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The newest Holland America Line cruise ship is also one of the World’s largest floating art galleries. Indeed, Rotterdam has an art collection valued at over USD4.1-million.
Last week the 2,668-guest Rotterdam set sail on her maiden voyage from Amsterdam, Netherlands to Fort Lauderdale, USA proudly showing off her spectacular collection for the first time.
Thousands of art works
Rotterdam has 2,645 pieces ranging in value from US$500 to US$620,000. Holland America Line tell us many of the pieces of art are based on the themes of music, dance and movement.
The US$620,000 “Harps” piece is also the largest artwork on board. In fact, the 7.5-ton sculpture in the Atrium spans three decks. Continuing the musical theme is a dazzling, illuminated crystal “Key” (treble clef) created by Dutch artist Hans van Bentem.
Holland America Line’s fine dining paired with enticing art
Guests on Rotterdam are sure to enjoy it a visual feast. In fact fine food is also paired with spectacular art on board. In Rudi’s Sel de Mer specialty restaurant an enormous mural called “Oceans Feast” adorns the wall. Designed by master-chef Sodamin’s son, the piece measures 23 feet long by 3.6 feet tall.
By all accounts, Rotterdam’s collection is both visually rewarding and thought provoking, with different areas of the cruise ship dedicated to different themes.
A living artistic history
Rotterdam is the third Pinnacle-class vessel and sister-ship to Nieuw Statendam. She is also the seventh vessel in the HAL fleet to be named Rotterdam. So in addition to her collection of art, Rotterdam gives a nod to her heritage with historical depictions of her namesakes, as well as models of three previous Rotterdam ships. There is even a bell from Rotterdam VI which is located in the Crows Nest.
It all makes for one of the most compelling collections at sea. Diverse, inspired and at times avant-garde, from a global assembly of emerging artists and established artistic talent.
For more information visit the Rotterdam page on the Holland America website.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
