September 26, 2008 - Five Holland America are undergoing individual, month-long dry docks at a total cost of approximately £110 million.

The most dramatic alterations during the latest enhancements will result in an additional 32 verandah staterooms added to the aft portion of each ship. In addition, 46 new innovative lanai staterooms will allow guests direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck and on four ships verandahs will be installed on 12 staterooms on Deck 9 forward.

On the five ships - Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam - 46 staterooms on the Lower Promenade deck will become a new lanai category stateroom with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade.

The first of the extensive dry dock periods began with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in 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.

Says marketing vice president Richard Meadows: "By adding or enhancing staterooms with verandahs and lanais, we're able to better meet the guests' demand for balcony accommodations. The latest installment enhances our premium product and the stateroom modifications update the layout and decor of the rooms while remaining elegant."

All five ships will also add a varying number of inside staterooms. Guest capacity on Rotterdam will be 1,404 and capacity on Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam Veendam will be 1,350.

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

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

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

While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales.

For a cruise brochure visit the www.hollandamerica.com "target="_blank"> Holland America website