About Holland America Line

NEWS

Contact PR


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FOR MEDIA

Holland America Line’s fleet of 14 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to 320 ports in more than 100 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, and highlights include 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 15th ship, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, is scheduled to join the fleet in 2010.

Explore the wealth of information about our company, our fleet and our cruise offerings. As always, please contact us at any time if you require additional information.

Media Relations Contact
The following information is for media representatives only.

Holland America Line Inc.
Media Relations
300 Elliott Avenue West
Seattle, WA 98119
Phone: 1-206-281-3535
Toll Free: 1-800-637-5029
Fax: 1-206-281-0351
Email: pr@hollandamerica.com

NEWS

For Media


Print page shown

FOR MEDIA

Holland America Line’s fleet of 14 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to 320 ports in more than 100 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, and highlights include 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 15th ship, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, is scheduled to join the fleet in 2010.

Explore the wealth of information about our company, our fleet and our cruise offerings. As always, please contact us at any time if you require additional information.

Media Relations Contact
The following information is for media representatives only.

Holland America Line Inc.
Media Relations
300 Elliott Avenue West
Seattle, WA 98119
Phone: 1-206-281-3535
Toll Free: 1-800-637-5029
Fax: 1-206-281-0351
Email: pr@hollandamerica.com

NEWS

Multimedia Library


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To help you promote Holland America Line, we will post videos and other media assets here as they are available. Please check back for updates.

NEWS

Travel Advisories


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The Travel Advisories section is where you will find the latest updates on topics of interest for guests of Holland America Line

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Fuel Supplement Update


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June 10, 2009


Carnival Corporation & plc Statement on Reinstatement of Fuel Supplements

MIAMI (June 10, 2009) - At the time we suspended fuel supplements for our six North American brands, we reserved the right to reinstate them if the price of light sweet crude oil, according to the NYMEX, should increase above $70 per barrel. While we have now exceeded that threshold, in light of the economic crisis and resulting consumer weakness, we presently have no plans to institute a fuel supplement. We will continue to monitor the situation in the markets and review our position as the situation warrants.

NEWS

Influenza Protocols


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Holland America Line H1N1 Influenza Protocols

At Holland America Line, the safety, comfort and security of our guests and crew are our top priorities. H1N1 influenza, often referred to as swine influenza, is a respiratory disease that is caused by type A influenza viruses. Some actions we have taken to reduce the risk of guests becoming infected are :

  • Holland America Line enforces the highest of standards for cleaning and sanitizing all our ships and will continue to do so to minimize the spread of any contagious disease.
  • Following Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) guidelines, Holland America Line requires all embarking guests to complete a public health questionnaire and possible health screening by medical staff prior to boarding.
  • Guests who are obviously ill from a contagious infectious disease are not permitted to embark our ships.
  • We monitor the situations in all ports and maintain regular contact with the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization for any updates and advisories that would impact the well being of our guests or the planned visits to any foreign ports.
  • Our ships adhere to CDC guidelines for reporting, treatment and isolation of patients and crew with all types of infectious diseases. When the ships are out of U.S. territorial waters, CDC protocols continue to be followed.
  • Anti-viral medications that effectively treat the H1N1 influenza are currently available on board all Holland America vessels to be used at the discretion of the ship’s physician.
  • We provide educational videos on our ships regarding prevention of the spread of infectious illnesses.


We encourage you to practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of germs.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. This removes germs from your skin and helps prevent diseases from spreading.
  • Use waterless alcohol-based hand gels (containing at least 60% alcohol) when soap is not available and hands are not visibly dirty. The Purell found around the ships is approved for this purpose.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.


Travel agents and guests with questions may contact 1-800-577-1728.

NEWS

CLIA Statements


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CLIA Statements

Holland America Line is a member of the Cruise Lines International Association Inc. (CLIA). CLIA participates in the regulatory and policy development process and promotes measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA advocates industry positions to key domestic and international regulatory organizations, policymakers and other industry partners; actively monitors international shipping policy; and develops recommendations to its membership on a wide variety of issues. Focus areas include: safety, public health, environmental responsibility, security, medical facilities, passenger protection and legislative activities.

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NEWS

Fact Sheets


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CULINARY EXCELLENCE AT SEA


Culinary Variety and Excellence

Holland America Line presents contemporary cuisine including regional specialties, traditional favorites, and itinerary-based dishes designed to appeal to the diverse tastes of discriminating guests. Expect a superb selection of delectable meals from simple to gourmet, prepared with the highest quality ingredients by professional, dedicated, well-trained international culinary staff. Whether enjoying a formal dining experience in the Main Dining Room, an intimate dinner in the exclusive Pinnacle Grill, a comfortable and casual bite in the Lido, a private meal in-room, or a poolside snack, each dish is made according to the highest standards.

Holland America Line Caters to Guests

Every opportunity is taken to spoil guests and make every meal memorable. To that end, many special dinners and culinary events are featured, including an unforgettable Master Chef's Dinner, a Captain's Dinner, an Indonesian lunch and much more. Beautiful rituals revolving around food are available throughout each cruise, including mid-morning ice-tea (on Caribbean itineraries); hot chocolate on the deck (Alaska itineraries), after-dinner cappuccino and espresso in the Explorers Lounge, and afternoon High Tea including, of course, Dutch royal tea and the new Indonesian Afternoon Tea and coffee Ceremony featured once per cruise. During the holidays, guests are provided with
special surprises.

Well-known Master Chef Rudi Sodamin serves as culinary consultant for Holland American Line's fleet of five-star ships. Sodamin is the driving force behind the enhancement of Holland America Line's already superb dining experience and spearheaded the creation and development of a new line of signature menu items as part of the company's unprecedented $425 million Signature of Excellence initiative.

As You Wish ™ dining

As You Wish dining allows guests to choose from the best of both worlds - either traditional pre-set seating and dining times, or a completely flexible dining schedule at a number of different venues.

Dining Options

Main Dining Room
Holland America Lines' Main Dining Rooms offer deluxe dining at its best. The generous menu offers regional favorites, vegetarian options and Greenhouse Spa cuisine. The Daily Alternatives menu category allows guests to choose a simple presentation of fresh fish, chicken or a sirloin steak no matter what else is listed on the menu that evening.

One level of the two-tiered restaurant will offer a flexible/open dining service from 5:15 to 9 p.m. daily, and the other will host two seatings, an early and main seating. Guests with flexible seating may make reservations daily during a cruise up to 4 p.m. or simply walk up anytime during dining hours.

Formal in setting, the Main Dining Rooms feature Rosenthal china, starched linens, silver service and fresh flowers. Guests will be treated to a selection of daily freshly baked goods and breads, and the extensive global wine selection is served by sommeliers.

Pinnacle Grill
Beautifully appointed alternative-dining venues on all Holland America Line ships, the Pinnacle Grill is ideal for a romantic dinner for two or an elegant dining spot for a group celebration. Featuring Pacific Northwest specialties including selected cuts of Sterling Silver beef and superb seafood items, as well as carefully selected wines from renowned Pacific Northwest vineyards, expect a delicious experience. The Pinnacle Grill also introduced 21 new menu items comprising a week's cycle of daily appetizers, entrées and desserts. The trio is designed to complement one another and the Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine currently served. The Pinnacle Grill also features distinctive Bvlgari china, Frette linens and elegant Riedel stemware. Open for dinner only by reservation, guests pay a modest surcharge of $20 per person for dinner and $10 for lunch.

Entrees may include Colorado Lamb Chops, Filet Steak Diane, “Land and Sea” with filet mignon and jumbo prawns, Cedar Plank Black Cod with Shrimp Scampi, Broiled King Salmon, Broiled or Poached Half Lobster and Lobster Macaroni and Cheese. Also available are premium "Sterling Silver" hand-selected cuts of beef unsurpassed in tenderness and taste, including bone-in Delmonico rib-eye steak, center-cut Porterhouse steak and two sizes of filet mignon. Side dishes will feature such choices as Scallop Potatoes, Grilled Asparagus, Creamed Spinach and Sautéed Button Mushrooms. Delectable desserts include Warm Grand Marnier Chocolate Volcano Cake, Creamy Homemade Raspberry Cheesecake and Not-so-Classic Baked Alaska.

Upscale Casual Lido Dining
Holland America Line was the first in the cruise industry to introduce a full Lido buffet restaurant on all ships. The Lido Buffets offer a unique spin on the popular trend of food stations including a pasta station, a sandwich station and a dessert station (includes a full hot-Sunday ice-cream bar), where guests can request custom dishes prepared exactly to their specifications. Guests are also free to help themselves from the extensive buffet, which features an extensive salad selection as well as carving stations serving U.S. Choice beef and poultry and seafood. During breakfast hours, the Lido Buffet Bar features a wide assortment of favorites including natural cereals and yogurts, delicious muffins, an omelet station and many healthy-choice breakfast alternatives. At dinner time, the Lido features waiter service for guests who desire a more casual, yet still outstanding dining experience. Guests have the option to select dishes from the Main Dining Room menu or regular Lido offerings.

Late-night in the Lido
At 11 p.m., the Lido is open for self-service for the night owls who crave something delicious to eat after one of the ships spectacular shows. Every night features a different theme, including the Chocolate Extravaganza, in which the on-board pastry chefs strut their artistry, serving up dazzling pastry displays, chocolate fondues and other sweet treats galore.

Terrace Grill
Along with the indoor, air -conditioned Lido restaurant, there are buffet bars outside on the deck and at poolside. These portable buffets features pizza, tacos, nachos, as well as classic American snack fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and gourmet sausages.

Tamarind and the Silk Den
Tamarind, a Pan-Asian restaurant with a capacity for 144 diners, will serve reservations-only lunch and dinner. The complimentary lunch menu will feature dim sum, an assortment of classic Asian dumplings and accompanying fusion sauces for dipping, soup, salad and dessert. For dinner, guests will have the choice of ordering a variety of Asian-inspired cuisine off of the menu or enjoying Rijsttafel, a Dutch adaptation of the traditional Indonesia dinner of rice accompanied by more than a dozen, often spicy, side dishes. Dinner is $15 per person.

The Silk Den, a new lounge adjacent to Tamarind, will overlook the magradome, offering guests a view of a new, colorful poolside water feature. A full menu of signature mixed Asian-themed specialty cocktails including Sakétinis will be served here. Available only on ms Eurodam.

Canaletto
Canaletto will come to life for dinner when a section of the Lido restaurant is transformed each night into the family style Italian restaurant. Canaletto’s menu features daily, traditional Italian favorites with entrees rotating nightly. It’s a casual dining venue that seats 66 at no extra charge. Reservations are encouraged but walk-ins will be accepted. Available on ms Eurodam now and coming to ms Veendam and Oosterdam in spring 2009.

Slice
Modeled after pizzerias in Southern Italy, Slice will offer hand-tossed Italian pizzas with a variety of specialty toppings and cheeses. Featuring pizza by the slice and 12-inch gourmet pizzas, Slice is open daily from 10:30 am to 1:00 am on the aft Lido deck. Available on ms Eurodam only.

Stateroom Service
An extensive menu for room service is available 24/7, and is always complimentary.

Special Dietary Requests
Special dietary accommodations can be made in advance through your travel agent at the time of booking.


02/04/09

NEWS

Cruise Cuisine


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CULINARY EXCELLENCE AT SEA


Culinary Variety and Excellence

Holland America Line presents contemporary cuisine including regional specialties, traditional favorites, and itinerary-based dishes designed to appeal to the diverse tastes of discriminating guests. Expect a superb selection of delectable meals from simple to gourmet, prepared with the highest quality ingredients by professional, dedicated, well-trained international culinary staff. Whether enjoying a formal dining experience in the Main Dining Room, an intimate dinner in the exclusive Pinnacle Grill, a comfortable and casual bite in the Lido, a private meal in-room, or a poolside snack, each dish is made according to the highest standards.

Holland America Line Caters to Guests

Every opportunity is taken to spoil guests and make every meal memorable. To that end, many special dinners and culinary events are featured, including an unforgettable Master Chef's Dinner, a Captain's Dinner, an Indonesian lunch and much more. Beautiful rituals revolving around food are available throughout each cruise, including mid-morning ice-tea (on Caribbean itineraries); hot chocolate on the deck (Alaska itineraries), after-dinner cappuccino and espresso in the Explorers Lounge, and afternoon High Tea including, of course, Dutch royal tea and the new Indonesian Afternoon Tea and coffee Ceremony featured once per cruise. During the holidays, guests are provided with
special surprises.

Well-known Master Chef Rudi Sodamin serves as culinary consultant for Holland American Line's fleet of five-star ships. Sodamin is the driving force behind the enhancement of Holland America Line's already superb dining experience and spearheaded the creation and development of a new line of signature menu items as part of the company's unprecedented $425 million Signature of Excellence initiative.

As You Wish ® dining

As You Wish dining allows guests to choose from the best of both worlds - either traditional pre-set seating and dining times, or a completely flexible dining schedule at a number of different venues.

Dining Options

Main Dining Room
Holland America Lines' Main Dining Rooms offer deluxe dining at its best. The generous menu offers regional favorites, vegetarian options and Greenhouse Spa cuisine. The Daily Alternatives menu category allows guests to choose a simple presentation of fresh fish, chicken or a sirloin steak no matter what else is listed on the menu that evening.

