Holland America Line’s cruise ship Zuiderdam has returned to service following a two-week dry dock in the Bahamas, with a series of updated public spaces, refreshed staterooms, and additional accommodation ahead of the 2025 Caribbean season.
Among the most visible changes to the Vista-class ship is the transformation of the Crow’s Nest, a signature venue positioned high on the ship with panoramic views.
The space now includes a newly installed bandstand stage designed to support smaller-scale performances and events. Upgraded lighting and audio systems have been introduced, allowing the venue to host live music, lectures, narration, and speaking engagements in a more flexible format than before.
Accommodation capacity has also increased following the addition of 11 new ocean view staterooms on decks one and seven. The refurbishment programme extended across a large portion of the ship’s existing accommodation, with new carpeting installed in all verandah staterooms on Decks 5 through 10, as well as in Neptune, Signature, and Pinnacle suites.
Further work was carried out in stateroom bathrooms, with verandah staterooms on Deck 8 receiving full bathroom updates, including new vanities, mirrors, bathtubs, flooring, and wall finishes.
Approximately 300 additional staterooms across the vessel were fitted with new bathroom flooring and updated wallpaper as part of the refit.
Zuiderdam’s public areas were also refreshed during the dry dock. New carpeting has been installed in the main Dining Room, Lido Market, Canaletto restaurant, guest corridors, stairwells, elevator lobbies, and the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, while the Atrium received new carpeting alongside a repaint.
Dining venues including Canaletto and Lido Market now feature updated upholstery on chairs and banquettes.
The onboard Photo Gallery has been reconfigured with a redesigned sales counter and retail area, providing a new layout for guests viewing and purchasing photographs taken during their cruise. Outdoor areas were also upgraded, with new furniture added to deck spaces and the hydro pool area.
Zuiderdam’s return to service coincides with Holland America Line’s Caribbean deployment for the winter season. The ship’s refurbishment was timed to ensure upgrades were completed ahead of its longer itineraries in the region, which typically combine extended port calls with sea days.
In parallel with the ship’s return, Holland America Line has announced a limited-time fare offer for select Caribbean sailings aboard Zuiderdam in 2025 and 2026 for guests in the United States and Canada.
The promotion includes reduced cruise fares and onboard credit tied to the 28th anniversary of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, and applies to new bookings made before December 17th, 2025. Free and reduced fares for children aged 18 and under are also available when booked as third or fourth guests in the same stateroom, subject to the offer’s terms and conditions.
Categories: Cruise News
