HAL turns up volume with poolside bandstands on Oosterdam, Zuiderdam

Holland America Line is turning up the volume poolside, with new bandstands set to debut aboard Oosterdam and Zuiderdam as part of the cruise line’s sweeping Holland America Evolution fleet enhancement program.

The live music and entertainment venues will be installed at the ships’ Lido Pools, creating a new hub for performances, special events and celebrations.

The first bandstand will debut aboard Oosterdam following its Evolution transformation in fall 2027, with Zuiderdam also receiving the new venue as part of its refurbishment.

The bandstands will expand Holland America Line’s entertainment offerings by bringing live performances to one of the most popular gathering spaces aboard the ships.

"Evolution is about bringing the very best of Holland America Line to more of our fleet," said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, in a press release. "Over the past several years, we've been on a journey to expand and elevate our entertainment offerings across the fleet, guided by what our guests tell us they love most.”

“The new Lido Pool bandstands are another step in that effort, creating more opportunities to enjoy live music and memorable performances in one of the ship's most popular gathering spaces."

Programming at the venues will range from solo performers to live bands, while the spaces will also host events tied to Holland America Line’s signature Orange Party and other onboard traditions.

With the Lido Pool protected by a retractable glass roof, performances and events can continue throughout a voyage regardless of the weather.

A $500M fleet transformation

The bandstands are among several changes coming through Holland America Evolution, the largest fleet update in the company’s 153-year history.

Holland America Line is investing more than $500 million to revitalize six Vista and Signature Class ships, introducing a mix of Pinnacle Class-inspired experiences, new concepts and existing guest favourites.

The investment will enhance public spaces, introduce new venues and add staterooms and suites, giving travellers more accommodation choices.

Oosterdam and Zuiderdam will be the first two ships to undergo the Evolution transformation.

Beyond the new poolside entertainment venues, both ships will receive the Grand Dutch Café, a popular concept already found aboard Holland America Line’s Pinnacle Class ships.

New staterooms and suites will also be added as the cruise line works to bring some of its most popular experiences to a greater portion of its fleet.

Bookings are now open for cruises aboard Oosterdam and Zuiderdam following their respective refurbishments, giving guests the opportunity to experience the ships’ updated accommodations, public spaces and expanded venues.

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