One level of the two-tiered restaurant will offer a flexible/open dining service from 5:15 to 9 p.m. daily, and the other will host two seatings, an early and main seating. Guests with flexible seating may make reservations daily during a cruise up to 4 p.m. or simply walk up anytime during dining hours.

Formal in setting, the Main Dining Rooms feature Rosenthal china, starched linens, silver service and fresh flowers. Guests will be treated to a selection of daily freshly baked goods and breads, and the extensive global wine selection is served by sommeliers.

Pinnacle Grill
Beautifully appointed alternative-dining venues on all Holland America Line ships, the Pinnacle Grill is ideal for a romantic dinner for two or an elegant dining spot for a group celebration. Featuring Pacific Northwest specialties including selected cuts of Sterling Silver beef and superb seafood items, as well as carefully selected wines from renowned Pacific Northwest vineyards, expect a delicious experience. The Pinnacle Grill also introduced 21 new menu items comprising a week's cycle of daily appetizers, entrées and desserts. The trio is designed to complement one another and the Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine currently served. The Pinnacle Grill also features distinctive Bvlgari china, Frette linens and elegant Riedel stemware. Open for dinner only by reservation, guests pay a modest surcharge of $20 per person for dinner and $10 for lunch.

Entrees may include Colorado Lamb Chops, Filet Steak Diane, “Land and Sea” with filet mignon and jumbo prawns, Cedar Plank Black Cod with Shrimp Scampi, Broiled King Salmon, Broiled or Poached Half Lobster and Lobster Macaroni and Cheese. Also available are premium "Sterling Silver" hand-selected cuts of beef unsurpassed in tenderness and taste, including bone-in Delmonico rib-eye steak, center-cut Porterhouse steak and two sizes of filet mignon. Side dishes will feature such choices as Scallop Potatoes, Grilled Asparagus, Creamed Spinach and Sautéed Button Mushrooms. Delectable desserts include Warm Grand Marnier Chocolate Volcano Cake, Creamy Homemade Raspberry Cheesecake and Not-so-Classic Baked Alaska.

Upscale Casual Lido Dining
Holland America Line was the first in the cruise industry to introduce a full Lido buffet restaurant on all ships. The Lido Buffets offer a unique spin on the popular trend of food stations including a pasta station, a sandwich station and a dessert station (includes a full hot-Sunday ice-cream bar), where guests can request custom dishes prepared exactly to their specifications. Guests are also free to help themselves from the extensive buffet, which features an extensive salad selection as well as carving stations serving U.S. Choice beef and poultry and seafood. During breakfast hours, the Lido Buffet Bar features a wide assortment of favorites including natural cereals and yogurts, delicious muffins, an omelet station and many healthy-choice breakfast alternatives. At dinner time, the Lido features waiter service for guests who desire a more casual, yet still outstanding dining experience. Guests have the option to select dishes from the Main Dining Room menu or regular Lido offerings.

Late-night in the Lido
At 11 p.m., the Lido is open for self-service for the night owls who crave something delicious to eat after one of the ships spectacular shows. Every night features a different theme, including the Chocolate Extravaganza, in which the on-board pastry chefs strut their artistry, serving up dazzling pastry displays, chocolate fondues and other sweet treats galore.

Terrace Grill
Along with the indoor, air -conditioned Lido restaurant, there are buffet bars outside on the deck and at poolside. These portable buffets features pizza, tacos, nachos, as well as classic American snack fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and gourmet sausages.

Tamarind and the Silk Den
Tamarind, a Pan-Asian restaurant with a capacity for 144 diners, will serve reservations-only lunch and dinner. The complimentary lunch menu will feature dim sum, an assortment of classic Asian dumplings and accompanying fusion sauces for dipping, soup, salad and dessert. For dinner, guests will have the choice of ordering a variety of Asian-inspired cuisine off of the menu or enjoying Rijsttafel, a Dutch adaptation of the traditional Indonesia dinner of rice accompanied by more than a dozen, often spicy, side dishes. Dinner is $15 per person.

The Silk Den, a new lounge adjacent to Tamarind, will overlook the magradome, offering guests a view of a new, colorful poolside water feature. A full menu of signature mixed Asian-themed specialty cocktails including Sakétinis will be served here. Available only on ms Eurodam.

Canaletto
Canaletto will come to life for dinner when a section of the Lido restaurant is transformed each night into the family style Italian restaurant. Canaletto’s menu features daily, traditional Italian favorites with entrees rotating nightly. It’s a casual dining venue that seats 66 at no extra charge. Reservations are encouraged but walk-ins will be accepted. Available on ms Eurodam now and coming to ms Veendam and Oosterdam in spring 2009.

Slice
Modeled after pizzerias in Southern Italy, Slice will offer hand-tossed Italian pizzas with a variety of specialty toppings and cheeses. Featuring pizza by the slice and 12-inch gourmet pizzas, Slice is open daily from 10:30 am to 1:00 am on the aft Lido deck. Available on ms Eurodam only.

Stateroom Service
An extensive menu for room service is available 24/7, and is always complimentary.

Special Dietary Requests
Special dietary accommodations can be made in advance through your travel agent at the time of booking.


02/04/09

NEWS

Digital Workshop powered by Windows®


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Exclusive “Edutainment” Program Puts Holland America Line Guests on Cutting Edge of Technology


Digital Workshop powered by Windows
Digital Workshop powered by Windows will show even the most novice camera or computer user how to take better vacation photos, make movies and edit pictures using a variety of Microsoft Windows and Windows Live services. Guests will learn how to share all their digital memories through email, blogging and social networking – so friends and family can see where they’ve been cruising even before they return home. The program is the only partnership of its kind with Microsoft in the cruise industry.

Workshop Overview

  • Workshops are limited to 18 participants per session so that instructors can provide personalized assistance. Each ship has a dedicated space for the classes, complete with computers, printers and other necessary equipment.
  • All workshops are taught by Microsoft-trained “techsperts.” In addition, instructors offer “techspert time,” where guests can get their individual questions answered and work on personal program-related projects.
  • Available on 12 ships in the Holland America Line fleet. Programs are being developed for ms Rotterdam and ms Prinsendam and will launch after upcoming drydocks in December 2009 and January 2010, respectively.


Courses

  • Introduction to Windows 7
  • Put Your Best Face Forward 1: Edit Your Cruise Photos
  • Your Away-From-Home Movie: Turn Your Cruise Photos and Videos into a Movie
  • Insert Photo Here: Getting Your Photos Out of the Camera and Into the Computer
  • Your Fifteen Minutes of Fame: Learn to Blog About Your Cruise
  • Put Your Best Face Forward 2: Advanced Editing of the Cruise Photos
  • A Space to Call My Own: Signing Up for Your Own Personal Webpage
  • Show and Tell: Sharing Your Cruise Photos via Email and the Internet
  • Safe and Sound: PC Safety and Maintenance
  • That’s a Print: Printing Your Cruise Photos at Home


Sessions are offered multiple times on each cruise so that guests may take the ones that interest them most or the complete series at their convenience.

Windows 7
As Windows 7 launches worldwide on October 22, 2009, Holland America Line will join the fun with a month-long series of festive High Seas Launch Parties of its own across its entire fleet. Like\wise, a new class introducing Windows 7 will be available to all guests on Holland America Line ships.

Microsoft’s new Windows 7 operating system is installed on all laptops in the Digital Workshop powered by Windows. The system greatly enhances current workshop sessions, providing simplified use of digital media and social networking.

10/09

NEWS

Entertainment Activities


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Greenhouse Spa & Salon
The ultimate pampering experience awaits guests at the luxurious Greenhouse Spa & Salon. Professionals enrapture the mind and body with exquisite treatments and rituals amid the serene ambiance of the sea. Choose from a complete menu of massage and body treatments, facials, detoxification therapy and a full-service salon. The Greenhouse fitness center features state-of-the-art weight and cardio machines so guests can feel free to indulge in that extra dessert. Fitness classes such as Pilates, yoga and cycling are available at a nominal charge.

Culinary Arts Center Presented by Food & Wine Magazine
Holland America Line, in partnership with Food & Wine magazine, presents an exciting culinary program featuring demonstrations and seminars conducted by top chefs, wine experts and leading cookbook authors on select sailings. Guests have the opportunity to learn and mingle with the world's most renowned culinary authorities. The Food & Wine partnership enhances our extensive culinary program offered on every sailing in our state of the art demonstration kitchens.

Culinary Arts Center for Kids
Holland America Line has launched a kids and teens Culinary Arts Center program designed to bring the joys of cooking to the younger set. The program incorporates dishes from breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in complimentary workshops lasting 45 minutes each. The preparations range from simple to teen sophisticate.

For children under eight you may find menu items such as Bear Track Cookies, Fruit Leather, Ice Cream Sandwiches, Salad People Art, and Denali Peaks Alaska Theme Scones. Kids eight and over may delight in preparing Soft Pretzels, Granola Bars, Pita Chips with Hummus, and Saltwater Taffy.

All kids, tweens and teens are welcome to attend.

Explorations Café powered by The New York Times
The Explorations Café powered by The New York Times offers a comfortable, living room-style environment where guests can sip a cup of coffee, work a crossword puzzle, browse through a selection of more than 2,000 books, spend time enjoying a wide selection of music and surf the Internet. Wireless Internet is also available throughout the ship for guests traveling with personal laptop computers. A limited supply of laptops and wireless network cards are available for rent.

Gaming
Whether a guest is an experienced player, or has always wanted to learn to play, the casino offers a friendly, non-intimidating place to just have fun. Guests can test lady luck on many favorite games including Blackjack, Poker, Craps, Roulette and Slots. Complimentary gaming lessons are held throughout every cruise.

Bingo is another great way to win money, prizes, and even a seven day cruise. Participate in the many games scheduled throughout the cruise.

iPod Art Tour
A self-guided art and antique tour of our multi-million dollar collection is narrated by well-known radio hosts Paul Lasley and Elizabeth Harryman. The 40- to 50-minute tours include walking directions, interviews with artists, background music and photo images displayed on the iPod screen to help guests locate each piece. The iPod-based art tours are now available as free downloads from iTunes.

Guests desiring to take a tour simply sign out an iPod free of charge and take the tour at their leisure.

Digital Workshop powered by Windows
Guests on Holland America Line ships can “show and tell” their vacation memories with Holland America Line Digital Workshop powered by Microsoft Windows. Now available on all ships (except Prinsendam and Rotterdam), free workshops led by Microsoft-trained “techsperts” show even the most novice camera or computer user how to take better vacation photos, make movies, edit pictures and create scrapbooks using a variety of Microsoft Windows and Windows Live services. Guests will learn how to share all their digital memories through email, blogging and social networking – so friends and family can see where they’ve been cruising even before they return home.

Shopping
Tax and Duty Free shopping is available in our Signature Shops located just steps away from guest staterooms. There is a great selection and fantastic prices on everything from fine jewelry and watches to designer fragrances and cosmetics. Also available are gifts, name brand liquor, tobacco products, and stylish Holland America Line wear.

Merabella, a high-end designer jewelry boutique found aboard ms Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zuiderdam, Westerdam and Eurodam will be added aboard seven more Holland America Line ships by late 2010. Jewelry collections include stunning designs from LeVian, Christopher Designs, Chimento, Genesis, Tara and Sons plus many more designers.

Each cruise also features relaxed and entertaining auctions of art by masters such as Rembrandt, Picasso, Dalí, Chagall and Erté, as well as sports memorabilia and animation art, all priced at below gallery prices.

Sports
Guests will enjoy swimming pools, hot tubs, walking and jogging our classic teak decks and basketball and volleyball courts. Our "Sports of Call" program rewards guests with prizes for participating in events such as Golf Chipping and Ping Pong. With so many choices, there's something to suit everyone.

Entertainment
When the sun goes down the ship comes alive with entertainment. Whether a guest is looking to join the party or enjoy a candle-lit corner, there's something for everyone.

On Stage
The best in live entertainment is performed nightly. Lavish award-winning Las Vegas-style production shows, talented vocalists, illusionists, comedians and variety acts grace our stage offering a unique entertainment package.

Movies
Film buffs can enjoy recently released movies on our big screens. Don't forget to grab some complimentary hot buttered popcorn on the way in!

Music & Dancing
After the show, dance the night away to a variety of musical styles performed live in our bars and lounges, or join our DJ in the nightclub. From classical to pop Holland America Line has something for everyone.

TV
Our TV system features CNN, ESPN, TNT, TCM and Cartoon Network via satellite. In addition, we show everything from recently released Hollywood blockbusters to classic favorites on three different movie channels. Satellite availability may vary depending on itinerary.

Kids and Teens
Club HAL is a fun filled activity program for our youngest guests ages three to twelve. Each ship features a comprehensive Kid's Center* and a wide array of age specific activities. Parents can have peace of mind knowing their children are enjoying safe, supervised fun.

The Loft is a dedicated space for teens ages 13-17. Youth are welcome to hang out or participate in events such as Karaoke, Casino Night and Dance Parties. Youth Counselors are on hand to host events

*except Prinsendam

09/22/08

NEWS

Environmental Commitment


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Holland America Line Environmental Commitment

Holland America Line demonstrates its commitment to responsible environmental practices through a comprehensive fleetwide program that emphasizes waste reduction and recycling, compliance with all international environmental guidelines and a decision to incorporate cleaner-burning propulsion technology into the line's new ships. Holland America Line's ships currently meet or exceed all provisions of the international regulations governing the environmental management of marine operations.

