Holland America has been undergoing an image makeover for the past few years. Traditionally recognized as a great cruise line for the older crowd, Holland America Line (or HAL for short) has been adding sleek new ships sailing to itineraries that appeal to a broader audience. HAL should be considered at the high end of the Mass Market cruise lines with its elegant ships, high marks for service and quality food service. Still, if you are a senior citizen, HAL does an exceptional job of facilitating your special needs with little extras like fold-down seats in elevators and wheelchair accessible staterooms. Holland America has a great reputation in Alaska with a variety of cruises and cruise tours.

With more than 130 years of experience, Holland America Line is recognized as the undisputed leader in the cruise industry's premium segment. With the introduction of the 1,918-passenger ms Noordam in early 2006, Holland America Line's fleet grows to 13 ships, offering nearly 500 cruises from more than 25 home ports. Itineraries range from two to 108 days and visit all seven continents, including new Australia/New Zealand and Asia sailings, a world cruise and popular sailings to several ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico and Europe. The ms Noordam also will offer Caribbean sailings in the winter from new homeport New York City.

Holland America Line's $225 million, fleetwide Signature of Excellence enhancements feature new programs and amenities including the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine - a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts will provide cooking demonstrations and classes - Explorations Café powered by the New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new cabin amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush-top Mariner's Dream Beds.