At Sea - October 29, 2026

A Royal Evening at Sea – Koningstafel

Last night we were in for a real treat, something a little different from our usual onboard dining experience. It was our evening at Koningstafel – The King’s Table!

Depending on the length of a cruise, this is a very limited offering, with just one sitting and room for only 12 guests. On our 35-day voyage, it was offered only once, so when reservations first became available back in May, I made sure we secured our places. This is one of those experiences you don’t want to miss!

We often refer to experiences like this as our version of a shore excursion, except that for us, this particular excursion takes place right here on the ship.

The evening begins with a selection of appetizers accompanied by a specially themed welcome drink. Once everyone has had an opportunity to mingle and enjoy the refreshments, we are gathered together and escorted through the ship and into the galley for an exclusive behind-the-scenes kitchen tour. It’s always interesting to see where all those wonderful meals are prepared and to appreciate the organization, teamwork and sheer scale of the operation that goes into feeding everyone aboard.

From there, we make our way to the King’s Room, where group photographs are taken before we are escorted to the dining room and our individually placarded seats at the King’s Table.

And then the magic begins!

Our maître d’ Dwi and Cellar Master, Jacques, takes us through each course, explaining what is being presented and, just as importantly, introducing the wine selected to complement it. There is clearly a great deal of thought and preparation that goes into matching each wine with its accompanying dish.

The evening gets underway with a rather spectacular smoked-infused champagne, setting the tone for what is to come.

Each course is presented with a little ceremony. Six or seven members of the wait staff parade out of the kitchen carrying the dishes, and with a simple nod from the maître d’, everyone is served simultaneously. It is quite something to watch, almost like a perfectly choreographed dance. The timing, coordination and attention to detail are impressive, and everyone receives their course at precisely the same time.

Seven courses in total, each one beautifully presented, accompanied by its carefully selected wine, and introduced with just enough explanation to make the experience that much more enjoyable.

A little history behind the name is interesting as well. Koningstafel is Dutch for “King’s Table”, a fitting name for an experience that Holland America has created to celebrate its Dutch heritage. The concept was introduced in 2025 as an elevated and reimagined version of the traditional Chef’s Table experience. Rather than simply offering a special dinner, Holland America wanted to give guests a glimpse into the culinary world behind the scenes, bringing together the talents of its chefs, dining staff and wine specialists.

The original Chef’s Table concept has long been a favourite among cruise lines and food enthusiasts, offering guests an opportunity to experience something beyond the regular dining room menu. Holland America’s Koningstafel takes that idea a step further, adding the galley tour, a regal setting, personalized service and the presentation of each course with its accompanying wine. It is a lovely way of combining culinary tradition with a little Dutch flair.

Before we knew it, more than three hours had passed. Seven courses later, everyone was looking very content, with plenty of smiles around the table as we said our good nights.

It was one of those evenings where the food is only part of the experience. The presentation, the service, the camaraderie among the small group and the opportunity to see a little of what happens behind the scenes all contribute to making it special.

A wonderful experience was had by all, and certainly one of those evenings that reminds us why we enjoy these longer Holland America voyages so much.

Another memorable evening aboard the good ship Zaandam!