Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam Review – The Beauty of the Pinnacle-Class Cruise Ship

The Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam cruise ship stands out for its modern beauty and a wide array of innovative dining and entertainment options, making it a unique choice for travelers seeking a memorable vacation experience at sea. The Nieuw Statendam, the second in the line of Holland America’s Pinnacle Class ships, draws inspiration from the elegant curves of musical instruments, creating a modern and visually stunning environment. The fluid lines and dramatic spaces of the ship’s design contribute to its unique beauty, offering guests a visually captivating experience throughout their voyage. The ship offers a variety of innovative dining options, ensuring that guests can indulge in a diverse culinary experience. From Rudi’s Sel de Mer to Nami Sushi to the Rolling Stone Lounge, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and the visually stunning two-level World Stage, the Nieuw Statendam provides an array of exclusive dining and entertainment venues. The specialty dining offerings, including the Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, Tamarind, and Rudi’s Sel De Mer, promise a sensational dining experience, featuring a variety of culinary delights, including French classics with a twist, authentic Italian cuisine, and fresh seafood offerings. The ship’s gelato shop and Club Orange provide additional high-end dining experiences, ensuring that guests have a range of options to suit their preferences.

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In a Nutshell…

  1. Pinnacle-Class Beauty: The Nieuw Statendam is the second ship in Holland America Line’s Pinnacle-class fleet. It proudly reflects over 140 years of Dutch seafaring tradition and boasts legendary architecture, opulent interiors, and grand light-filled spaces.
  2. Elegant Design: With fluid lines and dramatic spaces, this modern beauty draws inspiration from the elegant curves of musical instruments. Its breathtaking central atrium features subtly changing high-definition backdrop projections.
  3. Signature Service: Expect exceptional service on board, a hallmark of Holland America Line. The crew ensures a memorable and comfortable experience for all guests.
  4. Diverse Dining Options:
    • Pinnacle Grill: The ultimate steakhouse at sea, offering Prime steaks, seafood, and wine.
    • Canaletto: A relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine best enjoyed when shared.
    • Tamarind: Explore Southeast Asian, Chinese, and Japanese flavors with cuisine rivaling top restaurants on land.
    • Rudi’s Sel De Mer: Master Chef Rudi Sodamin’s lively brasserie with a modern twist on classic French dishes and seafood.
    • Grand Dutch Cafe: Enjoy Dutch heritage with savory snacks, lager, and traditional coffee.
    • Lido Market: A casual, modern marketplace with a wide range of food options for all meals.
    • Dive In: Poolside grill serving the best burgers, gourmet hot dogs, and golden French fries.
    • New York Pizza: Fresh Italian salads and thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.
    • 24-Hour Room Service: Breakfast in bed or early dinner on your verandah, available whenever you wish.
    • Explorations Cafe: Relaxing cafe with panoramic views, serving handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.
    • Nami Sushi: Delectable sushi and Asian-inspired spirits with stunning ocean views.
  5. Entertainment and Activities:
    • Billboard Onboard: Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or enjoy chart-topping hits each night.
    • World Stage: Innovative cruise ship shows with a two-story LED screen.
    • Onboard Shopping: A wide variety of duty-free shopping.
    • Fitness Center: Professionally staffed fitness classes.
    • Casino Action: Games for all levels.
    • Movies On Board: Recent-release films in the theater or in your stateroom.
    • Pickleball at Sea: Complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with top-deck views.
    • Kids Club: Activities for kids ages 3 to 17.
  6. Ship Specifications:
    • Length: 975 feet
    • Width: 114.8 feet
    • Class: Pinnacle-class
    • Sister Ships: Koningsdam and Rotterdam
    • Nautical Heritage: Continues the legacy of Holland America Line’s seafaring tradition.
  7. 21st-Century Cruising: The Nieuw Statendam sets the bar high with its elegant design, modern amenities, and brilliant hospitality. It’s a ship where luxury meets adventure on the high seas!
  8. Find special deals and reserve today on the MS Nieuw Statendam by Clicking Here.

