Holland America Cruise Lines knows how to create a rich and fascinating worldwide itinerary that is second to none.  Looking to the horizon; stunning world cities such as Sydney and Hong Kong.  Find isolated island havens, rare and remote places in  the South Pacific that few travelers will ever see, as well as classic and sophisticated ports that dot the shores of Italy.  The cruise will end in New York, NY.

The 2009 Grand World Voyage on Holland America ms Rotterdam offers you unsurpassed opportunities to explore the world. Intriguing ports of call in 22 different countries across six continents, this grandest of all cruises encompasses more than 30,000 nautical miles as you cruise to the South Pacific, Australia, Asia, tip of Africa, India, Egypt, the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean. You'll visit classic cities, explore unspoiled, lesser-known ports and view nature's greatest achievements.  The ship only holds 1,316 passengers and is 59,652 gross tons.

ms Rotterdam sets the standard for their fleet of five-star cruise ships. As the third ship bearing the name of the Dutch capital in the line's more than 130-year history, the ms Amsterdam blends the very latest in shipbuilding technology with the artistry, personalized touches, and superior service that has made Holland America Line one of the highest-rated cruise lines in the world. Traveling aboard her is world-class cruising at its finest.

As the sixth ship to bear the name, the flagship ms Rotterdam is the standard-bearer for our Atlantic fleet of five-star cruise ships. The first Rotterdam set sail in 1872, beginning a Holland America tradition and reputation that continued through the Rotterdam V, one of the most beloved ships of all time. In the grand tradition of the Rotterdam ships, fascinating Holland America memorabilia can be found throughout the ship, such as specially commissioned works of art ranging from oil paintings, to sculptures, to textile designs and much more. The ms Rotterdam completed all Signature of Excellence enhancements to her public rooms and staterooms in Spring 2005.

The ms Rotterdam ensures you the ultimate onboard experience with her graceful combination of classic cruise ship features and state-of-the-art amenities. Fine woods, exquisite art and antiques, larger staterooms, and a world-class spa and fitness center are only a few of the features that will make the memories of your Holland America cruise vacation unforgettable.

Signature features include:

The two-tier La Fontaine Dining Room features impeccable service and an extensive wine list, and offers five-course menus, from continental cuisine to vegetarian and low-carb options
The intimate reservations-only Pinnacle Grill offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience and features premium hand-selected cuts of Sterling Silver beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated "Excellent" by Wine Spectator - as well as distinctive Bvlgari china, Riedel stemware and Frette linens
The Lido Restaurant offers a relaxed ambiance for all three meals and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties
The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, is the setting for gourmet cooking demonstrations and interactive classes
Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times, features the largest library at sea, as well as comfortable music listening stations and Internet access
The Greenhouse Spa & Salon features thermal suites, a hydrotherapy and thalassotherapy pool, heated ceramic lounges and more
The Queen's Show Lounge features Las Vegas-style productions, talented vocalists, illusionists, comedians and variety acts
The Crow's Nest, where sweeping views make this observation lounge a top choice for relaxing during the day, and in the evening transforms into a hip, fashionable nightclub features top-notch DJs and live bands
Club HAL, dedicated youth facilities and activities for kids ages 3 to 12
The Loft and The Oasis, designed exclusively for teens to have fun, socialize and hang out with people their own age

The 2009 Grand World Voyage on Holland America is conveniently scheduled to begin and end in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The ms Rotterdam departs on January 19th, 2009, for the 117-day roundtrip voyage.

See the complete World Cruise itinerary below for dates and specifics.