SEATTLE, Jan. 16, 2002 -- Holland America Line-Westours is the favorite premium cruise line of travel agents, according to a survey by Florida-based Recommend magazine.

Results of the survey, taken last summer, were published in Recommend's December issue.

"We are especially gratified to be recognized by such a knowledgeable group of people," said David Giersdorf, senior vice president, marketing and sales. "Travel agents know their clients will appreciate Holland America Line's unsurpassed, gracious service and great values."

As the leading premium cruise line, Holland America's ships feature spacious staterooms, superb dining, renowned service, casino, first-rate entertainment, a dedicated movie theater at sea, duty-free on-board shops, internet centers, the Club HAL children's program, and a complete fitness center.

Holland America also delights guests with "little touches" which carry no extra charge while making their cruise memorable: make-your-own ice cream sundae buffet featuring many toppings and liqueurs; espresso coffee drinks; hot hors d'oeuvres in all lounges during the pre-dinner cocktail hour; freshly-made popcorn served during movie times; shoe-shine service; and a Holland America Line signature canvas tote bag for shopping or beach-going. Recommend's survey asked agents to name their favorite cruise line, but did not prompt them with a list of possible answers. Agents also named Holland America their top choice for a mid-ship cruise line. Recommend, a highly respected travel trade publication, features destinations and has a circulation of nearly 60,000 agents.

About Holland America Line

Holland America Line has 11 luxury ships sailing to more than 280 ports of call and scenic cruising destinations on all seven continents, including Antarctica. The company 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.

In 2002, Holland America Line will offer 360 sailings within a half-day's drive of 40 percent of North American households and departing from 15 North American home ports.

Affordable air arrangements are available through the Home City Air program and Holland America offers the only trip cancellation program in the industry that offers cash back for canceling for any reason prior to 24 hours before departure.

Holland America Line is the highest-rated premium cruise line in the world in the 2001 "Travel & Leisure" magazine "World's Best" Awards and one of the world's three highest rated large-ship cruise lines in the 2001 "Conde Nast Traveler" Readers' Choice Awards. The company also has won its 10th consecutive "Best Overall Cruise Value" award from the World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society (WOCLS).