|
Nieuw
Amsterdam's inauguration in Venice, Italy by Her Royal Highness
Princess Máxima of the Netherlands was truly fitting given Holland
America Line's Dutch heritage and close association with Italy and, in
particular, Fincantieri Shipyard. Nieuw Amsterdam's
interior design is a celebration of the unique heritage of the Dutch in
New York, or New Amsterdam, as it was named by explorer Henry Hudson in
the 17th Century.
This conglomeration of European elements is evident throughout Nieuw
Amsterdam. She features art and antiques from traditional
Dutch masters and works by renowned artists. The overall
traditional, yet contemporary presentation is a collaboration of Dutch
VFD Architects and Norwegian Yran & Storbraaten. |
 |
 |
|
The Dutch
connection to New York is sometimes quite subtly expressed throughout
and at other times, much more apparent. One such example is the
Atrium chandelier which is created by husband and wife team Gilbert
LeBigre and Corinne Roger. They are most well known for their
theatrical stage sets and sculptural works and their creation in the
Atrium is an abstract sculpture of the New York skyline made from clear
translucent blocks that hangs upside-down.
In the forward staircase, British artist Captain Stephen J. Card, as he
has done for the other Holland America Line ships, has created paintings
of ships that bear the name Nieuw Amsterdam, both past and
present. The amidships staircase features paintings by Dutch
artist Vincent Jansen that include symbols and elements related to
history and founding of New York by the Dutch. The aft staircase
and lower Manhattan Dining Room feature a series of paintings by Wessel
Huisman, drawing inspiration from old photographs of New York.
Another very predominant suggestion of the tie to New York City is in
the Explorer's Lounge with a mural by Dutch artist Harold Vlugt.
The nearly twenty foot painting on aluminum depicts the modern skyline
of New York with elements from past centuries.
Overall, the Nieuw Amsterdam is the finest and most contemporary
representation of the Holland America Line and the five distinct pillars
of the brand : accommodations, service, itineraries, activities, and
dining. Nieuw Amsterdam is rich in European grace and
tradition, well suited to impress the most discerning and well traveled
guest. |
 |
 |
