MS Rotterdam is one of the older ships in the Holland America Line (built in the 1990s), medium size by today's standards (1361 passengers), and of course HAL is the cruise line for people with white (or no!) hair. Nonetheless, it is an extremely pleasant vessel offering adequate amenities, good service, fine food, and an altogether delightful atmosphere. We would be happy to book her again.

The good news begins at departure, which is conveniently close to the Rotterdam Centraal train station, and takes place in a large, warehouse-like structure. One can sit down, book a FREE chair massage, and purchase a coffee while waiting. Baggage handling was prompt and efficient. We had a Verandah room, which means we had a private balcony -- just the thing for fjord-watching. The room was large by shipboard standards, more storage than we needed in fact.

The ship's decor is a bit Baroque for our tastes, but the ship carries it well. She shows her age in places, but everything worked, and the functional design shows how many years of experience lead to an environment whose elements integrate well together. Read more