(DailyExpertNews) — The travel industry has mobilized to accommodate some of the millions of people who have fled the conflict in Ukraine over the past six weeks, with hotel and holiday home owners across Europe offering rooms to those in need.
Now a cruise ship has also opened its doors to the refugees. Holland America Line’s Volendam, a 237-meter-long, 10-deck cruise ship docked in the Dutch city of Rotterdam, has been recruited to provide temporary shelter for up to 1,500 Ukrainians.
Temporary accommodation
Volendam will be in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, for three months.
Courtesy of Holland America Line
The Dutch government, which has pledged to host up to 50,000 displaced Ukrainians, contacted Holland America in late March to inquire about chartering a ship as temporary accommodation.
Volendam had yet to enter service following the Covid-19 pandemic, but the vessel was fully crewed in preparation for a scheduled return to passenger sailings in May.
Sibrand Hassing, director of Holland America’s European fleet operations, told DailyExpertNews Travel that the cruise line was eager to help because it was able to “meet immediate needs for food and housing.”
A spokesman for the city of Rotterdam said there is a “major housing shortage” in the city, meaning individual homes cannot currently be offered to displaced Ukrainians.
“Some refugees stayed in hotels, but this was not a long-term solution,” the spokesperson said. “That’s why we decided to house some of these refugees on this ship for the next few months.”
On April 5, 100 Ukrainians boarded Volendam, and more people will board in the coming days.
Ukrainians staying on Volendam receive three hot meals a day and can also use the ship’s various facilities, including cleaning services, Wi-Fi and a fitness center.
“Our onboard team is renowned for its service and hospitality and we are ready to welcome our new guests as we would welcome guests to our own homes,” said Captain Ryan Whitaker.
Volendam will remain moored in the Merwehaven, a cargo port on Rotterdam’s river Maas, during the full three-month charter. Those on board can get off whenever they want, including to go to school.
The Rotterdam spokesperson said city officials are also “working hard to provide education for every Ukrainian child who has sought refuge in Rotterdam”.
“We expect to reach this goal sometime in the coming weeks,” the spokesperson said. “This will not take place on board this ship, but at a location somewhere in Rotterdam.”
Medical and social care for Ukrainians will also be arranged through local civil society organisations, including the Salvation Army.
Those on board will be encouraged to wear masks, in accordance with Dutch Covid-19 regulations. The Rotterdam city spokesperson also said Ukrainians will have a general health check when they board, with anyone experiencing Covid-like symptoms tested. Vaccinations will also be available. Holland America said the crew will follow their usual Covid regulations.
Volendam’s upcoming cruises have been canceled and potential travelers are given alternative options. Volendam will return to regular service in July. Upcoming itineraries include midnight sun journeys as far as the Arctic Circle and tours of northern European capitals, with tickets starting at around $2,400 per person for two weeks.
Top photo of Volendam courtesy of Holland America Line