cruise holland america line

19 Fantastic Things That Make Holland America Line Unique

T here are so many cruise lines to choose from. What makes one stand out from another? The answer to “Why is Holland America Line unique?” lies in the details and things they offer that sweeten the deal.

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1. Longstanding History on the Seas

Holland America Line’s (HAL) rich history and the evolution of the brand is impressive. What began as a Dutch shipping cargo line has transformed into an international cruise line that sails to seven continents.

In 1872, their first cruise set sail from Rotterdam. It cruised from The Netherlands to NYC with crew, passengers, and cargo. This ship was 269 feet but cruising has come a long way since then. Fast forward to Zuiderdam — the first ship we sailed on with HAL — where we we had 936 feet of ship to enjoy!

From 2022 to 2023, they entered a year-long celebration commemorating 150 years of business; we were proud to sail from Boston to Quebec City with HAL at that time.

In the 1940s, after Germany invaded The Netherlands during WWII, HAL's ships were used for the war effort. When the war ended in 1946, a joyous homecoming took place when Amsterdam (II) sailed home from Southampton to Rotterdam. As the Holland America Line timeline states, “During the course of the war, she travels 530,452 miles and carries 378,361 troops — a record only broken by the Cunard Queens, which are twice the size.” We're veklempt just thinking about this momentous event!

In a post-war world, cruise ships were ever-increasingly popular for the use of leisure trips. A pioneer in Alaska cruises , Holland America Line acquired a 70% majority stake in the Alaska tour company Westours, Inc. in 1971; it acquired 100% of Westours, Inc. by 1977.

Today, the cruise line is owned by Carnival Corporation (who also owns a slew of other popular cruise lines, including Princess Cruises , Seabourn, Cunard , and AIDA). Yet Holland America Line maintains its own identity associated with the cruise lines' Dutch founding.

2. Orange Party on Every Cruise

Why Holland America Line has an “Orange Party” on each cruise lies in the company's name and history.

The cruise line, which has “Holland” at the forefront of the brand, has roots in the Dutch shipping industry. Yet, for a broader understanding of the connection the color orange has with the Dutch, we need to understand one of The Netherlands' annual holidays.

King's Day in The Netherlands

Every year, on April 27, Dutch people celebrate King's Day, which is the date of the King's birthday. The city is dressed in orange, from balloon decorations on business facades to what the residents wear to parties. The color of Konigsdag , as it's officially called in Dutch, is orange because the royal family is called “Huis van Oranje” or “House of Orange.”

This is why the Dutch-rooted cruise line has an orange party!

What is the Orange Party on Holland America Line Like?

The Orange Party is a blast! Guests are encouraged to pack orange clothes to wear to the party before leaving home. Some passengers go as far as wearing orange sequin dresses, and others accessorize with simpler things like orange jewelry or scarves.

If you forget to bring orange but want to join in on the apparel fun, there are orange accessories like headbands and hats available to buy onboard. This little “shop” is simply a table located right next to the party venue.

When we were on our Boston to Canada New England cruise aboard Zuiderdam, the Rolling Stone Lounge was the place to be for this festive party. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres were passed around, and special cocktails were crafted for the evening. We danced for a couple of hours to the live band, celebrating this fun event.

3. Afternoon Tea Time

Who doesn't need an afternoon pick-me-up? Tea time on Holland America Line is the perfect time to enjoy little pastries, tea sandwiches, and, of course…tea! We loved meeting up with new friends for this time of onboard relaxation. It was quite lovely!

HAL's Navigator app is the perfect resource to find out when afternoon tea — or “High Tea,” as it's called — is taking place on select days.

4. Days of the Week Carpet in the Elevator

You know how when you're on vacation, you often forget what day it is? But sometimes you need to know if it's Tuesday or Wednesday for something back home, like messaging a family member or friend on his or her birthday.

We loved that every day, the carpet in the elevators was swapped out to correspond to what day it was. It was a small detail that we very much appreciated.

5. Canaletto Italian Dining

Specialty restaurants are available for dining on Holland America Line in addition to the usual restaurant that is open for every meal. One night of our cruise, we enjoyed dining at Canaletto. This Italian restaurant had delectable antipastas, fresh salads, and homemade pasta, which I am a total sucker for.

Canaletto also has melt-in-your-mouth meat dishes on the menu, like their Ossobuco or Chicken Parmesan, and seafood options, too. If you want to feel like you're in Italy on the Mediterranean, no matter where your cruise is going, get an Aperol Spritz to drink with your meal.

The small upcharge to dine here, which is around $20 per adult, is completely worth it. If you purchased a “ Have It All ” cruise fare, at least one specialty dining experience is included. More might be included depending on the length of your cruise is.

6. “Have It All” Pricing

Speaking of the “ Have It All ” package — it's completely worth it! You can upgrade your cruise fare to Have It All if it's not what you originally purchased for $55 per person per day.

