Veendam Sails South America

With South America emerging as one of the top destinations for cruises, coupled with the demand for passengers who wish to experience this part of the world in a more intimate and premium fashion, Veendam is set to cruise South America for the fall 2009 and the winter and spring 2010 season. By the time that Veendam embarks on its sailings in South America, it will have undergone extensive renovations that include a new resort pool, innovative lanai staterooms, new entertainment and enrichment options, all new stateroom décor and more. The newly refurbished vessel will join ms Prinsendam which is also sailing South America and Antarctica in 2010.

The 10 sailings aboard the Veendam range from 16 to 20 days. In addition to port-intensive itineraries, guests will experience some of the most scenic cruising in the world as the Veendam navigates around the continent’s fjords and glaciers. Additionally, she will spend more time in ports than most major cruise lines and is the only premium cruise line offering overnights in Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires on select cruises.

“We have seen an increase in travelers who wish to take a South America cruise aboard a premium, mid-sized ship,’ said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. “With the newly renovated ms Veendam sailing South America in 2009 and 2010, and the ms Prinsendam, our 793-guest Elegant Explorer, we are perfectly poised to meet travelers” discriminating demands as well as provide a premium, enriching and unforgettable experience to this remarkable continent.”

For those who want to extend their vacation, Holland America Line offers several pre- and post-cruise land tours. Guests can opt to spend an extra night or two in Rio de Janeiro and Santiago de chile. Guests also can take overland tours ranging from two to five days to the famed ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, Iguaçu Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, and Chile’s wine country.

Opportunity to explore historic Machu Picchu
Veendam’s first South America sailing departs San Diego, October 31, 2009, on a 19-day journey to Valparaiso, Chile, that takes guests to a variety of colorful ports in Mexico and Central America before making its way to Manta, Ecuador; Salaverry, Peru; and an overnight in Callao (Lima), Peru. While in Salaverry, guests may board a flight to take advantage of Holland America Line’s optional, three-day, two-night shore excursion to one of the new seven wonders of the world: Machu Picchu.

Itinerary offers abundant scenic cruising
Departing Valparaiso November 19, 2009, and March 7, 2010, Veendam sails a 16-day South America Explorer cruise that is among the most scenic in South America. Ports of call include Ushuaia, Argentina, the town at the end of the world; Montevideo, Uruguay; Punta Arenas, Chile; and Puerto Montt, Chile. With an overnight in Buenos Aires, guests can take in a tango show or visit the legendary Iguaçu Falls. Veendam sails the reverse itinerary from Rio de Janeiro to Valparaiso on December 5, 2009, as well as February 19 and March 23, 2010.

Antarctica 20-day cruise Veendam departs December 21, 2009, on a special holiday cruise and again, January 10 and January 30, 2010 - at the height of the austral summer - for a 20-day Antarctica voyage. Cruises for December 21 and January 30, begin in Valparaiso and end in Rio de Janeiro. The January 10 cruise sails the reverse itinerary. These cruises offer the ultimate blend of exotic ports and scenic cruising with calls in Puerto Montt and Punta Arenas, Chile, as well as Ushuaia, Argentina. Following the rounding of Cape Horn, a nautical milestone, the ship continues to Antarctica, where glaciers adorned with penguins welcome the ship. Antarctica’s pristine beauty and diverse sea life are showcased as Veendam spends three days exploring this mysterious and remote continent. Veendam also pays calls in Stanley, Falkland Islands, Buenos Aires (the Paris of South America) and Montevideo, Uruguay.

17-day South America-to-Fort Lauderdale 2010 crossing, includes Panama Canal transit
On April 8, 2010, Veendam ends its seasonal cruises in South America, departing Valparaiso for a 17-day journey that sails the western coast of South America as well as a transit through the Panama Canal. Overnights in Callao, Peru, and Fuerte Amador, Panama, give guests more time ashore to discover the myriad cultural flavors of the countries. An optional overland tour to Machu Picchu is also offered on this sailing. During this cruise, the Veendamcalls at six ports throughout Chile, Peru, and Ecuador before transiting the 51-mile, man-made marvel, the Panama Canal. After calling at Holland America Line’s award-winning private island, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Veendam ends its cruise in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where guests can opt to spend an extra night or two in post-cruise land tours.

