JAKARTA - The Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has entered its seventh week, has displaced millions of people, in addition to thousands of people being killed and injured in the war between the two countries.
A wave of international aid has also arrived, including from the travel industry, offering assistance to those who have fled Ukraine, including train services, buses, hotels and home entertainment owners in Europe.
Most recently, the cruise ship has also opened its doors to refugees from Ukraine. It is MV Volendam, a cruise ship from Holland America line which has 10 decks 237 meters long and anchors in the Dutch city of Rotterdam, joining forces to provide temporary shelter for up to 1,500 Ukrainian citizens.
"Our crew sees it as a true honor to make Volendam a comfortable and caring environment for a family who has been through so much," the ship's captain, Ryan Whitaker, told CNN Travel.
The Dutch government, which has pledged to host up to 50,000 Ukrainian refugees, contacted Holland America in late March to inquire about chartering the boat as temporary accommodation.
The Volendam has not yet re-entered service following the COVID-19 pandemic, but the ship is fully manned in preparation for its return to a scheduled passenger cruise in May.
Sibrand Hassing, Holland America's director of European fleet operations told CNN Travel the shipping company was eager to help, as it was in a position to accommodate the pressing need for food and housing.
Meanwhile, a spokesman for the City of Rotterdam said there was a "major housing shortage" in the city, meaning individual housing could not currently be offered to Ukrainian refugees.
"Some refugees are staying in hotels, but this is not a long-term solution. That's why we decided to keep a number of these refugees on this ship for the months to come," the spokesman said.
On April 5, 100 Ukrainians boarded Volendam, with many more set to board in the coming days.
Ukrainians staying in Volendam will enjoy a full range of services, from three hot meals a day, to use of the ship's various facilities, including housekeeping, Wi-Fi and a fitness center.
"Our onboard team is renowned for its service and hospitality. We are ready to welcome our new guests, as we welcome guests in our own home," explained captain Ryan Whitaker.
MV Volendam will remain anchored at Merwehaven, a cargo port on Rotterdam's Maas River, for the entire three-month charter period. Those on the ship can disembark whenever they want, including for school.
A spokesman for the City of Rotterdam said city officials were also "working hard to provide education for every Ukrainian child displaced in Rotterdam."
"We hope to reach this goal somewhere in the next few weeks. It will not take place aboard this ship, but at a location somewhere in Rotterdam," the spokesperson explained.
Medical and social care will also be arranged for Ukrainian citizens through local social organizations, including the Salvation Army.
Regarding the COVID-19 regulations in the Netherlands, Holland America said its crew would follow COVID-19 regulations as usual. Those staying on board will be asked to wear masks.
A spokesman for the city of Rotterdam also said Ukrainian refugees would get a general health check when they boarded, with anyone experiencing COVID-like symptoms to be tested. Vaccinations will also be available.
With this humanitarian program, Volendam's upcoming services have been cancelled, with would-be travelers given alternative options. MV Volendam is set to return to regular service in July.
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