Entertainment onboard the MS Nieuw Statendam

Entertainment onboard the Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam cruise ship offers a diverse and engaging experience that caters to guests of all interests and ages. From innovative theaters to interactive activities and enrichment opportunities, the ship provides a wide array of entertainment options to ensure passengers have a memorable and enjoyable voyage.

The World Stage Theater, located on Decks 2 and 3 forward, is the main performance venue onboard the Nieuw Statendam. This innovative theater in the round can accommodate up to 650 passengers at a time, offering unobstructed views and featuring standout 270-degree screens. Guests can enjoy specially produced short films from BBC’s Planet Earth series accompanied by live orchestral performances, as well as captivating shows by guest performers, including opera singers and traditional song-and-dance productions. During the day, the World Stage hosts port talks, enrichment lectures, and serves as a meeting point for shore excursions.

Passengers can partake in a variety of enrichment activities throughout their cruise on the Nieuw Statendam. The Microsoft Studio on Deck 2 offers complimentary sessions on Microsoft software taught by specialists, providing opportunities for guests to enhance their skills or learn something new. In the Crow’s Nest at Explorations Central, passengers can engage in activities like reading books, solving puzzles, playing board games, and participating in hosted trivia sessions. Additionally, there are lectures on art and culture tied to the itinerary, book club meetups to discuss Oprah’s Book Club picks, and culinary demonstrations by America’s Test Kitchen in the Queen’s Lounge.

For those seeking interactive entertainment experiences, the ship offers various options onboard. Guests can enjoy BBC-themed trivia using video clips, music trivia sessions held in venues like Billboard Onboard, and themed demos by America’s Test Kitchen typically conducted in the Queen’s Lounge. Additionally, passengers can participate in Blend on Deck 2 for an extra cost where they can create their own red wine blend guided by an onboard wine expert. This program provides an educational and hands-on experience for wine enthusiasts looking to delve into the art of winemaking.

The Nieuw Statendam also features onboard shopping opportunities at Merabella Shops on Deck 2, offering a selection of jewelry, duty-free liquor, luxury gift items, logowear, and Holland America-branded souvenirs. Guests can explore Wonder Photo on Deck 3 for a unique photography concept with digital stations allowing them to browse and customize printed items like mugs, coasters, T-shirts, and more. Additionally, Explorations Central at the Crow’s Nest on Deck 12 serves as a destination immersion hub for port planning and shore excursions. Find special deals and reserve today on the MS Nieuw Statendam by Clicking Here.

  1. The World Stage: Located on Decks 2 and 3 forward, this innovative theater-in-the-round accommodates up to 650 passengers. It features unobstructed views and standout 270-degree screens used during performances. Don’t miss the specially produced short film from BBC’s Planet Earth series, accompanied by a live orchestra. On other nights, enjoy opera singers and traditional song-and-dance production shows. During the day, the World Stage hosts port talks and enrichment lectures.
  2. Daily Fun Activities:
    • Microsoft Studio (Deck 2): Complimentary sessions on Microsoft software, taught by specialists. Practice on dozens of computers or receive one-on-one supervision.
    • Crow’s Nest (Explorations Central): Find books, puzzles, board games, and occasional hosted trivia. Look out for BBC-themed trivia and music trivia events.
    • EXC Guides: Informative port talks in the theater.
    • Guest Speakers: Lectures on art and culture tied to your itinerary.
    • Oprah’s Book Club: Read the latest pick and join onboard meetups for discussions.
    • America’s Test Kitchen: Themed cooking demos, often held in the Queen’s Lounge.
    • Blend on Deck 2: Create your own red wine blend guided by an onboard wine expert (extra cost).
    • Wine Tastings and Happy Hours: Held in various venues throughout the sailing.
  3. Main Entertainment Venues:
    • Billboard Onboard: Live music and sing-along hits.
    • B.B. King’s All-Stars Blues Club: Enjoy soulful blues performances.
    • Rolling Stone Rock Room: Rock out to classic hits.
    • Lincoln Center Stage: Classical music concerts featuring talented musicians.
    • These venues are offered at no extra charge, and you don’t need to order a drink to enjoy the entertainment.
  4. BBC Earth Content:
    • The ship’s programming is based on “BBC Earth” content.
    • Daily expert lectures, nature-themed game shows, and introductions related to BBC Earth series filmed by the crew.

