Westerdam in Alaska
Westerdam in Alaska / Holland America Line / Michel Verdure
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Thermal Suite
Thermal Suite / Holland America Line / Michel Verdure
2 of 5
Dive-In Cannonball Burger
Dive-In Cannonball Burger / Holland America Line / Kathryn Barnard
3 of 5
Pinnacle Grill Bar
Pinnacle Grill Bar / Holland America Line / Michel Verdure
4 of 5
Verandah Stateroom
Verandah Stateroom / Holland America Line / Michel Verdure
5 of 5

Westerdam

Our Ship Review
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

Westerdam, the third of four ships in Holland America’s Vista class, may be two decades old, but refurbishments have kept this 1,916-guest ship up-to-date and even added an energy that wasn't there when the vessel was new. Today, Westerdam pulses with music thanks to evening venues Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge and with competitive spirit courtesy of complimentary pickleball lessons and tournaments on the sports court. Of course, you can also find the quieter activities — from bingo to craft classes — for which the line is renowned.

What We Love

Live Music: Whether you’re a fan of pop classics or rock anthems, Westerdam has you covered. It is home to two music venues, the always-packed Billboard Onboard and the young-at-heart Rolling Stone Lounge (which has replaced B.B. King’s Blues Club on all Vista-class ships, which also include Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, and Noordam). Guests can also enjoy live music by a contemporary trio in the Ocean Bar.

Dive-In: This poolside joint serves up hand-formed beef patties on toasted brioche buns and Nathan’s Famous all-beef hot dogs.

Best Known For

The Pinnacle Grill: This high-end Pacific Northwest steak and seafood restaurant is one of the best at sea and is worth the extra charge. Once per cruise, guests can also enjoy an exclusive menu by “Iron Chef” Masaharu Morimoto as the space becomes the pop-up eatery Morimoto By Sea, offering Asian-inspired dishes with an emphasis on fresh fish.

Art-Centric Décor: Westerdam’s eclectic art collection includes everything from the expected, such as paintings of historic Dutch ships and 5,000-year-old carved limestone figures, to the surprising, such as an original Andy Warhol portrait. You can even appreciate art in the Gallery Bar, where the walls are covered with vibrant paintings, and the cocktail menu was created by master mixologist Dale DeGroff.

Who It's Best For

Couples: More mature travelers will appreciate the sophisticated quiet. For those with kids in tow, supervised children’s programs entertain kids ages 3 to 17.

Singles: Holland America handles solo travelers well, and the Westerdam is no exception. The line hosts a gathering early in the cruise and seats individuals at dinner together upon request.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

Canaletto Is Bustling Rather Than Peaceful: Though we like Canaletto’s Italian menu, this specialty eatery is in a corner of the busy Lido Market restaurant. It's not the most relaxing atmosphere.