<p>Seattle, WA, Oct 23 &ndash; Holland America Line guests now have the option of purchasing an enhanced version of its Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP), which covers the cost of a cruise fare in the event of cancellation by the guest. While the former plan required an approved covered medical reason to cancel within 24 hours of departure, the new CPP Platinum will feature a 90% refund upon cancellation for any reason up to departure, as well as increased baggage protection and relaxed rules related to recovering expenses for a trip delay. The new plan is effective for cruises departing Sept 1, 2009, and beyond.</p><p>Extension of Cancellation Period: Eliminating a previous one-day notice clause, the updated CPP Platinum offers a &ldquo;cancel-for-any-reason&rdquo; refund at 90% of the of the eligible amounts paid (excluding the protection plan cost) up to the point of departure. The extension of time allows for any circumstance that might prevent travel within 24 hours prior to departure, regardless of the reason. Standard CPP reimburses 80% of eligible amounts paid for cancellations for any reason up to 24 hours prior to departure. For most sailings, Holland America Line&rsquo;s standard cancellation policy allows guests to cancel in writing without penalty up to 76 days prior to the departure date.</p><p>Trip Delay Benefits: Compensation up to US$500 per person for accommodation and travel expense is provided with the enhanced CPP Platinum for any length of trip delay. Previous per diem limits and minimum trip delay length restrictions have been eliminated.</p><p>Baggage Protection Increased:In addition to the reimbursement of US$600 for baggage delays, liability for baggage loss or damage has increased from US$600 to a total of US$1600 under the CPP Platinum Plan.</p>