If you’ve cruised with Holland America before, you already know the line has a reputation for great food. But now, they’re taking their dining game up a notch with a brand-new experience called Koningstafel, which literally translates to “King’s Table” in Dutch. This is a reimagined Holland America Chef’s Table experience designed to feel more regal, more immersive, and more exclusive than anything else onboard.
Unlike traditional specialty dining, the Koningstafel experience goes beyond the meal itself. Guests enjoy cocktails, a galley tour, and a six-course dinner that’s as much about storytelling and presentation as it is about flavor. The only catch? You won’t find this on every ship or every itinerary. Koningstafel is reserved for cruises 14 days or longer, making it a special perk for travelers who prefer Holland America’s extended voyages. It’s already available on the Oosterdam, and will be rolling out to Westerdam, Zaandam and Volendam in fall 2025, and the rest of the fleet in spring 2026.
For me, Chef’s Table dinners, and similar unique dining expeiences at sea are always a highlight. On Carnival, I had a chance to take part in their version of the Chef’s Table on the Celebration, and it was an evening full of great food and plenty of wine. On Princess, the 360 Immersive Dining Experience is similar, but packed with cinematography taking the chef’s table concept to an entirely new level. Holland America’s version takes the idea and leans into its Dutch heritage with a more refined, almost royal approach.
What Is the Chef’s Table (Koningstafel) Experience on Holland America?
The evening begins with a private cocktail reception in the Ocean Bar, where guests sip handcrafted drinks, including the cheekily named “You Should See Me In A Crown,” made with Holland America’s own De Lijn Gin (don’t forget to take a few bottles home, as it’s a wonderful gin). From there, the ship’s executive chef personally leads an exclusive galley tour, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how meals come together for thousands of guests each day.
The night culminates in a six-course dinner in the main Dining Room, at a table set with elegant floral touches and a bit of ceremony. Each dish is introduced by the chef, paired with curated wines, and plated with the kind of detail you’d expect in a high-end restaurant ashore. Vegetarian options are available by request, and seating is limited. The cost to join? $149 per person plus gratuities — a splurge, but one that promises an unforgettable night and is in line with what similar experiences cost on other cruise lines.
A Taste of the Koningstafel Menu
The menu leans into both Dutch elegance and culinary theater, blending creative plating with rich flavors:
- Amuse-Bouche: Wagyu beef tartare with soy-mirin egg yolk, nashi pear, and tempura shiso leaf.
- First Course: Butter poached lobster tail paired with a smoked champagne cocktail.
- Second Course: Spinach ricotta malfatti with black truffle and parmesan espuma.
- Intermezzo: Sour cherry granite with lemon sorbet.
- Main Course: Herb-roasted lamb loin with pistachio crust and Mediterranean vegetables.
- Finale: A mix of artisan cheeses and a honey crémeux dessert with lemon curd and lavender honey.
Holland America’s Foodie Experiences on Longer Cruises
Koningstafel may be the centerpiece of Holland America’s new dining program, but it isn’t the only culinary event waiting for guests on longer voyages. On itineraries of 14 days or more, cruisers will also start to see other themed dining nights rolling out:
- Rijsttafel Dinner – A Dutch-Indonesian spread of small plates offered in Tamarind, inspired by the Netherlands’ historic ties to Indonesia. This one launches on Baltic sailings.
- Tiki Dinner – Available once per voyage on South Pacific crossings of 20+ days, this tropical night in Pinnacle Grill features fun tiki cocktails, souvenir mugs, and a menu with a Polynesian twist.
- Indian Pop-Up Menu – Exclusive to Holland America’s Legendary Voyages, this rotating dinner features dishes like Lamb Vindaloo and Paneer Butter Masala. Even on shorter cruises, guests can request authentic Indian menus in the Dining Room once they board.
If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience that blends gourmet cuisine with exclusive access, the Holland America Koningstafel Chef’s Table is a going to be a must-attend experience. And while it’s only available on Holland America’s longer cruises right now, that exclusivity makes it feel even more special. Pair it with other themed dinners like Rijsttafel or the new Tiki Dinner, and you’ll see why Holland America is positioning itself as a cruise line for travelers who want their time at sea to be…. delicious!