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• Position Rotterdam

Current position Rotterdam

2668 Passengers (2668 with upper beds)

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Data according to itinerary:

Current position of Rotterdam : Under way from Mandal to Rotterdam

• Departure was 2 d 4 hrs 13 min ago. (at 17:00 h local time)
• Arrival will be in 14 hrs 13 min. (at 07:00 h local time)
• Traveled distance since Mandal: 332.21 nm (615.26 km)
• Remaining distance to Rotterdam: 69.52 nm (128.74 km)
• Traveled distance since Rotterdam: 1,586.31 nm (2,937.84 km)
• Speed: 14.60 kn (27.04 km/h)
• Course: 338°

Current voyages:

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975 ft. length

114.8 ft. width

Our newest ship, Rotterdam , delivers the best of everything we do: exquisite cuisine, award-winning service, superbly appointed staterooms and suites, and world-class entertainment. Dance the night away at B.B. King’s Blues Club or relive your favorite rock classics at Rolling Stone Lounge. Experience Rotterdam ’s Pinnacle Class luxury and find a mastery of the details that keep our guests returning again and again.

Explore Rotterdam

Cruise activities on board.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Movies On Board

Enjoy recent-release films in the movie theater on select ships or in the comfort of your stateroom.

Screening nightly in the movie theatre (on select ships) are recent-release films and perennially popular classics. You can also watch movies any time in your stateroom or suite. And aboard  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam , watch your favorite stars light up the night on a giant outdoor LED movie screen by the Lido Pool.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

Dining Experiences On Your Cruise

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi's Sel De Mer

Rudi's Sel De Mer offers a modern twist on classic French dishes and seafood.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. Menu selections include whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt, oysters on the half shell, fruits de mer, and salt-crust baked branzino, as well as favorites such as steak frites, duck cassoulet and coq au vin. Conclude your dinner with a classic dessert and fine French cheeses.  

Meals at Sel de Mer are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant is available on  Rotterdam ,  Koningsdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , but on other ships, the Rudi’s Sel de Mer menu is available on select evenings in Pinnacle Grill.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

With many flavors to choose from and ingredients like Sicilian pistachios and amarena cherries, each frozen spoonful transports you to Italy.

At “G” Gelato, you can indulge your sweet tooth with a classic European gelato (ice cream), made fresh on board each day by chefs trained at the Carpigiani Gelato University. Choose from among 12 delightful flavors, two of which are rotated daily. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, this tasty treat is served in a variety of ways, including gelato popsicles and the flavors of G, composed shots with layers of caramel, nuts and gelato. Love pistachio?  Select ingredients like Sicilian pistachios make our pistachio gelato out of this world!

Club Orange Program Benefits

Club Orange offers an added level of luxury on Holland America with expanded dining menus, special events and priority access. Learn more about Club Orange.

See the  full Club Orange benefits  (PDF)

Join Club Orange to experience a new level of luxury, from priority check-in and disembarkation to premium dining amenities. Club Orange benefits include a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a special event chosen by the captain and priority check-in and disembarkation. Read on for a full list of Club Orange benefits.

Please  contact us  for Club Orange pricing and availability or to enroll.

Morimoto By Sea (Pop-Up)

Masaharu Morimoto, our Fresh Fish Ambassador brings his innovative style to Morimoto by Sea, a specialty restaurant on board Nieuw Amsterdam and a pop-up dining experience on the rest of the fleet.

Chef Masaharu Morimoto, our Global Fresh Fish Ambassador brings his innovative style to Morimoto by Sea, a pop-up dining experience that will take over Tamarind or Pinnacle Grill at least once per cruise. The pop-up’s menu features artfully presented dishes, exclusive alcoholic beverages, and tantalizing desserts. Nieuw Amsterdam offers our full Morimoto by Sea restaurant.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Suites & Staterooms

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
• Ice service

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads.

Vista Suite

With a verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower, mini-bar and refrigerator.

Signature Suite

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity and large shower. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

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MS Rotterdam is a Pinnacle Class cruise ship currently operated by Holland America Line. The ship has been in active service for 3 years. View MS Rotterdam's current position, recent track, speed, course, next port destination, estimated time of arrival (ETA) and more in the cruise ship tracker map below.

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Rotterdam, Netherlands (NLRTM)

Port of Rotterdam is located in Netherlands at 51.9444N, 4.1685E. 201 vessels have arrived within the past 24 hours and 262 ships are expected to arrive in the next 30 days.

Port time: Aug 31, 21:13

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12-Day Panama Canal Sunfarer

Amazing food and superb service make Holland America one of the longest running cruise lines.

From snorkeling to smoothies, cultural treasures to creatures of the jungle—cruising to the Southern Caribbean is an incredible vacation option.

With incredible weather, delicious fare and some stupendous attractions, you will find that Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is one of the most attractive ports in the entire US.

• Rotterdam - Passenger Capacity:  2,668 (double occupancy) Year Built:  2021 Last Refurbished:  N/A

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Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida , Half Moon Cay (Little San Salvador Island), Bahamas , Willemstad, Curacao , Cartagena, Colombia , Colon, Panama , Gatun Lake, Panama Canal, Panama , Panama Canal, Panama , Puerto Limon, Costa Rica , Georgetown, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

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12-Day Panama Canal Sunfarer sailing on the Rotterdam

Departure dates: oct 2024 - mar 2025.

