Holland America's Westerdam Emerges from Singapore Drydock with Major Upgrades
The 20-year-old cruise ship just gained 11 new staterooms, an expanded casino, and fresh retail space after a two-week transformation in Singapore.
Holland America Line’s Westerdam has emerged from a two-week transformation in Singapore, and the changes are turning heads across the cruise industry. The 20-year-old ship just welcomed guests back on January 18, 2026, sporting fresh upgrades that make it feel brand new.
According to Cruise Industry News, the Vista-class vessel underwent significant renovations during its early January drydock at a Singapore shipyard. The updates weren’t just cosmetic—they fundamentally changed the ship’s capacity and guest experience.
More Rooms, More Guests
The most notable change? Westerdam now has 11 additional ocean-view staterooms, increasing passenger capacity by 22 lower berths. Six of these new cabins were cleverly carved out of a former technical space at the ship’s bow on Rotterdam Deck, while five more were added on Deck 1.
This is a strategic move by Holland America. Rather than building new ships to meet demand, they’re maximizing existing vessels’ potential. For cruisers, it means more availability on a beloved ship—though seasoned Westerdam fans might notice the slightly higher guest count on future sailings.
A Bigger Casino and New Shopping
The drydock brought significant changes to the ship’s entertainment and retail spaces. The casino expanded into what was formerly the Gallery Bar on Deck 2, giving gamblers more room to try their luck. Meanwhile, jewelry lovers now have an additional shopping option with a new Merabella Fine Jewelry store positioned next to the existing Effy boutique on Promenade Deck.
These additions suggest Holland America is responding to guest preferences—more gaming space and upscale shopping options have become increasingly popular across the cruise industry.
What This Means for Alaska-Bound Cruisers
Following the Singapore drydock, Westerdam departed on a 14-night cruise through Southeast Asia, visiting ports in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam before heading to Japan. But here’s what matters for North American cruisers: the ship is repositioning to Alaska for the summer season.
That means thousands of Alaska-bound guests will experience these upgrades firsthand during the 2026 season. The Westerdam, built by Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard and launched in 2004, remains one of Holland America’s four Vista-class vessels. At 82,348 tons with capacity for approximately 1,900 guests, it’s a mid-sized ship that’s beloved for Alaska itineraries.
The timing of this drydock is no accident. Holland America clearly wanted the ship refreshed and ready before the lucrative Alaska cruise season begins. With the additions of new staterooms and expanded public spaces, Westerdam is positioned to handle increased demand for Alaska sailings in what’s expected to be a record-breaking year for the region.
The Smart Economics of Ship Renovations
Adding staterooms to an existing ship makes solid business sense. New cruise ship construction typically costs well over $1 billion and takes years from order to delivery. Converting unused technical space into revenue-generating cabins? That’s a fraction of the cost and can be completed during a routine drydock.
Holland America isn’t alone in this approach. Across the industry, cruise lines are finding creative ways to maximize their existing fleets while new ships remain on order. Every additional cabin represents more revenue per sailing without the massive capital expenditure of new construction.
What to Expect Onboard
Passengers booking Westerdam can now look forward to:
- 11 new ocean-view staterooms spread across Rotterdam Deck and Deck 1
- An expanded casino with more gaming floor space
- A new Merabella Fine Jewelry store for upscale shopping
- Refreshed public areas following the renovation
The Vista-class ships have always been known for their elegant styling and spacious feel. These additions maintain that character while adding more options for guests.
Looking Ahead to Alaska Season
For cruise planners eyeing Alaska in 2026, the refreshed Westerdam represents a compelling option. The ship has two decades of experience navigating the region’s stunning glaciers and wildlife-rich waters. Now it comes with modern upgrades and additional capacity.
Holland America has long been synonymous with Alaska cruising, operating in the region for over 75 years. The company’s investment in refreshing Westerdam signals continued commitment to its signature destination.
The question travelers should consider: will these enhancements translate to higher fares? Adding capacity typically helps stabilize pricing by increasing available inventory. But upscale additions like expanded shopping and gaming spaces often accompany premium pricing strategies.
The Bottom Line
Holland America’s Singapore drydock demonstrates how cruise lines are extending the life and profitability of their existing fleets. Westerdam may be 20 years old, but with 11 new staterooms, an expanded casino, and fresh retail space, it’s positioned for many more years of service.
For passengers, the upgrades mean more booking options on a beloved ship. For the cruise industry, it’s another example of smart asset management during a period of record demand.
If Alaska is on your 2026 bucket list, the newly refreshed Westerdam deserves a spot on your shortlist.