Holland America Line Creates New Bar Scene

Holland America Line will put five ships in drydock over the next two years to install Mix, a new bar concept incorporating three specialty bars.

The themed bars –Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales- will be in the heart of the Statendam, Maasdam, Ryndam, Veendam and Rotterdam. The bar upgrade is part of HAL’s Signature of Excellence ship renovation program.

HAL called Mix “an open and inviting space anchored by a pianist providing entertainment for three distinctly themed areas.”

Champagne will serve 20 champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world. The centerpiece of the bar will be an ice-filled countertop chilling bottles. HAL plans to have champagne breakfasts and a pre-dinner champagne hour with caviar canapés in the new space.

Martinis will feature 25 Grey Goose martinis in addition to other cocktails. Passengers will be able to sample several mini-martinis in a “martini flight.” A martini for two with aged cognac, served with a dish of caviar and traditional garnishes, will be a house specialty, HAL said.

Spirits & Ales will feature an international selection of beers and premium whiskeys and brandies. Passengers can watch sporting events while sipping their drinks. In addition to Mix, HAL will renovate the Ocean Bar and offer ballroom dancing lessons in the space.

The bar renovation will start with the Veendam in spring 2009, and will be completed with the Maasdam in late 2010.