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ms Rotterdam

Ship specifications, ms rotterdam itineraries, 21 night scandinavian fjords, capitals & northern isles, 14 night northern isles, 21 night northern isles & viking sagas, 7 night northern isles, 7 night viking sagas, 14 night best of norway, 7 night norse legends, 21 night norse legends & jewels of the baltic, 14 night jewels of the baltic, 29 night jewels of the baltic & atlantic sojourn, 15 night atlantic sojourn, 21 night panama canal sunfarer / southern caribbean seafarer, 12 night panama canal sunfarer, 21 night southern caribbean seafarer / panama canal sunfarer, 9 night southern caribbean seafarer, 16 night southern caribbean seafarer / eastern caribbean, 9 night eastern caribbean, 7 night eastern caribbean, 7 night legendary rhythm & blues cruise #42, holland america line fleet.

ms Oosterdam

ms Zuiderdam

ms Volendam

ms Koningsdam

ms Nieuw Amsterdam

ms Westerdam

ms Nieuw Statendam

Five things to know before boarding a Holland America cruise ship

H olland America Line (HAL) started life in 1873 as the Dutch-American Steamship Company, a shipping and passenger line that plied the Atlantic. Today, HAL offers more than 500 sailings a year, visiting all seven continents, though it is best known for its  Alaska  itineraries; the line has been sailing to the Last Frontier since before it became an American state in 1959.

HAL’s 11 ships are mid-size, meaning that they never feel too crowded and can visit ports that the vast liners can’t. In each destination, the line offers a range of shore excursions tailored to passengers’ interests, be it wellness, wildlife, culture, cuisine, sightseeing or adventure. For £55 per day, you can upgrade your holiday to include complimentary shore excursions (as well as WiFi, a drinks package and specialty dining).

On board, there’s plenty to keep guests busy, with pickleball , yoga or tai chi practised out on deck and evening entertainment at the popular BB King’s Blues Club or the Rolling Stone Lounge.

Every sailing features an Orange Party in homage to HAL’s Dutch heritage. Wear whatever you want so long as it’s tangerine-hued and join the officers and crew for a Dutch-inspired evening of drinks and entertainment.

1. Where does HAL cruise?

HAL ships have been visiting Alaska for more than 75 years, which is longer than any other cruise line. Carefully crafted itineraries range from seven to 28 days and include the famed Inside Passage and guaranteed glacier viewing – including the awe-inspiring Unesco World Heritage-listed Glacier Bay National Park, where HAL is an authorised concessioner. 

Passengers can opt to combine their Alaska cruise with a scenic train ride aboard the luxurious McKinley Explorer to experience the wildlife-rich Denali National Park. Here, days can be spent spotting Alaska’s “ Big Five ” – bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves – while evenings are about swapping stories at Denali Square, the focal point of the luxurious lodge guests will call home for up to three nights.

Alaska aside, popular HAL itineraries include cruises to the  Caribbean  (many of which feature a call at Half Moon Cay, the line’s private island in the Bahamas), the Panama Canal,  Canada , South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Northern Europe, Hawaii, the Mediterranean and more.

Throughout the summer of 2025 and 2026, the line will operate a selection of round-trip sailings from Dover onboard Nieuw Statendam – putting the likes of the Canary Islands, British Isles,  Arctic Circle , North Cape, Baltic states, Norwegian fjords and the rest of Scandinavia within easy reach, without having to step on a plane. 

HAL is also famed for its longer sailings including  world cruises , legendary voyages – 25 to 59-day itineraries that focus on a specific region – and repositioning cruises (when ships relocate from one part of the world to another for the start of a new season).

2. Who it appeals to

Passengers on HAL ships tend to be couples aged 50 and over who look for a premium but traditional cruise experience – think afternoon tea, formal nights (dresses and suits are required) and live entertainment shows – at a reasonable price.

The Seattle-based line is also well-suited to solo travellers: three of HAL’s ships ( Koningsdam ,  Nieuw Statendam and  Rotterdam ) offer solo cabins with no single supplement, while parties for solo travellers take place on each sailing.

While the cruise line isn’t an obvious choice for families – it lacks the waterslides, race tracks and rock walls that Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and co all have – HAL does operate a daily kids’ club programme for children and teens.

Elsewhere, destination experts are on hand in HAL’s on-board Explorations Central educational centres. Here, lectures shine the spotlight on each respective port city’s art, architecture, history and politics.

3. The HAL fleet

11 ships are divided into four classes; R Class, Vista Class, Signature Class and Pinnacle Class.

Pinnacle class

Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam (2,650 passengers)

HAL’s Pinnacle Class ships are both younger and bigger than any other vessel in its fleet. But, with capacity for 2,650 passengers, they are still considerably smaller than other cruise lines’ largest ships. 

Interiors are the brainchild of designer Adam D Tihany, the man behind many of the Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons groups’ hotels, and they centre on art and music. Subsequently, walls are adorned with the works of up-and-coming artists, while in each ship’s atrium, there’s a spectacular 7.5-ton stainless steel sculpture inspired by the strings of a harp.

HAL’s Pinnacle-class ships ​​also boast more on-board venues – be it the five speciality restaurants (Asian-fusion Tamarind, Italian-inspired Canaletto, seafood joint Rudi’s Sel de Mer, Pinnacle Grill steakhouse and Japanese Nami Sushi) or string of entertainment spaces – than its other vessels. 

Sails to:  The Caribbean, Scandinavia, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Hawaii, Mexico, Alaska, the US and Canada.

Signature class

Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam (2,100 passengers)

Signature ships are around 15 per cent smaller than HAL’s Pinnacle-class ships and consequently have a more intimate feel. However, you’ll still find plenty of dining venues including three of the same speciality restaurants – the Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind and Canaletto.

Live music entertainment options abound too: a BB King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge keep guests entertained until the early hours.

Sails to:  The Caribbean, Central America and the Panama Canal, Alaska, Mexico, the US and Canada.

