Holland America Line's ms Eurodam Features Private Cabanas

It's no secret that the Cruise Diva loves new ships, especially those that are first in their "class" and offer new features. One of the reasons I'm looking forward to sailing aboard Holland America Line's brand new Signature-class vessel ms Eurodam in late-June is the promise of hot new facilities. Another reason is because I can always depend on a Holland America Line cruise to be refined and comfortable without being stuffy. So what new feature do I anticipate experiencing the most on ms Eurodam? (Well, aside from the new pan-Asian Tamarind Restaurant and one of chef Rudi Sodamin's libation concoctions, the Tamarind Cocktail.)

My wish is to relax and enjoy the outdoors aboard Eurodam in the comfort of my own private haven... of course I'm referring to the cabanas on the Observation Deck, in an area called the Retreat, or those located around the mid-ship pool on Lido Deck. The airy, tented cabanas are furnished with stylish woven chaises, ottomans, and upholstered settees. All cabanas come stocked with bathrobes and plush towels, handheld fans, an Evian spray mister, and iPods preloaded with music. Chilled waters are available to quench my thirst and I'll look forward to iced fruit skewers in mid-morning and frozen grapes, chocolate-covered strawberries, and a glass of champagne in the afternoon. Select discounted services from the Greenhouse Spa and Salon are also available on port days to guests who book the cabanas, which may be rented by the day or for an entire cruise.

• The Retreat: The 14 cabanas in the Retreat offer guests a spa-like private area where they can relax and recharge surrounded by healthy refreshments and luxurious leisure amenities. Fresh fruit, salads, wraps and juices are available at the Retreat, with light breakfast options offered as well. Retreat cabanas are $45 on port days and $75 on sea days.
• Lido Cabanas: Eight cabanas around the Lido pool offer a private respite in a livelier area of the ship. Lunch at the Lido cabanas will be served upon request from a menu of poolside favorites from the Terrace Grill or Lido Restaurant. Lido cabanas are $30 on port day and $50 on sea days.

The 2,104-passenger Eurodam debuts this summer with European inaugural festivities, including a July 1st naming ceremony in Rotterdam with Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, followed by a maiden voyage in the Baltic region. Cruise Diva will be blogging daily from on board from June 28th through July 4th, so mark your calendar. In the meantime, ms Eurodam has her very own news blog where you can follow her progress.