Holland America Unveils New Farewell Dining Experience

Holland America Line is launching a new onboard event called the “Farewell Dinner,” giving guests a special way to mark the end of their cruise.

Taking place in the Main Dining Room on the final night of every voyage, the experience will feature a specially designed menu created to celebrate the journey, according to the cruise line.

The dinner will be accompanied by the traditional “Gelang Sipaku Gelang” song, a long-standing Holland America custom that brings guests and crew together.

“As a brand built on more than 150 years of history and hospitality, we know some of the most meaningful moments of a cruise happen around the dinner table,” said Michael Stendebach, senior vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line.

“The ‘Farewell Dinner’ is designed to celebrate the journey guests have shared together while creating a memorable farewell before they return home. Featuring dishes that have long been connected to cruising and to Holland America makes the last night with us even more special.”

As part of the evening, the ship’s cruise director will look back on highlights from the voyage before members of the culinary team circulate throughout the dining room, giving guests an opportunity to meet the people behind the onboard dining experience.

The menu draws inspiration from the classic traditions of ocean travel and includes dishes that have played a role in Holland America’s dining heritage over the years.

Guests will be able to choose from a variety of appetizers, main courses, desserts and pre-dinner beverages.