SS Rotterdam - an aerial view of a city and a river
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SS Rotterdam

4.5
·8k reviews·Rotterdam, Netherlands

Stay aboard a historic Holland America Line cruise ship, now a unique hotel in Rotterdam offering colorful rooms and great dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
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SS Rotterdam - an aerial view of a city and a river

SS Rotterdam

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Stay aboard a historic Holland America Line cruise ship, now a unique hotel in Rotterdam offering colorful rooms and great dining.

4.5
(8k reviews)

"Honestly just a fantastic place to stay! Really felt like a unique one of a kind hotel."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Water Taxi Convenience

Don't miss the water taxis! They dock right at the ship and zip you to the city center in minutes. A traveler favorite! :boat:

🍽️ Delicious Dining Options

Enjoy great food! Dinner and breakfast buffets are highly praised. The BBQ brisket is a must-try for dinner. :knifeforkplate:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Ballroom

The Grand Ballroom

Main Deck

Step back in time in this opulent ballroom, a testament to the ship's glamorous past. Imagine the parties and events held here!

Captain's Quarters

Captain's Quarters

Bridge Deck

Get a glimpse into the life of the captain. This area offers historical insights and fantastic views from the ship's command center.

Lido Deck & Pool

Lido Deck & Pool

Upper Deck

Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with stunning city views. The paddling pool is a hit with families, making it a great spot to unwind.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Stay in Advance

The SS Rotterdam is a unique hotel experience on a former cruise ship. Booking your room or tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment. Consider the 'hotel ss rotterdam ship' for an unforgettable stay.

Explore Beyond the Ship

While the SS Rotterdam offers a unique experience, it's a bit of a walk to central Rotterdam attractions. Utilize the convenient water taxis that dock right at the ship for quick and scenic transport to the city center. This is a popular tip from visitors looking to maximize their time.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Ss rotterdam questions

🚢 Water Taxi Convenience

Don't miss the water taxis! They dock right at the ship and zip you to the city center in minutes. A traveler favorite! :boat:

🍽️ Delicious Dining Options

Enjoy great food! Dinner and breakfast buffets are highly praised. The BBQ brisket is a must-try for dinner. :knifeforkplate:

reddit.com

Travel advice for Rotterdam

reddit.com

Rotterdam for container ship enthusiasts

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love the paddling pool on the top deck! It's a fantastic feature for families looking for entertainment. :child:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Ship

Consider a ship tour to fully experience the SS Rotterdam's history and unique spaces. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Why the SS Rotterdam is Actually Profitable

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Water Taxi Convenience

Don't miss the water taxis! They dock right at the ship and zip you to the city center in minutes. A traveler favorite! :boat:

🍽️ Delicious Dining Options

Enjoy great food! Dinner and breakfast buffets are highly praised. The BBQ brisket is a must-try for dinner. :knifeforkplate:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love the paddling pool on the top deck! It's a fantastic feature for families looking for entertainment. :child:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Ship

Consider a ship tour to fully experience the SS Rotterdam's history and unique spaces. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the SS Rotterdam's unique hotel experience, often comparing it to being on a real cruise. The friendly staff, delicious food (especially breakfast and BBQ), and the fun paddling pool for kids are frequently praised. However, some guests found the ship to be a bit of a walk from central attractions and were disappointed by the need to pay for ship tours to explore.

"It room was nice although the refrigerator wasn’t that cold. Dinner and breakfast were very nice. We were disappointed, however, that we were not able to explore the ship without paying for a tour. We expected to get some enjoyment out of exploring the ship and couldn’t do that. In addition, it is quite a walk to any place from the ship. We would not stay there again"

Gail Ginell

"Lovely hotel. It really felt like we were on a cruise. Lovely room with a view, and friendly staff. Breakfast buffet was great and we had it every day. On the last night, we had dinner on the ship. It was delicious. Easy to get about. Water taxi from boat or bus stop nearby. We had a great stay."

