Recently we shared a blog on three new ships to look out for during 2020, but there are plenty more under construction already that will be taking to sea for the first time next year.

Amongst them is the Ryndam, which will join the Holland America fleet in May 2021 as the third ship in the Pinnacle Class alongside the Koningsdam and the Nieuw Statendam.

The name itself is nothing new, with Holland America having had three ships in the past that have run under the name; the most recent of which was transferred to P&O Australia where it still sails under the Pacific Aria banner.

The fourth incarnation of the Ryndam is currently in build at the Marghera shipyard in Italy, where experienced shipbuilders Fincantieri are hard at work on the 2,650 berth vessel.

The company is the largest shipbuilder in Europe, and responsible for a number of the major ships to have debuted in recent years, including Regent Seven Seas’ Seven Seas Explorer, MSC’s Seaview and the Carnival Horizon.

Fincantieri has also built no fewer than 16 ships for Holland America Line in the past, including both the Koningsdam and the Nieuw Statendam.

The build of the ship kicked off in March 2019 with the steel cutting, with the forward lower section of the vessel being launched from Fincantieri’s Palermo yard in October. The keel laying ceremony in November marked the official start of the build, with work now containing apace to ensure the Ryndam is ready in time for its maiden voyage.

That maiden voyage will take place in May next year, when the Ryndam sets off on a seven day trip from Venice to cruise around the Mediterranean to Rome - visiting the likes of Dubrovnik, Kotor and Naples en-route.

From there, the ship will head to Amsterdam before spending the summer season sailing in the waters around Northern Europe, exploring the Baltics, Iceland the stunning Norwegian Fjords.

Come October 2021, the Ryndam will then depart Europe on a trip across the Atlantic from Amsterdam to Fort Lauderdale, which is where the ship will then be based for the winter season.

Bookings have now opened for those initial sailings, with a special offer in place for everyone who secured their place onboard by February 28 2020.

As well as Free Air, guests will receive a special beverage package, onboard spending money of up to $600 per person and free gratuities, while anyone in a suite will also get free internet and free dining package.

A selection of sailings can be seen on the deals section of the website, with further details available if you get in touch with our expert team!