Holland America signs on for excellence

NEW YORK – Holland America has implemented its Signature of Excellence programme of updates and enhancements for five ships, at a cost of US$525 million.

Improvements include the addition of a Culinary Arts Centre – an onboard show kitchen where guest chefs provide cooking demonstrations and classes.

There’s also a new, casual Italian dining venue, Canaletto Restaurant, and new cabin amenities, including flat-panel TVs and plush-top Mariner’s Dream Beds.

The line is adding a new category of stateroom – the Lanai Stateroom — with doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade.

Rounding out the slate of improvements are redesigned bars, lounges and casino and a new venue called The Retreat — a resort-style pool area at the aft portion of the Lido Deck that includes a pool bar, an upscale pizzeria and a giant LED screen for evening movies.

Signature of Excellence updates have already been completed on the Veendam and are scheduled to be completed on the Rotterdam by the end of the year.

Maasdam, Ryndam and Statendam will receive Signature of Excellence enhancements over the next few years.