Cabins and Room Comfort on the MS Nieuw Statendam

The Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam offers a wide range of stateroom options to suit every traveler’s preferences and needs. Whether you’re seeking a cozy interior cabin or a spacious suite with breathtaking ocean views, there’s a perfect retreat for you onboard.

The interior cabins on the MS Nieuw Statendam provide a serene and inviting space for relaxation. Thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind, these cabins feature plush bedding, ample storage space, and stylish furnishings. Although they may not have windows, the interior cabins create a peaceful ambiance, perfect for a restful night’s sleep or a cozy afternoon nap.

For those who appreciate natural light and scenic views, the ocean view cabins offer a delightful setting. These cabins feature large windows or portholes that allow abundant sunlight to fill the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the ocean as you enjoy the mesmerizing views from the comfort of your cabin.

If you seek an elevated level of luxury and extra space, the suites on the MS Nieuw Statendam are a perfect choice. These opulent accommodations provide separate living areas, spacious bedrooms, and private verandas that offer stunning panoramic views of the sea. The suites are elegantly furnished with upscale amenities, creating an atmosphere of refined indulgence.

Regardless of the cabin category you choose, each stateroom on the MS Nieuw Statendam is equipped with modern comforts and conveniences. Enjoy the convenience of flat-screen televisions, luxurious bedding, well-appointed bathrooms, and ample storage space for your belongings. The cabins are thoughtfully designed to ensure a restful and comfortable retreat throughout your voyage.

The MS Nieuw Statendam also offers accessible staterooms that cater to guests with mobility challenges or special needs. These cabins are designed with wider doorways, accessible bathrooms, and additional features to ensure a comfortable and inclusive stay for all guests.

In addition to the well-appointed cabins, the MS Nieuw Statendam features a dedicated and attentive cabin steward team. These experienced professionals are committed to providing exceptional service and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and comfort in your stateroom. They are available to assist you with any requests or questions you may have, ensuring that your stay onboard is seamless and enjoyable.

It’s worth noting that the MS Nieuw Statendam offers a variety of cabin locations throughout the ship, allowing you to choose a stateroom that suits your preferences. Whether you prefer a quiet area of the ship or a cabin closer to the vibrant entertainment venues, there’s a location that will cater to your desires. Find special deals and reserve today on the MS Nieuw Statendam by Clicking Here.

