. Zaandam and Nieuw Statendam have been highlighted in numerous reviews as ships to steer clear of, mainly due to poor food quality and inadequate entertainment. For a smoother and more enjoyable sailing, it’s recommended to choose from Holland America’s other ships that consistently deliver positive experiences.
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