MS Rotterdam, HAL-Holland America Line's flagship, arrived at Port Rotterdam (Netherlands) on April 18th, following a 150th Anniversary Transatlantic crossing from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) /departure April 3rd.
The ship's arrival coincided with HAL's 150th birthday, and a day of celebrations featuring royalty, local dignitaries, and guests took place.
Gus Antorcha (HAL's President) was joined by Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb, and descendants of Holland America Line's original founders at a celebration held at Hotel New York, where the company's original headquarters were located from 1901 to 1977.
The celebration included the presentation of a commemorative 150th Anniversary bell, the unveiling of a collectible gold-foil stamp, and the presentation of an original company share to be kept in the Rotterdam City Archives. The festivities continued with a gala dinner on board Rotterdam VII and a light display honoring Holland America Line's 150th Anniversary at the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam.
HAL's President also joined guests on ms Zuiderdam and Grand World Voyage ships to commemorate the company's anniversary, and the other nine ships in the fleet held anniversary parties on board for guests.