Environmental Management and ISO 14001 Certification
In June 2006, Holland America Line's Environmental Management System was certified to conform to the ISO 14001 standard by an independent registrar - Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance. The Environmental Management System is the collection of all environmental policies, training and procedures for every shipboard significant environmental aspect.

This certification recognizes Holland America Line's robust environmental standards, commitment to continual improvement and policy to prevent pollution. Success in achieving ISO 14001 certification is an important demonstration to guests, employees, stakeholders, and the communities in which Holland America Line sails, that we are responsible stewards of the environment.

Holland America Line's Environmental Management System requires an Environmental Officer on board each ship to provide environmental training and to oversee shipboard compliance with environmental laws, regulations, industry standards and company policies. The Environmental Officer reports directly to the ship's Master. Each ship in the fleet is further monitored and evaluated by aggressive environmental audit programs.

All crew members receive basic environmental training to assure they know the requirements and procedures necessary to protect the environment. Those with additional responsibilities receive further environmental training specific to their jobs. Every aspect of vessel operations, from the food preparation and hotel operations, to the navigation and ship operations on the bridge, to the engineering and maintenance activities in the engine room, are performed in a manner to minimize the impact on the environment while assuring a safe, comfortable and satisfying experience for guests.

To facilitate this task, corporate headquarters has an Environmental Management Systems department that provides training and guidance to the fleet. The Vice President of this department reports directly to the President and CEO.

Holland America Line - Seagoing Environmental Innovation
A true innovator when it comes to seagoing environmental protection, Holland America Line pioneered the use of "cascade bilge-water treatment systems" in which oily bilge water is treated by two separate systems before being discharged overboard in conformance with international, state or local requirements. Bilge water is the engine maintenance run off and condensation that collects in the ship's bilge. Enhanced maintenance practices also serve to minimize generation of bilge water.

The waste stream with perhaps the greatest potential environmental impact is sewage, also called black water. Black water comes from the toilets and from the drains and sinks of the infirmary. All vessels are equipped with certified Marine Sanitation Devices meeting the specification of international and U.S. Coast Guard requirements. In fact, most of Holland America Line's ships are fitted with ZENON or Rochem Advanced Waste Water Purification Systems that treat the black water with state of the art Reverse Osmosis and Bioreactor technology. These systems employ a series of filters and disinfecting steps to treat the black water - and grey, or shower and sink, water - before discharge to the sea. The resulting effluent exceeds the quality of most municipal treatment systems, and is clean enough to meet the drinking water standards in many communities ashore.

To reduce engine emissions, Holland America Line has outfitted five of its ships to use shore power: ms Westerdam, ms Noordam, ms Oosterdam, ms Amsterdam, ms Zuiderdam. All five ships can connect to shore power to reduce both fuel consumption and air emissions. Holland America Line will buy and use electricity ("shore power") instead of burning ship-board fuels while stationed at ports with the capability such as Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.

Seawater Scrubber Pilot Program
An in-depth feasibility study is underway in cooperation with local regulatory agencies, the United States Environmental Protection Agency and B.C. Clean Air Research Fund, to develop and test a stack emission scrubber for possible use on board our cruise ships.

Holland America Line launched the technology demonstration project, costing more than $1.5 million, to demonstrate the feasibility of using sea water to "scrub," or reduce, engine emissions on oceangoing vessels. Each government agency has representatives serving on a technical advisory committee that oversees the development of this project. Following several future months of collecting and studying the data, it could dramatically change not only the cruise industry but the entire maritime industry by reducing ship engine emissions.

The sea water scrubber system, developed by Krystallon, a subsidiary of BP, uses the natural chemistry of seawater to remove virtually all sulfur oxide (SOx) as well as significantly reduce particulate matter emissions. The sea water is then treated to remove harmful components prior to being discharged back overboard.

Holland America Line, along with Krystallon, recently won the 2007 Seatrade Insider Environmental Initiative Award for this innovative emission reduction technology installed on the ms Zaandam. These technology solutions are in addition to the use of monitoring and operating practices we employ to minimize emissions.

Holland America Line Honored for Whale Conservation Program
Holland America Line's "Avoiding Whale Strikes" program and the cruise company's leadership and commitment to the conservation of whales have been recognized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA's Fisheries Service) with a Conservation Partnership Award, part of a newly established Sustainable Fisheries Leadership Awards Program.

To assist in the recovery and ensure the safety of all whale species, Holland America Line, in cooperation with NOAA's Fisheries Service and the National Parks Service, developed and launched the comprehensive and interactive computer-based training program. All deck officers on Holland America Line vessels have taken the course and the program is being shared with the cruise and maritime community.

Holland America Line Recognized By Condé Nast Traveler in 2008 World Savers Awards
Condé Nast Traveler has named Holland America Line a finalist in the magazine's 2008 World Savers Awards. Holland America Line is one of 38 companies selected worldwide as a leader in social responsibility in the September issue. Holland America Line won an honorable mention in the health category based on its ongoing donations to organizations in need. The company recently donated dental equipment after dismantling its shipboard dental offices on 13 ships - each office worth approximately $90,000. Donated equipment included dental chairs, digital x-rays, and dental supplies.

Ship to Shelter Donation Program
The line also donates supplies through Ship to Shelter, an innovative new community-giving program that is the first of its kind in the nation. Reusable goods are collected from Holland America Line ships sailing from Seattle and donated to local charities serving people in need. Donated items include individual-sized toiletries, towels, linens, dishes, cookware, silverware, televisions and mattresses. Ships sailing around the world also donate valuable and reusable items to communities in need and crew also donate their own money, time, and often toys, to organizations of need in ports of call.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Holland America Line takes many measures to minimize or reduce solid waste volumes. Approximately eight tons of garbage are collected onboard each ship during a seven day cruise. Holland America Line employs many "best practices" to help minimize and manage this waste.

When purchasing products and material for use on vessels, Holland America Line takes an aggressive approach to ordering the right quantities, and to minimize the use of packaging, especially plastics. For example, the ships use paper or washable cups, wooden stirrers, paper bags and glass or metal packaging whenever possible. To further reduce plastic packaging, Holland America Line has installed bulk dispensers for individual condiments and cream. Holland America Line buys products manufactured from or packaged in recycling packaging. Printed matter is on recycled paper when available. On board amenities are free of animal products and have not been tested on animals.

Cleaning products are selected to be environmentally friendly while providing the most effective sanitation program available. In addition, bulk formulators and dispensing systems have been installed onboard to dramatically reduce the generation of packing and container waste. These products not only get the job done, but are compatible with our advanced waste water treatment systems to complement that technology.

Holland America Line has a strict protocol for garbage handling. All crew members are trained to use products fully, reuse when possible, and to sort garbage properly when disposing of material. All ships also have crewmembers that are especially trained and responsible for final sorting, processing, storing, recycling and disposal.

All garbage is first separated into categories: food waste, glass, cans, paper, cardboard, cooking oil and wooden pallets. Everything that can be recycled is sent ashore for recycling, depending on the available shore-side facilities. All other waste is disposed of in a way that meets or exceeds international, national or local requirements. As a result of these practices, Holland America Line is able to significantly reduce the volume of solid wastes generated.

Every opportunity for recycling or reuse is explored to minimize wasting of materials.

Using New Technology to Reduce Hazardous Materials
Holland America Line is actively seeking to reduce both the quantity and toxicity of hazardous materials used on board. For example, perchloroethylene based dry cleaning machines are being replaced with soy, orange and banana oil based "wet cleaning" machines. Also, on board x-ray facilities are being converted to digital technology, which will further reduce the use and disposal of hazardous materials. Onboard photo labs are equipped with a silver recovery system that removes the silver content from spent photo-chemicals, allowing both the silver and the spent chemicals to be further treated or recycled. Ships are also transitioning to digital photography equipment as that technology becomes more widespread among guests.

All chemical waste materials are landed ashore for disposition in strict compliance with shoreside regulations and tracked using a computerized system.

Inviting our Guests to Participate: Environmental Awareness & Stewardship
While aboard, guests are invited to view Holland America Line's environmental stewardship video. Presented by the Environmental Officer, this 20 minute video describes our environmental protection practices, and is followed by a question and answer period with the audience.

Ships traveling to Alaska and Antarctica also have special presentations for guests to ensure their sensitivity to the special environmental conditions that exist in those regions.

Holland America Line invites guests to participate in its onboard environmental programs. In addition to stationing segregated waste containers throughout the vessel, guests are encouraged to reuse bath towels, close exterior doors and reduce water and power usage.

09/22/08

NEWS

Family &
Multigenerational Travel


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FAMILY & MULTIGENERATIONAL TRAVEL



Family Travel on Holland America Line
According to Cruise Line International Association, family cruising is one of the fastest growing segments of cruising. Holland America Line attracts more than 25,000 kids and their families aboard its 14 ships every year. With a range of activities for children, teens and adults, the premium line especially attracts multi-generational groups.

When choosing a Holland America Line cruise for a family vacation, there's always something for each member of the family to do - from kids to grandparents - either together or separately. For example, families can play together in one of the ship's swimming pools. Go to a live show or movie. Or just enjoy being together as a family again.

Since even the closest families need time apart, a cruise allows the grown-ups to go dancing, take in a show, visit the casino, or sample the ship's fine dining, while kids can take advantage of Club HAL or teen's activities.

Family Reunion Program
Special Family Reunion Program pricing is available on all Holland America Line cruises. The reduced fare group rates are applicable for families booking eight staterooms or more on any cruise and includes the following amenities:

  • Special group pricing
  • Fountain Soda Card for every member of the family (good for 20 glasses of fountain soda and a souvenir cup)
  • One family photo per stateroom
  • Lunch for the entire family in the alternative Pinnacle Grill Restaurant

The Head-of-the-Family Reward is applicable for families booking eight or more staterooms. It includes the amenities listed above plus:

  • One stateroom in the group to receive a complimentary upgrade from an outside stateroom to a verandah stateroom.

For parents traveling with children in the same cabin on individual fares, Holland America Line offers reasonable third and fourth berth cruise fares. Actual price will depend on itinerary and cruise length.

Kids and Teens Facilities & Activities

  • The Club HAL program has been expanded to include ages three to 12 and all ships also have a teen program for ages 13 to 17. Since teens crave a special place to call their own, Holland America Line created The Loft - a teens-only lounge designed to resemble a New York artist's loft so teens have an adult-free zone to enjoy music, games, movies and "hanging out." Most ships also feature The Oasis, a teens-only sun deck area.
  • Younger cruisers enjoy supervised, age-specific activities through the expanded Club HAL designed for kids ages 3 to 12. The younger ones can enjoy a fanciful area where paintbrushes serve as pillars, enormous pencils adorn the wall, a paint bucket is a play area, and a huge tape dispenser serves as a slide. Creative activities take place at art tables and movies play on a big-screen television. Sample activities include kids Olympics, tie-dying t-shirts, candy bar bingo, arts and crafts, pajama party and storytelling.
  • Older kids, ages 8 to 12, have an area featuring arcade games, air hockey, foosball, Karaoke, family-safe Internet access (minimal charge similar to Explorations Cafe) and Sony Playstations. Among the fun for older kids is golf putting, deck sports including dodgeball, karaoke, swim party, and video games.
  • Teens, ages 13-17, can enjoy The Loft, which connects via a special passageway to a secluded, teens-only sun deck on most ships called The Oasis. The Oasis features a waterfall and wading pool, juice bar and plenty of space to relax and mingle with other teens. In the Loft, teens can try their steps at Dance Dance Revolution (DDR), their voices at Karaoke and their skills at various intelligent board games, thanks to a partnership with Cranium. Other activities include karaoke, volleyball, teen disco, and ping pong tournament.
  • Club HAL and teen activities operate all day during sea days with breaks for meals. Programs also operate on port days if kids and teens sign up the day before. A complete set of daily programs are handed out at the gangway upon embarkation for kids 3-17 years old.
  • In addition to Club HAL and teen programming, kids programming and cartoons air on the in-cabin television on the Cartoon Network and the Holland America Line entertainment channels. Age appropriate movies are screened in Club HAL facilities for any kid to attend.
  • Holland America Line has launched a kids and teen Culinary Arts Center activity program to bring the joys of cooking to the younger set. The program incorporates dishes from breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in complimentary classes lasting 45 minutes each. All kids, tweens and teens are welcome to attend.

The preparations range from simple to teen sophisticate. Kids under eight years old will learn to make Bear Tracks (Alaska theme cookies), Fruit Leather (fruit roll-ups), Ice Cream Sandwiches, Salad People Art, and Denali Peaks (Alaska Theme Scones). Kids eight and over will delight in making Soft Pretzels, Pita Chips and Hummus, and Saltwater Taffy.

Dining
In addition to award-winning menus with everything from "light and healthy" items and ethnic cuisines to vegetarian dishes, Holland America Line offers special menus for kids in the Dining Room, the Lido Restaurant and the Terrace Grill. These menus include kid favorites such as hot dogs, sandwiches, lasagna, pizza, tacos, fish and chips, burgers, chicken dippers and spaghetti. Young and older cruisers alike especially enjoy the ice cream and dessert bar in the Lido Restaurant. Evenings, parents with younger children may choose casual Lido Dining in the Lido Restaurant during the early evening. Here, tasty yet simple main courses are served tableside while salads and desserts are served buffet style.