Vista class

Noordam (1,924 passengers), Westerdam (1,916 passengers), Oosterdam (1,964 passengers) and Zuiderdam (1,964 passengers)

Vista Class ships are only 5 per cent smaller than Signature ships but carry approximately 9 per cent fewer people at double occupancy – and subsequently are less crowded.

Because of their slightly smaller size, HAL’s four Vista Class vessels don’t have all the bells and whistles of the Pinnacle Class and Signature Class ships: there are just two speciality restaurants, although entertainment venues mirror the Signature Class ships.

Sails to:  Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Oceania and the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, South America, the US and Canada.

Zaandam and Volendam (1,432 passengers)

Approximately 25 per cent smaller than the rest of HAL’s fleet, R-class ships have a more intimate feel. As such they appeal to passengers who are more interested in making the most of port stays than they are about spending time onboard. Little wonder then that Zaandam and Volendam are often deployed on HAL’s world cruises.

Both vessels feature two speciality dining venues (Pinnacle Grill and Canaletto) while nightlife revolves around a piano bar and the World Stage theatre.

Sails to: Central America and the Panama Canal, Alaska, Mexico, South America, the US and Canada, the Caribbean.

4. Loyalty scheme 

Returning passengers can earn perks with HAL’s multi-tiered Mariner Society Rewards Program. Onboard purchases and cruise days accrue points that unlock rewards such as priority check-in, discounts in speciality restaurants and so on.

5. Accessibility onboard

HAL says that it has “specifically designed staterooms for guests who require mobility assistive features”. Fully accessible rooms are designed for use by guests with highly limited or no mobility who require regular use of a wheelchair, scooter or other similar devices.

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A residential cruise ship that's supposed to sail the world for 3 years has been stuck in Northern Ireland for 3 months

• Villa Vie Odyssey was supposed to set sail on a global cruise from Belfast in May.
• Problems with the ship mean it's been docked there for the past three months.
• Some passengers are staying positive and using the delay to take trips elsewhere.

A residential cruise ship that was supposed to travel around the world has been stuck in Northern Ireland for the past three months.

Business Insider previously reported that the  Villa Vie Odyssey  was initially set to sail from Belfast in May. The ship has been docked there because it needed updating, as it's more than 30 years old. It was previously called the Braemar and operated by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines.

Villa Vie has said issues such as the aging ship's rudder stocks and recertification have delayed its departure by three months.

The 509 cabins cost at least $100,000 each. The Odyssey is due to sail around the world every 3 ½ years , visiting 147 countries and 425 destinations en route.

While the ship is stuck in Belfast, passengers can go on board during the day but not stay on it overnight.

The cruise line's CEO, Mikael Petterson, told BI in an email on Thursday that Villa Vie had provided residents with hotels, other cruises, shore excursions, and trips to the likes of Spain, Liverpool, and Amsterdam.

It's also welcoming residents on board, "where they can get their rooms ready and connect with crew and fellow residents," he added. "It is great to see the relationships building and the community bonding as we are looking forward to the next 15 years of discovery."

One couple on the ship, Johan Bodin and Lanette Canen, previously told BI they'd traveled elsewhere during the delay, to the likes of Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, and Sweden.

The couple said Villa Vie had also sent them on various excursions, including a trip to the Canary Islands and a cruise to the Norwegian fjords.

"We understand there are hiccups," Bodin told BI. "They're schmoozing us a bit to keep us happy. They're almost being too serviced-minded — I don't need to be pampered all the time."

Related stories

Holly Hennessey, from Florida, told BBC News: "We can have all of our meals, and they even have movies and trivia entertainment, almost like cruising except we're at the dock."

Angela and Stephen Theriac told the outlet they'd spent the delay traveling around Spain by train, visiting Greenland, and taking weekend trips to England.

"We keep teasing we will apply for residency here in Belfast," Angela Theriac told the BBC.

"We have eaten in every restaurant and had a Guinness in every pub," her husband added. "It is just all part of our adventure."

Angela Theriac previously told BI she and her husband had started decorating their floating condo with "personal touches," adding: "Our room is our bedroom, and the ship is our home."

Petterson, Villa Vie's CEO and founder, told BI, "We are going through the last few surveys and expect to launch within the next week."

He added that sea trials were scheduled for Monday.

Watch: Cruise ship captain breaks down 8 cruise ship disasters in movies and TV

• Main content

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• Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia Cruise Ports

Rotterdam (Netherlands South Holland)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia

Local Time 2024-08-31 21:13

Port Rotterdam cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Rotterdam, Netherlands South Holland. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Rotterdam cruise port is located around Wilhelmina Pier in Port Rotterdam - Europe's largest seaport. Rotterdam City is in the Netherlands South Holland province. By population (over 620,000/ metro around 1,2 million), the city is ranked the country's second-largest (following the capital Amsterdam ). The distance to Amsterdam is approx 70 km (45 mi).

Rotterdam is a traditional homeport (turnaround/departure port) for HAL/Holland America Line . It is also often included on Transatlantic crossings between Europe and USA-Canada. Cruise vessels homeported in Rotterdam operate on itineraries themed as "Baltic Sea", "Scandinavia and Russia" and "Norwegian Fjords".

The first cruise liners docked at Port Rotterdam were HAL's steamships – SS Nieuw Amsterdam (1906-built), SS Statendam (1956), and SS Rotterdam (1959). HAL's Transatlantic voyages were from Rotterdam to NYC (New York USA) .

