More News

Rotterdam returns from dry dock with expanded live music venues and suite enhancements

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 03 May 2026 03 May 2026

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam is back in service following a two-week dry dock in The Netherlands, debuting more space for families and friends traveling together, along with additional locations to enjoy live music and refreshed retail areas.

On April 26, crew aboard the cruise line’s flagship welcomed guests back for the summer Northern Europe cruise season. Those guests were the first to experience enhancements that include updated Vista Suites, additional live music venues, a refreshed Effy shop and updated finishes throughout the ship.

Following dry dock, Rotterdam resumed its seven-day itineraries throughout Northern Europe, allowing guests to experience historic cities and scenic coastlines while enjoying refreshed onboard spaces designed for entertainment, relaxation and connection.

Expanded live music experiences across the ship

Live music was a key focus of Rotterdam’s dry dock enhancements. Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge each now feature additional seating, along with a redesigned central lounge that allows guests to enjoy live performances from both venues.

In addition, Crow’s Nest debuted a new live music stage, creating another inviting space for guests to enjoy performances, lectures and enrichment programming with panoramic views.

A new live music stage and bandstand was also added at the Sea View Pool on Deck 9 aft, expanding entertainment options outdoors and giving guests more opportunities to enjoy live performances throughout the day and evening.

Suite upgrades for groups sailing together

Stateroom enhancements also were a priority during Rotterdam’s dry dock, with upgrades designed to better serve groups sailing together.

Twenty-two Vista Suites were enhanced with new sofa beds, expanding quad-occupancy options aboard the ship. Each upgraded suite now offers a comfortable sleeping arrangement for up to four guests without compromising the elevated design and amenities that define Holland America’s Pinnacle Class Vista Suite experience.

Refreshed interiors and enhanced guest comfort

Throughout the ship, guests will notice refreshed interiors designed to enhance comfort and flow. New carpeting was installed across staterooms, guest corridors and public areas, giving Rotterdam a lighter, updated look. In the main Dining Room, select tables were updated to provide more flexible seating for guests.

The main public areas throughout the ship also received updates including new furniture upholstery, as well as refinished and hand-polished wood chairs, refinished floors and new wall coverings.

The Greenhouse Spa & Salon received thoughtful updates, including the installation of a new, more ergonomic hair‑washing station designed to improve comfort for both guests and stylists.

Rotterdam’s casino was refreshed and now features approximately 20 additional slot machines, new seating, updated carpeting and new televisions installed in the table games area, contributing to a more comfortable and engaging gaming environment.

Effy Jewelry retail space refresh

Rotterdam’s dry dock also included refurbishment work in the Effy Jewelry retail venue. These updates align Rotterdam’s shop with the upgrades done on Koningsdam, Westerdam and Zuiderdam. The reimagined boutique features new flooring, wall finishes, lighting and display fixtures, along with upgraded signage and merchandising elements that create a brighter, more modern retail environment. Updated pedestal and wall displays, refreshed ceiling finishes and a new central feature chandelier further enhance the shopping experience, reflecting the cohesive, contemporary Effy look being rolled out across the fleet, all while maintaining an inviting layout for guests.

Holland America Line partners with Bols to elevate onboard ‘Orange Party’

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 01 May 2026 01 May 2026

In honor of Koningsdag on April 27 in the Netherlands, Holland America Line announced a new partnership with Bols, the world’s first cocktail brand and a company rooted in Dutch heritage and craftsmanship. As a sponsor of Holland America Line’s popular Orange Party, the collaboration will introduce exclusive Bols cocktails that will be served at the event, which is held once a cruise across the fleet.

Inspired by the festive spirit of Koningsdag in the Netherlands, Holland America Line’s Orange Party invites guests to dress in orange and join a lively onboard gathering filled with music, dancing, interactive moments and festive Dutch flair. Through the new partnership with Bols, the celebration will be elevated with signature cocktails and thoughtful touches that bring an authentic Dutch spirit to the experience.

“Holland America Line and Bols are two brands deeply rooted in Dutch heritage with a shared commitment to innovation, craftmanship and quality,” said Drew Foulk, director of food and beverage revenue and innovation at Holland America Line. “Collaborating with Bols for the Orange Party allows us to bring authentic Dutch flavors, creative mixology and immersive experiences to life, giving guests a celebration they’ll remember long after their cruise.”

Guests can look forward to an elevated Orange Party that highlights Dutch flavors and festive touches. A welcome cocktail will be served in a traditional jenever glass featuring a specially crafted Bols cocktail, complemented by classic garnishes like stroopwafel and hagelslag. The enhanced celebration also will offer limited-edition Dutch collectibles for purchase and memorable photo moments, enhanced by décor that transforms the shipboard venue into an immersive Dutch experience – allowing guests to savour the journey with every festive detail.

Holland America Line places a strong emphasis on its beverage program as a key element of the onboard guest experience. The collaboration with Bols builds on Holland America Line’s creative cocktail development and strategic partnerships, introducing authentic Dutch flavors and mixology to the popular Orange Party celebration.

