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.

New in 2008, As You Wish dining is an innovative program that allows guests to choose from the best of both worlds - either traditional pre-set seating and dining times, or a completely flexible dining schedule. 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.

As You Wish dining is available now on the following ships: msNoordam, ms Ryndam, ms Volendam, ms Statendam, ms Oosterdam, ms Rotterdam, ms Zaandam, ms Westerdam. Rollout on the rest of the fleet is scheduled to be completed by May 2008.

Dining Options

Main Dining Room
Holland America Lines' Main Dining Rooms offer deluxe dining at its best. The generous menu offers regional favorites, vegetarian, Healthy Life Style options, and industry-first menu categories like Comfort Food. 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.

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 Pan-Seared Rosemary Chicken with Cranberry Chutney, Grilled Sea Scallops with Marjoram Pomodoro Coulis, served on curried Hollandaise spinach with fried capers, or Lamb Rack Chops with Drizzled Mint Sauce. 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 Washington Spuds au Gratin, Grilled Asparagus avec Béarnaise and Sautéed Button Mushrooms. Delectable desserts, featuring Pacific Northwest ingredients include Warm Grand Marnier Chocolate Volcano Cake, Lemon Berry Angel Shortcake, 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.

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.

03/17/08

Entertainment and Activities

Activities & Enrichment

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.

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.

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

03/25/08

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.

In the realm of engine emissions, Holland America Line is stepping to the forefront in exploring new technologies as well. Vista-class cruise ships ms Westerdam, ms Noordam and ms Oosterdam connect to shore power at the Port of Seattle, to reduce both fuel consumption and air emissions. Holland America Line will buy and use electricity ("shore power") provided by Seattle City Light, instead of burning ship-board fuels for power while stationed in Seattle.

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.

Seawater Scrubber Pilot Program
Furthermore, 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.

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
In addition to our environmental onboard enrichment programs, Holland America Line guests are invited to view Holland America Line's environmental stewardship video while onboard. 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.

03/25/08

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

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 via the newly constructed Suez Canal. The line was a principal 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, its second leisure cruise, from New York to the Holy Land, was in 1910. In 1971, HAL suspended its transatlantic passenger trade and, 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 13 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

The grand new 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

HAL ships begin operating from the company's new terminal at Pier 40 in New York.

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 Willemstad, Curacao, Netherlands Antilles.

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; the ship is scrapped in March 1974.

1975

The Prinsendam conducts HAL' s first Alaska cruise on the Inside Passage itinerary. The ship sailed Alaska in the summer, Indonesia in the fall, winter and spring. Other HAL ships cruised to the Caribbean and Bermuda, with the Rotterdam also conducting an annual world cruise. HAL sells its Transport Division - and the last of its cargo vessels - to the Swedish Brostrom Group .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

Holland America Line completes the move of its headquarters office 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.

1988

HAL purchases Windstar Sail Cruises. Windstar's three, four-masted 148-passenger computer-directed luxury sailing ships operate in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and French Polynesia. Holland America Line purchases Home Lines' mv Homeric and mv Atlantic. The Homeric is renamed ms Westerdam II; the Atlantic is sold. At the Westerdam's introductory events in November 1988, HAL Chairman Nico van der Vorm is approached by Ted Arison, chairman of Carnival Cruise Lines, about selling Holland America Line-Westours Inc. to Carnival.

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

The new ms Veendam IV enters service. HAL's fleet numbers eight ships.

SUMMER
1996

Addition of the Veendam permits HAL to deploy the Westerdam nearly year-round in the Caribbean and also doing fall Canada and New England cruises. HAL's Alaska fleet grows to six ships: four ships on the Inside Passage itinerary; two on the Glacier Route.

The Maasdam is deployed in Europe.

MARCH
1997

Kirk Lanterman named chairman and CEO of Holland America Line-Westours, Inc.

SEPTEMBER 30,
1997

The ss Rotterdam V retires.

NOVEMBER 11,
1997

The company's new flagship, ms Rotterdam VI, enters service. During inaugural activities of the Rotterdam, HAL introduces its award-winning private island, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas. Purchased for $19.5 million, the private Caribbean island beach experience on 45 acres of a 2,450-acre island received rave reviews.

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 the Nieuw Amsterdam to American Classic Voyages for $114.5 million. The ship will 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. The 1,848-passenger vessels, costing approximately $400 million each, mark the beginning of a new class of vessel to expand premium cruising.

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 Anarctica 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

The First Vista-class ship, ms Zuiderdam, enters service. The 1,848 passenger, 81,769-ton ship is designed to provide HAL guests with 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. The Rotterdam joins the Oosterdam in the company's founding city of Rotterdam for events that include visits by past employees, a luncheon for World War II veterans, a royal maritime gala, a Mariner luncheon and tours for local dignitaries.

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. Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet and Captain Hans Van Biljouw watch as the Oosterdam is dedicated.

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 cabins, a Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, and new dining and entertainment options to be completed by the end of 2006.

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.

OCTOBER 20,
2004

ms Ryndam sails to Mexico as first ship with all Signature of Excellence® amenities and enhancements completed, including cabin soft goods, programming and the addition of the Neptune Lounge, Pinnacle Grill, Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, and Explorations Café powered by The New York Times.