For a 2009 South America cruise brochure or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-800-522-3399 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Official Press Release Holland America Line dated 10th October 2008.

New Pinnacle Grill Menu

The Pinnacle Grill, the exclusive, reservations-only dining venue on all Holland America Line ships, debuts a tantalizing new menu this fall. Created by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin and introduced with rave reviews on ms Eurodam earlier this summer, the expanded menu introduces new Pacific Northwest specialty entrees and adds creations ranging from lobster “mac & cheese” to Colorado lamb chops.

Delectable seafood dishes include broiled, troll-caught salmon, broiled or poached lobster tail, cedar-planked black cod with shrimp scampi and the Master Chef’s interpretation of surf-and-turf: filet mignon and jumbo prawns on whipped potatoes with garlic rosemary beurre blanc.

Selected cuts of prime hand-selected beef continue to highlight the Pinnacle’s menu in innovative preparations and presentation. Guests can select from five prime cuts of steak rubbed with special Holland America Culinary Collection seasoning, grilled and served with hand-crafted sauces such as Master Chef’s green peppercorn classic hollandaise. They can also opt for the time-honored classic of Filet Steak Diane, a grilled veal chop marinated overnight in a savory blend of rosemary, garlic and pepper vinegar with scallions, or oven-baked chicken breast stuffed with spinach and garlic herb cheese.

“Master Chef Sodamin has designed this new menu to offer our guests a wider range of dishes and flavors,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “The restaurant is such a popular spot that we want to keep it fresh with much variety and allow guests to dine several nights a cruise as many like to do. The menu continues to highlight Holland America’s Pacific Northwest roots while adding innovative accents to heighten the Pinnacle Grill dining experience.”

Intriguing appetizers include the Pinnacle Ocean Platter - carpaccio of lightly smoked salmon, hot smoked salmon, sea scallops and wasabi cream - and Dungeness crab cakes with spiral shaved cucumber and sweet chili-mustard sauce. French onion soup King Louis XV, lobster bisque, jumbo shrimp cocktail, vine-ripened beefsteak tomato salad, baby arugula salad and Caesar salad prepared tableside are also offered.

Dazzling desserts featuring Pacific Northwest ingredients include warm Grand Marnier Chocolate Volcano Cake, chocolate or vanilla velvet soufflé creamy homemade raspberry cheesecake and Not-so-Classic Baked Alaska. Chocolate and raisin bread pudding, créme brulee, fresh seasonal fruits and berries and a variety of ice creams, sorbets and international cheeses complete the dessert menu.

The Pinnacle Grill’s wine list features an extensive selection of premium Pacific Northwest wines, French champagnes, port and dessert wines. It also offers Wine Flights, which let guests sample four selected wines during their meal. A Harvest White Sangria featuring Northwest apples, cherries, peaches and lemons in Sauvignon Blanc wine is another new addition.

The Pinnacle Grill is an elegantly appointed, alternative-dining venue on all Holland America Line ships. Featuring distinctive Bvlgari china, Frette linens and elegant Riedel stemware, the Pinnacle Grill is ideal for a romantic dinner for two or elegant dining for a group celebration. Guests need to make reservations and pay a modest surcharge of $20 per person for dinner and $15 for lunch.

For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Official Press Release Holland America Line dated 9th October 2008.

Explorations Team Introduced

With today’s traveler looking for more enriching experiences and activities, Holland America Line has broadened its onboard programming with the new Explorations Team. As part of the premium line’s ongoing Signature of Excellence initiative, the Explorations Team will be comprised of event staff with specific, niche expertise ranging from technology to travel who will offer guests a menu of “edutainment” programs.

The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be a cohesive team dedicated to enhancing the overall cruise experience and includes an onboard party planner, a travel guide, a “techspert” and dance directors. On cruises lasting 12-days or more, a book club leader will also join the team.

“People learn through experience and our guests are looking for programs, events and activities they can personally connect with,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Our goal is not only to entertain guests but to offer them the opportunity to learn a new skill or discover something about a new port or country; the choice is theirs, and the Explorations Team is in place to facilitate that choice.”

The onboard party planner will schedule, implement and host events in the Culinary Arts Center, significantly expanding the innovative program which already brings more than 70 culinary experts on board each year for cooking demonstrations and seminars. The line has invested more than $14 million in the professional show kitchens found on each ship and will use the space for more activities such as wine tasting, craft classes, floral arranging, and table and lifestyle presentations such as creating the line’s beloved towel animals.