  1. Interior Cabin:
    • Max Passengers: 2 (some can accommodate 3)
    • Cabin Size: 145-225 ft² / 13-21 m²
    • Balcony Size: None
    • Location: Decks 1 (Main), 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (Navigation), 10 (Spa), 11 (Sun)
    • Categories: (I, J, K, L, N, IQ-Spa)
    • These cozy cabins offer a comfortable retreat without windows or balconies.
  2. Studio Single Cabin:
    • Max Passengers: 1
    • Cabin Size: 125-170 ft² / 12-16 m²
    • Balcony Size: None
    • Location: Forward on Deck 1 (Main)
    • Category: (OO) Single Oceanview / Outside cabin
    • Designed for solo travelers, these compact cabins provide a private space for one.
  3. Oceanview Cabin:
    • Max Passengers: 4
    • Cabin Size: 175-280 ft² / 16-26 m²
    • Balcony Size: None
    • Location: Decks 1 (Main), 4, 7, 10 (Spa), 11 (Sun)
    • Categories: (OO-Single, C, D, E, F, CQ-Spa)
    • These cabins feature large windows with views of the ocean or promenade decks.
  4. Verandah (Balcony) Cabin:
    • Max Passengers: 4; some can accommodate 3
    • Cabin Size: 180-370 ft² / 17-34 m²
    • Balcony Size: 50 ft² / 5 m²
    • Location: Decks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (Navigation), 10 (Spa), 11 (Sun)
    • Categories: (V, VA, VB, VC, VD, VE, VF, VH, VS, VQ-Spa)
    • Enjoy fresh sea air and scenic views from your private balcony.
  5. Vista Suite:
    • Max Passengers: 4; some can accommodate 2
    • Cabin Size: 210-305 ft² / 20-28 m²
    • Balcony Size: 50 ft² / 5 m²
    • Location: Decks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (Navigation)
    • Categories: (A, AS, B, BC) Vista Suite / Mini Suite / Superior Balcony cabins
    • These spacious suites offer a separate sitting area and a private verandah.
  6. Signature Suite:
    • Max Passengers: 4 (SS), 2 (SY)
    • Cabin Size: 295-315 ft² / 27-29 m²
    • Balcony Size: 85 ft² / 8 m²
    • Location: SY (Deck 5), SS (Deck 7)
    • Categories: (SS, SY) Signature Suite / Mini Suite / Superior Balcony cabins
    • Elegant suites with comfortable amenities and a private balcony.
  7. Neptune Suite:
    • Max Passengers: 3; some can accommodate 2
    • Cabin Size: 330-720 ft² / 31-67 m²
    • Balcony Size: 135 ft² / 13 m²
    • Location: Decks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 (Navigation), 10 (Spa), 11 (Sun)
    • Categories: (SA, SB, SC, SQ-Spa) Neptune Suite / Grand Suite / Deluxe Balcony cabins
    • Spacious suites with luxurious amenities, including access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge.

Service and Hospitality

The Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam offers guest services provided by a crew of friendly staff members. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Welcoming Crew: Upon boarding the MS Nieuw Statendam, you’ll be greeted by the ship’s crew. They will welcome you and answer any questions you might have about getting settled in or finding your way around the ship.

Assistance Throughout Your Stay: Crew members are stationed throughout the MS Nieuw Statendam to provide assistance. They can answer questions about the ship’s amenities, daily activities, or shore excursions.

Meeting Your Needs: If you need something during your cruise, there are several ways to request assistance. Staff members are typically present in public areas and can be approached for help. You can also use your phone (if you have service at sea) or the ship’s app (if available) to request services like room service or housekeeping.

Attentive Staff: The crew on the MS Nieuw Statendam are there to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable cruise. They can help you with tasks like booking spa treatments or making reservations at restaurants.

Professional Demeanor: The crew members on the MS Nieuw Statendam provide service in a professional and courteous manner. They are there to answer your questions and help make your cruise a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Overall, the crew on the MS Nieuw Statendam focuses on providing a professional and helpful guest service experience.

Food and dining Experience on the MS Nieuw Statendam

The Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam offers a remarkable array of dining options that cater to every taste and preference. From casual eateries to specialty restaurants, this ship presents a delightful range of culinary experiences that will tantalize your taste buds.

One of the highlights of the dining experience aboard the MS Nieuw Statendam is the main dining room. This elegant venue creates a refined ambiance where you can indulge in a diverse selection of gourmet dishes. From expertly prepared seafood to succulent steaks, each plate is meticulously crafted and artistically presented. The attentive waitstaff ensures that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional, providing impeccable service that adds to the enjoyment of your meal.

For those seeking a more relaxed dining experience, the ship offers a variety of casual eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a comforting bowl of pasta, or a fresh salad, these venues provide quick and satisfying options. The laid-back atmosphere allows you to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the stunning views of the sea.