“Bols has been part of Dutch culture for over four centuries, and we are thrilled to partner with Holland America Line, a time-honored brand that shares our Dutch roots and dedication to exceptional experiences,” said Quirijn de Koning, brand director at Bols. “Together, we are elevating the Orange Party with exclusive cocktails that are as fun and vibrant as the celebration itself.”

Bringing Dutch traditions onboard

Holland America Line’s Dutch heritage is woven into the onboard experience, dating back to the company’s founding in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in 1873. In addition to the Orange Party, every sailing holds “Dutch Day,” a themed day with traditional Dutch cuisine, special menus and cultural treats like poffertjes. Royal Dutch Tea is served as part of afternoon tea services on sea days, and Grand Dutch Cafe on Pinnacle Class ships serves Dutch treats like Bossche Bol and Apple and Bacon Pannenoek.

A member of the Dutch Royal Family has served as godparent for 12 ships, starting with Prince Hendrik launching Statendam III in 1929. Most recently, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands named Rotterdam in 2022.

Cruise Saudi appoints Taha Nazer as Acting CEO to succeed Lars Clasen

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 23 April 2026 23 April 2026

Cruise Saudi, a Public Investment Fund wholly owned portfolio company, announced the appointment of Taha Nazer as Acting Chief Executive Officer. The Board thanks Lars Clasen for his commitment and the contributions he has made during his tenure in establishing AROYA Cruises, developing cruise destinations across the Kingdom, and leading the development of Aman at Sea.

This appointment reflects the company's continued commitment to strong leadership, stability, and disciplined execution of its strategy as it enters its next phase of growth. The next phase of Cruise Saudi is going to focus on operational excellence, reaching profitability and continuing the customer centric approach.

Taha Nazer, who has served as Chief Financial Officer since 2023, brings over 19 years of experience across the oil and gas, aviation and cruise sectors, where he developed strategic leadership, deep financial expertise and extensive governance experience with a proven record of driving growth, transformation, cost efficiencies. In his role as Acting CEO, Nazer will lead Cruise Saudi across all strategic, commercial, operational and financial priorities, including the continued development of the cruise sector in Saudi Arabia, cruise destination development across the Kingdom, and the Company's international projects.

Raid Bin Abdullah Ismail, Chairman of Cruise Saudi, said: "The Board thanks Lars for his leadership and contributions to Cruise Saudi. The Board has appointed Taha Nazer with full confidence in his ability to lead the Company through this phase. His deep understanding of the business, strong commercial, financial and governance expertise, and proven track record make him the right leader to ensure continuity, drive performance, and deliver on our long-term strategic and commercial objectives."

Taha Omar Nazer, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Cruise Saudi, said: “I am proud of the Board’s confidence in entrusting me to lead Cruise Saudi during this important phase. Our focus remains on strengthening performance and accelerating the delivery of our strategic and commercial objectives, while creating real and sustainable value. We are pleased to announce that the AROYA vessel is on her way to Jeddah ahead of the resumption of her scheduled sailings in May. Starting on May 14, AROYA will operate distinctive Red Sea itineraries across Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan, offering an exceptional experience that combines regional destinations with the spirit of authentic Arabian hospitality.

These sailings also mark the lead-in to AROYA’s second Mediterranean season in June, as we continue to expand the brand’s reach and elevate the guest experience.We also look forward to Aman at Sea, which marks our entry into the global ultra-luxury cruise market in join venture with Aman Group. It is a significant project for Cruise Saudi and an important addition to our long-term growth ambitions, with delivery of the vessel expected in 2027.”

With Taha Nazer leading the Company, Cruise Saudi enters this next chapter focused on accelerating the growth of Saudi Arabia's cruise sector, expanding its destination portfolio, and delivering sustainable returns for its Shareholder, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 ambitions.

Oceania Cruises to carry out large transformation of Nautica

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 23 April 2026 23 April 2026

Oceania Cruises, a leading culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line, yesterday unveiled Oceania Aurelia, The Ultimate Explorer, purposefully designed for extended global discoveries. Debuting in late 2027, it will be the ideal home at sea for long, immersive journeys, including the line’s 2028 and 2029 Around the World voyages as well as a series of expansive Grand Voyages.

Launching as part of the line’s OceaniaNEXT program – the brand’s all-encompassing initiative at the heart of its commitment to continually enhance the guest experience – the completely reimagined ship, currently sailing as Oceania Nautica, represents a new standard for far-reaching, immersive travel. Extraordinary space, intentional design and a club-like sense of community draw inspiration from the openness of the line’s newest ships and the warmth of a boutique hotel at sea.

Welcoming fewer than 500 guests, served by 400 officers and crew, Oceania Aurelia offers a true home at sea where travelers will find sophisticated, inviting spaces to relax, connect and unwind as they sail around the globe.

Luxurious suites with dedicated butler service define the onboard experience, with 179 of the ship’s 238 accommodations designed as spacious suites. Most exceed 300 square feet with select spanning up to 1,000 square feet, and many feature gracious living and dining spaces. The collection of suites includes remastered Owner’s, Vista and Penthouse Suites, plus new additions: Oceania Suites, Horizon Suites as well as a selection of Oceanview and Inside Suites, offering an array of options for world travelers. Each accommodation is meticulously appointed with thoughtful amenities that create the feel of a private residence, designed for ultimate comfort during longer voyages.

