The travel industry has offered to help shelter some of the millions of people who have fled the conflict in Ukraine in recent weeks, with hotels and holiday home owners across Europe providing rooms for those in need.
Now, a cruise ship has also opened its doors to 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 refuge for up to 1,500 Ukrainians.
“Our crew sees it as a true honor to make Volendam a comfortable and welcoming environment for families who have been through so much,” the ship’s captain Ryan Whitaker told CNN Travel.
temporary accommodation
The Dutch government, which has promised to house up to 50,000 Ukrainian refugees, contacted Holland America in late March to inquire about chartering a ship as temporary accommodation.
Volendam had not yet returned to service following the Covid-19 pandemic, but the ship was in preparation for a scheduled return to passenger travel in May.
Sibrand Hassing, director of European fleet operations at Holland America, told CNN Travel that the cruise line was willing to help as it was in a position to “accommodate the immediate need for food and shelter”.
A spokesperson for the city of Rotterdam said there was a “major housing shortage” in the city, meaning that individual accommodation could not be offered to displaced Ukrainians.
“Some refugees were staying in hotels, but this was not a long-term solution,” the spokesperson said. “That’s why we’ve decided to accommodate several of these refugees on this ship in the coming months.”
On April 5, 100 Ukrainians boarded the Volendam, with more people scheduled to arrive in the coming days. Ukrainians on Volendam receive three meals a day and will also be able to use the ship’s various facilities – including cleaning services, Wi-Fi and a gym.
“Our onboard team is known for their service and hospitality and we are ready to welcome our new guests just as we would welcome guests to our own homes,” said Captain Ryan Whitaker.
Volendam will remain moored at Merwehaven, a cargo port on the Maas River in Rotterdam, for three months. People on board can disembark whenever they want, including to attend places like schools.
The Rotterdam spokesperson said the city authorities are also “working to provide education for all Ukrainian children who have taken refuge” in the city. “We hope to achieve this goal in the coming weeks,” the spokesperson said. “This will not happen on board this ship, but at another location in Rotterdam.”
Medical and social assistance will also be provided to Ukrainians through local social organizations, including the Salvation Army.
The city spokesperson also said that Ukrainians will have a general health checkup when they board, with Covid-19 testing for those who show symptoms, and vaccination will also be available. Holland America said its crew will follow its usual Covid regulations.
Upcoming cruises from Volendam have been cancelled, with potential travelers with alternative options. Volendam is expected to return to regular service in July. Upcoming itineraries include trips to the Arctic Circle and tours of northern European capitals.
Source: CNN Brasil
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