One of Holland America’s ships will serve as a temporary shelter for Ukrainian migrants. Approximately 1,500 Ukrainians will be housed on the Volendam in Rotterdam for three months.

Refugees will receive three hot meals a day, as well as access to the internet and other basics, from Holland America. Three Volendam cruises will be cancelled by the cruise line in order to accommodate Ukrainian migrants. It is likely that guests will be accommodated on alternate routes. On July 3, service will be restored.

According to Holland America Line president Gus Antorcha, “We felt it was very vital to engage with the City of Rotterdam and charter this ship” because of the company’s unique position to provide the immediate demand for food and lodging.

More than 50,000 migrants from Ukraine have been promised by the Dutch government. For a Ukrainian refugee camp to be set up in March, the administration contacted the cruise line. 100 Ukrainians had boarded the ship as of this point. We should expect a few more in the days ahead.