“Oceania Aurelia is our ultimate world explorer,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. “She is designed specifically for guests who desire greater space, more suites and a deeper level of personalized care, particularly for extended journeys. Oceania Aurelia will be a smaller, more club-like ship that truly feels like a home at sea, providing travelers a deeper connection to the ports they visit.”

Oceania Cruises’ signature genuine hospitality is delivered by nearly one crew member for every guest, ensuring attentive, unhurried care and meaningful personal connections throughout extended journeys.

In keeping with Oceania Cruises’ commitment to serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea, dining aboard Oceania Aurelia becomes another way to see the world, with menus reflecting the regions being explored in beloved venues: The Grand Dining Room, Polo Grill, Toscana, Terrace Café, Waves Grill and the Pizzeria in the evenings.

The line’s beloved coffee venue, Baristas, will move to Horizons and will feature as new additions the Bakery, serving delicious pastries and European specialties, and the Crêperie, where travelers can enjoy fresh crêpes, waffles and gelato sundaes.

Windstar completes full transformation of Wind Star

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 22 April 2026 22 April 2026

When Windstar Cruises’ 148-guest Wind Star debuted 40 years ago, it helped pioneer a new kind of cruising, with real working sails, an intimate scale, and an experience that felt more like a private yacht than a traditional cruise. Now, Windstar has completed a full transformation of the original sailing yacht, marking a major milestone in the brand’s groundbreaking Setting Sails initiative.

Spanning multiple years and ships, the Setting Sails refurbishment project is reimagining Windstar’s Wind Class fleet, while preserving the soul of these beloved vessels. It reflects the brand’s commitment to thoughtful, yacht-inspired design and guest comfort. As of April 2026, Wind Star becomes the first in the Wind Class fleet to complete both phases of the refurbishment program already introduced across her sister yachts.

“This transformation is about honoring where we started while sailing confidently into what’s next,” said Stijn Creupelandt, chief operating officer of Windstar Cruises. “As our original sailing yacht, Wind Star has always held a special place in our fleet. With these significant updates, we’ve honored what guests love most while elevating every aspect of the experience. Now, she’s ready to deliver that experience in entirely new ways, in some of the world’s most iconic destinations.”

What’s new aboard Wind Star?

The completion of Phase 2 marks the final stage of a comprehensive redesign of Wind Star, bringing a more refined, modern feel to the onboard experience and enhancing how guests dine, relax, and connect.

At the heart of the update is a reimagining of the yacht’s dining venues. Amphora, the signature restaurant, has been fully redesigned with new flooring, wall finishes, and ceiling treatments, along with custom banquette seating and updated furnishings. At Veranda, a refreshed interior is paired with a completely reimagined buffet layout to create a more seamless and relaxed dining experience.

Stateroom updates elevate comfort with new upholstered headboards, integrated lighting, and convenient bedside charging, building on Phase 1 enhancements, such as upgraded technology, Starlink connectivity, new TVs with on-demand content, and a redesigned Owner’s Suite.

Earlier upgrades also transformed the yacht’s most visible spaces, including the lobby, Compass Rose Lounge, Yacht Club Café, and pool deck, along with a fully refreshed World Spa by Windstar and an upgraded fitness center. Across the yacht, finishing touches such as commissioned artwork created in partnership with Miami-based Fountainhead Art to enhanced lighting, state-of-the-art audio systems, new teak decking, and refined design details. These elements bring the transformation together, reinforcing Windstar’s signature “home at sea” feel.

Where to sail aboard Wind Star

– Mediterranean (Spring 2026): Wind Star’s first voyage following her transformation is a 10-night sailing from Lisbon to Barcelona (April 7–17). She continues with additional sailings from Barcelona through May and June, offering guests a richly layered look at the Mediterranean’s culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.

– Greek Isles (Summer–Fall 2026): From June through October, Wind Star operates 7-night roundtrip voyages from Athens (Piraeus). These sailings capture the essence of Windstar’s yacht-style experience, docking steps from the heart of each destination and allowing more time to explore.

– Tahiti (2027): In a significant expansion for the brand, Wind Star will join Star Breeze in French Polynesia, offering year-round sailings in Tahiti. She will operate the beloved 7-day Dreams of Tahiti itinerary, giving guests more opportunities than ever to experience the region with Windstar. This expansion further positions Windstar as the market leader in Tahiti, complemented by air-inclusive packages and newly released 2028 sailings.

What’s next for Windstar’s Wind Class fleet?

The reimagination of Wind Star is a landmark development in a broader evolution of Windstar’s iconic Wind Class sailing fleet. The 342-guest Wind Surf is scheduled to complete Phase 2 in December 2026, followed by Wind Spirit in March 2027, ensuring the entire sailing fleet reflects the brand’s modern yacht aesthetic while preserving its timeless character.