Holland America Line is proud to announce the launch of the newest member of our world-renowned Vista-class ships - the ms Noordam. Sailing from the new homeport of New York City, the 1,918-passenger ship will sail a series of 10- and 11-day Caribbean cruises which began with a maiden voyage on February 22. Summer cruises will operate in Europe and the Mediterranean before the ship returns to New York and the Caribbean in the autumn of 2006. Presenting ms Noordam

The ms Noordam, which is the first ship to be launched with the full complement of Signature of Excellence enhancements, exemplifies the classic style of the golden age of ocean travel with contemporary amenities and modern enhancements. In addition to excellent service and an incredible range of elegant dining choices, the ms Noordam has over 50 scheduled shipboard activities allowing you to do as much or as little as you please.

The ambiance of the elegant new ms Noordam will provide a comfortable, spacious and relaxing backdrop as you sail to the sunny Caribbean. Highlight features aboard the ship include:

85 percent of all staterooms have ocean views, 67 percent of all staterooms have verandahs

The two-tier Vista Dining Room featuring five-course menus, and offering everything from continental cuisine to vegetarian and low-carb options, enhanced by impeccable service and an extensive wine list

The intimate reservations-only Pinnacle Grill, which offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience featuring Sterling Silver premium hand-selected cuts of beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated "Excellent" by Wine Spectator - as well as distinctive Bvlgari china, Riedel stemware, and Frette linens

The Lido Restaurant, which offers a relaxed ambience for all three meals and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties

The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, the setting for gourmet cooking demonstrations and interactive classes

Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times, featuring the largest library at sea, as well as comfortable music listening stations and Internet access

The Greenhouse Spa & Salon - your spa at sea - featuring thermal suites and a magnificent hydrotherapy pool

The new Pinnacle Bar, where guests can taste a selection of the best wines from around the world

The Vista Lounge, featuring Las Vegas style productions, talented vocalists, illusionists, comedians, and variety acts

The Crows Nest, where sweeping views make this observation lounge a top choice for relaxing during the day, and in the evening transforms into a hip, fashionable nightclub featuring top-notch DJs and great bands.

Expanded Club HALfeaturing programs for kids ages 3 to 12
The Loft and The Oasis for teens, new areas designed exclusively for ages 13-17 to get away from family, have fun, socialize and hang out with people their own age