The travel guide will host lectures and be a one-stop source for information on the various ports of call. A destination expert, the travel guide will be available throughout the cruise to interact with guests on a one-on-one basis, answer questions, and give presentations on the destination’s history, culture and geography. On Grand Voyages and on ms Prinsendam, rotating guest speakers fill the role of travel guide.

The “techspert” will be on hand to teach guests how to take advantage of technology, whether helping guests make the most of their vacation photos, arranging a digital scrapbook, blogging, creating a slideshow or editing a movie. Classes and personal workshops will be available throughout the cruise. Novices can learn about web 2.0 and how to work with digital photos. Those with more experience will enjoy the opportunity to learn new shortcuts and techniques.

Dance directors show guests how to dance the night away. Classes are available throughout each cruise. Whether teaching line dancing in the Crow’s Nest or ballroom dancing in the Ocean Bar, the dance instructors will ensure guests of all experience levels enjoy themselves while learning new steps. After class, guests will find dance events on the ship’s activity schedule where they may show off their new moves.

On cruises lasting 12 or more days, a book club leader will host lively book discussions in the Explorations Café powered by the New York Times. Book titles will be posted online before the cruise so guests interested in joining the discussion will have time to read the chosen book. The book club leader will plan and facilitate two to three discussions for each book. Books chosen will relate to the sailing destination whether by author or topic. For example, on an Australian itinerary the book may be “In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson or in Asia, ‘Saving Fish from Drowning: A Novel by Amy Tan.”

With the addition of this new team of experts, Holland America Line guests now will have even more memories to take home from their cruise plus the personal experiences that have enriched their lives to share with family and friends. The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be implemented fleet-wide.

This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line’s ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry-dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry-dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships will also introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.

For a cruise brochure or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Official Press Release Holland America Line dated 2nd October 2008.

Holland America Sails Scandinavia

Holland America Line’s flagship, ms Rotterdam, will sail two new six-day Scandinavian itineraries in July 2009. Ideal for travelers eager for a shorter getaway, the two round-trip sailings feature spectacular scenic cruising and explore Sweden, Denmark and Norway.

“Given our legacy in Rotterdam, we are thrilled to be sailing in and out of this magnificent port, right past our original headquarters, now the Hotel New York,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. “It’s a unique and unforgettable experience to watch Rotterdam’s citizens cheering at our arrivals and departures.”

Departing July 18, 2009, from Rotterdam, Netherlands, the ship calls at some of the Baltic’s best-known ports: Helsingborg, Sweden; Copenhagen, Denmark and Oslo, Norway, before returning to Rotterdam. A 22-hour stay in the Danish capital enables guests to meander through the streets of Copenhagen or enjoy a leisurely dinner at a sidewalk café before returning to the ship.

The second sailing, departing Rotterdam July 24, explores the coast of Norway with calls at Flam, Bergen and Stavanger. Two days of scenic cruising in Norway - the first in Sognafjord and Aurlandsfjord, and the second at Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock - will delight nature enthusiasts and amateur photographers alike.

“These new six-day cruises are perfect for the traveler who wants a shorter premium vacation and to discover some of Scandinavia’s most beautiful and memorable towns and seascapes,” added Meadows.

Cruise fares for the two six-day, roundtrip Rotterdam voyages begin at $869 per person, double occupancy.

12-Day cruise-or an 18-day Collectors’ Voyage - available for those who wish to explore Baltic in more depth
Holland America Line also offers two extended cruise options for those who want to see more of Northern Europe and to receive a more in-depth discovery of Scandinavia and the Baltic.

Departing on July 18, guests can combine the two six-day itineraries for a 12-day cruise that sails to a variety of ports and includes scenic cruising through Norway’s most picturesque fjords and has only one overlapping call at Rotterdam. Pricing for the 12-day cruise begins at $1,629 per person, double occupancy.