Lauretta Hunt

"Honestly just a fantastic place to stay! Really felt like a unique one of a kind hotel. We were there for a week in July and my children talk about it every day. The little paddling pool for children on the top deck is fantastic!! The rooms are spacious and charming. But our favourite part was probably the water taxis which pick you up right outside and zip you across to the centre in minutes. Absolutely blew us away and we’d love to visit again one day!"

Anna

What People Like

Unique cruise ship hotel
Friendly staff
Great food & breakfast

What People Dislike

Walk to city center
Tour fees for exploration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way to reach the SS Rotterdam is by water taxi, which docks directly at the ship and offers quick trips to the city center. Alternatively, bus stops are nearby, and it's a pleasant walk if you prefer. :boat: Reddit

Yes, parking is available at the SS Rotterdam, though it may incur additional charges. It's advisable to check the hotel's official website for the most current parking rates and availability. :car:

Yes, public transport options are available. Bus stops are located within walking distance of the ship, providing access to Rotterdam's public transportation network. :bus:

The SS Rotterdam aims to be accessible, but as it's a historic ship, some areas might have limitations. It's best to contact the hotel directly to discuss specific accessibility needs. :wheelchair:

For passengers on Holland America Line cruises, a free shuttle to the cruise terminal is often available. For other cruise lines, water taxis or public transport are excellent options. :cruise_ship:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, to explore most of the ship beyond your hotel room or dining areas, a separate tour ticket is generally required. Many visitors express a desire to explore more freely, so factor this into your plans. :ticket: Reddit

Tour hours can vary, and it's best to check the official SS Rotterdam website for the most up-to-date information on tour schedules and availability. :clock:

While you can book hotel rooms and tours separately, some packages might be available. It's recommended to check the booking options on the SS Rotterdam's official website. :computer:

Information on discounts for ship tours is typically available on the SS Rotterdam's official website. It's always a good idea to check for any special offers or group rates. :moneywithwings:

A tour ticket usually grants access to key areas of the ship, including historical exhibits and public spaces, allowing you to learn about its past. Specific inclusions can be found on their booking page. :scroll:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The hotel rooms on the SS Rotterdam are described as nice, spacious, and charming, offering a unique experience that feels like being on a cruise. Some rooms are suites with great views. :bed: Reddit

Children will love the paddling pool on the top deck, which is a fantastic feature for them to enjoy while parents relax. :child: Reddit

Absolutely! The SS Rotterdam is a very photogenic location, both inside and out. Capture the historic architecture, unique rooms, and city views. :camerawithflash:

Yes, Wi-Fi is typically available throughout the SS Rotterdam, allowing you to stay connected during your stay. :iphone:

The atmosphere is often described as feeling like you're on a cruise, with friendly staff and a unique, historic setting. It's a fantastic and one-of-a-kind hotel experience. :star2:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining on the SS Rotterdam is highly rated. The breakfast buffet is great, and dinner options, including BBQ like beef brisket, are delicious and surprisingly good for a ship. :hamburger: Reddit

Breakfast is often included with hotel stays and is described as a great buffet. It's always best to confirm this when booking your room. :croissant:

While specific menus can change, most restaurants on the SS Rotterdam are likely to offer vegetarian options. For vegan choices, it's advisable to inquire with the restaurant staff directly. :leaf:

Yes, you can visit the restaurants and bars on the SS Rotterdam for drinks and dinner even if you are not staying overnight. It's a great way to experience the unique venue. :wine_glass:

The Lido Grill is known for its open-air deck and often features BBQ menus, with dishes like beef brisket receiving high praise for their flavor and tenderness. :steak: Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning photos from the Lido Deck for city views, the Grand Ballroom for historic charm, and the bridge for a captain's perspective. The ship's exterior itself is also very photogenic. :camerawithflash:

For professional photoshoots, it's essential to contact the SS Rotterdam management in advance to inquire about permissions, potential fees, and available locations. :studio_camera:

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the ship and city skyline. Daytime is great for capturing details inside and the lively Lido Deck. :sunriseovermountains:

Generally, personal photography is allowed in most public areas. However, always be mindful of other guests and check for any specific signage regarding photography in certain exhibits or private areas. :noentrysign:

