<p>Seattle, WA, August 30, 2008 - The latest in high-end designer jewelry soon will be found aboard all Holland America Line ships as part of a continuing and extensive Signature of Excellence initiative which represents an investment of more than $525 million.</p><p>Merabella, a high-end jewelry boutique with one-of-a-kind collections, was first added to ms Amsterdam in 2006 and has enjoyed tremendous success. The boutique will be its own, separate shop with an elegant atmosphere. Guests will enjoy a one-on-one shopping experience in a luxury salon with a knowledgeable staff member.</p><p>&ldquo;Merabella is an intimate boutique created for a memorable and extremely personalized shopping experience,&rdquo; said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. &ldquo;Merabella boutiques are now aboard six of our ships. It&rsquo;s been so well received that we recently made the decision to incorporate the boutique on seven more ships.&rdquo;</p><p>The branded designer jewelry collections are selected for their beauty and timeless elegance. Jewelry collections include stunning designs from LeVian, Christopher Designs, Chimento, Genesis, Tara and Sons plus many more designers. The boutique will be added on board ships during scheduled dry docks beginning with the Veendam in spring 2009 and will be completed by late 2010.</p><p>This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line&rsquo;s ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms 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 a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create 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 will also 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>