Babysitting
Babysitting services are available from 10 p.m. until 12 midnight during Club HAL After Hours for children three years and up. Cost is $5 per hour per child. At other times and for children under the age of three, limited babysitting is available through the Front Office on a volunteer basis. The cost is $8 per hour for the first child and $5 per hour for each other child.

Infants
Holland America Line welcomes infants older than six months. By advance request through Holland America Line's Ship Services Department, guests may arrange commercial baby food, diapers and refrigerators for a nominal fee. A limited number of high chairs, booster seat and cribs are available at no charge. In addition, the line's Club HAL children's program schedules Toddler Times for kids under the age of three to play in the children's facilities. Parents must stay with youngsters at all times.

Safety & Security
Club HAL and the teen program have an open door policy. Children may come and go as they please, however each child through seven years old must be signed in and out of the activities. Tweens and teens may come and go as they please, choosing which activities they want to attend. Guests may meet the Club HAL and teen staff during embarkation or on the first night of each cruise at an orientation meeting for parents and children.

Holland America Line's Club HAL and teen program directors and counselors are permanent, full-time employees. All have college degrees with more than half focused on education studies. Most staff also have experience in education or related fields such as child development, recreation or leisure studies. The number of Club HAL staff aboard is determined by the number of children and teens in each age group sailing on the cruise.

Each ship has an on-board infirmary staffed by a licensed physician and three registered nurses. The infirmaries are equipped with emergency medical facilities and a well-stocked pharmacy. Security staff regularly patrol the ship.

03/25/08

NEWS

HAL History


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Providing Passage to the New World

Holland America was founded in 1873 as the Netherlands-American Steamship Company (NASM), a shipping and Passenger line. Because it was headquartered in Rotterdam and provided service to the Americas, it became known as Holland America Line (HAL).

Within 25 years, HAL owned a fleet of six cargo and passenger ships, and operated between Holland and the Dutch East Indies. The line was primarily a carrier of immigrants from Europe to the United States until well after the turn of the century, carrying 850,000 to new lives in the New World.

Though transportation and shipping were the primary sources of revenue, in 1895 the company offered its first vacation cruise. In 1973, the company sold its cargo shipping division. In 1989, HAL became a wholly owned subsidiary of Carnival Corp., the largest cruise company in the world. Today, the premium cruise leader operates 14 ships to seven continents and carries nearly 700,000 cruise passengers a year.

APRIL 18,
1873

The official founding date of the Nederlandsch-Amerikaansche Stoomvaart Maatschappij (NASM) in Rotterdam in 1873. The company was formed as a result of the reorganization of an earlier company, Plate, Reuchlin & Co. The company's first ship was the original Rotterdam, which sailed its 15-day maiden voyage from the Netherlands to New York City on October 15, 1872.

1882

HAL begins operations from Hoboken, N.J.

1883

The "dam" suffix is adopted for the names of HAL passenger liners.

1888

HAL initiates a short-lived service from Amsterdam to Buenos Aires.

1890

HAL purchases its terminal in Hoboken, N.J.

1895

The 3,300-ton Rotterdam II sails the first Holland America Line cruise - a short summer voyage from Rotterdam to Copenhagen and back - through the Kieler Canal.

JUNE 15,
1896

NASM officially becomes known as Holland Amerika Lijn.

1898

At its 25th anniversary, Holland America Line owns six ships and has carried 90,000 cabin passengers and 400,000 steerage passengers, along with 5 million tons of cargo, mostly flower bulbs, herring and gin.

1880's-1920's

The company is a major carrier of immigrants from Europe to the New World during the massive emigration which takes place from the 1880s to the 1920s. HAL carries more than 10 percent of all those traveling steerage to the New World. Because of its quality and the cleanliness of its ships, HAL becomes known as "The Spotless Fleet."

1900

The company adopts the "dijk," or "dyk," suffix for the names of its cargo ships.

1908

Rotterdam IV enters service as the company's flagship.

1910

The second HAL cruise departs from New York to the Mediterranean and the Holy Land on board the 10,500-ton Statendam I.

1914-1918

World War I sees the loss of six HAL ships and 13 employees. Statendam II is taken over in its Belfast building dock by the British for use as the troopship Justicia, which was torpedoed and sunk in 1918. The company resumes business after the war with 10 ships.

1921

HAL builds four passenger/cargo ships - Edam IV, Leerdam II, Maasdam III and Spaarndam II - for service to Cuba.

1921-24

U.S. governmental restrictions reduce immigration to a trickle, adversely affecting all the transatlantic steamship companies. Though the European liners benefit from Prohibition since U.S. liners were "dry."

1926

The 14,450-ton Veendam II sails HAL's first Caribbean cruise. Rijndam I makes the company's first round-the-world voyage as a floating university. HAL starts to use containers for shipping furniture and other "non-bulk" cargo.

1930

HAL battened down the hatches to weather the Great Depression. Between 1931 and 1933, 12 ships were sold for scrap. HAL offices throughout Europe, Canada and the U.S. are either closed or consolidated with other Dutch shipping companies. Staff is reduced 34% - from 3,944 to 2,595 - with those remaining taking a 9-10% cut in salary.

1938

HAL's profits begin to increase again. Transatlantic business grows once more and 36 vacation cruises sailed.

The elegant Nieuw Amsterdam II is built as the company's new flagship.

1939-1945

At the start of World War II, HAL had 25 ships; nine remained at war's end. 264 employees lost their lives. At the beginning of the war, the Westernland, berthed at Falmouth, England, becomes the seat of the Netherlands government. The Nieuw Amsterdam sails half a million miles transporting 400,000 military personnel.

1951

HAL introduces dove gray livery to the hulls of its passenger vessels. The Ryndam II and the Maasdam III, the "Economy Twins," are the first ships to allow tourist class passengers run of the ship and restrict one upper deck to first class guests only.

1958

The 24,294-ton ss Statendam IV departs Hoboken, N.J., terminal on the company's first Grand World Voyage.

1959

ss Rotterdam V enters service as the company's new flagship.

1950's-1960's

HAL's advertising slogan is: "It's good to be on a well-run ship."

1963

Company’s new terminal at Pier 40 in New York begins operation.

1963-66

HAL first operates the Seven Seas - owned by HAL's German subsidiary, Europa Canada Line - and then the Ryndam II on world-wide cruises for students by the California-based "University of the Seven Seas."

1964

HAL ships made a record 50 voyages to New York and 11 to Montreal, Quebec.

1966

Statendam IV turns to cruising full-time.

MID-1960's

Freighters undergo a transition from traditional breakbulk to containerization. HAL sells most of its fleet of WWII-era freighters and, with several other lines, organizes Atlantic Container Line.

1967-71

The Ryndam II continues world-wide student cruises with Chapman College of Orange, CA, until the ship is sold in 1971.

1968

Nieuw Amsterdam II and Rotterdam V join Statendam IV in cruising nearly full-time. HAL is the first line to implement the hotel management system on board all ships. Also this year, HAL was the first line to adopt the Lido dining concept with a wide variety of dining selections.

LATE 1960's

Holland America Line's crews become increasingly international.

1969

Only 13 trans-Atlantic sailings depart. The company re-names its passenger business "Holland America Cruises." The company begins recruiting dining room staff in Indonesia, later setting up a training program at a school in Bandung using actual Holland America Line dining settings.

1970

The first Indonesian stewards are welcomed on board the Ryndam.

1971

HAL replaces the original house flag of "NASM" on the green-and-white striped Rotterdam city flag with an orange flag inset with three swaths of aqua, white and aqua again.

FEBRUARY 1971

HAL buys 1 million shares and controlling interest of the Alaska tour company Westours, paying $1.25 per share.

SEPTEMBER 1971

The grand ss Nieuw Amsterdam of 1938, the "Darling of the Dutch," closes out the company's 98 years of trans-Atlantic service and is re-deployed on 10- and 11-day cruises to the West Indies from Port Everglades, FL.

1972

HAL enters into a freight service partnership called Combi Line. HAL introduces the current midnight-blue livery to the hulls of its passenger ships. Passenger ships’ registration changes to Dutch registry.

1973

HAL purchases the Brasil and Argentina from Moore McCormack and renames them the Volendam (II) and Veendam (III). By this centennial year, HAL has transported 76 million tons of freight between Europe and North America and 4.5 million passengers. During the international oil crisis, the price of marine fuel nearly triples, resulting in the Veendam III and Volendam II being laid up for a time and then chartered to Monarch Cruise Lines of Miami.

NOVEMBER 1973

HAL's first purpose-built cruise liner, the 8,566-ton, 452-passenger ms Prinsendam, enters service, sailing Indonesian cruises from Singapore.

DECEMBER 1973

The Nieuw Amsterdam II sails its last cruise.

1975

The Prinsendam conducts HAL’ s first Alaska cruise on the Inside Passage itinerary. The ship sails Alaska in the summer, Indonesia in the fall, winter and spring. Other HAL ships cruise to the Caribbean and Bermuda, with Rotterdam also conducting an annual world cruise. HAL sells its Transport Division — and the last of its cargo vessels. In addition to its cruise business, HAL continues to have holdings in other marine businesses including steel cables, tarpaulins, navigational instruments and ship chandlery.

1976

HAL begins recruiting skilled personnel from the Philippines, first to work in the deck and engine department, then in the kitchens and bars/lounges and the on-board maintenance shops.

1977

HAL buys out the minority shareholders in Westours and takes the company private. Prinsendam is joined by Veendam for the Alaska season.

1978

HAL moves its headquarters from Rotterdam to Stamford, CT.

1980's

HAL introduces another new house flag of orange - the Dutch royalty color - and the blue Holland America Half Moon logo in the center.

OCTOBER 1980

As it repositions from Alaska to Indonesia, a fire breaks out in the Prinsendam's engine room. All aboard are evacuated safely. The ship sinks under tow in the Pacific Ocean west of Sitka.

1981

HAL's service staff training school, "ss Jakarta," is established in Jakarta, Indonesia. It is later expanded and renamed "ms Nieuw Jakarta" in 1983.

1983

Volendam II and Veendam III are sold while the 1,214-passenger ms Nieuw Amsterdam III joins the fleet.

FALL 1983

To save money, Holland America moves west to Seattle to consolidate operations with Westours and becomes known as Holland America Line-Westours Inc. Kirk Lanterman, previously president of Westours, takes the helm.

1984

The ms Noordam III, sister ship to the Nieuw Amsterdam III, enters service and joins the ss Rotterdam V cruising Alaska in the summer.

1987

The first Filipino stewardesses join the fleet with six sailing on the ss Rotterdam for the World Cruise.

JANUARY 17, 1989

Carnival purchases Holland America Line-Westours Inc.

JANUARY
1989

Kirk Lanterman becomes CEO.

SUMMER
1989

The addition of the Westerdam (1,000 passengers; expanded to 1,494 in the winter of 1989-90) brings HAL's Alaska fleet to four luxury liners.

1990

HAL announces a new building program, ordering three (later expanded to four) 1,266-passenger sister ships from Fincantieri shipyards in Italy.

JANUARY
1993

The new ms Statendam V enters service and that summer conducts HAL's first European cruise season in approximately 20 years.

DECEMBER
1993

The new ms Maasdam IV enters service.

SUMMER
1994

Holland America Line's Alaska fleet grows to five ships, with the new 1,266-passenger Maasdam.

OCTOBER
1994

ms Ryndam III delivered.

MAY
1996

ms Veendam IV enters service and HAL’s fleet grows to 8.

SUMMER
1996

Addition of Veendam permits HAL to deploy Westerdam nearly year-round in the Caribbean with fall Canada and New England cruises. HAL’s Alaska fleet grows to six ships. Maasdam is deployed in Europe.

MARCH
1997

Kirk Lanterman also named chairman.

SEPTEMBER 30, 1997

The ss Rotterdam V retires.

NOVEMBER 11, 1997

Company’s new flagship, ms Rotterdam VI, enters service. During inaugural activities, HAL introduces its award-winning private island, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas. In December 1996, HAL purchased the uninhabited 2,400-acre island of Little San Salvador from several Bahamian owners for $6 million.

1998

Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam and Westerdam operate a record 120 cruises to Alaska. HAL also expands operations to include a longer European cruising season on board the ms Rotterdam VI and Explorer Cruises on board the Nieuw Amsterdam in South America and Asia/South Pacific.

AUGUST
1999

HAL sells Nieuw Amsterdam for $114.5 million to be transferred in fall 2000.

NOVEMBER
1999

HAL signs a contract with Italian shipyard Fincantieri Cantieri Navali S.p.A. for the construction of two (later expanded to four) new Vista-class 81,769-ton vessels expected to enter service in the fall of 2002 and summer of 2003.

NOVEMBER 12,
1999

The 63,000-gross-ton, 1,440 passenger ship, ms Volendam, enters service.

JANUARY 28,
2000

The ms Rotterdam makes its first ever visit by HAL to Antarctica on Grand World Voyage.

MAY 6,
2000

The ms Zaandam, sister ship to the Volendam, enters service in Caribbean.

SUMMER
2000

For the first time, HAL deploys three ships in Europe: the Noordam, Maasdam and Rotterdam.

OCTOBER 30,
2000

The Amsterdam, sister ship to the Rotterdam, sails her maiden voyage. With the Amsterdam, HAL introduces its present house flag with three blue and white strips with the Holland America Half Moon logo.

