SEATTLE, Aug. 25, 2000 -- Holland America Line is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the world in the fifth annual "World's Best" Awards, as voted by the readers of "Travel & Leisure" magazine.

Holland America Line received an overall score of 80.0 in the annual survey, 1.7 points higher than its nearest competitor and 1.8 points above its score for 1999. Holland America moved up two spots from 1999, finishing as the second-highest line among all large cruise brands.

To determine the "World's Best" winners, thousands of "Travel & Leisure" subscribers judged cruise lines in the categories of food/accommodations, activities/destinations, and value to determine an overall winner. For the survey, a questionnaire developed by the magazine, with the research firm Yankelovich Partners Inc., was sent to subscribers, asking their opinions of worldwide resorts, hotels, spas, airlines, cities, islands, cruise lines, rental-car companies, and tour organizers.

"We are delighted by the results of this year's survey and grateful to the discerning readers of 'Travel & Leisure.' This rating is extremely meaningful since it is made by some of the most experienced travelers in the world. It further validates Holland America Line's standing as the world leader in premium cruising," said David A. Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales, Holland America Line.

"On board our ships, we're continually making improvements, and this award demonstrates that our guests appreciate these efforts," Giersdorf continued.

"Over the last couple of years, Holland America has introduced numerous on-board enhancements, such as Internet centers on our newest ships, ESPN programming in our sports bars, the Club HAL children's activity program, bon voyage and sailaway parties, late night entertainment options, new production shows such as the lavish new 'Barry Manilow's Copacabana' and 'Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve,' new Signature Cuisine dishes in the dining rooms, our private island destination Half Moon Cay, and our new casual Lido dinner program.

"Holland America also offers many services and amenities on all of our ships at no additional cost -- such as espresso drinks, premium ice cream, popcorn at the movies and much more -- that are greatly appreciated and valued by our guests," Giersdorf concluded.

Holland America Line offers a broad range of premium cruise choices. In 2001, Holland America introduces three- and eight-day Caribbean cruises to its lineup of popular seven-, 10- and 14-day cruises to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and San Juan. The company also offers 10- to 22-day Panama Canal cruises; special Christmas and New Year's cruises; long cruises to South America; 10- to 22-day cruises in Europe; cruises from New York or Montreal to Eastern Canada/New England and cruises to Hawaii and Mexico from San Diego. The ms Rotterdam will sail on a 99-day Grand World Voyage in 2001. And, Holland America Line-Westours will offer 121 cruises and 26 tour options for the Alaska 2001 season.

About Holland America Line

With a current fleet of 10 ships and six more under construction, Holland America covers the world with its premium cruises. Holland America cruises feature a "Tradition of Excellence," including spacious staterooms, superb dining, renowned service, first-rate entertainment, the Club HAL children's program, complete fitness and spa center, and popular "tipping not required" policy.

Holland America Line is a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, and Windstar Cruises. Together, these member lines share a commitment to quality and value, offering cruise vacations that appeal to the widest range of lifestyles and budgets and sail to some of the world's most exciting destinations.