Visiting a ship is a captivating adventure irrespective of whether it is still sailing or not. The same was true when I stayed on the beautiful SS Rotterdam - the Grande Dame - which is moored in the Maashaven, Rotterdam.
The beautiful curves of the metallic hull of the ship, show that it has had its share of knocks. It adds to the the charm of this now stationary cruise ship. The interior of the ship was gorgeous. If you missed those stunning photos you can visit them via this link.
I understood that exteriors of the ship and the bridge or wheelhouse were equally impressive. I decided to make my way there to see for myself - via a self-tour. (If one is not staying on the ship it is best to join a paid tour group.)
I started by strolling along the glass enclosed promenade. This covered corridor was used for brisk walking or stretching, to exercise during the ship's cruising days.
From there, I arrived at a deck which gave a view of the lifeboats from below. I was already curious.
The hardy teak wood decks have wide terraces with deck chairs for sunbathing.
This is Officers Promenade Sun deck.
I climbed another set of stairs, at the end of the promenade to ensure that I could see the Forecastle (fo'c's'le).
This was a very interesting part of the ship.
Here are the anchor chains
and also the massive anchor, seen from above.
The views of Rotterdam from this deck were quite amazing. The Lido deck is in the foreground.
Here, I am looking at the Forecastle from the Lido Deck.
Now it was time to head to the Navigating deck where I could see the life boats properly.
Then I entered the Bridge or wheelhouse. It was very special that former officers of the ship are here to provide a tour and explanations. This is the engine telegraph.
I was fascinated by all the (original) equipment
which was used for navigation. This is the center console and wheel.
In the Chart room were the original charts,
stabilizer controls and radar.
Then I went to the Chief Wireless Officer's room
and the Radio and Communication room where
one could create their own morse code.
Thereafter, I perused the Captain's cabin.
It was quite spacious.
From the Bridge deck one can go to the Sport Deck.
There I spotted the nylon halyard "used by Queen Juliana on August 20 1959 to hoist the houseflag on the SS Rotterdam".
There are numerous decks on the SS Rotterdam. This is another recreation area.
Here are the ship's iconic goal post funnels
and bell.
Needless to say, the views from everywhere on this ship was beautiful. Here is a view from the port
and the starboard sides of the ship.
In this photo, look very closely; to the right of the bridge (Erasmusbrug) you can see a modern cruise ship. A view of the new from the old.
This special tour around this beautiful ship transported me to the 1950's. The SS Rotterdam is now a hotel, conference center and museum. It is great that it was not relegated to the scrap heap; instead it was brought back to its home - Rotterdam. Now we can enjoy a sneak peak of maritime cultural history.
All photos are my own - taken with my iPhone