Queen Maxima to be godmother to Koningsdam

Holland America Line has announced that Her Majesty Queen Máxima of The Netherlands will christen the company’s new Pinnacle-class ship, ms Koningsdam.

The ceremony will take place on May 20, 2016 in Rotterdam.

At 2,650-guests, Koningsdam will be the largest ship to sail under Holland America Line’s colours.

The company has a history of involvement with the Dutch royal family. Members of the family have launched 11 Holland America ships to date.

Most recently, then-Princess Máxima christened ms Nieuw Amsterdam in 2010. Then-Queen Beatrix served as msEurodam’s godmother in 2008. Statendam III in 1929 was launched by Prince Hendrik, and Nieuw Amsterdam II in 1937 by Queen Wilhelmina. Then-Princess Beatrix named Statendam IV in 1957 and Prinses Margriet in 1960. Rotterdam V was launched in 1958 by Queen Juliana. Princess Margriet dedicated Prinsendam in 1972, Nieuw Amsterdam II in 1983, ms Rotterdam VI in 1997 and ms Oosterdamin 2003.

Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line, said: “We are incredibly honoured that Her Majesty Queen Máxima will carry on the tradition of Dutch Royalty christening Holland America Line ships, which began 87 years ago. We chose Rotterdam as the location for the official ceremony because of the deep historic connection between Holland America Line, the city, and the people of the Netherlands. May 20 will be a very special day in our company’s 143-year history as we officially dedicate ms Koningsdam.”

Following its season in Europe, Koningsdam will sail to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for winter and spring Caribbean cruises.