A complete list of Holland America cruise ships arranged from the newest to the oldest

Curious about the latest Holland America cruise ship? If you're considering a cruise with them, this is key information to have.

The latest Holland America vessel not only features the newest dining and entertainment options but also the most contemporary cabins and suites. It’s the ideal choice for those seeking the finest amenities on their Holland America cruise.

Currently, the newest ship in the Holland America fleet is the Rotterdam, which accommodates 2,650 passengers and serves as the flagship. It was launched in October 2021.

Other relatively recent additions to Holland America's fleet include the 2,650-passenger Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam, both sister ships to the Rotterdam, which started sailing within the past eight years.

Overall, Holland America operates 11 cruise ships. On average, the line introduces a new ship every two to three years, though the release schedule varies. Between 2002 and 2004, a new ship was launched each year, while there was a six-year gap without any new ships from 2010 to 2016.

Recently, Holland America has significantly reduced its fleet by retiring four older vessels.

Typically, Holland America's newest ships are larger and more amenity-rich than the older ones, but they do not reach the size of the largest ships offered by competitors like Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises. Among the seven major cruise lines catering to North American travelers, Holland America is recognized for having the smallest and most intimate ships.

In some instances, Holland America's oldest cruise ships—those launched in the late 1990s and early 2000s—are up to 39% smaller than the newest vessels, featuring fewer onboard venues.

This list ranks all Holland America cruise ships currently in service, from the newest to the oldest.

1. Rotterdam

Inaugural voyage: 2021
Gross tonnage: 99,863 tons
Capacity for passengers: 2,650

2. Nieuw Statendam

Inaugural voyage: 2018
Gross tonnage: 99,863 tons
Passenger capacity: 2,650

3. Koningsdam

Inaugural voyage: 2016
Gross tonnage: 99,863 tons
Passenger capacity: 2,650

4. Nieuw Amsterdam

Inaugural voyage: 2010
Gross tonnage: 86,700 tons
Passenger capacity: 2,106

5. Eurodam

Inaugural voyage: 2008
Gross tonnage: 86,273 tons
Capacity for passengers: 2,104

6. Noordam

Inaugural voyage: 2006
Gross tonnage: 82,318 tons
Capacity for passengers: 1,924

7. Westerdam

Inaugural voyage: 2004
Gross tonnage: 82,305 tons
Capacity for passengers: 1,916

8. Oosterdam

Inaugural voyage: 2003
Gross tonnage: 82,305 tons
Capacity for passengers: 1,916

9. Zuiderdam

Inaugural voyage: 2002
Gross tonnage: 82,305 tons
Capacity for passengers: 1,916

10. Zaandam

Inaugural voyage: 2000
Gross tonnage: 61,396 tons
Capacity for passengers: 1,432

11. Volendam

Inaugural voyage: 1999
Gross tonnage: 61,214 tons
Capacity for passengers: 1,432

What is the most recent Holland America cruise ship?

The latest addition to Holland America's fleet is the 2,650-passenger Rotterdam, which launched in October 2021, making it under three years old.

Weighing in at 99,863 gross tons, the Rotterdam shares the title of the largest ship in the Holland America fleet with its slightly older sister ships, Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam. As part of the Pinnacle Class, these three vessels offer the most amenities compared to other ships in the fleet.

In addition to a primary restaurant and a casual buffet, the three Pinnacle Class ships feature five distinct specialty dining options, ranging from a pan-Asian restaurant and an Italian bistro to a steakhouse. This selection surpasses what is available on other Holland America ships.

The Pinnacle Class ships also include all of Holland America's signature entertainment venues, a feature that is not available on the line's older ships.

What is the oldest cruise ship in the Holland America fleet?

The oldest ship in the Holland America fleet is the 1,432-passenger Volendam. Launched in 1999, it holds the distinction of being not only the oldest but also the smallest ship in the fleet, measuring just 61,214 gross tons, which is 39% smaller than the Rotterdam and the other Pinnacle Class vessels.

Due to its smaller size, Volendam offers fewer features and amenities compared to most other Holland America ships, especially when compared to the newer Pinnacle Class and the recent Signature Class vessels.

Generally, Volendam attracts travelers seeking a more intimate cruising experience, as well as those who prioritize the destinations over onboard entertainment.

What new Holland America cruise ships are on the horizon?

Currently, Holland America has no ships on order. The line is part of Carnival Corporation, which hasn't placed new orders for several years as it focuses on reducing debt. The company incurred significant debt during the COVID-19 pandemic to maintain operations.

What is the latest class of Holland America cruise ships?

The Pinnacle Class represents the newest group of Holland America ships, consisting of three vessels: Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Koningsdam.

Each of these ships has a gross tonnage of 99,863 and accommodates 2,650 passengers at double occupancy. They were launched as a series from 2016 to 2021.

As noted earlier, Pinnacle Class ships feature the most venues of any Holland America ship, including all of the brand's signature entertainment options.

On Pinnacle Class vessels, you can enjoy one of the line's signature entertainment spaces featuring B.B. King's Blues Club (offering Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (with chart-topping hits performed by a live pianist), and the Rolling Stone Rock Room (showcasing a live band playing classic rock).

The Pinnacle Class ships feature stunning state-of-the-art main theaters equipped with push-out stages and two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screens. These venues host a variety of musical, dance, and comedy performances.

The top decks of Pinnacle Class ships include main pool areas that can be covered by a retractable glass magrodome during bad weather, making them an excellent option for cruises in destinations with unpredictable weather.

What distinguishes newer Holland America ships from older ones?

Generally, newer Holland America cruise ships are larger than their older counterparts—often significantly so. This increase in size allows for more onboard venues and attractions compared to the line's earlier vessels.

Holland America's older ships can be up to 39% smaller than the largest vessels in the fleet and often lack some of the features found on the larger ships. They provide a more intimate atmosphere and accommodate fewer passengers. For example, while Pinnacle Class ships can host 2,650 passengers at double occupancy, the two oldest vessels in the fleet, known as the R Class, are only designed for 1,432 passengers at double occupancy.

Consequently, the oldest Holland America ships are ideal for those wanting to experience the line while traveling with a smaller group. These vessels cater to a niche of Holland America enthusiasts who appreciate a more intimate cruise experience and are willing to forgo some onboard amenities. Additionally, they tend to be more budget-friendly on a per-day basis.

It's important to note that all Holland America ships undergo regular renovations and upgrades every few years. As a result, even the oldest vessels feature newer carpeting, updated furnishings, modern cabin decor, and various enhancements. In many instances, entire dining venues and bars have been refurbished over the years with concepts originally introduced on newer ships.