
Holland America Line has announced that Zuiderdam will become the next ship to undergo a major transformation as part of its Evolution programme. Following Oosterdam, the vessel is the second of six ships selected for what is the largest fleet enhancement project in the cruise line’s 153-year history.
The refurbishment will introduce several signature Pinnacle Class features to Zuiderdam, including new suite and stateroom categories, refreshed accommodations throughout the ship and the addition of the popular Grand Dutch Café. Bookings for cruises aboard Zuiderdam following the transformation will open on July 30.
New Suites and Staterooms Expand Guest Choice


As part of the Evolution programme, Zuiderdam will offer a broader range of accommodation options while maintaining the spacious atmosphere for which the ship is known.
The upgrades include:
- two exclusive Bridgeview Suites above the bridge, featuring panoramic forward-facing views, wraparound windows, a private balcony and separate living and sleeping areas;
- a fully reimagined Pinnacle Suite, the ship’s most luxurious accommodation, redesigned with a residential feel, refined finishes and panoramic ocean views;
- fourteen Vista Suites, bringing a popular Pinnacle Class accommodation category to Zuiderdam, complete with generous living space, a sitting area, oversized windows and a private verandah;
- thirty-two Solo Verandah staterooms, purpose-built for solo travellers with a private balcony and an efficient layout.


Grand Dutch Café Joins the Onboard Experience
Another major addition is the Grand Dutch Café, inspired by the relaxed café culture of the Netherlands and Northern Europe. The venue has become one of Holland America Line’s signature concepts and will now be introduced aboard Zuiderdam.


Open throughout the day, it offers guests coffee, specialty beers, aperitifs and light meals in a welcoming social setting. According to the cruise line, the venue aboard Zuiderdam will be the largest Grand Dutch Café introduced as part of the Evolution programme.
Evolution Programme Continues to Grow
Beth Bodensteiner, President of Holland America Line, said the strong demand for the new Bridgeview Suites and Solo Verandah accommodations aboard Oosterdam encouraged the company to bring the same concepts to Zuiderdam.
The transformation marks the next phase of the Evolution programme, which will eventually include six ships across the fleet. More details on Zuiderdam‘s post-refurbishment itineraries are expected soon.
Meanwhile, bookings are open for the first post-Evolution voyages aboard Oosterdam, making it the first ship where guests can experience the programme’s upgraded accommodations, public spaces and enhanced onboard venues.
Pictures courtesy of Holland America Line.
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