The 84,000 -ton superliner Zuideram, which cost approximately 400 million dollars, was built at Marghera shipyard - the first in a series of five vessels which Fincantieri are building for Holland America.

Others to come are Oosterdam (summer 2003), Westerdam in spring 2004 with further arrivals in autumn 2005 and spring 2006.

The Vista class vessels, at and 290 metres long, carry up to 3,200 people, 2,400 passengers and 800 crew, at a cruising speed of 22 knots.

The ships also have innovative external lifts running along both sides of the vessel and spacious cabins provided with every comfort, 85 per cent of them with sea view.

Zuiderdam incorporates hallmark features of Holland America ships, with numerous dining options, from elegant meals in the formal dining room to Pacific Northwest-styled steak and seafood in the intimate Odyssey Restaurant and casual breakfast, lunch and dinner served from multi-stations in the popular Lido Restaurant.

The new Windstar Cafe will serve coffee, espresso and baked goods throughout the day. Expanded spa facilities and a second "cabaret-style" show lounge complement the multi-level, main show theater. Two interior promenade decks, an exterior covered promenade deck encircling the entire ship, a large Lido pool with a retractable dome, and Holland America's signature Explorers Lounge and "Crow's Nest" observation lounge are also featured.