SEATTLE, March 2, 2011 -- Holland America Line has now launched the new Stateroom Direct Access program across the fleet that allows guests immediate to go straight to their stateroom upon embarkation.

Under the initiative, staterooms will be ready as early as 11:30 a.m., and cruisers will no longer have to check their carry-on bags and wait in public areas while their staterooms are being prepared. Additionally, arriving guests will receive their luggage earlier, allowing them more time to unpack and settle into their rooms. Guests also will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at their leisure in the line's Lido restaurant, which features a full-service buffet.

"Holland America Line is always seeking new ways to enhance our on-board cruise experience, and through this streamlined boarding process guests can now get into their staterooms earlier and begin enjoying their vacation sooner," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Stateroom Direct Service creates the best start to a cruise for our guests and sets the precedent for top-notch service to follow."

The early embarkation initiative is now in place on all of the line's 15 vessels.