The six day, July 24 sailing, can be combined with the following 12-day, July 30 sailing, for an 18-day Collectors’ Voyage. The Collectors’ Voyage includes calls at Oslo, Norway, Århus, Denmark, Warnemünde (Berlin), Germany, Tallinn, Estonia, and two days in St. Petersburg, Russia. While in St. Petersburg, guests will have plenty of time to explore such iconic treasures as the Hermitage Museum, the palace of Czarina Catherine the Great and the cathedrals of St. Petersburg. The Collectors’ Voyage then continues its journey to Helsinki, Finland, Stockholm, Sweden, scenic cruising of Stockholm Archipelago and disembarks in Copenhagen, Denmark. Pricing for the 18-day Collectors’ Voyage begins at $2,399, per person, double occupancy. Taxes and fuel supplement are additional on all fares.

The Holland America Line premium cruise experience At the heart of every Holland America cruise is a warm and award-winning style of service. With As You Wish dining®, the onboard culinary experience gives options to suit every taste. Guests can choose a classic fixed seating and dining time or a flexible, open seating schedule. And alternative dining always is available, including the elegant Pinnacle Grill and relaxed Lido Restaurant.

Culinary staff and guest chefs lead cooking classes and demonstrations in the onboard Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine, and, as part of the Explorations Speaker Series, special guest lecturers sail on each cruise to offer enriching perspectives on regional art, history and culture. The Explorations Café - powered by the New York Times - enables guests to stay connected to loved ones. Guests are also assured a good night’s sleep with the Mariner’s Dream stateroom amenities, including luxurious beds and linens.

When in port, guests can choose from a diversity of shore excursions including the exclusive Medallion Collection featuring Overland Adventures, Signature Collection private-car touring, visits to natural, architectural and technical masterpieces from the Wonders of the World Collection and rare and unusual experiences with the Encore Collection excursions.

For cruise brochures or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Official Press Release Holland America Line dated 30th September 2008.

Staterooms Undergo New Decor

Five Holland America Line ships will soon undergo individual month-long dry docks at a total cost of approximately $200 million. The most dramatic alterations during the latest Signature of Excellence enhancements will result in an additional 32 verandah staterooms added to the aft portion of each ship. In addition, 46 new innovative lanai staterooms will allow guests direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck and on four ships verandahs will be installed on 12 staterooms on Deck 9 forward.

On the five ships, ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam, forty-six staterooms on the Lower Promenade deck will become a new lanai category stateroom with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade. Décor in the lanai staterooms will reflect elements of nature with soothing earth-tones.

Fifteen new Spa Staterooms will be created from existing staterooms, except on the Rotterdam where 23 staterooms on Verandah deck will be transformed into spa staterooms. The rooms, so named because of their proximity to the Greenhouse Spa and Salon and special in-room spa amenities, offer their own ambiance, providing unmatched relaxation, privacy and serenity. Décor reflects the natural elements of the earth with soft earth-tone hues and light, fresh accent colors echoing nature’s own. Soothing patterns adorn the bed runner and pillows and graphite-colored carpeting tie together all the elements. A counter-top water feature in each stateroom provides a natural, ambient background sound and artwork reflects serene images in nature. Exclusive spa treatments are offered only in these staterooms.

“By adding or enhancing staterooms with verandahs and lanais, we’re able to better meet the guests” demand for balcony accommodations,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. “The latest Signature of Excellence installment enhances our premium product and the stateroom modifications update the layout and décor of the rooms while remaining elegant.”

Ship capacities will change as a result of the additional staterooms. All five ships also will add a varying number of inside staterooms. Guest capacity on Rotterdam will be 1,404 and capacity on Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam Veendam will be 1,350.

As part of this next phase of Signature of Excellence, all staterooms and their bathrooms will be enhanced. All staterooms will receive new soft goods including carpet, and desks and vanities will be resurfaced. Decorative wall sconces, drapery and accent pillows will add a touch of modern elegance to the new décor.

Outside and inside staterooms will be redecorated in rich earth hues complimented by accents of sienna and gold. New soft goods include a rich, olive-colored sofa with decorative pillows, chairs reupholstered in gold chenille, and a bed runner with a design inspired by nature.

Suites will have a contemporary color scheme with a traditional twist. A rich, dark carpet and chocolate-colored leather sofa contrast with light golden tones of soft goods and maple casework. Accent colors of reddish-orange punctuate sofa pillows, chairs and the bed runner. Sheer cream-colored draperies are light and airy with imprints of gold leaves.