Three tiers correspond to the length of your cruise and dictate how much of each category is included. These tiers are:

• 6 to 9-day cruises (excludes cruises less than six days)
• 10 to 20-day cruises
• Cruises longer than 20 days (excludes Grand Voyages)

Within the three tiers are four categories of what's included:

• Drink Package
• Shore Excursions
• Specialty Dining

All three tiers, no matter the length of your cruise, include daily WiFi and the Signature Drink Package for the length of your cruise. What varies is how much shore excursion credit you get (the longer the cruise, the more credit you get) and how many specialty dining restaurants you can go to.

If you pay for Have It All for your 6-9 day cruise, for example, and only one specialty restaurant experience is included, you can always pay the separate fee to add on another dining experience.

7. Live Music Galore

If live music is your thing, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy it across multiple venues onboard. Holland America Line has partnerships with New York City's Lincoln Center, Billboard, and Rolling Stone.

Our favorite place to be at night after dinner on Zuiderdam was the Billboard Onboard piano bar. Two pianos are set next to each other, and the two musicians/singers play crowd pleasers for hours each night. We were singing along all night.

8. Holland America Line Navigator App

Cruise line apps are appreciated when they're particularly functional and useful. Another reason why Holland America Line is great is because of their mobile app. It was very easy to use, especially for finding out what activities we wanted to attend at any given time.

The app is available for Apple devices and Android users.

9. Neptune Lounge: Cabanas/Private area

It's always nice when a cruise line has a suites class of some sort that guests can opt to book. Neptune Suites on Holland America Line ships are a special category of staterooms.

Being in this ship-within-a-ship class allows guests access to the Neptune Lounge, outdoor cabanas, and priority embarkation and tendering, as a few examples of the class perks.

10. Bar Events

If a cruise vacation is associated with indulgence, having adult beverages is part of it. Two particular bar events onboard got us excited when we cruised with Holland America Line.

Happy Hour Savings

If you don't opt to include a drinks package with your cruise fare, either as a stand-alone option or with HAL's “Have It All” pricing, you can take advantage of happy hour at select bars around the ship! During our cruise, happy hour started at 4:00 pm and lasted until 5:00 pm. The hour-long specials were for beer, wine, and house spirits.

Bar Crawl 

Although we had a drinks package, we signed up for the HAL Bar Crawl. We wanted the experience.

We thought we would go from bar to bar on the ship and quietly enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine with other guests we would meet. But we were very wrong! Though we met other guests, it was more so a frat party bar crawl rather than the quiet experience we envisioned. 

That said, we talked about that bar crawl for months later. The crew leading the event was so enthusiastic! And though we didn’t drink 90% of the cocktails given to us (most were too sweet), we loved traipsing around the ship and singing the song, “We are the Zuiderdam! The mighty, mighty Zuiderdam!” Then, one of the crew members leading the group would yell, “Zuiderdam!!!” And we’d reply with “Bar crawl!!” It was a fun evening activity.

If there are activities on cruises designed to get you out of your comfort zone, we’d say this was one of those for us; we’re glad we did it once.

11. You Can BYOB

Did you know you can bring your own beverages on board? The catch is that it's very specific alcohol and specific quantities. Luckily, the HAL website spells it all out so you don't have to guess.

Here's the synopsis:

• You can bring wine and champagne onboard, with a max volume of 750 ml or less. There is a corkage fee of $20.
• If you purchase wine during a company-sponsored shore excursion (like visiting a winery on a HAL-organized excursion), it's exempt from the corkage fee.
• You can bring your own water onboard if you want. “An allowance of six liters, twelve (12) cans or cartons (500 ml in volume or less) or six (6) cans or cartons (1 liter in volume or less) of water are allowed per stateroom.”
• Guests are not allowed to bring beverages in plastic containers onboard. 

12. They Have Pickleball Onboard

If you haven't heard of Pickleball, it's likely you haven't lived in the United States for a while, where the sport has swept the nation! Holland America Line caught onto this sports trend; they converted some of their outdoor top-deck sports courts to be used for Pickleball .

13. They Have Libraries Onboard

One of the things that most surprised us about cruising with HAL was the onboard library. This makes Holland America Line unique in such a remarkable way! Guests are welcome to borrow books for the duration of the cruise in all categories including fiction, youth, and short story sections.

14. They Partner with Audible to Bring Passengers Complimentary Onboard Content

Holland America Line has partnered with Audible to bring their guests unique offerings. Passengers can listen to books onboard and enjoy in-stateroom audio, like meditations and sleep tracks. They can also learn the basics of a new language on board, which is particularly helpful if you are sailing abroad. Learn a bit of Spanish as you sail into Barcelona, Spain !

A subscription is not needed onboard. However, this industry-first partnership offers guests a free Audible trial on land.

15. Carpets by the Elevators on Stateroom Decks Point to the Forward or Aft

We always appreciate when a cruise line helps guests find their way in a ship’s design elements. On Princess , we enjoyed that the carpet in the hallways was a different color on the even-number stateroom side vs. the odd-number stateroom side. On Holland America Line, we were grateful that the carpets had arrows pointing toward Forward or Aft.