The MS Nieuw Statendam also features specialty restaurants that offer a distinctive and elevated dining experience. From fine Italian cuisine to innovative fusion dishes, these venues provide an opportunity to indulge in extraordinary flavors and culinary craftsmanship. Talented chefs create culinary masterpieces that showcase their expertise and passion for gastronomy. The attentive service and sophisticated ambiance enhance your dining experience, creating a memorable meal that delights your senses.

In addition to the variety of dining venues, the MS Nieuw Statendam offers delightful options for snacking and satisfying your cravings throughout the day. From casual poolside grills serving up delicious burgers and hot dogs to specialty dessert shops offering irresistible sweet treats, there’s always something to tempt your taste buds. These convenient options ensure that you can enjoy a quick snack or indulge in a decadent dessert whenever you desire.

The ship also hosts themed dining events that add an extra touch of excitement to your culinary journey. From luxurious wine tastings to elegant gala dinners, these events showcase a wide range of flavors and cuisines. They provide an opportunity to explore different culinary traditions and indulge in unique dining experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

The MS Nieuw Statendam also caters to those with specific dietary needs, offering a range of options for guests with dietary restrictions or food allergies. The culinary team is dedicated to accommodating special dietary requirements, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their dining experience with confidence and peace of mind.

  1. The Dining Room (Decks 2 and 3):
    • Designed by master designer Adam D. Tihany, the main dining room offers a dazzling decor that makes dining feel like a special occasion. Look out for the two-deck paper sculpture made from Belgian linen, which mimics sound and ocean waves.
    • Meal Times:
      • Breakfast: Opens at 7:30 a.m. on port days and 8 a.m. on sea days (spanning 90 minutes).
      • Lunch: Noon to 1 p.m. on sea days.
      • Afternoon Tea: Held at 3 p.m.
      • Dinner: Served from about 5 to 9 p.m. each evening.
    • Dining Options:
      • Choose between set dining times (one early, one late) or As You Wish dining (open-seating, no set time choice).
      • The menu includes starters, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts. Dishes are labeled with dietary information and Culinary Council designations.
      • Let your waiter know of any food intolerances, and they will be accommodated.
  2. Specialty Dining Venues (Extra Fee):
    • Pinnacle Grill Steak and Seafood Restaurant: Offers fine dining with a variety of steak and seafood options.
    • Canaletto Italian: Indulge in Italian cuisine.
    • Tamarind Pan Asian: Explore Pan-Asian dishes.
    • Rudi’s Sel de Mer Seafood Brasserie: A seafood specialty restaurant.
    • Nami Sushi: Satisfy your sushi cravings.
  3. Complimentary Dining:
    • Lido Marketplace: Enjoy light-filled meals complemented by pastries in impeccable surroundings.
    • Crow’s Nest Lounge: Delight in pastries while taking in scenic views.
    • Dutch Cafe: A stylish spot for a quick bite.
  4. Late-Night Snacking:
    • Even late-night snackers can order burgers and bento boxes to their cabins.

