This bell is a rare and beautiful relic from the S.S. Diemerdyk, a distinguished combination cargo and passenger vessel of the legendary Holland America Line. This Bell is on display at our Hilton Mystic hotel in Mystic, CT.
The Flagship of the Pacific
Launched in 1949, the Diemerdyk was a symbol of post-war maritime elegance. She proudly served as the flagship of the Line’s crucial North Pacific Coast Service, operating an epic, two-month itinerary from Europe to the U.S. and Canadian West Coasts. Her route was a grand tour that included the bustling ports of Rotterdam, London, and New York, before transiting the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal on her way to San Francisco, Seattle, and Vancouver.
An Intimate Journey
The Diemerdyk offered an exclusive, intimate experience. She was beautifully appointed and fully air-conditioned escape for 61 privileged passengers, providing all the comfort and service of a first-class liner while operating on the vital global trade routes. For decades, this ship was a floating embassy and a link between continents. After its service the ship was later decommissioned and it’s vital parts gifted and auctioned. Her beautiful bell was rescued on Cape Cod, Massachusetts by a long time sea captain who at one time skippered the famed liner.
The Tradition of the Bell Resumes
As was practiced during the life of the fine ship the bell was customarily rung at 8am and 5pm daily and tribute given to the host country’s flag where the ship was sailing. In the morning, after the ringing of 8 bells members of the crew and passengers would salute the host nation’s flag. When in United States waters the Pledge of Allegiance was said by any US citizens aboard. It should be noted that only the United States had a pledge to their flag, later adopted by the Philippines. The “Ringing of the Bell” is a tradition we maintain and encourage our youngest mates to join us in this honor creating a beautiful signal to the adventures of a new day!