The first thing you'll see after your ship has docked at Rotterdam is the beautiful Erasmus Bridge and the large number of high-rise buildings, giving Rotterdam its reputation as 'Holland's New York'. But that's not the only connection between Rotterdam and the Big Apple...

In 1873 NASM (Netherlands-America Steamship Company) was founded in Rotterdam. Better known as Holland America Line, the line has been an integral part of Rotterdam life for more than a century. These days, cruise ships visiting Rotterdam still dock at Holland America's stomping grounds, the Wilhemina Quay. From here millions of passengers set off on a trip across New York on any of Holland America's atlantic liners.  

Holland America management housed in a beautiful building located at a stone's throw from the Wilhelmina Quay. When Holland America relocated to Seattle, the building was completely restored and is now in use as a hotel and restaurant. Appropriately named Hotel New York, this is a must-see for anyone remotely interested in liner history. 

On July 29, 2003, Rotterdam was the scene for Holland America's 130th birthday bash. For the occasion, the cruise line had arranged a festive christening ceremony for their new Oosterdam.

At 4:00 PM exactly, the traditional bottle of champagne came sailing down from a rope that was attached to the bridge of fleet mate  Rotterdam, berthed bow-to-bow with Oosterdam. As soon as the bottle hit Oosterdam's hull, white doves were released, horns blew and the air was filled with confetti. A new ship is officially born! 

And should you be in port overnight, have a look at the city at night. Holland's version of New York!