Holland America Line’s ms Volendam is a favourite amongst Australian and New Zealand cruisers. Whether sailing around the South Pacific region during her summer cruise seasons or in other parts of the world, those who sailed aboard ms Volendam, have fond memories of their time spent on this beautiful ship.
In December 2014 ms Volendam will emerge from her time in dry-dock with some incredible enhancements, making her an even more desirable ship for those who love to cruise in style and comfort. Featured enhancements will be 21 new exclusive lanai staterooms, the contemporary bar area Mix and updated bathrooms in all suites and selected other stateroom categories.
The unique lanai accommodations will feature large sliding glass doors with direct access to the Lower Promenade wrap-around teak walking deck. To ensure privacy, the sliding glass doors will have a one-way mirrored coating and each lanai cabin will also include reserved deck chairs.
Lanai is a term not commonly used in Australia. It is a Hawaiian word meaning terrace or veranda and is also the name of the sixth largest of the Hawaiian Islands. With the conversion of existing outside cabins to the new lanai accommodations, ms Volendam’s guest capacity of 1,432 will not change. Lanai cabins have already been installed on three ships in the Holland America Line fleet, the ms Maasdam, ms Rotterdam and ms Veendam.
During ms Volendam’s time in dry dock, all suite bathrooms will also be updated to feature new whirlpool bathtubs, stone vanities, lighted mirrors, Grohe fixtures, floors, walls and sinks. Several additional categories, including the new Lanai cabins, will also receive new bathroom appointments and walk-in showers
Another exciting enhancement for ms Volendam will be the reconfiguring of her centrally located bars to feature Mix, a space that incorporates three specialty theme bars, Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales.
Martinis will serve 19 Grey Goose martinis in individual shakers, as well as a full range of cocktails. A martini flight made up of several mini martini concoctions will be available. A featured cocktail is Holland America Line’s signature martini, the Yellow Tulip, a mixture of Grey Goose vodka, lychee juice, pineapple juice, guava juice, coconut cream and fresh lime juice
Champagne will serve a selection of 20 champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world. This venue will offer events such as late champagne breakfast, pre-lunch Mimosa and Bellini hour, champagne tea time and pre-dinner champagne hour with caviar canapés. Sounds like my kind of place.
Spirits & Ales will feature an international selection of beers, as well as a wide array of beers on tap, premium whiskeys and brandies.
These enhancements will certainly make sailing aboard ms Volendam even more enjoyable.
Sandra Tiltman
SANDRATBLOG.COM 