Shore excursions from Rotterdam visit Delft, located approx 16 km/10 mi to the north-northwest (via highway A13). Delft is often part of cruisetour itineraries operated by riverboats. The boats dock in Rotterdam and transport their tourists to Delft via luxury buses. The excursion to Delft visits Royal Delft (De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles NV/1653-founded factory with a museum and guided tours). The Royal Delft factory still produces the famous blue-and-white Delftware (aka Delfts blauw/Delft Blue) - tin-glazed pottery/ceramic products and objects including vases, plates, tiles, figurines, etc. Royal Delft is now the only remaining one (out of a total of 32 such factories established in the 17th century) and its production has never been interrupted - since 1653! Delft is also famous for being the homeport of VOC-Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie (Dutch East India Company/1602-1799) - the world's first joint-stock enterprise - a company with shares that can be bought/sold by the shareholders.

Port Rotterdam

Port Rotterdam (locode NLRTM) is Europe's largest cargo port, handling around 140,000 vessels and 460+ million cargo tons annually. For the period 1962-2004, it was the world's busiest port (today is the world's 3rd - following Singapore and Shanghai China ). In 2012, the seaport was the world's 6th-largest cargo port. In 2018, Port Rotterdam handled 29476 international seagoing ships plus 107000 inland vessels (boats and barges). The port is well connected to major European cities via railways and roads.

The port has a total area of approx 105 km2 (41 mi2), stretching over approx 40 km (25 mi). The port also includes Rotterdam City's historic harbor. and Maasvlakte (reclaimed area projecting into North Sea). It consists of all 5 distinct port zones plus 3 distribution cargo parks. There are 8 deep-water terminals serving around 150,000 different shipping companies.

Port's most important industries are petrochemical (large oil refineries and storage facilities) and general cargo shipping. Rotterdam Harbor is an important transhipment point for bulk cargo and other goods transported between Europe and other continents (mainly China in Asia). From the port, goods are transported to mainland Europe by ships (North Sea), river barges (Maas and Rhine rivers), also trains and roads. In June 2007 was opened the Dutch part of Betuweroute - fast 2-track freight railway connecting Rotterdam with Germany. Germany's heaviest trains transport iron ore from Port Rotterdam to Dillingen (Germany) via Betuweroute.

Nieuwe Waterweg is a large river canal. This is an artificially made waterway designed to connect rivers Rhine and Meuse with North Sea. The canal was opened in 1872. In October 2017 was announced the Nieuwe Waterweg canal's deepening project (the dredging works started in 2018).

• The project involved a 1,5 m deepening along a 25-km (16 mi) long stretch between Hoek van Holland, Benelux Tunnel and port Botlek. The dredging encompassed 3 different depths - Botlek (from 14,5 to 16 m), Nieuwe Waterweg canal (Hoek van Holland to Maassluis, from 15 to 16 m) and Maassluis to Benelux Tunnel (from 14,5 to 16,5 m).
• Canal deepening allowed access to Rotterdam Harbour of larger vessels (with max draught 15 m). For comparison, New Panamax vessels (max draught 14,90 m) can sail through Panama Canal's new locks, which means such ships can reach Port Botlek without restrictions.

Port developments over the years resulted in a complex infrastructure with numerous docks and harbor-basins (sheltered port zones). Port's harbor area was enlarged with the Europoort complex built along Nieuwe Waterweg's mouth. The port was also extended into North Sea at Nieuwe Waterweg's southern side via Maasvlakte (built near Hoek van Holland - a coastal city on Nieuwe Waterweg's northern bank).

Port Botlek was constructed in the period 1955-1960. It serves mainly the petrochemicals industry and tank storage companies. Between 2010-2015 to Rotterdam Harbor's skyline were added numerous wind turbines. The second Maasvlakte was opened in 2013.

EECV-quay terminal has max draft 24 m (78 ft) making it one of world's only 3 such deep-water port moorings allowing berthing of the world's largest bulk carriers. The other 2 such locations are Ponta da Madeira's terminal (Brazil) and the iron ore wharf in Caofeidian (China). Currently, the world's largest bulk carrier (MS Berge Stahl / GT 175720, DWT 364767) has draft 23 m (75 ft) when fully loaded. To dock in Rotterdam, the cargo ship has to navigate through Eurogeul channel, which was dug in North Sea in conjunction with the port. The channel has length 57 km (35 mi) and depth 23 m (75 ft).

Much of the port's container loading and stacking operations are handled by unmanned large-capacity robotic cranes and AGVs (automated guided vehicles / aka chariots). Each of these AGV carries 1 TEU container. They navigate their own way around the container terminal guided by a magnetic grid built into the tarmac. Unmanned stacking cranes load / unload containers to/from the AGVs and store them in the terminal's dedicated stacking yard.

The port and its surrounding area are endangered by storm surges from the sea. The Maeslantkering flood barrier consists of 2 enormous doors resting in their drydock beds besides Nieuwe Waterweg. When a 3m (10 ft) above sea level flood is predicted, these gates are floated into position and sunk. When the water level recedes, the gates are floated back to the drydocks. There is a second flood barrier (Hartelkering) in Hartelkanaal.

Port's statistics for 2016 featured: number of handled vessels 27,902 (sea-going) and ~100,000 (inland/river), cargo shipping volumes (bulk cargo carriers and container ships ) 321,2 million tons (incoming) and 140 million tons (outgoing).

In March 2018, Port Rotterdam started construction works on the Container Exchange Route project (CER). CER interlinks all deepsea container and rail terminals, depots and distribution companies at Maasvlakte. The new concrete road reduced exchange costs between companies and improved road connections with Europe's hinterland. The EUR 175 million CER project comprised infrastructure upgrades, also purchasing new terminal systems and IT system modifications. For CER's road part was contracted a consortium of two Dutch companies (KWS Infra, Van Hattum en Blankevoort). The road project comprises approx 11,5 km (7 mi) concrete road, 3 road junctions, 1 level crossing, 3 rail viaducts. The CER project was scheduled for completion by the end of 2020.

