04/21/2026
What’s the one spot repeat Holland America cruisers always tell first-timers to find?
After sending clients on Holland America sailings, the same tip keeps coming back from the experienced cruisers: don’t walk past the Grand Dutch Cafe.
It’s tucked into the atrium on Deck 3 of the Nieuw Statendam, and most first-timers miss it entirely.
But the guests who’ve sailed HAL often? That’s where they head first. Authentic Dutch pea soup with pumpernickel and speck ham, apple and bacon pannenkoek, made-to-order herring sandwiches, stroopwafels, and quiche that feels like it belongs at a neighborhood cafe in Amsterdam.
Here’s the part most people don’t realize: the food is complimentary. Included in your cruise fare. You order at the counter, a server brings it over, and you settle in.
Specialty coffees and the 16 Dutch and Belgian beers are where the charges come in (or covered if you have the Have It All beverage package).
It’s the kind of detail I make sure my HAL clients know about before they board, because once you find the Grand Dutch Cafe, it becomes your sea-day spot.
Considering Holland America for your next cruise?
Let’s map out the sailing that fits how you actually want to travel. Calendly link is in the comments.
