Holland America Line sells 4 ships in its fleet

SEATTLE — Seattle-based Holland America Line announced Wednesday that it has sold four ships in its fleet as the coronavirus pandemic continues to affect the cruise industry.

The cruise line said that Amsterdam, Maasdam, Rotterdam and Veendam will be leaving the fleet and transferring to undisclosed buyers.

“It’s always difficult to see any ship leave the fleet, especially those that have a long and storied history with our company,” said Stein Kruse, chief executive officer of Holland America Group and Carnival UK. “However, Holland America Line has a bright future ahead that includes recent Pinnacle-Class additions, with a third sister ship next year that will continue to maintain our overall capacity in the marketplace.”

The ships were sold in pairs, with the S-class Maasdam and Veendam transferring to one company in August 2020, while the R-class Amsterdam and Rotterdam will move to another company in fall 2020.

“I recognize and appreciate the deep affection our guests have toward our company and the ships in our fleet,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “While streamlined, our diverse fleet continues to offer exceptional options for cruisers looking for a mid-sized ship experience to destinations all around the world. I look forward to carrying on those beloved shipboard offerings while cultivating new ideas to bring to our guests.”

Earlier this week, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Thursday that the “no-sail” order for cruises in U.S. waters was extended until at least Oct. 1.

Cox Media Group