Holland America Line Opens Bar 1873 on Oosterdam

Holland America Line is introducing Bar 1873 aboard Oosterdam as part of its Holland America Evolution transformation. The two-storey atrium venue has been designed with London-based firm SMC and centres on a three-metre illuminated tulip sculpture. More than 200 heritage and repurposed objects, bespoke artwork and a visual timeline will feature in the space. The project forms part of the company’s largest fleet update in its 153-year history, covering six Vista Class and Signature Class ships.

A Venue Rooted In Heritage

Bar 1873 takes its Oosterdam theme, May She Be Blessed, from the maritime tradition of ship christenings and the godmothers who have launched Holland America Line vessels. Its design draws on Queen Juliana of the Netherlands’ 1958 christening of Rotterdam V, with artwork, maritime references and Dutch cultural influences incorporated throughout the venue.

Live piano performances will accompany pre-dinner cocktail hours and evening entertainment, alongside appearances by vocalists and the line’s Vivace musicians.

Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, said:

“One of the goals of Holland America Evolution is to celebrate the traditions that have always made us special while introducing fresh experiences for today's guests. Bar 1873 is one of the most exciting examples of that vision. On Oosterdam, we've taken an important part of our history and transformed it into a completely new venue. As the concept expands, each bar will draw inspiration from a different part of our heritage, creating a distinct experience aboard every Evolution ship.”

Tulip Centrepiece And Cocktails

Built around Oosterdam’s Deck 2 central atrium, the venue is anchored by a tulip sculpture inspired by the Netherlands’ national flower and Holland America Line’s signature orange tulip. The space also includes vintage-style maps, custom artwork, ocean-inspired carpets and a fireplace influenced by the company’s original Rotterdam headquarters, now Hotel New York.

The drinks menu will be led by May She Be Blessed, a celebratory cocktail named after the blessing traditionally bestowed on a ship before service. Guests can personalise the drink with their choice of essence, while the wider menu will include modern versions of classic favourites and original creations.

Expanded Entertainment On Oosterdam

Oosterdam will also receive a refreshed Crow’s Nest as part of its Evolution enhancements. The panoramic venue will offer activities and enrichment programming during the day, followed by live music and entertainment in the evening.

Evening performances will feature songs from the 1970s through to the present day, with the programme intended to provide more opportunities for guests to listen and dance.

Fleet Transformation Continues

Holland America Evolution will begin with Oosterdam and Zuiderdam before extending to the newly acquired Vista Class ship Arcadia. The programme will refresh public spaces, update accommodation and expand onboard offerings while retaining the features associated with the cruise line’s ships.

Bookings are open for cruises aboard Oosterdam and Zuiderdam following their transformations.