In June 2018, APM Terminals Maasvlakte 2 launched the "Cool Port" daily barge service to a cold storage warehouse established in the Port's Waalhaven section The facility, is operated by Kloosterboer and allows faster product distribution as it is more accessible to trucks with temperature-controlled products.

• In May 2021,  APM Terminals Rotterdam sold to Hutchison Ports Netherlands BV (part of Hutchison Ports Europe) the ECT Delta container terminal in Maasvlakte. The facility has quay length 1,6 km (1 mi) and is served by 13x gantry cranes.
• Hutchison Ports Netherlands also operates Port's Euromax terminals.

In April 2023, APM Terminals signed with the Port of Rotterdam Authority an agreement for EUR 1+ billion (~USD 1,1B) expansion of Maasvlakte 2 Terminal. The new project includes the development of approx 47,5 hectares (0,475 km2 / ~116 acres) of land plus the construction of a new 1000-m/3280-ft long deepwater quay. Maasvlakte 2's expansion (scheduled for completion in 2026-H2) will increase the Terminal's annual capacity by ~2 million TEUs. At the time of the deal, the Port Authority was working on the new quay walls (scheduled for completion in 2024-H1). Also in 2023, Maersk leased 18,5 hectares (45 acres) of land in the same area (adjacent to Maasvlakte II) for the development of cross-dock and cold storage facilities (to serve Maersk's subsidiary Star Container Services) with which all available undeveloped sites at Amaliahaven became leased for terminal expansions.

Since January 2019, Port Rotterdam offers Green Award discount for chemical tankers and sea-going vessels with DWT under 20,000 tons.

In August 2019 started the construction of RTM Polymer Hub (one bulk container yard plus two logistics warehouses / storages for raw materials serving the plastics industry). The facility (15,500 m2 yard plus 19,500 m2 warehouses) has storage capacity 0,55 million tonnes and was completed in March 2020.

For FY2019 (fiscal year), Port Rotterdam reported 29,491 ocean-going vessels handled (29,476 in 2018), 113 in-port accidents (112 in 2018), increased LNG-bunkering capacity (3 permanent vessels plus 6 licensed LNG bunkering companies in the port).

In late-April 2020, at RWG (Rotterdam World Gateway / container storage and transhipment terminal) were delivered 2x new (ZPMC China-made) quay cranes planned to start operations in 2020-H2. With lifting height 56 m (184 ft) these are some of the world's largest container cranes with capacity to serve up to 26-row boxships. Along with the quay cranes, RWG also purchased 25x new AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles).

In September 2021, Royal Dutch Shell announced the project for building one of Europe's largest biofuel production plants. With annual capacity 820,000 tonnes, the facility (at Shell Energy & Chemicals Park/fka Pernis Refinery) will produce SAF (sustainable aviation fuel) and renewable diesel from waste.

In early-July 2022 was announced that two Shell plc subsidiaries (Shell Nederland BV and Shell Overseas Investments BV) will invest into building Europe’s largest green hydrogen plant (Holland Hydrogen I) scheduled for completion in 2025.

• The 200-MW plant producing H2 and O2 from seawater via electrolysis (max daily production capacity 60 tons of hydrogen) will be constructed on Tweede Maasvlakte.
• The renewable electricity for the electrolyzer comes from Windpark Hollandse Kust North (offshore wind farm partly owned by Shell plc).
• The produced renewable hydrogen supplies Shell's facilities via the HyTransPort pipeline1, replacing some of the grey H2 used in the oil refinery where are produced mainly diesel and jet fuels.

"Holland Hydrogen I" is part of the Maasvlakte 2 Project (2013 opened). This is a major engineering project that included the construction of a new cargo port (with support road and railroad infrastructure) on reclaimed land (sized ~20 km2/2000 hectares) protected by a 4 km / 2,5 mi long dike. Approx 1 km2/1000 hectares house facilities with port-related businesses. To accommodate the increased shipping traffic, the Eurogeul/Euromaasgeul (57-km/35-mi long channel with depth 23 m/75 ft) was widened.

Since January 2024, DFDS docking in Vlaardingen (2 berths out of 4) use shore power electricity provided by Rotterdam Shore Power BV - a joint venture of Port Rotterdam Authority and Eneco Groep NV (natural gas, electricity and heat producer and supplier). The facility uses electricity from the city's public power grid and allows berthed vessels to turn off their diesel generators thus reducing in-port noise and pollution. The installation has power capacity 1,8 MW and provides annually 3,5 GWh of electricity.

Rotterdam port statistics 2018

For 2018-Q3, the seaport reported the following data (comparison over 2017-Q3):

• 0.4% overall decrease in shipping trade
• total 350 million tons of cargo handled (decrease 1,5 million tons)
• 5,7% increase in TEUs (total 10,780204 million containers)
• 10% increase in inbound loaded TEUs, 7,6% decrease in outbound TEUs, 10% increase in North American boxship trade, 20% increase in the South American
• 1,1% decrease in liquid bulk throughput (crude oil, mineral oil products, marine diesel fuels)
• Increase in LNG throughput (nearly 0,8 million tons) was due to shipments of gas via icebreaking LNG carriers from Yamal (Russia) .
• 7,3% decrease in dry bulk cargoes, especially agribulk (-18%), iron ore (-6%) and coal (-4,6%) - attributed to poor harvests in South America (less incoming shipments) and lower European wheat prices, rising price of CO2 emission allowances (growth in renewable energy consumption).
• 1,3% increase in breakbulk (Ro-Ro shipping) trade volumes

On January 31, 2018, the Port Authority announced its partnership with IBM Corporation to digitize most operations. Previously, for communication between vessel captains and port staff (assisting pilots and tugboats, terminal operators) were used radio and radar technologies.

