HAL’s ms Oosterdam Unveils Major Upgrades After Dry Dock Transformation

In a significant transformation, HAL-Holland America’s ms Oosterdam has returned from dry dock in Freeport, Bahamas, having undergone major upgrades. This VISTA-class vessel is now equipped with enhanced staterooms and public spaces, ready to chart a course across the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.

The dry dock period lasted two weeks, during which craftsmen and engineers diligently worked to revitalize the ship. Among the most notable changes is an expanded casino, previously the Gallery Bar, now featuring 34 new slot machines and a digital table game for guests to enjoy.

Public areas have also seen creative enhancements, with the Crow’s Nest transformed into a space that includes a new Arts Studio, a Games Room, and a Puzzle Area, each decked out in fresh, inviting decor. The Neptune Lounge, reserved for suite guests, boasts a newly upgraded ambiance with luxurious furnishings and improved guest services.

The spa facilities have been significantly enhanced, introducing a co-ed sauna, a couples’ massage suite, and a reimagined Thermal Suite complete with various relaxation therapies. The Fitness Center now houses modern gym equipment along with new flooring, catering better to active passengers.

The ship’s eateries have also benefitted from renovations, with the Lido Market and Canaletto receiving modern aesthetics such as new tiling and upholstery. Guests at the Sea View pool can relax in newly positioned luxury spa hot tubs, while both main pools shine with renewed finishes.

The Photo Studio and Gallery have been upgraded with improved lighting and a facial recognition digital photo system, creating a modern way for guests to capture their experiences onboard. The most striking addition is the new Effy Lounge and retail boutique that replaces a small cinema, offering a sophisticated jewelry shopping experience.

Inside the cabins, Oosterdam now features new carpeting, updated furniture for select balcony rooms, and fully refurbished bathrooms in certain accommodations, providing a touch of modern luxury for guests.

With these enhancements complete, Oosterdam is poised to embark on a new chapter, traversing Mediterranean ports including Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Egypt over the next seven months, before heading back west to explore the icy landscapes of South America and Antarctica in November.


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