by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 1:40 PM ET, Fri May 9, 2025
Holland America Line is honoring the life and legacy of Joska, a beloved serve animal and frequent guest aboard the line’s ships.
To celebrate Joska, who died in February at the age of 12, the cruise line hosted a ceremony onboard Rotterdam on May 2.
Holland America Line installed a special plaque in the elevator bay next to the ship’s atrium to commemorate Joska’s life of service and loyalty to her owners Cornelia and Cornelis Marinussen, who are both legally blind.
The cruise line also announced a new charitable initiative in Joska’s honor. Money raised from the cruise line’s On Deck for a Cause walks on Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam during the summer sailing season will go to the KNFG Geleidehonden, the Royal Dutch Guide Dog Foundation.
The organization trains guide dogs for visually impaired individuals and those with other disabilities, including children with autism, people in wheelchairs and those with PTSD. The foundation placed Joska with the Marinussens and also provided them with their current guide dog, Wylou.
With Joska’s support, the Marinussens were able to travel the world, sailing to destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, the Caribbean and beyond. Joska was the first service dog to become a 5-Star Mariner and receive the prestigious Platinum Medallion from the cruise line.
“We are deeply honored that Holland America Line is commemorating Joska's life in such a meaningful way,” said Cornelis and Cornelia Marinussen in a statement. “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.”
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