Afternoon tea on the high seas is a quintessential cruise ship experience that every passenger should savour. And when it comes to wowing passengers with spectacular spreads Holland America Line knows how to dish up wonderfully delectable delights. Rather than offer passengers just one option, the line has developed three themed banquets, all of which make an appearance at least once during each itinerary. To tantalise your tastebuds we’ve put together an overview of what to expect when hitting the Holland America Line tearooms.
Cupcake Tea
Cupcakes lovers will be in heaven at this high tea which features no less than 10 mouth-watering flavours. As well as classics such as chocolate and vanilla pastry chefs have also whipped up a unique bread pudding cupcake that rivals the innovations seen in the world’s finest bakeries. Wash your kaleidoscope of cupcakes down with a fabulous selection of teas and coffees, with flavoured milks available for the little ones.
Indonesian Tea
Holland America Line has a rich Indonesian history, with its colonial past still influencing operations to this day. The Indonesian Tea is just one of the ways the line honours its heritage with the Southeast Asian nation. Not only is the spread scrumptious but it’s also served up by crew decked out in traditional batik Indonesian dress. Holland America Line creates a magnificent ambience by playing the exotic sounds of the Angklung instrument while pouring a variety of regional teas including Indonesian green, black and jasmine. Coffee buffs will love the chance to sample Sumatra and Celebes brews while sweets take on a tasty tropical theme, with mango fritters, chocolate rice sponge cake and divine coconut rice balls some of our personal favourites.
Royal Dutch Tea
Of course, the Holland America Line high tea programme simply wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the line’s Danish heritage. The Royal Dutch Tea is an extravagant affair, influenced by a blend of British and Danish traditions. Think freshly made finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, indulgent petit desserts and an impressive choice of fine teas.
Enjoy High Tea on the High Seas Today
Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits: Blake Danger Bentley, Clever Cupcakes