JUNE 3,
2002

The new ms Prinsendam, the "Elegant Explorer," joins the HAL fleet, now numbering 10.

SEPTEMBER 30, 2002

Holland America Line-Westours officially changes its name to Holland America Line Inc.

OCTOBER 5,
2002

The alternative restaurant concept, Pinnacle Grill, is introduced on the Statendam and Ryndam. The concept will be added to all Vista class ships and other ships in the fleet by early 2004. The Pinnacle Grill features Pacific Northwest cuisine and style and includes fine wines and elegant presentations.

DECEMBER 14,
2002

First Vista-class ship, ms Zuiderdam, enters service. The 1,848-guest, 81,769-ton ship is designed to provide a new standard of space, convenience and premium amenities.

JULY 28-30,
2003

HAL celebrates its 130th anniversary year in Rotterdam. The festivities include the launch and naming of the new Vista-class ms Oosterdam by Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of The Netherlands. Rotterdam joins Oosterdam for events that include past employees, World War II veterans, local dignitaries, and past guests.

AUGUST 3,
2003

The Oosterdam sails on her maiden voyage in Europe.

NOVEMBER 5,
2003

Holland America Line appoints Stein Kruse as President and Chief Operating Officer.

NOVEMBER 10,
2003

HAL announces a $225-million Signature of Excellence® initiative to provide unparalleled product and service enhancements to its fleet of five-star ships. Signature of Excellence® raises the standard in premium cruising with enhancements such as plush Euro-top mattresses and large fluffy towels in staterooms, Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, and Explorations Café powered by The New York Times. The initiative expands and to date tops enhancements of more than $425 million.

APRIL 25,
2004

The Vista-class ms Westerdam embarks on her maiden voyage from Venice. The 81,769-ton, 1,848-passenger vessel is the third in Holland America Line's history to bear the Westerdam name.

NOVEMBER 20,
2004

ms Prinsendam cruises up the Amazon River on the first-ever cruise by HAL on the world's second longest river.

DECEMBER 1,
2004

Stein Kruse named president and chief executive officer for Holland America Line. Kruse succeeds Kirk Lanterman, who, after 30 years at the helm, retires and serves as Chairman Emeritus.

DECEMBER 2,
2004

ms Westerdam sails on her inaugural Caribbean cruise, a 3-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary.

DECEMBER 4,
2004

Signature of Excellence® additions are completed on Half Moon Cay. Enhancements include a horseback riding and swimming tour, a stingray adventure program, an AquaTrax personal water craft course and a family aqua park.

MAY 20,
2005

HAL partners with Food & Wine magazine to launch an ambitious on-board culinary program. The multi-year partnership will provide HAL guests an opportunity to experience demonstrations and seminars conducted by top chefs, wine experts and leading cookbook authors.

JUNE
2005

HAL breaks ground in Denali to build a new 135 room lodge to service CruiseTour, Gray Line of Alaska guests and others. The property is scheduled to open in May 2006.

DECEMBER 19,
2005

ms Volendam becomes latest ship to receive Signature of Excellence® amenities and enhancements.

DECEMBER 14,
2005

HAL announces a new building plan to deliver an 86,000-ton, 2,104-guest ship in the summer of 2008 called ms Eurodam.

JANUARY 31,
2006

The 81,769-ton, 1918-passenger ms Noordam, the fourth ship to bear the name in the line’s history, is officially handed over from Fincantieri Shipyard in Marghera, Italy, to HAL.

FEBRUARY 22,
2006

Actress Marlee Matlin dedicates the new ms Noordam. It then sets sail on its maiden voyage roundtrip from homeport New York City to the Caribbean.

MARCH 22,
2006

For 3rd time, Rotterdam is named Ship of the Year in the World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society annual cruise ship survey by its members.

APRIL 1,
2006

On Deck for the Cure - to raise money for breast cancer research through the Susan G. Komen Foundation - will officially begin rolling out across the entire Holland America Line fleet. Approximately 500 On Deck for the Cure walks around the ships' decks will take place each year on cruises worldwide.

JUNE 6,
2006

Noordam rescues 22 refugees found in waters between Turkey and Greece. The efforts earned the crew recognition from the United Nations, United States Coast Guard, United States Navy and several international refugee organizations.

JUNE 6,
2006

In cooperation with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service and the National Parks Service, HAL develops and launches the interactive computer-based “Avoiding Whale Strikes” training program. All fleetwide deck officers have taken the award-winning course.

JULY 29,
2006

Vista-class cruise ships ms Westerdam and ms Oosterdam are retrofitted to use shore power at the Port of Seattle to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions when in Seattle. ms Noordam has since also been retrofitted.

JULY 30,
2006

Fine art goes high tech on the high seas as HAL debuts self-guided art tours using handheld iPod devices. Available fleetwide, tours cover the unique art and antique collections — together valued at tens of millions of dollars.

DECEMBER 19,
2006

Three Vista-class ships – ms Noordam, ms Westerdam and ms Oosterdam – have been honored with the 2006 Green Planet Environmental Award, bestowed by Kuoni Switzerland.

FEBRUARY 28,
2007

HAL opens new Rotterdam office near the original line’s headquarters on Wilhelmina Pier. The new 30-person office will house seagoing hiring, purchasing and sales and marketing divisions.

APRIL 22,
2007

ms Zaandam sails from Vancouver, B.C., featuring new cutting-edge emission reduction technology recently installed. In cooperation with several United States and Canadian government and regulatory agencies, HAL launches a technology demonstration project to research the feasibility of using sea water to “scrub,” or reduce, engine emissions on oceangoing vessels.

MAY 10,
2007

ms Westerdam completes enhancements, including 34 additional staterooms, locating the Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times, in the Crow’s Nest, adding a Pinnacle Bar and new signature shops. Capacity is now 1916.

JUNE 11,
2007

Carnival Corporation & plc announces that it has exercised its option for a new 86,000-ton, 2,106-guest vessel for its HAL brand to be built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri at its Marghera shipyard. Scheduled for fall 2010, the new €425-million ship will be the second Signature-class ship.

JUNE 15,
2007

HAL launches a kids’ and teens’ Culinary Arts Center activity program to teach kids and teens how to make dishes from breakfast to dinner.

JUly 16,
2007

HAL launches As You Wish dining, a program that allows guests to choose from either traditional pre-set seating and dining times or a completely flexible dining schedule.

AUGUST 1,
2007

HAL publishes The Art of Cruising: Fine Art and Antiques of Holland America Line, a 176-page full-color hardcover coffee-table book about the art in the fleet. It highlights pieces such as Andy Warhol’s famed Queen Beatrix series and Susanna Holt’s life-size bronze sculptures of wildlife.

DECEMBER 12,
2007

HAL marks the 10th anniversary of award-winning Half Moon Cay, the line’s highest-rated Caribbean port call. The line initially invested $16 million in the facility — which today is situated on approximately 50 acres — and developed it according to the guidelines of the International Chamber of Commerce Business Charter for Sustainable Development.

DECEMBER 14,
2007

World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society members name HAL as the Best Overall Cruise Value in the industry for the 16th year in a row.

DECEMBER 17,
2007

HAL completes a significant $20 million upgrade to ms Prinsendam to remodel stateroom bathrooms and add the Explorations Café powered by the New York Times.

JANUARY 4,
2008

Amsterdam sails on HAL’s 50th Anniversary World Cruise. The 114-day voyage features 39 ports in 29 countries on six continents and circumnavigates the globe.

APRIL 18,
2008

HAL celebrates its 135-year anniversary, marking more than a century of evolution from the once cargo and passenger line to the full-fledged modern cruse company today.

APRIL 29,
2008

HAL and the Port of Seattle announce Ship to Shelter, an innovative new community-giving program where valuable and reusable goods from the ships are collected and donated to area non-profit organizations serving people in need.

MAY 28,
2008

Zuiderdam emerges after three weeks of extensive renovations with 34 new guest staterooms, the addition of an Explorations Café – powered by The New York Times, a larger Pinnacle Grill restaurant, the addition of a new Pinnacle Bar, increased seating in the Lido Restaurant, and an environmentally friendly, state-of-the-art “wet cleaning machine” for dry cleaning.

JUNE 2,
2008

HAL surpasses the million-dollar mark in funds raised for Susan G. Komen for the Cure via its On Deck for the Cure program.

JULY 1,
2008

Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands names the 2,104-guest ms Eurodam in a ceremony in Rotterdam in front of the company’s original headquarters at Wilhelminakade. The ship sails its maiden voyage on July 5.

SEPTEMBER 10, 2008

Name of second Signature Class ship is announced as ms Nieuw Amsterdam. To be delivered in 2010, this will be the 4th HAL ship to bear this name and its interior design and art collection will reflect the glamour and history of New York City, formerly called Nieuw Amsterdam.

OCTOBER
2008

Holland America Line opens a new Culinary Training Program, designed in cooperation with the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), in Manila, the Philippines. Programs train shipboard culinary staff in meal preparation and mixology and service staff for the front desk/concierge duties for its expanding fleet of premium cruise ships. More than 5,000 Filipinos work in more than 100 shipboard positions in the fleet of 14.

NOVEMBER 4,
2008

HAL’s ongoing Signature of Excellence enhancements reach $525 million.

DECEMBER 14,
2008

World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society members named Holland America Line as the Best Overall Cruise Value for the 17th year in a row for its premium cruise experience.

APRIL 18,
2009

Holland America Line celebrates the 136th anniversary of its founding.

APRIL 25,
2009

Oosterdam sails its first cruise after a Signature of Excellence drydock with the additions of new staterooms, a larger Pinnacle Grill restaurant and new Pinnacle Bar, the complimentary Canaletto restaurant and expansions to the Lido restaurant and the Explorations Cafe – powered by The New York Times.

MAY 1,
2009

Veendam’s significant transformation is completed for the most recent phase of Signature of Excellence enhancements. The ship now features upgraded staterooms, bathrooms and fixtures along with additional verandah staterooms and a new category called the Lanai Stateroom; an exclusive pool feature — the Retreat; a Mix lounge concept including three specialty theme bars; a Showroom at Sea; and the new Canaletto Italian restaurant.


Holland America Line has carried more than 10 million passengers throughout its history.

NEWS

Neptune Lounge


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NEPTUNE LOUNGE

The "Suite Life" gets even sweeter in Holland America Line's Neptune Lounge, which provide an intimate and relaxing retreat exclusively for deluxe verandah suite and penthouse guests. The Neptune Lounge features a private place where they can relax, socialize with other suite guests and enjoy personalized service for making reservations for shore excursions, car rentals and the ship's Pinnacle Grill alternative restaurant.

The Neptune Lounge is a private room solely for deluxe verandah suite and penthouse guests. This comfortable room provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy such refined pleasures as reading magazines, newspapers and books, viewing television on a wide screen or simply enjoying coffee or tea while socializing with other suite guests. The Neptune Lounge is open on sea days from 7:30 am until 8:30 pm and from 7:00 am until 8:30 pm on port days.

NEPTUNE LOUNGE CONCIERGE SERVICES

In addition to serving as an oasis of privacy, the Neptune Lounge also offers a variety of concierge services to make suite guests' trip even more enjoyable and hassle-free. The following concierge services are available to our guests:

  • Reservation requests for the Pinnacle Grill, Holland America's popular alternative restaurant, which features the best of Northwest cuisine served in an upscale atmosphere. This dining venue is open to all guests on board.
  • Assistance with all shore excursion reservations for the ports of call during your cruise. For express shore excursion bookings, kindly return your completed Shore Excursions Request form to the Neptune Lounge as soon as possible. Please note that some excursions may be sold out, but priority will be given to the suite Guests. Your vouchers will be delivered to your suite.
  • Any other inquiries, such as car rentals or restaurants in ports of call.
  • All Front Office transactions and billing account services may be settled in the Neptune Lounge.
  • Enjoy continental breakfast, morning coffee or our tea selection served daily until 11am. We also serve espresso and cappuccino throughout the day.
  • Cookies, small pastries and sandwiches are served daily from 11am to 5pm.
  • Lounge is not available for Private Functions

04/08

NEWS

Onboard Medical Services


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ONBOARD MEDICAL SERVICES AND FACILITIES

When embarking on a cruise, the last thing our guests want to think about is the need for medical attention. However, our guests can be assured that if a medical situation should arise they would be in excellent hands, as Holland America Line is committed to providing the highest quality onboard medical care for ship guests and crewmembers and providing excellent first response and emergency care to passengers until they can be transferred to a shoreside medical facility.

Every cruise is staffed with one passenger physician and medical officers - 2 to 4 registered nurses and one crew physician---available for emergencies 24 hours a day. Acknowledged as an industry leader in cruise medicine, Holland America Line carefully screens applicants for shipboard medical staff positions: passenger physicians and nurses must be American- or Canadian-trained and licensed and experienced in emergency medicine. Nurses must have a minimum of four years of recent active nursing experience in emergency or critical care; crew physicians are trained and board-certified in the Phillipines. All staff are certified in advanced cardiac life support.

Each Holland America Line ship has a medical center carrying much of the standard equipment found in North American hospital emergency departments. While not a full-service hospital, the onboard medical center accommodates most emergencies and routine medical procedures. The medical center has an examination room, capabilities to perform simple laboratory tests, a digital X-ray machine, one isolation bed, an intensive care unit with one bed, and one or two additional beds. A defibrillator, cardiac monitor with external pacing, electrocardiogram machine, ventilator, oxygen and suction unit are included in the medical center's mini-intensive care unit.

