As the title suggests, SS Rotterdam, dubbed as Le Grande Dame, is a hotel ship docked in Rotterdam. It was formerly an ocean liner and cruise ship which sailed across the seven seas for forty-one years, i.e., from 1959 to 2000. The city converted the ship to a museum/hotel and school for vocational training in 2010. In 2013, it was acquired by Westcord Hotels and has been a famous luxurious hotel and tourist attraction since then.

As part of our little tour in Rotterdam, courtesy of my aunt and uncle, we went aboard the ship and caught a glimpse of the city from there. It is absolutely okay, and free, to explore the ship and learn about its history, from its launching in 1958 by Queen Juliana herself to being an ocean liner and cruise ship of the Holland-America Line (1959-1997), Premier Cruises (1997-2000), and Rotterdam Drydock Company (2003–2005).

SS Rotterdam Hotel en Restaurants has two restaurants with open kitchens, free WiFi in public areas, and authentic ship cabins. The events hall is called Ahoy, and guests can avail of free shuttle service to Rotterdam city center. The hotel rooms are designed in the 50’s style, have tea and coffee-making facilities, Wifi, a mini-bar and a sitting area with a flat-screen TV. For bookings, visit: ss Rotterdam Hotel en Restaurant.

It felt like the hotel ship would be perfect for romantic stays. It has a lovely view of the city and the river Meuse, and you can get a glimpse of passing boats and ships.

Would love to experience staying in a hotel ship one day. Or ship hotel?