Holland America Line will operate transatlantic cruises next summer for the first time since 1971.
HAL said it is commemorating the 40th anniversary of its evolution from being a line that primarily did transatlantic crossings to one dedicated to vacation cruising.
The Rotterdam is operating two crossings in July 2011. The ship will sail a nine-day transatlantic cruise departing Rotterdam, Netherlands, on July 3. The ship will call at Southampton, England, before heading to New York.
The July 12 departure returns to Rotterdam from New York. The nine-day cruise includes a call at Cork, Ireland.
"Transatlantic cruises were the foundation of Holland America Line for several decades, and there's still a strong desire from today's
travelers who want to step back in time and relive the celebrated days of an elegant crossing or follow in the footsteps of their ancestors,"
said Richard Meadows, executive vice president of marketing, sales and guest programs.
"We're proud to honor our heritage with these two special itineraries, replete with nostalgia-themed menus, entertainment and a host of surprises and keepsakes."
HAL said the sailings would offer activities and guest lecturers that would focus on the the line's 138-year heritage.