Every Holland America Line ship is equipped with three automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) placed in strategic locations on the ship to allow for quick response. In addition to the medical professionals on board, Holland America Line officers and staff who work closely with guests receive annual CPR and AED training. The dining and bar staff also receives training in the Heimlich Maneuver to manage any choking incidents.

In 1995, Holland America Line was the first cruise line to add thrombolytic treatment to its on-board medical services. Thrombolytic therapy is an anti-clotting medical treatment that aids in preventing permanent heart damage and promotes fast recovery by dissolving arterial blood clots, the leading cause of heart attacks. The therapy is available for emergency treatment of heart attack patients, who are carefully screened to determine the advisability of its use.

In fall 2000, Holland America Line partnered with University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) for telemedicine and digital radiology consults. The ship is able to access any medical specialist through UTMB in Galveston. Radiologists can provide an instant over read of any X-rays done on board.

In keeping with the most updated technology available, Holland America vessels now have Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). These handheld electronic data managers are equipped with numerous medical information programs that are updated monthly. These programs track the most up-to-date information available on medications and treatment guidelines. Having access to the internet, together with the PDAs, gives the ships multiple current medical resources.

In most instances, medical staff can support, comfort and care for patients who suddenly become ill on board. They are generally able to diagnose the illness and recommend a course of treatment, possibly prescribing medications from the ship's pharmacy. The medical centers are not suitable for surgery. Due to the limited medical facilities on the ships, the company will not accept reservations for women who will be 24 or more weeks pregnant by the last day of their cruise.

If a patient is in critical condition, the doctor and nurses work to stabilize the patient's condition until transfer to a full-service hospital is arranged. Holland America Line has procedures for emergency disembarks by ground ambulance; via Coast Guard helicopter if medically appropriate and logistically possible in relation to the ship's distance from land; and also for fixed-wing air ambulance transfers. These protocols are in place on each ship and are coordinated through Fleet Medical Operations at Holland America Line's corporate headquarters in Seattle. All departments on board work together as a team in the event of a medical evacuation emergency. A structured emergency response team on board each ship runs practice drills.

The company's medical director (consultant), Dr. Carter Hill, is a diplomate of the National Board of Medical Examiners, the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Emergency Medicine. Dr. Hill has more than 20 years of experience in treating infectious diseases and in supervising emergency care and advanced cardiac support services. A currently practicing emergency physician, Dr. Hill is always available to the ships and their medical staff for consultation.

Sally van Boheemen, RN, is Director of Holland America Line's Fleet Medical Operations and has over 23 years of emergency nursing experience. She manages the in-house staff of eight, as well as approximately 750 sailing medical personnel. She oversees all aspects of the ships' medical operations, including budget, hiring, training, passenger emergencies and inventory of equipment and medicines.

The on-board medical center maintains regular hours daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The medical officers respond to on-board emergencies 24 hours a day.

All consultation fees and charges are paid by the guest on his or her onboard account through Holland America's convenient "cashless" system. Since most health plans, including Medicare, do not cover the costs of medical care at sea and in foreign ports, guests are encouraged to obtain supplemental health and emergency evacuation insurance prior to travel.

Although a well-stocked pharmacy is available onboard to treat most conditions, guests are advised to bring their own prescription medications with them, in carry-on luggage. Guests with ongoing medical conditions should bring along a copy of their medical records to assist in diagnosis and treatment. Since ship-to-shore consultations may be necessary, bringing the telephone number of the guest's personal physician is encouraged.

Oxygen is available on board for emergencies only. Regular oxygen users should arrange for their own oxygen and advise Holland America Line through their travel agent.

Special meals such as low-sodium, low-cholesterol, low-fat, vegetarian and diabetic, are available when dietary requests are made in advance through guests" travel agents.

Holland America Line frequently accommodates groups of up to 30 individuals with special medical needs, such as cardiac, dialysis or respiratory patients. Additionally, Holland America Line ships are suitable for physically-challenged guests. For further assistance, guests with special medical requirements may ask their travel agent to fax information to Holland America Line's Ship Services Dept.:
(206) 298-3014.

10/10/08

NEWS

On Deck for the Cure


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ON DECK FOR THE CURE™ FACT SHEET


WHO

Holland America Line and the Holland America Line Foundation are taking the fight against breast cancer to the high seas with On Deck for the Cure, a non-competitive 5K fundraising walk on each sailing that will raise a minimum of $250,000 annually for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Since its inception in April 2006, over 80,000 guests and crew have participated and over $1,000,000 has been raised for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Holland America Line is now a proud member of Susan G. Komen's Million Dollar Council.

WHAT

To participate in On Deck for the Cure, Holland America Line's shipboard guests and crew are invited to donate $15 to the Holland America Line Foundation to support the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The Holland America Line Foundation will donate 75% or a minimum of $11.25 of each $15 donation to the
Komen Foundation.

Registered participants are invited to meet for a 5K walk at a designated time on the morning of an at-sea day during their cruise. Depending on the ship, participants will walk up to 12 laps around the ship's deck to reach 5K. Participants may also walk less, or not at all, depending on their preference. Children are welcome to participate. Each participant receives an On Deck for the Cure t-shirt and Komen "Sharing the Promise" pink rubber wristband as well as a pink lemonade reception following the walk.

WHERE

Aboard the entire Holland America Line 14-ship fleet for approximately 500 On Deck for the Cure walks a year on cruises worldwide.

WHY

Holland America Line's charitable giving programs include cash sponsorships, in-kind shipboard events, free and reduced-fare cruise donations for nonprofit fundraising events, United Way participation, support of employee volunteerism and other philanthropic activities. The Holland America Line Foundation's fundraising programs provide opportunities for employees, guests and others to contribute to specific causes, and other philanthropic activities.

The goal of On Deck for the Cure is to leverage the Holland America Line fleet as a platform, along with the generosity of shipboard guests and crew, to raise significant funds for breast cancer research, education, screening and treatment programs.

LAPS PER SHIP

On Deck for the Cure walks will take place on the ships' wide teak promenade decks.

  • Maasdam, Ryndam, Statendam, Veendam: 12 laps
  • Prinsendam and Zaandam: 12 laps
  • Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Volendam: 11 laps
  • Westerdam, Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Noordam and Eurodam: 9 laps

LOCATION

Nearly 500 On Deck for the Cure walks will occur across the Holland America Line fleet in the coming year, with walks taking place on cruises all over the world including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, South Pacific, Alaska's Inside Passage, Mexico, the Baltic, Australia, New Zealand and even Antarctica.

CONTACT

For more information about Holland America Line's corporate giving program, please email giving@hollandamerica.com.

ABOUT SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE

Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure and launched the global breast cancer movement. Today, Komen for the Cure is the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Komen Race for the Cure®, we have invested more than $1 billion to fulfill our promise, becoming the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world. For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, breast health or breast cancer, visit www.komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN.

NEWS

Safety & Security
Health & Sanitation


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SAFETY AND SECURITY ON BOARD HOLLAND AMERICA LINE SHIPS

Holland America Line is totally committed to a comprehensive program to ensure the safety and security of its passengers and ship personnel. During the past two decades, North American cruise lines have maintained the best safety record in the travel industry, and safety standards on cruise ships are stricter and more consistent than in any other segment of the travel industry.

Holland America Line supports and adheres to stringent, internationally-agreed standards for the design, construction and operation of ocean-going cruise ships as set forth by the International Maritime Organization (a specialized agency of the United Nations) in the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. This document has been ratified and is enforced by virtually all the major "seafaring" nations of the world, including the United States.

The SOLAS agreement prescribes, in great detail, safety specifications in all areas of passenger vessel operations, including design, construction methods and materials, refurbishment standards, life-saving equipment, fire protection, safety training and drill procedures, among dozens of other precautions. All materials from hull steel to upholstery must comply with IMO standards that result from extensive material and type testing by IMO's special technical committee.

Since SOLAS was first drafted in 1948, it has been continually updated and expanded to increase the safety requirements as based on practical experience and/or scientific research. In North America, the cruise industry also cooperates fully with the U.S. Coast Guard, which is empowered by Congress to inspect all foreign-flag vessels operating from North American ports and to issue a Control Verification Certificate, without which a foreign-flag ship would be prohibited from embarking U.S. passengers.

All Holland America ships meet the stringent Dutch standards for safety, in addition to SOLAS. The ships are inspected annually by the flag state (Netherlands) and quarterly by the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition, surveyors from Lloyds' Register of Shipping, London, inspect each ship in detail annually and make spot checks at other intervals. Lloyds' is the "classification society" for all Holland America ships and acts for the flag state on many issues. All Holland America ships that visit Canada are inspected annually by the Canadian Coast Guard. Every country (port state) that the line visits conducts its own safety and security inspections.

All of the inspections test all watertight doors, firefighting equipment, fire- and smoke-detecting systems, fire screen doors, communications systems, alarm systems, lifeboats and life rafts, lifejackets and buoys, distress signals and all navigational equipment. These inspections are accompanied by extensive lifeboat, damage control and firefighting drills.

In addition to these required inspections and drills, Holland America Line conducts an ongoing safety program. Boat drills and fire drills for crew and boat drills for passengers take place weekly. Passenger boat drills -- at which attendance is taken and life jackets are worn -- take place in most ports of embarkation before departure and never later than 24 hours after departing the port of embarkation. Watertight doors and fire detection systems are tested daily; other equipment weekly. In addition a safety video covering lifeboat, fire and general safety is aired on the in-cabin television system for passenger viewing.

CREW TRAINING

As part of their education at internationally renowned merchant marine academies, the officers of the Deck and Engine Room Departments receive extensive safety training. They receive additional instruction at the Marine Safety International training center in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Holland America Line's marine hotel officers also receive marine safety training. In addition, deck and engine room officers receive practical training at institutes in England and the United States. Officers, petty officers and crew attend firefighting training classes at H.Z. Safety in Flushing, The Netherlands; Den Helder Training Center, Den Helder, The Netherlands; and the Fremont Maritime Services Training Center in Seattle, Wash.

In addition, officers have received crisis management and human behavior training as required by the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW).

In addition to fire prevention and firefighting training, all crewmembers receive extensive instruction in emergency disembarkation procedures, lifeboat and life raft handling. Courses are given on board all ships for the lifeboat handler certificate. This training includes emergency disembarkation procedures, boat and raft handling, complete knowledge of lifeboat and life raft inventory, and survival at sea measures. SOLAS and the U.S. Coast Guard recognize this certification. The theoretical and practical exams are conducted on board in the English language by inspectors from the Netherlands Shipping Inspectorate. Crewmembers who pass the exams are fully licensed to be lifeboat commanders. All crewmembers also are required to view safety instruction videos on an ongoing basis. Holland America Line requires all officers, crew and other staff to speak English. In addition, ongoing English language courses are conducted on board all ships to continually improve safety and service levels.

SECURITY

Holland America has a comprehensive on-board security program that meets all the requirements of SOLAS. Ship-specific security assessments have been conducted and security plans for each ship have been written, approved by Lloyd's Register, and implemented. All on-board security officers are professionally trained and certified, and most are former military or law enforcement officers. In addition, Holland America continuously monitors worldwide security information and threat advisories and maintains close liaison with port state control agencies.

A cruise ship is comparable to a secure building with round-the-clock security. Since cruise ships operate in a strictly controlled environment, access can be tightly regulated. Every person on board, including passengers and crewmembers, is placed on an official manifest and may enter the ship only after passing through strict security measures. Ship security measures include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Holland America Line provides photo identification badges to employees.
  • Holland America Line does not permit visitors on board ship unless they have pre-arranged permits from Cruise Operations.
  • Passengers are provided with guest identification cards (also used for onboard purchases) that are electronically checked before each passenger is allowed to board the ship.
  • Hand-carried luggage is X-rayed and passengers pass through a walk-through security screening system prior to embarkation.
  • All cabin baggage is x-rayed.
  • All ship stores are security screened prior to loading.
  • All access points to the ship are secured or manned.
  • All crew members have completed security awareness training.

In the aftermath of the terrorism attacks of September 11, 2001, SOLAS was amended in December 2002 and the International Ship Security and Port Facility Code was enacted with an effective date of July 1, 2004. International Ship Security Certificates were obtained for all ships prior to the deadline and all ships have successfully completed all port state control security inspections of the ships. Security measures in place by Holland America meet or exceed the requirements of the Code; and Holland America continually reviews and enhances security procedures to ensure the safest possible travel environment.



PUBLIC HEALTH and SANITATION

Holland America Line is committed to a comprehensive program to provide a clean and sanitary shipboard environment to ensure the health and safety of its passengers and employees. The company actively pursue several areas toward meeting a healthy and clean environment for guests.

Vessel Sanitation Program
Holland America Line participates in the Vessel Sanitation Program, administered by the U.S. Public Health Service Centers for Disease Control, and was instrumental in developing the manual and inspection format. Under this inspection program cruise ships operating out of U.S. ports undergo rigorous, unannounced inspections twice a year. Each ship is scored on 42 inspection items, each of which has a point value of 1 to 5, with a total value of 100 points. Ships must score at least 86 to pass the inspection. A typical inspection will focus on the following areas:

  • Water Supply?How water is produced, stored, distributed, protected and disinfected
  • Food Safety ? Protection during receipt, storage, preparation and service
  • Employee Practice and Hygiene ? Appropriate hygienic practices and overall cleanliness
  • Spas and Pools ? Water turnover, filtration and disinfection
  • Ship?s General Cleanliness and Physical Condition ? Facility cleanliness, absence of pests and rodents

Aside from the inspection program, Holland America also sends crew members to Vessel Sanitation Training sponsored by the Cruise Industry Institute and the Vessel Sanitation Program. The intent of this training program is to introduce members of the cruise industry to the specifications and expectations of the inspection program, and to meet inspection staff.

