<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - When Holland America Line&rsquo;s ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam emerge from nearly month-long dry docks costing approximately $200 million in total, one of the highlights will be The Retreat, a new resort-style pool area on the aft of the Lido deck. Catering to the preferences of today&rsquo;s upscale travelers, the indulgent retreat is a first for the industry.</p><p>The main focus of the new pool experience will be a shallow area where guests may lounge in chairs and dip their fingers and toes in the water or relax on a bench and dangle their legs in the refreshing water.</p><p>&ldquo;The Retreat is a totally new approach for us to this area of the ship,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re creating an area where guests can relax outside in a sophisticated environment, and we&rsquo;re adding other fun and convenient features such as fountains, a stage and even a pizzeria.&rdquo;</p><p>The Retreat&rsquo;s pool will be divided into three main sections separated by benches running the length of the pool. The middle section is 16 inches deep so guests can sit on the bench to dangle their legs in the cool water. The two side sections have eight inches of water - perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Fountains enhance the d&eacute;cor and create a soothing ambiance for relaxation.</p><p>Slice, an upscale pizzeria, will be incorporated into the area, serving signature pizzas, whole pies and slices to order. And, in order to provide live music, a stage will be added.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create The Retreat and a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits &amp; Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships also will introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall, Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising</p>