Queen Máxima of The Netherlands will christen Holland America Line’s new Pinnacle-class ship, ms Koningsdam, in a ceremony in Rotterdam on May 20. Members of the Dutch Royal Family have launched 11 Holland America Line ships. Most recently, the then Princess Máxima christened ms Nieuw Amsterdam in 2010 and Queen Beatrix served as ms Eurodam’s godmother in 2008. Statendam III in 1929 was launched by Prince Hendrik, and Nieuw Amsterdam II in 1937 by Queen Wilhelmina.
Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line, said, “We are incredibly honoured that Her Majesty Queen Máxima will carry on the tradition of Dutch Royalty christening Holland America Line ships, which began 87 years ago. We chose Rotterdam as the location for the official ceremony because of the deep historic connection between Holland America Line, the city, and the people of the Netherlands. May 20 will be a very special day in our company’s 143-year history as we officially dedicate ms Koningsdam.”
The official ceremony will take place in Rotterdam onboard the 2,650-passenger ship during a special 13-day Christening Cruise departing Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, May 9. Following that voyage Koningsdam will spend the summer sailing from the port of Amsterdam on itineraries to Norway, the Baltic and Iceland.
Following its Europe season, Koningsdam will sail to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for winter and spring Caribbean cruises.
Leave A Comment