
Holland America Line is giving the onboard entertainment experience on Oosterdam and Zuiderdam a new boost. As part of the extensive Holland America Evolution program, both ships will receive a new bandstand at the Lido Pool. One of the most popular gathering spaces on board will soon also serve as a dedicated venue for live music, sailaway moments and special events.
Music already plays an important role in the atmosphere aboard Holland America Line cruises. The new poolside bandstands will add another dimension to the onboard entertainment experience. Throughout their cruise, guests will be able to enjoy performances by a variety of artists, ranging from solo performers to energetic live bands.
The first new bandstand will debut as part of the transformation of Oosterdam, which will undergo its Evolution transformation in fall 2027. Zuiderdam will also receive its own dedicated music venue at the Lido Pool.
Live Music as Part of the Cruise Experience

The new bandstands are designed as central gathering places where entertainment and everyday life on board come together. During the day, guests can relax around the pool, while the Lido Pool can transform into a lively music venue during sailaways, special events and celebrations.
The entertainment lineup will include solo performers and live bands. Popular Holland America Line traditions will also be part of the programming at the new venues. The Lido Pool will, for example, provide a new setting for events connected to the popular Orange Party.

Another advantage is the Lido Pool’s retractable glass roof. This allows guests to enjoy the central space throughout their voyage, regardless of the weather outside, while continuing to enjoy live music and entertainment.
Holland America Evolution: More Than New Music Venues
The new poolside bandstands are part of Holland America Evolution, the cruise line’s extensive fleet enhancement program. Holland America Line is investing more than $500 million to modernize six Vista and Signature Class ships.
The program will bring elements of the popular Pinnacle Class experience to more ships across the fleet. In addition to enhanced entertainment, the ships will feature new venues and amenities, as well as additional staterooms and suites.
According to Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, Evolution is about bringing favorite Holland America Line experiences to more of the fleet. The program is guided by what guests value most, with the new bandstands creating additional opportunities to enjoy live music and memorable performances together.
Grand Dutch Café and New Staterooms and Suites
The enhancements aboard Oosterdam and Zuiderdam go beyond the new poolside music venues. Following their transformations, both ships will feature the popular Grand Dutch Café.


New staterooms and suites will also be added, giving travelers more accommodation choices while creating additional space for new amenities and onboard experiences.
Together, the updated public spaces, additional accommodations and familiar Holland America Line favorites are designed to give guests an even more complete cruise experience following the ships’ transformations.
First New Bandstand Coming in 2027
Oosterdam will undergo its Holland America Evolution transformation in fall 2027. Guests will then be among the first to experience the new Lido Pool bandstand.
By bringing live music to the poolside area, Holland America Line is expanding its entertainment offering with a new space designed for shared experiences. Whether it is a live performance during sailaway, music during a festive evening or an energetic band playing during a special event, the Lido Pool is set to become a new gathering place where guests can meet, relax and enjoy their cruise together.
The addition fits within the broader vision of Holland America Evolution: bringing favorite experiences to more ships, introducing new offerings and enhancing the overall cruise experience across the fleet.
Pictures courtesy of Holland America Line
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