Holland America Line's Volendam returns to serviceHolland America Line's Volendam returns to service

A ribbon-cutting ceremony in the terminal was attended by the ship’s captain and senior officers, with flag-waving fanfare from team members lined up to greet passengers as they embarked.

Follows housing for Ukrainian refugees

Volendam spent the past six months in Rotterdam, on charter to the city to house Ukrainian refugee families. The ship was a temporary home for up to 1,500 people, part of a larger commitment from the Netherlands to accommodate 50,000 Ukrainians who fled the war in their homeland.

'This is a milestone day as Volendam embarks on its first full cruise since the industry-wide pause,' said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. 'We are thankful for the incredible work of the shipboard team these past six months, caring for Ukrainian families. As we get back to cruising, we are excited to welcome guests on Volendam for a series of longer voyages that include explorations of the Mediterranean, Amazon and South America.'

Mediterranean, Adriatic, Amazon, South America, Antarctica

Following the 'Holy Land and Ancient Kingdoms' cruise, the ship will sail 14-day itineraries to Greece, Turkey, Italy, Croatia and Montenegro. In late October, Volendam will reposition to Fort Lauderdale for a 28-day 'Amazon Explorer' voyage, followed by a series of Caribbean cruises. In January the ship departs on a 74-day 'Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage.'