Holland America Line Celebrates Guide Dog Joska’s Legacy
With Special Plaque Ceremony and On Deck for a Cause charity walksHolland America Line Celebrates Guide Dog Joska’s Legacy
Submitted by: Travel Writer & Photographer: Judi Cohen -Traveling Judi, Photos credit Holland America Line
On May 2, Holland America Line hosted a special ceremony onboard Rotterdam to honor Joska (pronounced “YO-skuh”), the first service dog to become a 5-Star Mariner and receive the prestigious Platinum Medallion from the cruise line. Joska, who passed away in February at the age of 12, was more than just a guide dog; she was a beloved companion to Cornelia and Cornelis Marinussen, spending much of her life aboard Holland America Line ships with her human family.
Joska enabled the Marinussens to explore destinations like the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, the Caribbean and everywhere in between. She was a regular fixture on board, warming the hearts of crew members on every ship she sailed aboard.
Joska was also present at significant Holland America Line milestones, including the cruise line’s 150th anniversary celebration in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, in April 2023.
To commemorate Joska’s life of service and loyalty to the Marinussens, Holland America Line unveiled a special plaque aboard Rotterdam in the elevator bay next to the ship’s atrium, ensuring memories of Joska live on.
“We are deeply honored that Holland America Line is commemorating Joska’s life in such a meaningful way,” said Cornelis and Cornelia Marinussen, Joska’s owners. “Joska spent more than 900 nights aboard Holland America Line ships, forging friendships with guests and crew on every voyage. Knowing that her legacy will continue with Holland America Line is truly heartwarming.”
In a touching tribute to Joska’s remarkable life, Holland America Line also announced a new charitable initiative. Funds raised from the cruise line’s On Deck for a Cause walks taking place on Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam during the summer sailing season will support the KNFG Geleidehonden, the Royal Dutch Guide Dog Foundation.
Holland America Line’s On Deck for a Cause walks are non-competitive 5k fundraising walks held on each cruise. Guests are invited to participate and donate to the Holland America Line Foundation, which supports various charities.
Contact a Cruises-N-More cruise specialist at 800-733-2048 (toll-free USA/Canada), +1-407-771-4454, 0-808-189-1292 (toll-free U.K.), or 800-076-002 (toll-free Australia).
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Cover photo: Holland America remembrance ceremony Joska placque, credit HAL
Submitted by : Travel Writer & Photographer: Judi Cohen -Traveling Judi, Photos credit Holland America Line
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