After a short break for improvements, Rotterdam is officially back in service—and returning guests are already seeing the changes.
Operated by Holland America Line, the ship has just completed a two-week drydock in the Netherlands, wrapping up a series of upgrades across entertainment spaces, staterooms, and public areas.
The refreshed vessel welcomed its first guests back on April 26 and has now resumed its 7-night Northern Europe itineraries for the summer season.
Entertainment Spaces Get a Noticeable Upgrade
One of the biggest focuses of this drydock was enhancing the onboard entertainment experience—especially live music, which is a key part of the Rotterdam’s vibe.
Guests can now expect:
- Expanded seating at Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge.
- A brand-new live music stage at the Crow’s Nest.
- A completely new outdoor music setup at the Sea View Pool (Deck 9 aft).
That last addition is a big one—bringing live performances outside creates a more relaxed, open-air atmosphere, especially on scenic Northern Europe sailings.
Stateroom Changes Make Group Travel Easier
Traveling with family or friends just got a bit more comfortable.
As part of the upgrade:
- 22 Vista Suites now include sofa beds.
- These suites can now accommodate up to 4 guests.
It’s a small change, but one that makes a big difference for groups trying to stay in the same cabin category.
Fresh Look Across the Ship
Beyond the headline upgrades, the ship also received a full refresh in multiple areas to improve the overall feel onboard.
What’s Been Updated
- New carpeting in cabins, corridors, and public spaces.
- Refurbished furniture and updated upholstery.
- Refinished floors and seating areas.
- New wall coverings throughout the ship.
These are the kinds of updates you might not notice immediately—but they make the ship feel newer and more polished overall.
Spa & Wellness Area Gets a Practical Upgrade
Even the spa didn’t get left out.
At the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, a new ergonomic hair-washing station has been installed to improve guest comfort during treatments.
It’s a small but thoughtful upgrade that shows attention to guest experience beyond just aesthetics.
Casino Expansion Adds More Options
For guests who enjoy some time in the casino, there’s more to explore now.
- Around 20 new slot machines were added.
- New seating areas.
- Updated carpeting and TVs in table game sections.
This gives the casino a more modern feel while also increasing capacity.
Retail Space Also Refreshed
Shopping onboard gets a slight upgrade, too.
The Effy Jewelry store has been updated with:
- New flooring
- Modern lighting
- Updated display fixtures
- Refreshed wall finishes
It’s another example of how even smaller venues are being brought up to date.
What This Means for Cruisers
If you’re sailing on Rotterdam this summer, you’re stepping onto a ship that feels noticeably refreshed—without losing its original charm.
- Better entertainment spaces (especially for live music lovers).
- More flexible cabin options for groups.
- A cleaner, more modern look across the ship.
- Enhanced onboard amenities.
It’s not a full transformation—but it’s a meaningful upgrade that improves the overall experience.
