The Steamship Rotterdam is the biggest ocean-going steamer ever built in the Netherlands. As the former flagship of the Holland-America Line, this cruise liner has sailed many of the world’s seas since 1959. The ship is now moored permanently in the Maashaven in Rotterdam, by Katendrecht. The ship’s history is palpable at every turn once you come aboard. The 1950s interior and the many artworks were restored to the closest possible approximation of their former glory between 2005-2008. The hotel rooms, restaurants and other facilities are fully adapted to modern conveniences, however.
The general areas on the ship, including the restaurants, are open to the public. The ss Rotterdam also offers various tours of the decks, corridors, staterooms and platforms, some lasting only an hour and others as long as two; the tours include an audiophone and additional explanations by the ship hosts. The tours show the amazing interior of a large luxury cruise liner and let visitors explore what life used to be like on board. The Rotterdam Complete Tour also includes a peek inside the engine room.
Coffee, brunch, lunch or high tea can be served before or after the tour.
Groups up to 20 people can book a guided tour. The guide accompanies the group throughout the ship, explaining all sorts of details and offering anecdotes about the historic vessel.
The ss Rotterdam is easily accessible by car or public transport. From the Rijnhaven metro stop, bus 77 takes about 10 minutes to reach the ship. The car park along the waterfront is spacious (paid parking).
* You receive 25% discount on the audiotour Uitwaaien en Zwaaien (Fresh air and Wave) with the Rotterdam Welcome Card *
