Seattle – October 16, 2026 -- Holland America Line is adding Bar 1873 to Oosterdam, a two-story atrium bar with cocktails, live piano and a three-meter illuminated tulip sculpture, and bookings are now open for cruises aboard the transformed ship.
The bar debuts as part of Holland America Evolution, the cruise line's fleet update. Oosterdam also gets a reimagined Crow's Nest with expanded live music.
A glowing tulip anchors the Deck 2 atrium
London-based design firm SMC built Bar 1873 around Oosterdam's central atrium on Deck 2. The three-meter tulip sculpture, inspired by the Netherlands' national flower and the line's signature orange tulip, is visible from several vantage points and casts patterns of light across the space.
More than 200 heritage and repurposed objects, bespoke artwork and a visual timeline of the company's history surround it. Vintage-style maps and custom artwork add Dutch cultural and maritime touches.
Other details nod to the line's past. The carpets are inspired by light moving across the ocean, and a centerpiece rug draws on a clock in the main dining room of SS Rotterdam. The grand fireplace takes its cue from the line's original headquarters, now Hotel New York in Rotterdam.
Oosterdam's version honors ship christenings
Each Evolution ship will interpret Bar 1873 through a different story from the line's 150-plus-year history. Oosterdam's theme, May She Be Blessed, draws on the 1958 christening of Rotterdam V by Queen Juliana of the Netherlands.
Live piano performances will run during pre-dinner cocktail hours and through the evening. Select appearances by vocalists and Holland America Line's Vivace musicians will complement them.
Company president Beth Bodensteiner said the goal is to celebrate traditions while introducing fresh experiences for today's guests.
The signature cocktail can be personalized
The menu centers on May She Be Blessed, a cocktail named for the blessing traditionally given to a ship before it enters service. Guests can personalize it with their choice of essence. The menu also includes modern takes on classics and original creations tied to the stories behind each Bar 1873.
Crow's Nest adds evening music from the 1970s to today
The refreshed Crow's Nest keeps its panoramic ocean views but offers more flexibility across the day. Activities and enrichment programming give way to live music and entertainment in the evening, including performances of songs from the 1970s through today.
Evolution covers six ships, starting with Oosterdam and Zuiderdam
Holland America Evolution is the largest fleet update in the company's 153-year history. It will revitalize all six Vista Class and Signature Class ships, beginning with Oosterdam and Zuiderdam and extending to the newly acquired Vista Class ship Arcadia. Guests can expect refreshed public spaces, updated accommodations and expanded onboard offerings, with select elements inspired by the Pinnacle Class ships.
Bookings are open for cruises aboard Oosterdam and Zuiderdam following their transformations.