Nieuw Amsterdam - Panama Canal Discovery: Costa Rica & Greater Antilles
A 12-night roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale that samples the Southern Caribbean before entering the Panama Canal's Gatun Locks for a partial transit into Gatun Lake — no flight home from the Pacific required. The route pairs big-hitter ports like Cartagena and Aruba with a day at Holland America's private Bahamian island and a rainforest stop in Costa Rica.
Price Range
$
Budget
*Prices vary by cabin type, sailing date, and availability. Confirm rates with Holland America Line before booking.
Ship Details — Nieuw Amsterdam
View full Nieuw Amsterdam detailsYear Built
2010
Tonnage
86,700 GT
Passengers
2,106
Crew
929
Decks
12
Class
Signature
Itinerary & Route Map
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Onboard Amenities
Cruise Highlights
About the Ship
What Travelers Say About Nieuw Amsterdam
Reviews of the ship itself — the same for every Nieuw Amsterdam sailing. Based on 3,500 discussions.
Nieuw Amsterdam is a 2010 Signature-class, midsize Holland America ship carrying around 2,100 guests at double occupancy. It punches above its size on dining - widely regarded as one of the best-fed fleets in its segment - and on service, with a refined, traditional and unhurried vibe that skews toward an older, sophisticated crowd.
What People Love
- Among the best dining in the Holland America fleet, with strong specialty venues including Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind, Canaletto and the Morimoto by Sea added in 2024
- Midsize ship at around 2,100 guests, so venues rarely feel crowded and the atmosphere stays relaxed and uncrowded
- Outstanding for Alaska - the bow opens to passengers for excellent glacier and wildlife viewing
Common Complaints
- Cabins feel dated and small by modern standards, with worn decor and compact bathrooms cited as in need of refurbishment
- Skews heavily older, with an average passenger in their early sixties and programming aimed at a 55-plus crowd
- Mobility traffic - scooters and walkers in narrow hallways are noted by some guests