Holland America Line Celebrates Dutch Heritage

  • Stroopwafel-Themed Offerings: Holland America Line is celebrating National Stroopwafel Day with two exclusive stroopwafel-themed cocktails and a variety of stroopwafel-inspired treats for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Dutch Heritage Integration: The cruise line, founded in the Netherlands, consistently integrates its Dutch heritage through special events, themed dining, and iconic orange branding.
  • Special Themed Events: Recurring events include “Dutch Day” with a themed dinner and Daelmans Stroopwafel amenities, an “Orange Party” with music and themed cocktails, and “Royal Dutch Tea” with Dutch snacks and sweets.
  • Celebration of King’s Day: Holland America Line also celebrates King’s Day on April 27 across its fleet, honoring the birthday of the Dutch monarch.

Holland America Line is observing National Stroopwafel Day on September 30 by serving two exclusive stroopwafel-themed cocktails. These drinks, the Stroopwafel Espresso Martini and Golden Dutch Martini, are crafted to highlight the caramel flavors of the traditional Dutch cookie. They will be available for one day on ships cruising in Europe. The Stroopwafel Espresso Martini combines Stroopwafel Liqueur, Skyy Vodka, and espresso, while the Golden Dutch Martini features Stroopwafel Liqueur, Angel’s Envy, Angostura, and fresh lemon.

In addition to these cocktails, the cruise line will offer guests a selection of stroopwafel-inspired treats throughout the day. For breakfast, Stroopwafel Banana Bread French Toast will be available at Lido Market and the main Dining Room. Lunch options will include Nutella Chocolate Dipped Stroopwafels with various toppings at Lido Market, the main Dining Room (if open for lunch), and the Grand Dutch Café. For dinner, guests can enjoy a Stroopwafel Sundae in the main Dining Room.

Holland America Line, founded in the Netherlands over 150 years ago, continues to incorporate its Dutch heritage into its cruise experience. This includes distinctive orange touches and themed events. Drew Foulk, senior manager of beverage and dining operations and innovation for Holland America Line, stated that these stroopwafel-themed offerings are a celebratory way to honor the cruise line’s roots and bring a taste of home to guests.

The cruise line integrates its Dutch heritage through several recurring events and features. “Dutch Day” is a themed day that includes a special Dutch Dinner in the main Dining Room, featuring classic and contemporary Dutch delicacies. A partnership with Daelmans Stroopwafel ensures these treats are included in desserts and as turn-down amenities in staterooms. The “Orange Party,” held once per cruise on Dutch Day, is a celebration with live music, cocktails, and snacks, where guests are encouraged to wear orange attire in homage to the Dutch Royal Family. “Royal Dutch Tea” is a sea-day event offering Dutch snacks, sweets, and sandwiches served in tiers. Additionally, Holland America Line celebrates “King’s Day” on April 27 across its fleet, honoring the reigning Dutch monarch’s birthday. These initiatives aim to maintain and share the cultural traditions that influenced the cruise line’s origins.