This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line”s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.

For a cruise brochure or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Official Press Release (Abridged) Holland America Line dated 25th September 2008.

World Cruise Night Incentives

To assist travel sellers, Holland America Line will provide promotions, sales tools and special incentives in support of the fourth annual World’s Largest Cruise Night (WLCN) to be held on October 16. In addition to three-day special fares, the premium line will feature promotional materials that include e-tools on successful selling and a guide on how to create profitable cruise nights.

As a further incentive to plan WLCN events, Holland America Line is unveiling a sweepstakes, with a grand prize of a Caribbean cruise for two. The company’s reservations hours will be expanded October 16 until midnight Eastern time to provide real-time booking assistance to close sales immediately at cruise nights.

“The World’s Largest Cruise Night event creates sales momentum and gives travel sellers a focus for fall cruise promotions,”said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Holland America Line is committed to supporting travel agents and helping them achieve success with innovative tools, incentives and accessibility to our reservations department.”

Holland America Line is equipping agents with materials to help plan and support their WLCN events, including mini-brochures on the company and cruise brand, cruise planners, 60 Second to Success fliers and A Guide to Profitable Cruise Nights. “Our sales team use Profitable Cruise Nights guides to ensure that agents have all their bases covered when it comes to implementing all the important aspects of a Cruise Night,”said Meadows. Electronic tools available at www.travelagentheadquarters.com include an e-version of 60 Seconds to Success, e-mail invitations inviting clients to attend cruise events, and a host of other collateral materials.

Travel agents will also be equipped with a wide array of booking incentives to help close sales from October 15 to 17. Special fares will be communicated to travel agents on a wide variety of destinations, such as Alaska, Caribbean and Europe. All guests who book from October 15 through 17 will receive reduced deposit amounts of $100 to $300, depending on cruise length, to hold bookings.

As a reward for their WLCN sales efforts, agents will be entered into a drawing for a Caribbean/Mexico cruise for two for every booking made from October 15 to 17, with a second prize of ten $100 Starbucks cards.

On Thursday, October 16, the line”s 46 business development managers in the U.S. and Canada will participate with local travel agencies in their territories. The line will launch five On Stage Alaska presentations for WLCN agent cruise nights. The live events deliver exciting overviews of Alaska cruises and tour options with performances by couples that entertain, sing and relay stories about the Great Land. Holland America Line will also showcase its Explorer series of motor coaches at select agency WLCN events.

Agents are encouraged to take advantage of the wide variety of sales tools and incentives that are at their disposal for WLCN promotions, including an enhanced Holland America Line Cruise Night Planning Kit. During the World”s Largest Cruise Night promotion, travel agents can conveniently book their clients using POLAR online, where they can make a booking in seven easy steps, including booking and managing groups.

For more information, contact your sales representative, call 800-544-0443 or visit www.travelagentheadquarters.com.

Official Press Release (Abridged) Holland America Line dated 25th September 2008.

Shore Excursions e-Brochure

Holland America Line has launched a new Shore Excursion e-Brochure online system for its guests to view and print shore excursion information for booked cruises. Now, a cruise guest can receive up-to-the minute, personalized information that is specific to the guest’s cruise itinerary. This technological Web enhancement allows guests to access and update any shore excursion that applies to their cruise itinerary on a 24/7 basis.

“We strive to personalize each guest’s experience and to endeavor to make their interaction with us as easy and enriching as possible,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “By giving our guests the flexibility of printing an e-brochure with their shore excursion options that is tailored specifically to their cruise itinerary, we are able to present the exact information they need - when they need it. Additionally, more and more of our guests applaud our online efforts from an environmental standpoint.”

Besides tailoring the Shore Excursion e-Brochures to each guest’s ship and sail date, the online versions offer readers the same useful information as the print versions but with two newly added and helpful features: tour pricing and excursion departure times.

How the online system works By visiting the Shore Excursion page on Holland America’s Web site (www.hollandamerica.com), booked guests simply need to input their booking number and last name, click on the “View Your Personalized Shore Excursion Brochure” link and a personalized e-brochure will immediately download. The Shore Excursion e-Brochure will present the guest’s name and all available shore excursions for the guest’s booked cruise. Guests have the option of continuing their shore excursion viewing online, printing their personalized Shore Excursion e-Brochure for review at a later date or booking their tours immediately. Additionally, guests may review their personalized Shore Excursion e-Brochure from six months to a year before their cruise departure date rather than waiting for a hard-copy version that accompanies guests’ cruise documents 30 - 60 days from their cruise departure date. In the five weeks since the Shore Excursion e-Brochure online system has gone live, 20,470 guests have downloaded an e-brochure.

