Holland America Line, in a multi-year partnership with Food & Wine magazine, has launched an exciting new onboard culinary program that will provide guests with an experiential way to immerse themselves in the tantalizing tastes of the exotic ports they visit.

The Culinary Arts Center - one of the marquee features of Holland America Line's $225 million Signature of Excellence^® program - is much more than a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen. Guests can learn tricks of the trade from world-class chefs in action through demonstrations and intimate hands-on cooking classes, plus learn from expert sommeliers at wine tasting events.

Additionally, on select sailings special culinary events include demonstrations by celebrated guest chefs, question-and-answer sessions with renowned culinary authorities, market tours in ports of call, book signings and specially designed onboard menus. It's a unique way for culinary aficionados, devoted "foodies" and those who simply love to cook to gain an enlightened perspective on the cultures and places they visit.

"We are excited about the myriad possibilities of this partnership," said Julie McGowan, Food & Wine's senior vice president/publisher. "By pairing Holland America Line's stellar reputation and worldwide itineraries with Food & Wine's expertise and celebration of the epicurean lifestyle, we'll attract the most dynamic, sought-after talents in the world of food and wine."

Culinary Arts Centers are currently operating on most ships and will be in place on all ships by Fall 2006. It's one more reason Holland America Line is the leader in premium cruising.

For more information, visit www.hollandamerica.com