Holland America Line has announced the launch of Koningstafel, a new dining experience that builds on its Chef’s Table concept. Koningstafel, which means “King’s Table” in Dutch, offers guests a six-course meal along with access to the ship’s galley and culinary team. The program began on Oosterdam in July and will be introduced on Westerdam, Zaandam, and Volendam later this year. The rest of the fleet is scheduled to add the experience by spring 2026.
Koningstafel is available to guests sailing on cruises lasting 14 days or more. Reservations can be made online before departure or while onboard, subject to availability. The supplemental fee for the event is $149 per person plus gratuities.
“Koningstafel is more than a meal — it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, artistry and connection,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line. “Our chefs are the heart and soul of our culinary program, and this experience offers guests a rare opportunity to step into their world, witness their creativity firsthand and savor the results in an unforgettable setting. The name adds a distinctive touch that reflects our heritage while highlighting the elevated nature of the evening.”
The Koningstafel event begins with a cocktail reception in Ocean Bar featuring drinks such as “You Should See Me In A Crown,” which uses Holland America Line’s De Lijn Gin. Guests then participate in an exclusive tour led by the ship’s executive chef through the galley area to observe culinary operations.
Following the tour, guests are seated at a specially arranged table in the Dining Room for dinner. Each course is presented by the chef and paired with selected wines; vegetarian options are also available upon request.
The set menu includes dishes such as Asian Wagyu Steak Tartare as an amuse-bouche; Butter Poached Lobster Tail served with lemongrass coconut and a smoked champagne cocktail; Spinach Ricotta Malfatti with black truffle; Sour Cherry Granite pour as an intermezzo; Herb Roasted Lamb Loin as main course; and concludes with an artisan cheese selection alongside Honey Crémieux dessert.
Koningstafel extends Holland America Line’s approach of preparing meals from scratch using fresh regional ingredients. This aligns with its Global Fresh Fish Program, which sources seafood from over 60 ports worldwide.
Additional themed dining events are planned for longer cruises. These include Rijsttafel Dinner—featuring Dutch-Indonesian small plates—on Baltic sailings at Tamarind restaurant for an extra charge; Tiki Dinner—a tropical-themed evening—in Pinnacle Grill during South Pacific crossings; and an Indian Pop-Up Menu offered exclusively on Legendary Voyages along with new Indian menus now available across all ships’ main Dining Rooms.