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, will continue to serve as chairman in a non-executive role.

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. Nearly one million guests have visited Half Moon Cay, the industry's top private island experience.

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 provided by Food & Wine.

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. Signature of Excellence® enhancements will be completed on 10 ships at the start of 2006 and all 13 ships by fall 2006.

DECEMBER 14,
2005

HAL announces a new building plan to deliver an 86,000-ton, 2,044-passenger ship in the summer of 2008 called ms Eurodam. An option for a second similar ship would deliver the vessel in spring of 2010.

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 Holland America Line.

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 the third time in its history, the 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

The Noordam rescued 22 people from the Aegean Sea in waters between Turkey and Greece. The individuals, believed to be refugees from a number of countries, had been sailing on a boat which had capsized. One fast rescue boat and two tenders were lowered and the 22 people, all wearing life jackets, were brought aboard within two hours and 15 minutes. 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

To assist in the recovery and ensure the safety of all whale species, Holland America Line, in cooperation with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service and the National Parks Service, developed and launched the comprehensive and interactive computer-based "Avoiding Whale Strikes" training program. All deck officers on Holland America Line vessels have taken the course, which received a Conservation Partnership Award from NOAA. The award-winning program is being shared with the cruise and maritime community.

JULY 29,
2006

Vista-class cruise ships ms Westerdam and ms Oosterdam have been retrofitted to use shore power at the Port of Seattle to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions. The Holland America Line ships will buy and use electricity ("shore power") provided by Seattle City Light, instead of diesel fuel, for power while docked in Seattle. The ms Noordam has since also been retrofitted for shore power.

JULY 30,
2006

Fine art goes high tech on the high seas as Holland America Line debuts self-guided art tours using handheld iPod devices on ms Westerdam. Tours of the unique art and antique collections on each of the line's five-star ships - together valued at tens of millions of dollars - are available fleetwide by the end of 2006.

OCTOBER 12,
2006

With the ms Oosterdam, the three-year $225 million Signature of Excellence commitment to upgrade the fleet is completed.

DECEMBER 14,
2006

World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society members named Holland America Line as the Best Overall Cruise Value in the industry for the 15th year in a row.

DECEMBER 19,
2006

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

FEBRUARY 22,
2006

Carnival Corporation & plc announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to sell its Windstar Cruises brand to Ambassadors International Inc. Windstar Cruises, which operates three sailing vessels, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Holland America Line, a unit of Carnival Corporation & plc.

FEBRUARY 28,
2007

Holland America Line opens a Rotterdam headquarters near the original line's headquarters on Wilhelmina Pier. The new 30-person office will house seagoing hiring, purchasing and sales and marketing divisions. Holland America Line plans to nurture the vast potential in the Dutch cruise market.

MARCH 30,
2007

Holland America Line raised $400,000 for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, easily exceeding its $250,000 fundraising goal for the year-long program which ended today.

JUNE 11,
2007

Carnival Corporation & plc announced that it has exercised its option for a new 86,000-ton vessel for its Holland America Line brand. The new 2,100-passenger ship will be built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri at its Marghera shipyard at an estimated all-in cost of €425 million. Delivery is scheduled for fall 2010. The new ship is the second Signature Class ship, joining the ms Eurodam.

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

JUNE 15,
2007

HAL launches a kids and teen Culinary Arts Center activity program to teach kids and teens how to make dishes from breakfast to dinner. The program, which launches this summer, incorporates dishes from breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in complimentary classes lasting 45 minutes each.

JUly 16,
2007

Holland America Line launches As You Wish dining, an innovative program that allows guests to choose from the best of both worlds - either traditional pre-set seating and dining times, or a completely flexible dining schedule. 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.

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 by authors Paul Lasley and Elizabeth Harryman and photographer Michel Verdure. "The Art of Cruising: Fine Art and Antiques of Holland America Line" covers the art in the fleet and highlights unique pieces such as Andy Warhol's famed Queen Beatrix series; an original Man Ray sculpture, murals by international artists Gerti Bierenbroodsport, Ian Cairnie, Barbara Broekman and Wout Muller; and Susanna Holt's life-size bronze sculptures of wildlife.

DECEMBER 17,
2007

Holland America Line has scheduled a significant $20 million upgrade to its "Elegant Explorer," ms Prinsendam. Work will cover remodeled stateroom bathrooms and room amenities, resurfacing floorings, upgrading balconies, and the addition of meeting facilities and the Explorations Café powered by the New York Times.

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.

TThe 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.

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

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, an X-ray machine, one isolation bed, an intensive care unit with one bed, and one or two additional beds. A pacemaker, defibrillator, cardiac monitor, 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, the ms Amsterdam was the first HAL ship to be equipped with live interactive Telemedicine which provides "dial-up" medical consulting possibilities as well as teleradiology. The ship is able to access any medical specialist through the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Radiologists can provide an instant over read of any X-rays done on board. All ships introduced after the ms Amsterdam have digital radiology.

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 HAL'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 seven 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.

03/25/08

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, Cer