Holland America Line Elevates Chef’s Table Experience

Holland America Line is introducing a new Chef’s Table concept to its fleet with the rollout of Koningstafel – Dutch for “King’s Table.” The new six-course dining experience, which replaces the previous Chef’s Table, combines behind-the-scenes galley access with a multi-course meal.

“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 experience begins with a private cocktail reception in Ocean Bar, followed by a galley tour and a six-course dinner that showcases the creativity of HAL’s culinary team. Each dish comes paired with a curated wine selection.

Unlike some Chef’s Table-style experiences, during which the menu might vary, depending on season and port, the menu for Koningstafel is set. The first course, for instance, is butter poached lobster tail with lemongrass coconut. The main course is an herb-roasted lamb loin with pistachio crust. (A vegetarian menu is available upon request.)

Koningstafel debuted on Oosterdam in July and will expand to Westerdam, Zaandam, and Volendam this fall, with the rest of the fleet scheduled to follow in spring 2026. It is available only on cruises of 14 days or longer.

Reservations can be made online prior to departure or onboard, pending availability, for a fee of $149 per person, plus gratuities.

Holland America’s Expanded Dining Experiences

Koningstafel is the first in an expanded series of dining experiences Holland America is rolling out on its longer itineraries. Other culinary offerings rolling out soon include:

Rijsttafel Dinner: A Dutch-Indonesian tasting experience debuting on Baltic sailings, offered in Tamarind for a supplemental fee.

Tiki Dinner: A tropical-themed evening in Pinnacle Grill, launching on South Pacific crossings. Offered once per voyage on cruises 20 days and longer, the experience includes beverage pairings, souvenir tiki mugs and themed service touches.

Indian Pop-Up Menu: Launching exclusively on Legendary Voyages, this rotating pop-up features regional Indian specialties such as Lamb Vindaloo, Paneer Butter Masala, and Rasgulla.

In addition, new Indian menus are now offered fleetwide in the main Dining Room — including on shorter sailings — and can be arranged by guests upon embarkation.