HOLLAND America confirmes investment of $200 million upgrading five of its ships.

Work due to start when Veendam enters an extended dock in spring 2009, with the last ship due for completion in late 2010.

ms Statendam, ms Ryndam, ms Maasdam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam will all undergo extensive dry docks to create new venues, new staterooms, new decor over the next two years.

Changes for the better include a new resort pool concept, on Lido deck called The Retreat, with a shallow area where guests may lounge in chairs with their toes in the water.

Each ship also will have an additional 44 to 46 staterooms, 32 with verandahs and the remaining will be inside staterooms.

"In an era where cruise lines are building ships to carry more than 5,000 passengers, Holland America Line remains focused on mid-sized vessels," said Richard Meadows, CTC, executive vice president of sales, marketing and guest services.