• The "digital port" uses sensors installed across 42-km (26 mi) land and sea area (along quay walls, mooring posts, roads). The sensors gather multiple data (including hydro and meteo) about sea tides and water currents, temperatures, winds (speed, direction), water levels visibility, berth availability.
• The collected data is first analyzed by cloud-based IBM technologies, then turned into information that can be used for decisions that result in reduced wait times and optimizing docking times, thus enabling the port to handle more ships.
• The companies Cisco (IT and networking) and Axians (ICT solutions and services) are also involved in this project.

For FY2018 (fiscal year), the port reported a record total cargo throughput 469 million (467,4M in FY2017). Container transshipment increased 4,5%. Total TEUs increased 5,7% (to 14.5 million). Record growths were reported for LNG (163,6%) and biomass (31,6%). Dropping volumes were reported in the shipping of agribulk, crude oil, mineral oil products. Gross investments in the seaport grew 91% (to EUR 408,1 million) compared to 2017 (EUR 213,8 million). Largest projects were Container Exchange Route (Maasvlakte), Princess Amalia Viaduct, port railway's relocation (via Theemsweg).

• LNG transshipment grew 163,6% - mainly due to import via icebreaking tankers from Yamal (Russia).
• Dry bulk throughput dropped 3%.
• Port's turnover dropped to EUR 707,2 million (EUR 712,1 million in 2017).
• The net result (excluding taxes) was EUR 254,1 million (EUR 247,3 million in 2017).
• Site lease charges dropped 0,9% (to EUR 373,7 million).
• Operating expenses grew 2,6% (to EUR 267,8 million).
• To the port shareholders was paid dividend EUR 96,5 million (+38%), of which EUR 68,3 million (Rotterdam City) and EUR 28,2 million (Netherlands).

Rotterdam port statistics 2017

In 2017, the port handled a total of 29,646 ocean-going vessels (29,022 in 2016). The number of reported incidents in port waters was 129 (down from 159 in 2016). In 2017, for the first time, 2017 Seaport Police and Port Authority held joint vessel inspections of pleasure craft (ships and boats) in the port area. Also in 2017, for the first time was provided LNG bunkering to a vessel docked in port. The new service is provided by the LNG tanker Cardissa, serving the port area.

In 2017, the collected port duties were EUR 289,6 million (seaport) plus EU 14,4 million (inland port). Port's main source of income is from rentals and long-term leasing.

Port's growth in container shipping for 2017 was 12,3% (in tons), with total cargo increase 1,3% in tonnage (from 461 million to 467 million tons). The bulk cargo increased by 2,6% (dry bulk) and 4,1% (wet bulk). Breakbulk (Ro-Ro shipping) increased by 7%. Container shipping increased by 10.9% (13,7 million TEUs) and by 12,3% by weight (142.6 million tons). Most growth was reported on shipping routes connecting Europe with Asia, South and North America. The Baltic Sea traffic volume in TEUs grew by 21%. The TEU traffic volume between Mediterranean and ScanBaltic grew by 10,2%. The hinterland volume grew by 6,3%.

In 2017, the port's crude oil traffic volume increased by 2,3% (104,2 million tons). The mineral oils and oil products volumes decreased by 10,8% (79,2M tons), mainly due to decreased oil exports from Russia. Port's LNG shipping volumes increased by 16,5%. Dry bulk volumes (ores and scrap) were 31 million tons. Agribulk volumes grew by 6,6% (11,1M tons).

Port of Rotterdam Authority reported a turnover for 2017 of EUR 712,1 million (4,6% increase over FY2016), Net profit EUR 187M (16,6% decrease), port investments of EUR 213,8M (18.9% increase), land leases revenue EUR 377,3M (10% increase), port dues revenue EUR 303,9M (1,7% decrease), other income EUR 30,9M (8,7% increase), operating expenses EUR 261M (9,3% increase).

In accordance with current long-term agreements, the port proposed EUR 94.6 million (2%) of the dividend payment to its shareholders, of which to Rotterdam City (port stake 70,83% / EUR 67M) and to The Netherlands / state (port stake 29,17% / EUR 27,6M).

After the dividend payment and debts repayment, the port's profits were invested in development projects. In 2017, major investments were made in Offshore Center Rotterdam, new berth (serving STENA LINE ships), modernisation of berths (Caland Canal, Maasvlakte Plaza, RDM Grofsmederij. In 2017 were invested a total of EUR 213,8 million (compared to 2016's EUR 179,8M).

Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam Port

Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam is Holland's largest shiprepair and vessel conversion yard, also one of Western Europe's largest shipyards. The facility is centrally located in Port Rotterdam and supports 250 employees. In Schiedam Holland, the company has 3 dry-docks (one of which covered) plus 2 floating docks, workshops, cranes.

Damen shipyard specializes in repairs and maintenance works (both mechanical and steel). Its services include repairs, refits and conversions, harbour services. The markets served by Damen include offshore, cruising, yachting, dredging. The shipyard is in the middle of Port Rotterdam, has unrestricted access to open waters and close proximity to many marine manufacturers (including OEM / original equipment manufacturer).