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide shots of the ship and details inside. A wide-angle lens is useful for interiors, and a telephoto can be good for city views from the deck. :dslr:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The SS Rotterdam is a hit with families! The paddling pool on the top deck is a major draw, offering a fun and safe place for kids to play. The novelty of staying on a former cruise ship is an adventure in itself, sparking children's imaginations. Rooms are spacious and charming, adding to the cruise-like feel. Reddit

Consider booking a ship tour to make the experience even more educational and engaging for older children. The water taxis are also a fun way to travel to the city, adding another element of excitement to your family's Rotterdam adventure. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the SS Rotterdam offers a unique experience, it might lean towards mid-range to higher budgets. However, you can make it more budget-friendly by booking your stay in advance to potentially secure better rates. TikTok

Opting for dining at the Lido Grill or enjoying the highly-rated breakfast buffet can be more economical than fine dining. Also, leverage the water taxis for efficient transport to avoid costly individual taxi rides, and explore free attractions in Rotterdam once you reach the city center. Reddit

💑 Couples

For a unique and romantic getaway, the SS Rotterdam offers a charming setting. Enjoy dinner with city views from the ship's restaurants, or simply relax on the Lido Deck with a drink. The historic ambiance provides a distinctive backdrop for a memorable trip. Reddit

Consider booking a suite for an extra touch of luxury. The novelty of the ship, combined with Rotterdam's vibrant nightlife and cultural scene accessible via water taxi, makes for a perfect couples' escape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Voyage Through History: The SS Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam is more than just a hotel; it's a floating piece of history. Originally launched in 1959 as the flagship of the Holland America Line, she sailed the world for decades, carrying passengers on luxurious voyages. After her active service, she was meticulously restored and now serves as a unique hotel, museum, and event venue in Rotterdam. Visiting the ship offers a tangible connection to the golden age of ocean liners. TikTok

Exploring the ship allows you to step back in time. You can wander through beautifully preserved areas like the Grand Ballroom, imagine the bustling activity on the bridge, and learn about the ship's storied past through exhibits. The restoration efforts have been praised for maintaining the ship's original grandeur, making it a truly immersive experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Reddit

For those interested in maritime history, the SS Rotterdam is a must-visit. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the engineering, design, and social aspects of transatlantic travel during the mid-20th century. It’s a chance to experience a piece of Dutch maritime heritage firsthand. Instagram

Navigating Rotterdam from the SS Rotterdam

While the SS Rotterdam offers a unique stay, its location requires a bit of planning for exploring the wider city. Fortunately, visitors have discovered incredibly convenient ways to get around. The water taxis are a standout recommendation, docking right at the ship and providing swift, scenic journeys across the Maas River to various points in Rotterdam. This is frequently highlighted as a favorite aspect of staying on the ship. Reddit

Beyond water taxis, the ship is also served by nearby bus stops, connecting you to Rotterdam's efficient public transport network. This makes it easy to reach attractions like the Markthal, Cube Houses, or the vibrant city center. For those arriving by cruise ship, a complimentary shuttle to the cruise terminal is often available, adding to the ease of access. Reddit

It's worth noting that while the ship itself is an attraction, it is a bit of a walk to the immediate city center. Planning your transport in advance, especially utilizing the water taxis, will ensure you can make the most of your time exploring Rotterdam. Reddit

Family Fun Aboard the SS Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam is a fantastic destination for families, offering a unique hotel experience that captivates children. The paddling pool on the top deck is a major highlight, providing hours of fun and a refreshing escape, especially during warmer months. This feature is consistently praised by parents for keeping their kids entertained. Reddit

The rooms themselves are often described as spacious and charming, contributing to the feeling of being on a real cruise. The novelty of sleeping on a historic ship adds an element of adventure that children often talk about long after their visit. It’s an engaging way to introduce kids to history and travel. Reddit

Beyond the pool, the ship's unique environment sparks imagination. While a full ship tour might be more engaging for older children, even younger ones will enjoy the novelty of their surroundings. The friendly staff and the overall atmosphere make it a memorable family getaway. Instagram

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