Destinations and Itineraries of the MS Nieuw Statendam

  1. Fort Lauderdale, Florida (USA):
    • The Nieuw Statendam often departs from Fort Lauderdale, a popular embarkation port. From here, it sets sail to various tropical paradises in the Caribbean and beyond. Find special deals and reserve today on the MS Nieuw Statendam by Clicking Here.
  1. Half Moon Cay, Bahamas:
    • This private island, owned by Carnival Corporation, offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exciting water sports. Passengers can enjoy a day of relaxation or explore the island’s natural beauty.
  1. Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos:
    • Known for its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life, Grand Turk is a favorite stop for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The Nieuw Statendam docks here, allowing passengers to explore the island’s rich history and enjoy its warm hospitality.
  1. Puerto Plata-Amber Cove, Dominican Republic:
    • Amber Cove provides a glimpse into the Dominican Republic’s culture and natural beauty. Passengers can explore historic sites, relax on beautiful beaches, or take part in thrilling excursions.
  1. Nassau, Bahamas, New Providence Island:
    • Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, offers a mix of colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning beaches. Visitors can explore historic forts, shop for local crafts, or simply soak up the sun.
  1. Ocho Rios, Jamaica:
    • Known for its lush rainforests and iconic Dunn’s River Falls, Ocho Rios is a must-visit destination. Passengers can enjoy adventurous activities like zip-lining or simply unwind on the beach.
  1. Grand Cayman Island, George Town Harbour:
    • Famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Grand Cayman is a diver’s paradise. Passengers can explore shipwrecks, swim with stingrays, or indulge in duty-free shopping.
  1. Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico (Riviera Maya):
    • Cozumel offers a blend of ancient Mayan ruins, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Passengers can explore the Tulum ruins, snorkel in the clear waters, or savor authentic Mexican cuisine.
  1. Rotterdam (Amsterdam), Netherlands:
    • Occasionally, the Nieuw Statendam sails across the Atlantic to Europe. Rotterdam, often referred to as Amsterdam’s “second city,” welcomes passengers with its historic charm, modern architecture, and cultural delights.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam is a remarkable cruise ship that offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, elegance, and innovation. Throughout every aspect of the ship, from its exquisite design to its world-class amenities, the MS Nieuw Statendam exudes sophistication and style, setting a new standard for modern cruise experiences.

The ship’s commitment to providing an exceptional culinary journey is evident in its diverse array of dining venues, each offering a unique and memorable gastronomic experience. From the refined elegance of the Pinnacle Grill to the lively and vibrant atmosphere of the Lido Market, guests are treated to a culinary adventure that celebrates the finest flavors and culinary traditions from around the world. The dedication to culinary excellence displayed by the ship’s talented chefs and attentive dining staff ensures that every meal is a delightful and indulgent experience.

Furthermore, the MS Nieuw Statendam’s dedication to guest comfort and relaxation is exemplified by its luxurious accommodations and world-class spa facilities. The spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms and suites provide a peaceful sanctuary for guests to unwind and rejuvenate, while the ship’s exquisite spa and wellness center offer a comprehensive range of rejuvenating treatments and wellness activities designed to promote holistic well-being.

The ship’s commitment to entertainment and enrichment is equally impressive, with an array of engaging activities and performances that cater to a diverse range of interests. From captivating live music performances to thought-provoking enrichment programs, the MS Nieuw Statendam offers a wealth of opportunities for guests to engage, learn, and be entertained throughout their voyage.

Moreover, the ship’s warm and attentive crew members consistently go above and beyond to ensure that every guest’s needs are met with care and consideration. The genuine hospitality and personalized service provided by the ship’s staff create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging and comfort for all guests.

Overall, the Holland America MS Nieuw Statendam stands out as a beacon of excellence in the cruise industry, offering a superlative blend of sophistication, luxury, and personalized service. With its unwavering commitment to providing an enriching and memorable cruise experience, the MS Nieuw Statendam sets a new standard for modern luxury cruising, making it an exceptional choice for travelers seeking a refined and indulgent voyage. Find special deals and reserve today on the MS Nieuw Statendam by Clicking Here.

– Reviewed by Contributing Author Silvester Thomson

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N.B. – The information on this review has been compiled by contributing author and Cruise Expert Silvester Thomson for thedigitalglobetrotter.com and is provided “as is” for the convenience of online readers. The Sources come from personal opinions, online research on official and unofficial websites, and in some cases with the help of AI generated content. It should not be taken as fact, as it can be mistaken or altered by future ship modifications from the cruise line done after review. Thedigitalglobetrotter.com does not and cannot verify all information and should not be taken as granted fact. All readers must take measures to find reliable facts by their travel agent or from the official page of the cruise line to verify any doubts.

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