Follows the list of Damen shipyard's facilities and their capacities:

• Berth 1 (length 160 m, max draft 8 m) is served by 1 crane (40 tons).
• Berth 2 (length 120 m, max draft 8 m) is served by 1 crane (40 tons).
• Berth 3 (length 200 m, max draft 8 m) is served by 2 cranes (25-ton, 40-ton).
• Berth 4 (length 460 m, max draft 8 m) is served by 2 cranes (12-ton, 25-ton).
• The Covered DryDock has length 211 m, width 28 m, max draft 9 m, and is served by 2 cranes (50-ton each).
• Floating Dock 1 (length 175 m, width 25 m, max draft 6,4 m) is served by 3 cranes (15-ton each).
• Floating Dock 2 (length 159 m, width 23 m, max draft 6,3 m) is served by 3 cranes (15-ton each).
• The Open Dry Dock 1 (length 211 m, width 28,4 m, max draft 9 m) is served by 2 cranes (40-ton each).
• The Open Dry Dock 2 (length 307 m, width 46,1 m, max draft 9,5 m) is served by 4 cranes (two 25-ton and two 100-ton).

All these facilities are fully equipped and well maintained, and served by highly skilled workers. The types of marine vessels serviced here include offshore, dredgers, tankers, container ships , reefers (refrigerated cargo ships), bulk carriers, heavy crane vessels, renewable energy vessels, cruise ships. Among the vessels recently refurbished by Damen are Saga Sapphire (in 2014), MSC Magnifica (in 2014), and in 2017 - the CMV 's Columbus , Magellan and Marco Polo .

Rotterdam cruise terminal

Rotterdam cruise port terminal is built on the Wilhelmina Pier. It is west of the stunning Erasmus Bridge, on the south bank of River Maas.

Schiphol Airport Amsterdam is 1 hour from the cruise ship terminal. The distance to Rotterdam Airport is only 20 min. All the Holland's neighbouring countries (France, Germany and Belgium) are easily accessible via high-speed trains. The city's Central Station is also located close to the cruise terminal building. There is a regularly scheduled bus service from Antwerp Belgium  (travel time ~1 hour).

Rotterdam Cruise Terminal

The cruise ship terminal underwent a number of changes between 2014-2015. The grand opening ceremony was in May 2015.

The cruise terminal building is at Wilhelmina Pier and has a total area approx 3800 m2. After its renovation, the building has dedicated 700 m2 luggage handling area. Refurbishment works included paintwork, new flooring, suitcase storage area, Port Rotterdam offices. There is a parking area next to the SS Rotterdam hotel - a former HAL cruise liner converted to a hotel/convention center.

In September 2014 was installed the mobile passenger boarding bridge (covered and automatic). In February 2015, quay’s repaving replacement was at 70% ready. The rest of the works were done between ship visits.

In June 2023 started the project for the installation of shore power supply/cold ironing system at Port Rotterdam’s Holland America Quay, with scheduled completion in 2024-Q4. The project is overseen by Cruise Port Shore Power (a subsidiary of Cruise Port Rotterdam). The cold ironing system utilizes 100% green energy sourced from wind and solar farms.

Rotterdam tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

The Rotterdam Port: Rotterdam won port of the year for 2013. It is worth to take a look at the port and see the atmosphere.

Euromast: or the Space Tower. Take a bird eye look over Rotterdam. The tower is 185 m and there is a restaurant atop.

Erasmusbrug: or the Erasmus Bridge. So close to Rotterdam cruise port terminal, that you should not miss it. It was open by Queen Beatrix in 1996. The bridge is 800 m. It is also known as “The Swan” because of its color.

Willemsbrug: or the Willems Bridge is also known as “Red Bridge” or the “Golden Gate Bridge” of Rotterdam. It dates from 1981. It is over the Nieuwe Mass River.

Museums: the Boijmans Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Kunsthal Museum, the Maritime Museum and the Netherlands Fotomuseum.

De Kuip Football Stadium: or the Tub is the home of Feyenoord football club. The club is famous in Europe, so is the stadium.

Delftshaven: or the Delfts Harbour. The part of the city that remained mostly undamaged during the World War II bombing.

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Cruise ship stranded in Belfast for three months

• Northern Ireland
• Friday 30 August 2024 at 5:32pm

Passengers on a around-the-world cruise ship have been enjoying an extended stay in Belfast - now three months after the vessel was due to set sail from the city's dock.

Villa Vie's Odyssey cruise ship was scheduled to leave on 30 May for the first leg of a round-the-world cruise.

As they wait to start their three-and-a-half-year voyage, residents spend their days onboard the docked ship disembarking to stay in hotels overnight.

The Odyssey cruise ship, a retired cruise vessel purchased by a start-up during Covid, arrived at Queen’s Island in the Northern Ireland at the start of summer.

It has yet to set sail due to issues with the ship's rudders and gearbox.

Florida native Holly, who is onboard the ship with her cat, spoke to ITV's This Morning from Belfast.

She said: "I can leave the ship. In fact, I have to leave the ship every evening. We can spend our days aboard now but I can't leave Belfast because of the kitty.

"Belfast has been incredibly welcoming, and warm in spirt if not in temperature. I've never had so much use for an umbrella in my life.

"I've had to buy Vitamin-D which normally I have an abundance of. I don't know how you guys do it living in this climate."

As for how long it will be until cruise ship sets sail for sunnier climes as planned, Holly explained: "We have had many dates given to us that we were told we thought we would set sail.

"We still have to do sea trials that is probably early next week and hopefully as soon as the sea trials are done and verifications are given we will be on our way.

"We have had delay after delay after delay but it is well worth it for the life that we are going to be able to live. It will be a wonderful way to live I think."

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This 3.5-year world cruise was scheduled to depart in May. Passengers are still waiting.

A residential world cruise has not yet set sail more than three months after its planned departure.

Villa Vie Residences’ first three-and-a-half year cruise was scheduled to begin in May, but its Villa Vie Odyssey ship remains in Belfast, Northern Ireland. 

