Sarah Bretz, ContributorHolland America’s ship Zaandam recently underwent a two-week dry dock in the Bahamas, where she received several public area upgrades.
The renovations include expansions to the ship’s library and activity areas; upgrades to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, Photo Gallery, and Photo Studio; and refurbishments to the Neptune Lounge.
Spa and Fitness Center
The Greenhouse Spa & Salon received major updates during the dry dock. The thermal suite was completely rebuilt to include a new infrared sauna, Caldarium steam room, and experiential rain shower. In addition, the spa’s relaxation lounge now has new seating and a new beverage counter.
In the salon, there are new, custom manicure stations and pedicure chairs, as well as new salon chairs and shampoo wash basins. Updates also included making the spa and salon areas more accessible for guests with disabilities.
The ship’s Fitness Center received a new custom storage area, new bathrooms, and modernized finishes.
Library and Activity Areas
Zaandam‘s library was completely refurbished with a new, modern design and now has an updated book collection for guests to borrow during their cruise.
Several activity areas across the ship also received improvements. Explorations Café was transformed into a multi-use space complete with new puzzle and games tables. A new Art Studio was added on board, providing a dedicated space for guests to get creative. The Art Studio will host the ship’s art & craft programming, including water coloring, painting, origami, crochet, and other classes.
Photo Studio and Gallery
The ship’s Photo Studio and Photo Gallery also received updates during the dry dock. A new Signature Studio was added, allowing guests to have custom, private photo sessions and private photo viewings.
The Photo Gallery was refurbished with new photo display areas where guests can view traditional prints, as well as a high-tech facial recognition digital photo system. Guests can now log into their account and see their images digitally, which will appear through this technology.
Neptune Lounge
Parts of Zaandam‘s Neptune Lounge, a private space for Neptune and Pinnacle suite guests, received new flooring, and upgrades were made to the food catering area, the concierge desk, and the seating. The lounge also features a larger TV for better viewing.
Zaandam Schedule
Following the dry dock, Zaandam set sail this past weekend on a 27-day Amazon Explorer Legendary Voyage. The ship will spend the next few months exploring the Amazon, sailing through the Panama Canal, and visiting Mexico before heading north for the summer Alaska season.
Comments
Have you ever taken a cruise on Zaandam and if so, are you excited about these renovations? What is your opinion on the interior design of Holland America’s ships? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!
