A beautiful ship with flower power
Volendam was the first of a new generation of luxury cruise ships for Holland America Line, combining features of the popular Statendam-class vessels and the company’s then flagship, ms Rotterdam, with its own unmistakable style.
The predominant theme of the Volendams decor is flowers, featured in the ships artwork, doors and other design elements as well.
Flowers can be found in abundance in the forms of floral fabrics and tapestries, as well as huge vases of tropical floral arrangements and fresh flowers throughout the ship.
At the heart of the ship an elegant sculpture by Luciano Vistosi, inspired by the myriad of moods and colors of a kaleidoscope, greets visitors in a soaring three-story atrium.
Tennis star Chris Evert became the official godmother for Volendam at a dedication ceremony in Fort Lauderdale in November, 1999.
Kirk Lanterman, HAL chairman, saida t the time: The godmother of a cruise ship is always very special, and in this instance particularly so since the growing numbers of Baby Boomers who will sail on board the Volendam are very familiar with Chris Everts tennis career and can personally identify with her.
Volendam was first to feature HALs first Internet center, The Web Site, which allows guests to go on-line on a real-time basis, check their own e-mail accounts and stock quotes and surf the net.
Other special features include
- The Marco Polo alternative restaurant
- Caleido, a monumental three-deck-tall crystal sculpture; a childrens activity room
- The colourful Art Nouveau Frans Hals Show Lounge
- 197 deluxe verandah staterooms
PASSENGERS : 1850
BERTHS : 720
CREW : 561
FACILITIES : One dining room (two sittings), casino, cinema, library, three swimming pools, two outside, one inside, gymnasium, self-service laundrette.