“Coming into Belfast from Edinburgh on our own power we were confident that our beautiful Odyssey would fly through class surveys,” CEO Mikael Petterson said in an emailed statement. “We have since then been quite humbled by the scale of what it takes to reactivate a 30-year-old vessel from a four-year layup. After the lapse of all certifications of class we are now considered (a) new ship where all machinery and equipment must work as if new.”

The ship last sailed as MS Braemar for Fred Olsen Cruise Lines before undergoing renovations after Villa Vie purchased it last year. 

“Despite having to do major works such as the rudder stocks, major steel work and engine overhauls, we have persevered and are now in the last stages of departure,” Petterson added. The ship is expected to launch next week, visiting cities including Amsterdam in the Netherlands and Lisbon, Portugal before crossing the Atlantic Ocean to cruise the Caribbean.

The vessel will miss most of its Northern Europe segment but will add it to its 2027 schedule.

Passenger Starr Davis left behind her life in Hollywood, Florida to join the 147-country trip, selling her car and putting her house on the market. “I am down to four suitcases and a couple of 50-gallon storage bins of everything I own,” she told USA TODAY.

Cruising the world has been a long-held dream for Davis, 56. She retired shortly before the ship was originally due to leave from Southampton, England on May 15. That was pushed back to May 30 from Belfast, the first of several delays.

Passengers are now able to board the ship in the mornings around 8:30 but must disembark by about 9:30 p.m, according to Davis. Villa Vie has provided lodging, as well as provisions like food and activities on the ship like trivia.

Starting prices to purchase cabins are currently listed at $119,999, according to Villa Vie’s website . Davis chose a pay-as-you-go option but declined to share specifics about what she’d spent on the cruise.

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: Here's what to do next

“We are extremely grateful for our residents who have stood by our side through the tough times,” Petterson said. “We have worked with our residents to provide hotels, cruises, shore excursions, trips to Tenerife, Liverpool and are welcoming them for onboard visits where they can get their rooms ready and connect with crew and fellow residents.”

Davis has taken the changes in stride. She used the extra time in May to visit New York City and see Broadway shows, and has since traveled around Europe and North Africa. “Initially I was going to wait for the ship, but it turns out I want to see the world,” she said.

She’s had no shortage of adventures in that time, riding a hot air balloon in Marrakech, Morocco and rappelling down the side of a football stadium in Liverpool.

The delays come after a three-year world cruise from Life at Sea Cruises was canceled late last year following investor withdrawal and struggles to acquire its desired ship. But Davis remains optimistic that Villa Vie’s ship will set sail soon.

“I truly believe this is going to happen,” she said. “I truly believe we’re being treated fairly.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Another Icon-of-the-Seas-Style Megaship? Make That 3 More.

Royal Caribbean and other companies are aggressively building over-the-top ships. “Today’s cruisezillas make the Titanic look like a small fishing boat,” noted one sustainability specialist.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

The Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, drew as much criticism as excitement when Royal Caribbean launched it earlier this year, but the ship has been a hit among cruise goers. Now the cruise line is adding to its fleet of megaships.

The company already has two Icon Class ships on order — Star of the Seas, which will be launched in 2025, and a third ship that has not yet been named but will be delivered in 2026. It now has plans to order a fourth ship, set for a 2027 launch, with options for a fifth and sixth. The new ships build on the market response to Icon of the Seas, said Jason Liberty, president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean Group, announcing the agreement to build the new ships.

“Since its debut, Icon has exceeded our expectations in both guest satisfaction and financial performance,” Mr. Liberty said in a statement on Tuesday.

The 250,800-ton ship, which can carry nearly 8,000 people, has eight “neighborhoods” packed with amenities that include a 55-foot waterfall, six water slides and more than 40 restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.

Royal Caribbean’s announcement comes as the cruise industry reports record demand, attracting new customers with attractively priced packages that often include food, beverages and activities. In 2023, cruise travel exceeded 2019’s 29.7 million passengers by some two million, with 31.7 million passengers. This year, that number is expected to reach 34.7 million, according to Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s trade group.

Responding to the demand, Royal Caribbean launched four new ships this year and has seven more on order. Other major cruise lines, like Carnival, Norwegian and MSC, are also launching next-generation vessels through 2027. The trend has drawn criticism from environmental groups, who warn that the number and scale of the ships undermine the industry’s commitment to a more sustainable future.

The world’s largest cruise ships are now twice as big as they were in 2000, according to a report by Transport and Environment , a Brussels-based advocacy group for clean transport and energy. If vessels continue to grow at their current rate, the biggest ships in 2050 will be eight times larger than the Titanic, with a capacity to carry nearly 11,000 passengers, the report found.

“Today’s cruisezillas make the Titanic look like a small fishing boat. How much bigger can these giants get?” said Inesa Ulichina, the sustainable shipping officer at Transport and Environment. “The cruise business is the fastest growing tourism sector and its emissions are quickly getting out of control.”

Based on the current fleets of its member lines, CLIA said, there is a strong balance of cruise ship sizes. Many cruise lines argue that their larger vessels are being built more efficiently in line with their sustainability goals, with features to make them compatible with cleaner fuel sources like methanol.

The Icon of the Seas has several features designed to minimize the ship’s carbon footprint, including a waste management system that converts onboard waste into energy and an advanced purification system that is designed to treat all wastewater onboard.

“Achieving net zero is not something any one company can do alone,” Mr. Liberty said, speaking last month at a Decarbonization Summit hosted by Royal Caribbean Group and the not-for-profit Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. “It requires collective problem solving, creative thinking, and a willingness to have tough conversations.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated how soon the biggest cruise ships could be eight times larger than the Titanic, if they continue to grow at their current rate. It is 2050, not 2025.

How we handle corrections

Ceylan Yeğinsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

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