History
Holland America Line produced some noted ships, from the 36,000 gross ton SS Nieuw Amsterdam of 1937 (besides the RMS Queen Mary, the only 1930s-built liner to make a profit) and the SS Rotterdam of 1959, one of the first North Atlantic ships equipped for two-class transatlantic crossing and one-class luxury cruising. By the late 1960s, the golden era of transatlantic passenger ships was ended by air travel. HAL ended transatlantic service during the early 1970s, leaving the North Atlantic passenger trade for Cunard's RMS Queen Elizabeth 2.
In 1971, Holland America transitioned from passenger sea transportation to pleasure cruising and is known now for its wide variety of destinations. Receiving approval to visit Antarctica in the 1980s.
Today HAL ships cruise to all seven continents. MS Prinsendam and MS Amsterdam make annual "Grand Voyages" lasting more than 60 days, exploring more exotic destinations in South America and Africa; the MS Amsterdam also make annual World Voyages, sailing around the world, usually ranging from January to March/April/May.
In summer 2011, the MS Rotterdam did two transatlantic crossings, the first traditional transatlantic runs made by the line in more than 40 years. It was also announced the Rotterdam would be based year-round out of Rotterdam, Netherlands beginning in September 2012, sailing to Europe, the Caribbean, as well as Asia. Cruises range from 14 to 90 days.
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