Today was the 150th anniversary of Holland America Line.  The ms Rotterdam was in Rotterdam and the ms Zuiderdam was in Amsterdam.  There was a ceremony in Rotterdam in the New York Hotel earlier in the day, and you can watch the highlights on YouTube below

Tonight on the Zuiderdam there was a special menu in the Main Dining Room.

For the last two days, the Lido was closed as they set up more tables, a larger stage for the band, and additional decorations.

This large sign was at the entrance to the Lido pool area

 

After dinner, starting at 8 pm on the Lido (poolside), a local band the “Tiny Little Big Band” entertained the crowd.

Tiny Little Big Band

Waiters were passing hot Hors d’oeuvres along with complimentary wine and champagne.

We had our dinner at our usual time – 7:30 pm, and joined the party a little after 9 pm.  Everyone was having a great time, and the Lido was crowded, but it was still easy to move around.  All the tables were full until after the toast, and everything opened up.

Around 9:40, Ian introduced HAL President Gus Antorcha, who made some brief remarks and introduced Capt Frank, who also made a few remarks.  Afterward, they cut the cake, and Gus offered a toast.

Gus and Capt Frank cut the cake.

 

Gus proposes a toast.

Henk, Presty, and George cutting the cake

 

The crowd thinned after the toast.  There were about 75 people still enjoying the party as it was wrapping up around midnight.

DJ Reggie kept the party going until Midnight

About 75 people kept the party going late