Cruise travelers who love a mid-sized cruise ship will be pleased to know that Holland America Line’s Oosterdam has just completed an extensive dry dock. The timing couldn’t be better as Oosterdam sails to the Mediterranean for the summer 2025 season.
Part of Holland America’s popular Vista Class, Oosterdam is an 82,000-ton mid-sized cruise ship with a guest capacity of just under 2,000 passengers. Oosterdam is known for her classic design and refined onboard experience. With refreshed spaces and updated amenities, she’s now an even better option for travelers looking to explore Europe in comfort and style.
A Fresh Look Across the Ship
During the two-week dry dock in the Bahamas, Oosterdam received both technical improvements and aesthetic upgrades across many areas of the ship. More than 215,000 square feet of new carpet were installed throughout suites, verandah staterooms, and key public spaces including the Atrium, Rolling Stone Lounge, and the Photo Studio.
Public venues such as the Lido Market and Canaletto dining areas also saw updates, with new tile work, countertops, and upholstery giving the restaurants a clean, modern look. Around the Sea View Pool, guests will find new teak decking and updated luxury spa hot tubs, creating a more relaxing space to unwind outdoors.
Upgraded Staterooms and Suite Amenities
Select staterooms received refreshed bathrooms, and many balcony cabins now feature new deck furniture. Guests staying in suites can enjoy a redesigned Neptune Lounge, which now includes new dining and lounge furniture, stylish décor, and a modernized catering area. A new concierge desk adds to the lounge’s elevated atmosphere.
Revitalized Spa and Fitness Areas
The Greenhouse Spa & Salon was expanded and updated to improve both function and guest experience. Enhancements include a new co-ed sauna, a couple’s massage therapy room, and an entirely rebuilt Thermal Suite featuring a Laconium thermal room, steam room, and rain shower. The Relaxation Lounge and Salon areas were also redesigned for a more comfortable and accessible experience, now including new pedicure chairs and manicure stations.
In the Fitness Center, guests will find new gym equipment and flooring, perfect for staying active while at sea.
More Space and Entertainment in the Crow’s Nest
The Crow’s Nest was transformed into a lively space for relaxation and recreation. It now includes a refreshed Arts Studio for creative activities, a designated Games Room for board games and card play, and a Puzzle Area for guests who enjoy a quiet challenge.
Updated furniture and signage make the space more inviting and easy to navigate.
Casino Expansion and New Effy Lounge
Guests who enjoy gaming will find more space in the expanded casino, which now includes 34 new slot machines and a digital table game. The expansion absorbed the former Gallery Bar, allowing for a more open and comfortable gaming area.
In addition, a new Effy Lounge and retail shop was added in place of the ship’s former movie theater. The Effy space includes a stylish lounge area where guests can meet with associates and explore a wide range of jewelry in a setting inspired by the brand’s flagship store in New York City.
Related: What’s Included on Holland America Line and What’s Not
Enhanced Onboard Photo Experience
The Photo Gallery and Studio were also upgraded with new carpet, lighting, and improved signage. A new facial recognition photo system has been added, making it easier for guests to browse and purchase photos taken throughout their cruise.
Sailing the Mediterranean and Beyond
Now that her upgrades are complete, Oosterdam is set to spend the next seven months exploring the Mediterranean. Her itineraries include iconic ports in Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Egypt. After the summer season, the ship will cross the Atlantic in November to begin cruises in South America and Antarctica.
Related: 10 Things I Wish I knew Before Going on my Mediterranean Cruise
Why This Matters for Cruise Travelers
As cruise lines continue to launch bigger and flashier ships, it’s nice to see investments in mid-sized ships that offer a more traditional cruising experience. With its recent enhancements, Oosterdam blends timeless elegance with modern comfort, making it a great option for travelers who want a balanced and relaxed European cruise.
Whether you’ve sailed with Holland America before or are considering your first voyage, Oosterdam’s updates may be just the right fit for your next adventure.
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Have you cruised with Holland America? Please let me know your thoughts on the recent cruise ship refurbishment.
Happy Cruising!
*Featured photos courtesy of Holland America