“With the launch of Shore Excursion e-Brochures we’ve created a way that our guests can leisurely review their shore excursion options in a much timelier manner. This allows guests to book early and to help avoid possible disappointment should the tours that pique their interests potentially sell out,” said Meadows.

For more information on cruises and shore excursions, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-724-5425 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Official Press Release (Abridged) Holland America Line dated 24th September 2008.

HAL New Martini Menu

Holland America Line has introduced a new menu of martini cocktails on board its fleet of 14 ships. Featured on the menu are 19 Grey Goose martinis and a sampler platter of mini, specialty martinis called the martini flight. Showcasing mixology at its best, a new martini flight will feature six of the menus premier martinis.

The martini flight includes Holland America Line’s signature martini, the Yellow Tulip, a mixture of Grey Goose vodka, lychee juice, pineapple juice, guava juice, coconut cream and fresh lime juice. Other martinis included in the flight are the Peartini, Cosmopolitan, Sunshine Martini, Rum Sundae and High Tide Martini. A house specialty will be a signature Martini for Two with aged Cognac served with a dish of caviar and traditional garnishes. Holland America Line’s new martini menu will be featured in the Explorer’s Bar on its newest ship, ms Eurodam, in the Pinnacle Grill Bar of its Vista-class ships and in the Ocean Bar on ms Amsterdam, ms Maasdam, ms Rotterdam, ms Ryndam, ms Statendam, ms Veendam, ms Volendam and ms Zaandam.

“We are constantly exploring new and inventive ways to enhance our onboard offerings be that entertainment, culinary or with innovative cocktails,’ said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “The martini menu offers a wide variety of imaginative, sophisticated cocktails that will appeal to our guests.”

Launched as a precursor to the highly anticipated Martinis that will be a part of the upcoming Mix specialty theme bar area, Holland America Line’s new martini menu was inspired to infuse a new splash of sophistication to its already popular bars and lounges. Mix incorporates three specialty theme bars - Martinis, Champagne, and Spirits & Ales. These enhancements are part of a new $200-million Signature of Excellence upgrade to ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam.

For new Signature of Excellence upgrades, the first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships also will introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)]
Holland America Line’s fleet of 14 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to 314 ports of call in 97 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, including Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; a Grand World Voyage; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal. A 14th ship, ms Eurodam, will launch in July 2008. For more information, contact a travel agent or call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements, totaling more than $425 million, that showcase the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine - a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes - Explorations Café powered by The New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner’s Dream Beds.

World’s Leading Cruise Lines
The highest-rated premium cruise line in the world, Holland America Line is a member of the exclusive World’s Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line and Costa Cruises. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, these lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. The World’s Leading Cruise Lines offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world’s most desirable destinations.

Official Press Release Holland America Line dated 15th September 2008.

HAL Names New Ship

To be delivered in 2010, the 86,000-ton Nieuw Amsterdam will be built at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard and its interior design and art collection will reflect the glamour and history of New York City, formerly called Nieuw Amsterdam.

“The Signature Class marks Holland America Line’s latest series of new-build vessels and with a guest capacity of 2,106 for Nieuw Amsterdam, it reaffirms our commitment to the mid-sized cruise ship market,” said Stein Kruse, president and CEO, Holland America Line. “This name has a rich heritage in our company with this ship being our fourth in 135 years. We are proud to extend this illustrious ship name to our current fleet.”

The first Nieuw Amsterdam was launched in 1906 and used both a full set of sails and steam engines. She was 17,149 tons and carried 2,886 passengers, 2,200 of them in third class. She sailed in regular service through World War I and then through to 1932.