Training Programs for Public Health Practices
Holland America Line is affiliated with the National Restaurant Association in using the ServSaf online training modules and materials for culinary staff. The program is a nationally recognized model food safety certification program utilized across the United States and in many restaurant chains. Key ship personnel are encouraged to participate in training and seek the Advanced ServSaf certificate.

Traveling public health trainers visit the ships and provide instructor led Basic Sanitation Training to ship?s crew. While on board, the trainers conduct sanitation inspections to compliment and reinforce the objectives of the vessel sanitation program so that quality remains at optimum levels for guests.

Continuous training in other areas of public health practice and guest service are available online through a web based Learning Management System.

Corporate Oversight While the company is proud of its record of excellence over its 135 years of operation, it constantly strives to improve its efforts on behalf of its guests. The company also relies on third party quality assurance unannounced inspections of ships during the year, as well as oversight visits by corporate managers from various groups within the company. These visits verify compliance with the sanitation program and ensure a safe and quality product.

05/20/08

NEWS

Single Cruisers


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Single Partners Program

Each Holland America ship hosts a gathering for Solo Travelers early during their cruise. And there are plenty of things for solo travelers do that make it fun and easy to meet fellow cruisers. From cooking classes to computer instruction, dance classes to games, there's something for every interest and skill level. On most cruises of 30 days or longer, we offer dance partners for single ladies.

You can count on our gracious staff and crew to make everyone feel welcome. Guests may even request to be seated with other singles at dinner. Many of our Single Partner Program guests have become fast friends and some even book future Holland America cruises together.

Single guests who agree to share a stateroom with another nonsmoking guest of the same sex pay only the per-person, double occupancy rate. (If we can't find a partner for you, you cruise solo at the agreed-upon double-occupancy fare.) Single guests who prefer not to share a stateroom may book a double stateroom for 150 to 200 percent of the double occupancy fare, depending on the cruise and stateroom category. This program applies to selected staterooms on all ships in our fleet. The Single Partner Program is not available on Grand Cruises (Grand World Voyage, South America & Antarctic Voyage and Mediterranean & North Africa Voyage) or Alaska Cruise tours.

10/10/08

NEWS

Signature of Excellence


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Signature of Excellence Initiative


Signature of Excellence

Holland America Line's Signature of Excellence initiative provides unparalleled product and service enhancements to its fleet of five-star ships in the areas of: spacious, elegant ships and accommodations; sophisticated five-star dining; gracious, award-winning service; extensive enrichment programs and activities; and compelling worldwide itineraries.

Investment

$525 million

Timing

Launched in 2004, the initiative is ongoing.

Accommodation Enhancements

Appointed in the tradition of classic ocean voyaging, Holland America Line enhanced its staterooms with:

  • Mariner Dream Bed, a premium plush Euro-top mattress.
  • High quality cotton bed linens.
  • Large fluffy towels/deluxe bathrobes.
  • Lighted magnifying make-up mirrors.
  • Stylish new hair dryers.
  • Complimentary fresh fruit basket.
  • Stainless-steel ice bucket and serving tray.
  • Flat-screen TVs.

In addition, enhancements to all suites include:
  • Comfortable duvets on beds.
  • Fully-stocked mini-bars.
  • VCRs or DVD players with access to well-stocked video/DVD library.
  • Personalized stationery.
  • Use of the exclusive concierge Neptune Lounge.

Additional staterooms include:
  • Creation of Lanai category staterooms on Deck 6 with dedicated teak lounge chairs.
  • Stateroom upgrades including carpets, soft goods, bathroom enhancements and more.
  • Aft end of ship lengthened to accommodate the addition of 32 verandah staterooms, and a varying number of inside staterooms.
  • Addition of verandahs to 12 staterooms on Deck 9 forward (already exist on Rotterdam).
  • Creation of 15 new Spa Staterooms (23 on Rotterdam).

Two new categories of staterooms are being added to five ships and will be completed by late 2010. Lanai staterooms will feature doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade. Spa staterooms will be located near the spa and feature exclusive spa amenities.

Dining Enhancements

Long known for its innovative dining concepts and the most extensive menus at sea, Holland America Line has implemented As You Wish dining. Guests may choose from the best of both worlds - either traditional pre-set seating and dining times, or a completely flexible dining schedule at a number of different venues.

  • The Pinnacle Grill, a reservations-only restaurant, has a newly expanded menu and features distinctive Bulgari china and elegant Riedel stemware.
  • Addition of Canaletto, a popular and complimentary casual Italian restaurant.
  • Creation of an upscale pizzeria called Slice.
  • Mix, a new bar concept with three separate bars – martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales – as well as a piano.
  • Ocean Bar refurbished.
  • One-on-one service in the main dining room.
  • Two dinner seating times in the upper level of the main dining room and open seating on the lower level.
  • Introduction of all-white table linens and new main course plates in the main dining room.
  • Made-to-Order dinner entrees and table-side waiter service in Lido's popular casual dining alternative.
  • Addition of canopy and windscreens to create additional seating for Lido restaurant.

Service Enhancements

Additional touches that will enhance this commitment to service even further include:

  • An early embarkation program allows guests to board as early as 11:30 a.m.
  • Greenhouse Spa expansion with exclusive signature treatments including:
  • Additional treatment rooms, including couple's massage rooms.
    • Dry float suite with massage option.
    • Thermal suites with hydro-therapy pool, steam and aromatic room, heated ceramic lounges and In-suite showers.
    • New relaxation area.
    • New manicure and pedicure area.
    • Lifestyle Fitness Center with Yoga & Pilates.

  • 24-hour concierge service for suite guests.

Activity Enhancements

In order to provide guests with new and unique enrichment experiences that inspire and delight, Holland America Line will introduce a number of enhancements including:

  • A new Explorations Team employs cruise staff for an expanded program of entertainment and enrichment. Each team consists of a cruise director, 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.
  • Creation of a resort-styled aft pool concept called The Retreat, where guests can enjoy a new pool bar.
  • Addition of a large LED screen for movies on the aft deck.
  • Showroom at Sea – a glamorous nightclub.
  • Microsoft Digital Workshop - complimentary classes to learn how to manipulate photos and videos online to share with family and friends.
  • A groundbreaking interactive Culinary Arts Center featuring: chef presentations; cooking demonstrations; and wine and specialty shops
  • The new Explorations Café - powered by The New York Times offers guests an opportunity to sip coffee, browse one of the most extensive libraries at sea, & enjoy diverse music at one of several listening stations or surf the Internet.
  • An expanded Exploration Speakers Series.
  • Merabella luxury goods boutique added.
  • Expanded Club HAL and teen programs. Kids 3-7 enjoy creative arts, watch big-screen television and a play area. Older kids, ages 8 to 12, have an area featuring arcade games, air hockey, foosball, Karaoke, Internet access and Sony Playstations. Teens, ages 13-18, can enjoy The Loft, a teens-only lounge, connecting to a secluded, teens-only sun deck called The Oasis.

Destination Enhancements

Committed to immersing travelers in the people, customs and culture, Holland America Line doesn't just take its guests to exotic destinations, it takes its guests into exotic destinations with specific enhancements that include:

  • Exclusive Shore Excursions through The Collections of Holland America Line include choices such as private tours of estates in the Caribbean.
  • Half Moon Cay, the highest-rated private island in the Caribbean, features adventures such as: horseback riding; a stingray experience; a new aqua park and personal watercraft course.

06/09

NEWS

Special Needs Travel


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FACILITIES AND SERVICES FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES


Holland America Line does not discriminate against persons on the basis of disability and seeks, to the extent feasible, to accommodate guests with disabilities. Recognized by publications like the "Handicapped Travel Newsletter," Holland America is at the forefront of the cruise industry in providing facilities and services to guests with disabilities.

In October 2003, Holland America Line, along with other cruise line members of World's Leading Cruise Lines (WLCL), created a partnership with the Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH) to expand the potential customer base for the WLCL to travelers with disabilities. Additionally, SATH will serve in an advisory role regarding the accessibility features of the vessels among the WLCL's seven brands. While Holland America Line strives to make its ships accessible and enjoyable for travelers with disabilities, this agreement will enable Holland America Line and other WLCL brands to build upon these efforts even further.

As part of its Signature of Excellence© service enhancements, Holland America Line introduced "Access to Excellence", a 10-minute DVD. The "Access to Excellence" DVD illustrates how Holland America Line ships accommodate guests with a variety of special needs including those requiring wheelchairs, scooters or service animals; those who have sight or hearing impairments; and those using oxygen.

Many travelers with physical limitations find a cruise to be an excellent vacation experience. However, in order to avoid disappointment, Holland America Line requests advance notification about any special requirements at the time of booking. In limited situations where an individual with a disability would be unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services, Holland America Line may find it necessary to ask the individual to make alternative travel arrangements.

Although Holland America Line's ships dock at many ports of call, there are times when the ship is at anchor some distance from the port and it is necessary to use the ship's tenders (small boats) to transport guests to and from shore. Thirteen ships are now equipped with wheelchair-accessible tenders - the ms Statendam, ms Ryndam, ms Maasdam, ms Veendam, ms Rotterdam, ms Volendam, ms Zaandam, ms Amsterdam, ms Zuiderdam, ms Oosterdam, ms Westerdam, ms Noordam and ms Eurodam. With a regular tender, transferring from the ship's tender dock to the tender and from the tender to the pier ashore may be difficult for those who use wheelchairs, in certain sea conditions. In some situations, mobility assistance will involve carrying guests. Situations may occur in which guests who use wheelchairs or scooters may not be able to go ashore at the time they desire or are unable to go ashore at all in certain ports. For the safety of all concerned, the ship's captain shall make the final determination regarding the carrying of guests, taking into account all appropriate matters, including, but not limited to, weather conditions, ship's location, weight of the guest, etc.

All public rooms on Holland America Line ships are wheelchair accessible. Elevators on board all ships accommodate wheelchairs, as do designated public area restrooms.

For guests who use wheelchairs, Holland America Line has wheelchair accessible staterooms equipped with roll-in showers, shower seats and heavy-duty handrails. In addition, the exterior and bathroom doors are wider than standard doors in order to accommodate the width of most wheelchairs and scooters. The availability of these accessible staterooms can be limited. Holland America recommends that if a guest requires one of the accessible staterooms, the guest should make a request as early as possible and should hold an accessible stateroom at the time
of booking.

Bathrooms in non-accessible staterooms will have a five-inch step and a 19.5 inch-wide doorway. However, additional pieces of equipment can be brought in to the stateroom in order to assist guests with certain physical limitations. For example, a portable commode, hand-held shower and/or elevated toilet seat can be provided. Guests requiring additional equipment can make their requests through Holland America's Access & Compliance Department.

There are a limited number of wheelchairs available on board each ship. The on board wheelchairs are for use during (dis)embarkation and emergency situations only. Guests requiring use of a wheelchair on a continuous basis should either bring their own or rent one from a medical supply company.

For the safety of all our guests and crew and to enhance accessibility for persons with special needs, Holland America strongly recommends that all personal electric mobility equipment (scooters) meet the following criteria:

  • Width:
    23" maximum in order to be accommodated in a standard cabin, unless collapsible to a width of 23" or less
  • Weight:
    100 lbs. maximum without battery
  • Batteries:
    Gel or Dry Cell or AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) only


We recognize that for some people, a larger scooter may be essential. If a guest requires a larger scooter, please contact Holland America at 1-800-547-8493 so that we can discuss their requirements. Persons utilizing scooters that are wider than 23" would need to be booked in one of our accessible staterooms. Also, to enhance accessibility on and off the ship, scooters weighing more than 100 lbs. may need to be of a type that is easily disassembled.

For the safety of all guests and crew, mobility equipment needs to be securely stored and charged in the guest's stateroom, and not in hallways or elevator lobbies on board Holland America vessels. Scooters left in these areas could restrict people needing to travel through these areas in an emergency, particularly other guests using mobility aids since they would have no way of getting by a scooter left in a hallway.

Holland America Line is responsive to special dietary needs. Guests with potentially fatal food allergies should contact the Access & Compliance Department to discuss their specific dietary needs. If special dietary items are not readily available, Holland America may need to arrange to have these foods brought on board. Holland America advises that 60 days advance notice can be required in order to make these arrangements. In addition, specialty items brought on board may be charged to the guest's on board account.

For guests who are deaf or hard of hearing, Holland America Line's ships have TTY/TDD equipment, amplified telephones, visual alert alarms, closed caption decoders on televisions and an assistive listening system for the show lounges and theaters available upon request. Closed-captioned satellite television feed is not available in all regions of the globe.

Service animals are permitted on board Holland America Line ships. Guests may walk their animals on a service deck where a relief area, including padding such as sod or wood chips, can be constructed with advance notification. Also by advance request, the maitre d' will arrange a convenient table in the dining room with space for the animal on the floor. Guests must supply their own pet food and make arrangements for quarantine papers and port clearances through their travel agent. Guests should be aware that many ports do not allow animals, including service animals, to disembark the ship.

