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The blessing of the ship's bell is a Holland America Line tradition when welcoming a new ship to the fleet.The blessing of the ship's bell is a Holland America Line tradition when welcoming a new ship to the fleet. Mariner Ambassadors joined Captain Edward van Zaane in pouring champagne over the bell while reciting a classic maritime benediction: "We bless the bell of Nieuw Amsterdam as an extension of this vessel. We wish upon Nieuw Amsterdam fair winds and a following sea. We wish safety for her operation, wisdom for her officers, good health for her crew and comfort for her guests." Holland America Line held the official dedication for Nieuw Amsterdam July 4 in Venice, Italy, followed by the ship's maiden voyage. Her Royal Highness Princess Maxima of the Netherlands served as the ship's godmother. The blessing of the bell ceremony was held during the three-day maiden voyage. After several 12-day Mediterranean sailings, the 2,106-passenger vessel is scheduled to embark on a fall trans-Atlantic crossing to the Caribbean where it will sail seven-day eastern and western itineraries from November 2010 through March 2011.