Holland America adds poolside live music venues to Oosterdam and Zuiderdam

International

New Lido Pool bandstands will debut from autumn 2027 as part of a fleet upgrade programme worth more than $500 million

Holland America Line is expanding its onboard entertainment programme with dedicated live music venues at the Lido Pools of Oosterdam and Zuiderdam. The first new bandstand is scheduled to debut aboard Oosterdam following the ship’s refurbishment in autumn 2027.

The venues will accommodate performances ranging from solo musicians to live bands and will also serve as a focal point for special events and celebrations. Their location at the Lido Pool places live entertainment in one of the ships’ principal daytime gathering areas, while the retractable glass roofs allow the space to be used regardless of the weather.

Live music moves to the pool deck

The new bandstands are intended to complement Holland America Line’s existing entertainment programme rather than replace current venues. Performances will take place at different points during each cruise, including sailaways and special events.

Programming will also incorporate established onboard traditions such as the cruise line’s Orange Party.

“Evolution is about bringing the very best of Holland America Line to more of our fleet,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “Over the past several years, we’ve been on a journey to expand and elevate our entertainment offerings across the fleet, guided by what our guests tell us they love most.”

She added: “The new Lido Pool bandstands are another step in that effort, creating more opportunities to enjoy live music and memorable performances in one of the ship’s most popular gathering spaces.”

More than $500 million for six ships

The additions form part of Holland America Evolution, the largest fleet update in the company’s 153-year history. More than $500 million is being invested in six ships belonging to the Vista and Signature classes.

The programme is designed to introduce features inspired by Holland America’s newer Pinnacle Class while also adding new accommodation and public spaces. Oosterdam and Zuiderdam will be the first two vessels to undergo the transformation.

The project is intended to bring facilities and concepts already familiar from other parts of the fleet to a larger number of ships.

Grand Dutch Café and additional cabins

Beyond the poolside music venues, Oosterdam and Zuiderdam will receive further changes during their refurbishments. These include the introduction of the Grand Dutch Café as well as additional staterooms and suites.

The combination of new accommodation and redesigned public areas is intended both to increase passenger choice and update the onboard experience on the two older vessels.

Bookings have already opened for cruises aboard Oosterdam and Zuiderdam following their respective refurbishments. The first passengers will therefore be able to experience the new entertainment concept and other additions once the ships return to service after their Holland America Evolution transformations.