Statendam is one of the “small” ships in the Holland America fleet. It did not start out that way. At over 50,000 gross tons, Statendam is a large ship. However, since she went into service in 1993, cruise ships have become so much larger that she now seems like a small ship.
Many people like the S class ships (of which Statendam was the first built) because of her size. One does not have to walk that far to get from place to place onboard. Also, the S class ships can get into ports that are too small for their bigger cousins. As a result, they are able to do more unusual itineraries, which is often an attraction for experienced cruisers.
Holland America wants its guests to feel that when they go aboard any ship in its fleet, the guests will find the same amenities and features that they enjoyed on their last Holland America voyage. Accordingly, it continually upgrades its ships so that they have the same features as the newer ships. For example, HAL’s specialty restaurant, the Pinnacle Grill, was added to Statendam in 2002. Other enhancements have been made as part of the line’s Signature of Excellence program. Of course, when a new feature is added, it has to be scaled to the size of the ship.
Statendam has a $2 million art collection that is in keeping with the high standards of the ship. The décor is contemporary but restrained and elegant.
Many people like the S class ships (of which Statendam was the first built) because of her size. One does not have to walk that far to get from place to place onboard. Also, the S class ships can get into ports that are too small for their bigger cousins. As a result, they are able to do more unusual itineraries, which is often an attraction for experienced cruisers.
Holland America wants its guests to feel that when they go aboard any ship in its fleet, the guests will find the same amenities and features that they enjoyed on their last Holland America voyage. Accordingly, it continually upgrades its ships so that they have the same features as the newer ships. For example, HAL’s specialty restaurant, the Pinnacle Grill, was added to Statendam in 2002. Other enhancements have been made as part of the line’s Signature of Excellence program. Of course, when a new feature is added, it has to be scaled to the size of the ship.
Statendam has a $2 million art collection that is in keeping with the high standards of the ship. The décor is contemporary but restrained and elegant.
My profile of Statendam is posted at http://www.beyondships.com/HAL-Statendam.html and my photo tour and commentary about the ship is at http://www.beyondships.com/HAL-Statendam-Tour1.html
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