First impressions of the Nieuw Amsterdam: Classy and calm

Marcia is currently sailing on Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam

First impressions are important. Whether it is of a new boss, a man who asks you out on a date, a doctor your friend has recommended, or a new vacation destination.

Walking aboard Holland America’s beauiful new Nieuw Amsterdam is a case in point.

Decorated almost entirely in lovely warm shades of brown, taupe or beige, Nieuw Amsterdam – the fourth ship in the line to bear that name – is inviting, welcoming and oh-so-attractive. Even the sprawling and impressive Penthouse Verandah Suite features impessive taupe leather and taupe carpets.

No heavy purple or blue glitzy decor. Not a hibiscus in sight. No Ghengis Khan decor. The only greens I saw were on the salad bar.

The ship features fun touches of shades of red to indicate this is a place where we’ll have a good time, but overall is a homage to New York City, Nieuw Amsterdam, don’t you know.

The main dining room is the Manhattan Dining Room, and impressions of New York’s iconic skyline are everywhere. Most notable of the skylines is the magnificent chandelier in the three-story Atrium. It changes hues regularly and is an outstanding focal point. Pieces of art and countless photos of New York City are everywhere and posters on the Lido Deck further identify little old New York.

But after hours of touring the new vessel, walking up and down stairs and across decks, I gave in to a self-indulgence.  I had hurt my leg a month or so ago, and have only been out of a brace for a couple of week, so I signed on to the Greenhouse Spa and Retreat and took

advantage of the soothing Hydrotherapy Suite. The calming mineral waters in the pool and the heated ceramic tile thermal lounges are designed to alleviate muscle pain.  Also available in the suite are showers, steam rooms and a sauna. Call me hedonistic, and I won’t argue. It sure helped me feel better.