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HAL’s Westerdam Emerges from Dry Dock with New Spaces & Upgrades

by Bruce Parkinson  January 20, 2026
Westerdam in santorini

Photo: Holland America

 Holland America Line’s Westerdam is sailing with a fresh look and new features following a two-week dry dock in Singapore. Crew welcomed guests aboard the Vista-class ship this week for the 14-day Far East Discovery sailing. 

Guests on that cruise are the first to experience enhancements such as a renovated Effy Lounge, a redesigned Crow’s Nest, additional Ocean View staterooms, and revitalized public spaces and accommodations.

Crow’s Nest Becomes Intimate Entertainment Hub

One of the most notable changes from Westerdam’s dry dock is in the Crow’s Nest. The space — which includes the game room, coffee counter and bar, and lounge seating — now features a newly added bandstand stage as its centerpiece, designed for intimate performances and events. 

The venue also received upgraded lighting and audio systems to accommodate small-scale live music, lectures, narration and speaking engagements. New flooring throughout the space gives it a fresh, modern look, creating a versatile setting where guests can enjoy enriching experiences in a relaxed atmosphere with panoramic views.

A new Ocean View stateroom on Westerdam.

Expanded Accommodations and Modernized Staterooms

A significant update during Westerdam’s dry dock was the addition of 11 Ocean View staterooms on decks one and seven. The ship refresh also included new carpeting in all Verandah staterooms on decks five through 10, as well as in Neptune, Signature and Pinnacle suites. 

Verandah staterooms on deck 8 received complete bathroom upgrades, with new vanities, mirrors, bathtubs, flooring and wall finishes. In addition, about 300 other staterooms across the ship were updated with new bathroom flooring and refreshed wallpaper.

Vibrant New Designs for Public Spaces

Westerdam guests will notice numerous updates to public spaces. The Atrium featuries new furniture, carpet and wall coverings, giving the ship’s central hub a vibrant, refreshed look. The updated carpet extends into the elevator lobbies, guest corridors and the Greenhouse Spa & Salon. 

Several dining venues also received enhancements. The ship’s Italian specialty restaurant, Canaletto, underwent a full interior refresh with new carpet and upholstery, while Lido Market now features updated seating and carpet. Meanwhile, the poolside burger and hot dog spot, Dive-In, introduced a new food order and pick-up counter, streamlining the guest experience.

Redesigned Effy Lounge on HAL’s Westerdam.

Effy Lounge Reimagined

Following dry dock, Westerdam unveiled a redesigned Effy Lounge, now an open-concept space that HAL says elevates the onboard shopping experience. The lounge has been reimagined with a layout that blends both shopping and relaxation, inviting guests to browse at their own pace. 

Wave Season Savings

Guests looking to sail on Westerdam can save with Holland America Line’s “Start Your Journey” Wave season offer. Guests who book with Have It All by February 26 on select 2026–2027 sailings can enjoy up to 30% off fares, free balcony upgrades, reduced deposits, free kids’ fares and onboard credit. Plus, when guests book an Alaska cruise by January 31 they also receive a $200 shore excursion bonus with offer code #1ALASKA26 at checkout. 

  
  
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