A date has been confirmed for the naming of new Holland America Line flagship Rotterdam in its namesake city.
The ceremony, which will see Princess Margriet of the Netherlands become the ship’s godmother, is to take place on May 30.
The 2,668-passenger vessel has been based in Fort Lauderdale for the winter running a range of Caribbean itineraries, including calls at the Half Moon Cay private Bahamian island.
A special seven-day Rotterdam naming celebration cruise sails from Amsterdam on May 29 and also visits Kristiansand, Stavanger and Flam in Norway, with scenic cruising in Sognefjord.
A private ceremony will be held for invited guests that will be broadcast throughout the ship when it arrives in Rotterdam on May 30.
Special events will be laid on for the naming sailing, including a celebratory gala dinner and an opportunity to participate in the blessing of the ship’s bell.
HAL president Gus Antorcha said: “Our new Rotterdam is a spectacular ship, and we are thrilled to have its naming ceremony scheduled with a celebratory cruise that allows our guests to join the festivities and officially welcome her to the fleet.
“Our history is deeply rooted in the Netherlands, and it was only fitting to name our newest Rotterdam in the city of Rotterdam with a royal godmother to honour our Dutch roots.”
We are deeply grateful that Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet will once again act as godmother to a Holland America Line ship.”