The famed Nieuw Amsterdam II joined the fleet in 1938 as the company’s flagship. The silhouette of this ship can still be seen today behind Henry Hudson’s Half Moon in the company’s logo. At 36,287 tons, “the Darling of the Dutch,” as she was known, was decorated in great style and was launched by Her Majesty Queen Wilhemina of the Netherlands. Nieuw Amsterdam II served proudly in World War II completing 44 war time voyages carrying nearly 400,000 passengers (mostly troops). Following the war, she was rebuilt and, as the queen of Holland America Line’s “spotless fleet,” hosted countless well-known figures among her guests, including Katherine Hepburn, Rita Hayworth, Spencer Tracey and Albert Schweitzer.

Nieuw Amsterdam III was launched in 1983 as one of the most elegant ships of her time. At 33,900 tons, Nieuw Amsterdam III sailed in Alaska in the summers and in the Caribbean in the winters.

“With innovative design and guest offerings, Nieuw Amsterdam IV will continue the proud tradition of her name and continue to evolve of Holland America Line’s sophisticated mid-sized ships and further our premium leadership position,” said Kruse.

Previous new-build series include the four-ship Statendam Class group, four-ship Rotterdam Class and four-ship Vista Class. The line also owns and operates the 793-passenger Elegant Explorer, ms Prinsendam. The first Signature Class vessel, ms Eurodam, joined the fleet in July 2008.

Eurodam, and now Nieuw Amsterdam, further define and expand the Holland America Line premium brand with new concepts such as the innovative pan-Asian Tamarind restaurant and Silk Den lounge surrounded by panoramic views overlooking the ocean expanse and the Lido pool. Other additions are an Explorer’s Lounge Bar, a premium wine-tasting lounge, an elegant luxury jewelry boutique, new atrium bar area, enhanced and reconfigured show lounge, and a new photographic and imaging center.

Nieuw Amsterdam will feature 11 guest decks and staterooms will spotlight all the Signature of Excellence premium amenities of plush Euro-top Mariner’s Dream Beds, deluxe waffle/terry cloth robes, Egyptian cotton towels, flat panel TVs, dvd players, make-up mirrors with halo lighting, massage shower heads, professional grade hair dryers, fresh flowers and complimentary fruit baskets. The ship will also feature innovative spa staterooms with additional spa amenities.

The ship will continue several much-admired Holland America Line features, including outside-view, glass elevators at midship; the Explorations Cafe — a cyber-coffee house powered by The New York Times; the Pinnacle Grill and Pinnacle Bar; the innovative Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine Magazine, where culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and intimate classes in a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchens; an expanded Greenhouse Spa and Salon with thermal suites and hydro-pool, the largest gymnasium ever built for Holland America Line; and a youth facility that includes the teens-only Loft. In addition the ship will feature the family-style Canaletto’s Italian restaurant.

On the technical side, Signature Class ships will feature the latest state-of-the-art navigation and safety systems including dynamic positioning abilities to hold the ship in a precise position. The vessels will be powered by six diesel generators and propelled by the latest Azipod propulsion technology.

“This new class of ships demonstrates the strength of our brand, the loyalty of our guests and the dedication of our more than 16,000 employees worldwide,” said Kruse. “The added capacity will provide greater opportunities for our guests and employees alike.”

Official Press Release Holland America Line dated 10th September 2008.

HAL $200 Million Enhancements

As part of its ongoing Signature of Excellence, Holland America Line is doubling the amount to be spent in upgrades, enhancements and new features on five of the line’s most popular ships. Over the next two years, the ms Statendam, ms Ryndam, ms Maasdam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam will undergo extensive dry docks to create new venues, new staterooms, new décor and more. The 18-month, $200 million program will begin when Veendam enters an extended dock in spring 2009, and the last ship is slated for completion in late 2010.

The investment in this new series of enhancements will include a new resort pool concept, innovative lanai staterooms, new entertainment and enrichment options, all new stateroom décor and more. Holland America Line’s commitment to enhancing its premium fleet now exceeds $525 million.

Signature of Excellence features and amenities are evident in every aspect of the Holland America Line cruise experience, offering guests more luxurious accommodations, more enticing destinations, enhanced dining experiences, more creative activities and even higher levels of service.

Previously, during the first phase of Signature of Excellence, these five ships were enhanced with the Explorations Café, Culinary Arts Center, expanded Club HAL youth facilities and more. This next installment reinforces Holland America Line’s commitment to its popular mid-sized ships. The enhancements will add more verandah staterooms, introduce a new category of stateroom, expand the Lido Deck’s pool feature with The Retreat, create a showroom at sea and upgrade staterooms, bathrooms and fixtures.

