Cruisefever iconCruisefeverAug 24, 2026 ~4 min source read

Holland America Line to Add Poolside Bandstands on Oosterdam and Zuiderdam

As part of its $500 million Holland America Evolution upgrade program, the cruise line will install new Lido Pool bandstands on two ships to create dedicated live-music venues and event space.

Holland America Line Adding Poolside Bandstands on Two Ships

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Two ships — Oosterdam and Zuiderdam — will receive new poolside bandstands as part of the Holland America Evolution program.

The bandstands will be located at the Lido Pool, work with each ship’s retractable glass roof, and host a range of musical acts and special events, including Holland America’s Orange Party.

Evolution is a $500 million fleet-upgrade program covering six ships, bringing Pinnacle Class features such as Grand Dutch Café and new staterooms to older vessels.

# What's changing Holland America Line announced new poolside bandstands will be added to two of its ships, Oosterdam and Zuiderdam. The additions are part of Holland America Evolution, a $500 million program to upgrade six ships in the fleet.

# Where the bandstands will go The new venues are being added to the Lido Pool area on both ships. Each ship already has a retractable glass roof over its Lido Pool, so the space can be used regardless of weather. The design creates a dedicated spot for live music in one of the ship's main gathering areas.

# How the space will be used The bandstands will host a range of performances: solo musicians, full bands, and event programming tied to sailaway and other celebrations. Holland America specifically named the Orange Party as one event that will use the new stage.

# Why the line is making the change Holland America framed the additions as part of broader efforts to expand and elevate entertainment across the fleet. Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, said Evolution aims to bring more of the brand's best experiences to more ships, guided by guest feedback about what they value.

# What else Evolution includes

# Practical takeaways for passengers

  • Expect more live-music programming on Oosterdam and Zuiderdam once the bandstands are complete.
  • Passengers who enjoy poolside parties or live bands should look for Orange Party and sailaway events scheduled in those spaces.

# Timing and next steps The announcement describes the additions and their role in Evolution but does not provide specific dates for when the bandstands will be installed or when each upgraded ship will reenter service. Oosterdam and Zuiderdam are identified as the first two ships to receive these changes within the six-ship program.

# Bottom line The poolside bandstands are a targeted upgrade meant to create a permanent live-music venue at the Lido Pool on two Holland America ships. They fit into a larger, $500 million Evolution plan to refresh multiple ships with Pinnacle Class amenities, new dining venues, and updated stateroom options.

More context around this story.

Holland America expands Europe offerings in 2028
Travelpress iconTravelpressAug 5, 2026

Holland America expands Europe offerings in 2028

Holland America Line has unveiled details of its 2028 season in Europe, offering more sailings across Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and beyond, with the new season combining iconic destinations with opportunities to connect more deeply with the cultures, landscapes and traditions that define th

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