Every Holland America Line ship has an onboard medical center equipped with emergency medical facilities and a well-stocked pharmacy. Each cruise is staffed by licensed physicians and critical care nurses. Medical services and medications are charged to the guests' on-board account. Guests are advised to bring their own prescription medications with them in their carry-on luggage. Guests with on-going medical conditions are advised to bring along a copy of their medical records, with their physician's telephone number in the event a ship-to-shore consultation is needed.

For guests who use oxygen, Holland America Line ships are not equipped to provide guests with these services other than on an emergency basis in the ship's medical center. For security reasons and also to ensure that outside vendors will properly and promptly service the equipment they provide to guests, Holland America has selected the following companies as the only outside vendors permitted to deliver oxygen supplies to
the ship.

All oxygen and/or oxygen equipment being delivered to a Holland America vessel, must be delivered by one of the following companies:

CareVacations/CruiseShipAssist
phone: 877-478-7827
fax: 780-986-8332
e-mail: csa@carevacations.com

Special Needs at Sea
phone: 800-513-4515
fax: 800-513-4516
e-mail: info@specialneedsgroup.com

Oxygen and/or oxygen equipment deliveries will not be accepted from any other company.

Guests are also welcome to bring their own oxygen and/or oxygen equipment on board from home. Please note that our staff and crew are not permitted to handle guests' oxygen and/or oxygen equipment during the (dis)embarkation processes. Thus, guests must be able to handle their own supplies if they are bringing their own supplies from home. Guests are required to advise Holland America Line of their specific arrangements prior to sailing. Failure to properly notify Holland America of oxygen arrangements may result in the denial of boarding.

Other essential care needs generally present no problem if known about well before the cruise date. Specific requests must be presented at the time of booking. Guests with special medical requirements may ask their travel agent to fax information to Holland America Line's Access & Compliance Department at (800) 577-1731. Guests and travel agents are also welcome to call Access & Compliance at (800) 547-8493.

12/08

NEWS

Stateroom Amenities


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STATEROOM AMENITIES


Aboard Holland America Line Ships

Every Holland America Line cruise begins with a gracious boarding experience. Holland America Line offers an Early Embarkation Program that features boarding as early as 11:30 a.m. Embarking guests are welcomed aboard with live music and invited to go directly to the Lido Restaurant for lunch or explore the public areas until the staterooms are announced that they are ready. Once the normal embarkation time arrives, guests are provided with Holland America Line's traditional white-gloved steward escort to their stateroom.

Guests on Holland America Line experience many "special touches" in amenities and impeccable "five-star" service provided by our friendly and caring staff. The Indonesian and Filipino crewmembers work together in a gracious and hospitable style and dedicate themselves to guest satisfaction.

Holland America Line's staterooms are spacious and elegant with ample closet and drawer space. Through Holland America Line's Signature of Excellence™ initiatives, all staterooms are outfitted with Premium Plush Euro-Top mattresses, featuring 250-thread-count cotton bed linens, large extra-fluffy Egyptian cotton towels and plush terry bathrobes. New amenities also include Elemis Aromapure "Time to Spa" specialty soaps, shampoo, conditioner and lotion used in the award winning Greenhouse Spa. Guests will also enjoy massage showerheads, lighted magnifying make-up mirrors, stylish hair dryers, a complimentary fresh fruit basket and an elegant stainless-steel ice bucket and serving tray for use with in-cabin beverages.

In addition, all suites are outfitted with comfortable duvets on the beds; fully-stocked mini-bars; DVD players and access to a well-stocked DVD library; and personalized stationery.

Amenities in all staterooms include:

  • Complimentary 24-hour room service
  • Complimentary ice service twice a day or as requested
  • A complimentary souvenir canvas tote bag for shopping
  • Guest Services Directory describes all the services available on board and the room service menu
  • Turndown service each evening ensures that guests returning to their staterooms are greeted by soft lighting and "Sweet Dreams" chocolates
  • Staterooms include privacy cards and a breakfast card for in-room breakfasts
  • Daily program listing the next day's activities is placed on the bed each evening
  • An eight-page satellite edition of the New York Times is delivered by 8 a.m.
  • Stationery, envelopes, postcards and pen are provided and replenished as needed
  • Complimentary shoeshine service is available
  • Self-service laundry/ironing facilities (Not available on Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam or Noordam)
  • Men's and women's hangers (with skirt clips) in each of the three closets along with laundry, dry cleaning bags and price lists. Padded Silk hangers in Deluxe Verandah Suites and Penthouse Verandah Suites.
  • Flat-screen televisions featuring CNN, and subject to satellite availability: TNT or TCM, Boomerang, Cartoon Network and CNN, as well as shore excursions information, safety information, ship programming and feature movies
  • Non-allergenic pillows are standard. Feather pillows available upon request.
  • Complimentary use of beach towels and shore excursion towels available upon request
  • A premium line of Elemis Aromapure amenities are provided in each stateroom including Pure Shine Shampoo, Pro-Vitamin Conditioner, Citrus Slice Soap, Sharp Shower and Bath Gel, Pure Zest Cleaning Soap and Vitamin Rich Body Lotion.
  • All staterooms have private bathrooms and individually controlled air conditioning, telephone with a computerized wakeup service and a multi-channel music system
  • All staterooms have sofas, hairdryers and voicemail feature on the telephone
  • Most staterooms have convertible twin-to-queen beds; Deluxe Verandah Suites have convertible twin-to-king beds; and Penthouse Suites have king-size beds
  • All ships have accessible staterooms to accommodate guests with special needs
  • Numerous staterooms on board the Ryndam, Maasdam, Veendam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zaandam, Amsterdam, Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam and Noordam have connecting doors
  • Tuxedo rentals available from Cruise Line Formalwear for $75-$115 - call 800-551-5091 or go to www.cruiselineformal.com.


Verandah Suite and Verandah Suite Amenities

Additional suite amenities throughout the fleet include:

  • Private verandah, DVD player, whirlpool bath and mini-bar
  • Personalized stationery

  • Additional Amenities for the Suite Life
    Penthouse Verandah and Deluxe Verandah Suites

    On the Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zaandam, Amsterdam, Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam and Noordam, penthouse and suite amenities include:

  • Complimentary laundry, pressing and dry cleaning services
  • Personalized stationery
  • A deluxe fruit selection in a silver basket
  • Upon request, afternoon tea and complimentary pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in the suite
  • DVD library access, a cocktail party with the captain, special disembarkation privileges, convenient disembarkation and luggage pick-up
  • Feather pillows (as requested)
  • Corsages and boutonnieres for the first formal night of the cruise
  • A full stateroom breakfast, a personalized letter from the Hotel Manager and a personal welcome by a hotel officer within 24 hours of boarding are added luxuries
  • Each of the suites on Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zaandam, Amsterdam, Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam and Noordam has a private verandah, DVD player, whirlpool bath and mini-bar

  • The Neptune Lounge for Penthouse Verandah and
    Deluxe Verandah Suites

    The industry-leading Neptune Lounge offers a quiet place to relax and work with one-on-one concierge service for deluxe verandah and penthouse suite guests. The fleet-wide lounges provide work tables, TV, library, sofas and chairs, and refreshments. Guests enjoy personalized service to confirm shore excursions, car rentals, spa appointments, and reservations at the Pinnacle Grill. One-Touch 24-hour Concierge Service is available to deluxe suite guests when the Neptune Lounge is closed.

    Spa Staterooms

    A new category of stateroom will be available on board five ships - ms Maasdam, Rotterdam, Ryndam, Statendam and Veendam - by late 2010. 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. Exclusive spa treatments are offered only in these staterooms.

    Special Stateroom Services

    Holland America Line offers hearing-impaired guests, in many cases, a TTD-teletex communication between the front office and guest stateroom, a blinking doorbell light, closed caption decoders on televisions and a vibrating system to gently alert/awaken these guests. Closed-captioned satellite television feed is not available in all regions of the globe. We suggest you have your travel agent contact HAL Access and Compliance Department in Seattle at 800-577-1731, prior to departure.

    Holland America Line has a limited supply of wheelchairs onboard. In order to accommodate our guests, wheelchairs are reserved exclusively for embarkation and disembarkation assistance in the pier facility and emergency situations. Holland America Line is no longer able to provide complimentary wheelchair assistance other than for purposes listed above. If you will require the regular use of a wheelchair, we recommend that you bring your own wheelchair with you. You may also make advance rental arrangements prior to sailing and have a wheelchair delivered directly to the ship. For additional details on the pre-arranged rental program, please contact Care Vacations at the address listed below.

    CareVacations
    phone: 877-478-7827
    fax: 780-986-8332
    email: csa@carevacations.com

    12/08

    NEWS

    Wedding and Honeymoon


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    CELEBRATION PACKAGES FOR THE MOST ROMANTIC OCCASIONS

    Whether tying the knot aboard one of our elegant ships, a majestic Alaskan Glacier, or one of the exotic islands in the Caribbean, Holland America will help launch a lifetime of memories with wedding packages tailored to individual needs by our wedding coordinator. Couples may opt for a small ceremony and mini reception or bring family and friends along for a larger affair. Holland America's packages include a personalized wedding ceremony, wedding coordinator, flowers, cake, champagne, photo album, recorded music, and a keepsake-wedding certificate. Services such as photography live music and receptions can be added to customize your wedding package. Wedding cruise packages are available on each ship in our fleet and start at $795 for a simple ceremony for two on North America and Caribbean sailings and $1,900 for Europe sailings. Holland America Line's wedding planners are:

    North America/Caribbean:
    Royal Ocean Events, Inc.
    4337 River Road West
    Delta, British Columbia
    V4K-1R9 Canada
    Toll Free: 1-888-475-5511
    Phone: 604-940-1181
    Fax: 604-940-6216
    info@royalwed.com

    Europe:
    The Wedding Experience
    2600 S.W. 3rd Avenue, Suite 200 Miami, FL 33129
    Phone: USA 305-421-1260
    Phone: Europe +39+347+2790978
    Jorge@theweddingexperience.com
    europe@theweddingexperience.com

    Honeymooners -
    Honeymooners enjoy receiving romantic amenities on board such as the Just For Us or Romantic Voyage package. Packages may be pre-purchased, often as a gift for the newlyweds. The Just For us package includes a dozen roses, a bottle of Mumm Cordon Rouge, 2 bathrobes, one afternoon tea in your stateroom, dessert and champagne served one evening in your stateroom, guaranteed table for two in the dining room, two 25 minute aromatherapy massages, dinner for two at the Pinnacle Grill and a 10x7 activity photo sheet. The price is $498.69. The Romantic Voyage package includes one bouquet flowers, a bottle of champagne, a 10x7 photo sheet, six chocolate covered strawberries, dinner for two in the Pinnacle Grill, card lesson with $25 dollars in free chips and two 25-minute massages. The price is $304.

    Anniversaries -
    Anniversary packages include flowers in the stateroom and balloons on the door the day of embarkation. A photography credit will be applied to the couple's on-board account, and the chef will accommodate a special dessert or cake request. The package is $48.95 per couple.

    Renewal of Vows -
    For couples that would like to say their wedding vows while at sea, Holland America offers an on-board renewal-of-vows package. The bride receives a corsage, and invitations are made available to invite guests to the ceremony and celebration. The couple also receives a certificate presented by the Captain, a 10x7 photo sheet, dinner for two in the Pinnacle Grill, plus a celebration featuring live music. Champagne, wine and hors d'oeuvres are served by Holland America's five-star staff to ensure a romantic and memorable occasion. The price is $149 per couple and $12.50 per guest (celebration only).

    All packages may be booked through Holland America Line's Ship Services Department, (800) 541-1576.

    Guests on Holland America Line Caribbean and Panama Canal cruises that visit Half Moon Cay, the company's own island paradise, may renew their wedding vows on the island in a private, traditional Bahamian chapel nestled in a garden overlooking the sea. This is a more casual ceremony than on board and participants are encouraged to wear their favorite tropical attire. Champagne and cake are served after the ceremony. Each couple is photographed on the island and the photo is delivered to their stateroom in a souvenir frame. Arrangements for renewal of vows at the chapel may be made through the Guest Relations Manager at the Front Office on board ship. Packages are $49 per couple and $12.50 per guest.

    08/08

    NEWS

    Image Library


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    Image Library

    To help you promote Holland America Line we have made our favorite images available for you to download in low-resolution and high-resolution.

    What's available

    • Interiors and exteriors of the fleet
    • Staterooms and public rooms
    • Images documenting media events
    • Amenities and lifestyle photography

      • Eligibility
        The image library is available to media organizations reporting on Holland America Line. To receive access to photographs, please click the "Request Access" button below. Once you have submitted your information, a member of our staff will contact you with instructions for accessing our digital archive.

        Request Access

        A limited number of most-requested images are available now by clicking on this link. If you don't find what you need, please request access above.

        http://www.cleanpix.com/cleanpix/portal/WpaG:9cN:EAw

        Usage Agreement
        Holland America Line maintains a library of digital images of our ships and activities for use by the media and travel professionals for editorial use only. Commercial or for-profit usage is strictly prohibited (this includes advertising, post cards, e-mails and brochures). Our images are available for download in a number of high-quality digital formats for printing or web use.

    © 2001 - 2009 Holland America Line Inc. All Rights Reserved. Legal and Privacy