“Holland America Line has long been the leader in the premium cruise segment,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president of sales, marketing and guest services. “This significant and continued investment reaffirms our commitment to our fleet of mid-sized ships and our ongoing leadership in the premium category by continually raising the bar in terms of products and services.

“In an era where cruise lines are building ships to carry more than 5,000 passengers, Holland America Line remains focused on mid-sized vessels,” said Meadows. “These enhancements will blend the latest innovations for premium travel into our ships, creating a deluxe experience that is unparalleled.”

The most dramatic alteration will be to the aft portion of the ships, allowing for a new resort-style pool area on Lido deck called The Retreat with a shallow area where guests may lounge in chairs and dip their fingers and toes in the water or relax on the bench and dangle their legs in the refreshing water. A new pool bar and an upscale pizzeria called Slice will be installed, as well as a canopy and wind screens to provide additional covered seating for the Lido Restaurant.

All staterooms will receive new décor, carpeting and soft goods. Each ship also will have an additional 44 to 46 staterooms, 32 with verandahs and the remaining will be inside staterooms. On the four S-class ships, twelve staterooms near the spa (on Deck 9) also will have verandahs added, and along with three inside staterooms, become ’spa staterooms’ featuring a variety of enhanced spa amenities. On the Rotterdam, 23 staterooms on Verandah deck will become spa staterooms. On the five ships, forty-six new lanai staterooms will be created by replacing existing windows of 42 staterooms (on Lower Promenade Deck 6) with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade, and adding four additional staterooms.

The program also involves enhancements to several of the public rooms. A Merabella luxury jewelry shop will be added. The Casino and Piano bars will be reconfigured into a multi-themed area called Mix with three separate bars - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Next door, the high-energy casino will be redesigned highlighting the always trendy table and slot games. The main show space will be transformed into the Showroom at Sea with the ambiance of a glamorous nightclub. The ever-popular Ocean Bar will be refurbished and carpets will be replaced in most public areas. The new Sky Room on Sports Deck will feature the latest in multi-generational video games and high-tech entertainment.

Entertainment and enrichment, or “edutainment,” is taking on a new, contemporary look and feel across the fleet. A new Explorations Team employs cruise staff, each specializing in a particular area, to educate and entertain guests with an expanded menu of activities including flower arranging, hands-on cooking, dancing and working with digital photos, blogs and movies. Each team consists of a party planner, a travel guide, dance directors and a “techspert.” On longer cruises, a book club leader joins the team to lead lively group discussions.

Renowned for service levels provided by its award-winning staff, the program will also include significant crew area enhancements including a new fitness facility, internet centers, staterooms and recreational areas.

The industry-leading Signature of Excellence initiative announced nearly five years ago in November 2003 has evolved into an ongoing and comprehensive review of every aspect of the Holland America Line experience. Signature of Excellence is Holland America Line’s brand promise and continues to bring innovation and relevance to guests.

Signature of Excellence: By the Numbers
Statistics on Signature of Excellence to date include:

More than 2,000 people (including Holland America Line staff, shipyard workers, contractors and ship personnel) have tested and retested hundreds of items to ensure quality, coordinated delivery schedules and complex installations.
10 million hours worked in dry-dock.
1.2 million pounds of steel installed on the ships.
695,743 luxury items added to staterooms, from Mariner’s Dream beds and bathrobes to make-up mirrors and new blow dryers.
49,372 pieces of electronic equipment, from televisions to CD players, DVD players to computers, installed on the 13 ships.
27,000 book titles added to Explorations Cafés. At one book a week, it would take more than 500 years to read them all.
If you stacked all the new Euro-Top plush mattresses, they would reach 21,089 feet high - almost 770 feet higher than the summit of Alaska’s Mt. McKinley.
254 nautical miles of electrical cable installed on the ships - enough to reach from Ft. Lauderdale to just off shore of Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s private Caribbean island.
170 new ways to explore destinations on the Medallion, Signature, World Wonder and Encore Collection shore excursions.
60 nationalities represented by people working in the shipyards - a virtual United Nations.

Official Press Release (Abridged) Holland America Line dated 30th August 2008.

Next Page »