The photos below illustrate the direction of ship Forward from the Port vs. Starboard side. Since these are opposite sides of the ship, they point in different directions for how a guest would walk toward the front of the ship.

16. Board Games and Puzzles Encourage Guests to Unplug

Guests can enjoy games, and puzzles provided by HAL. On Zuiderdam, this was in the Crow’s Nest lounge of the ship on Deck 10.

Playing a game is such a nice way to unplug from devices and bond with other cruisers as you work towards finishing the same puzzle or bond with your partner, friends, or family.

17. They Have Their Own IslanD: Half Moon Cay

Did you know that Holland America Line has their own Caribbean Island? In fact, every Caribbean Cruise itinerary makes a stop there during one day of the cruise.

18. Their Standby Program is an Incredibly Unique, Affordable Last-Minute Cruise Option

When we heard about HAL's Standby program, our ears perked up! The low-cost cruise offer for $99 per day (including taxes and fees) is a really cool way for them to fill cruise ships last minute for guests who live close to key United States cruise ports.

19. Holland America Line is the First Global Cruise Line to Receive International Seafood Certifications

As if HAL couldn't impress us more, they created a sustainable seafood program in partnership with the Marine Stewardship Council and Aquaculture Stewardship Council. The cruise line became the first globally to receive International Seafood Certifications, helping protect our oceans and an incredible food source.

Furthermore, all of the ships in the fleet that sail in Alaska serve 100% sustainable seafood under its Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification.

The pioneering initiative engages a global network of 60 ports to source and serve 80 types of fresh fish—from port to plate in less than 48 hours—in all restaurants on board. Examples include Asian Barramundi, Tasmania Atlantic Salmon, Canadian and New England Haddock, Hawaiian Swordfish, Mediterranean Sardine, Mexican Tuna, Northern European Dover Sole, and South American Chilean Seabass.

Look for a symbol marked next to the dish on menus onboard, using the Marine Stewardship Council blue fish, Aquaculture Stewardship Council sea green, and RFM logos.

Read this next:

• Top Amazon Cruise Essentials for Your Packing List
• Complete Guide to Alaskan Cruises Including Ports of Call + What to Pack
• How to Decide the Best Cruises to Book

The post 19 Fantastic Things That Make Holland America Line Unique appeared first on Sometimes Sailing .

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A Guide to All 11 Holland American Cruise Ships

Here's what you should know before booking your Holland America cruise.

Courtesy of Holland America

When you cruise with Holland America Line (HAL), a World’s Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree , you can expect incredible food, exciting destinations (over 300 ports of call across all seven continents), and luxe service. This Travel + Leisure reader-favorite cruise line provides a luxury cruise ship experience without the luxury price tag.

Based on my Holland America experience, I can confirm that the service is top-notch. I sailed on the Eurodam , and the main dining room servers always greeted my sister and me by name. Being treated like a friend, not just another passenger, is a luxury, especially on such a large ship. (Each vessel accommodates between 1,432 and 2,668 passengers.) HAL “prides itself on its beautifully appointed ships and gracious services where all of its guests can expect to enjoy touches of luxury throughout the journey," Holland America Line specialist and Marvelous Mouse Travels travel advisor Charlene Recio says.

Other features include the cruise line's partnership with the Professional Pickleball Association — which outfits every ship with courts and complimentary lessons — and sophisticated dining options like the new Global Fresh Fish Program , which allows you to enjoy over 80 varieties of fresh, locally sourced regional seafood specialties, depending on your location. Think yellowtail snapper while cruising the Caribbean, sardines in the Mediterranean, and halibut in Alaska.

Though all 11 ships have things in common, it's essential to understand their nuances when choosing the right cruise for you. “The Pinnacle Class ships offer more dining options and entertainment, but the smaller-sized ships, such as those that are part of the R or Vista classes, allow easier access to more unique destinations,” Recio explains. Here, learn about each Holland America ship, including essential amenities and capacities, and make booking your next sailing a breeze.

Inaugural Year : 2021

Ship Class : Pinnacle 

Capacity : 2,668 passengers 

Holland America’s newest ship, Rotterdam , is extremely impressive. Expect incredible entertainment, contemporary staterooms and suites, swanky public spaces, and over 20 drinking and dining options. Post-dinner, you can check out the casino, catch an outdoor movie screening by the pool, or take in a performance in the dazzling World Stage theater. For live music, the "Music Walk" area offers several options, from pop hits at Billboard Onboard to soul at B.B. King's Blues Club.

Nieuw Statendam

Inaugural Year : 2018

Capacity : 2,666 passengers   

Nieuw Statendam offers a traditional cruising experience (formal nights, afternoon tea) with contemporary flair. Music is a big theme on the ship — its unique design draws inspiration from musical instruments, and there's a music-themed art collection on board. Additional highlights include an expanded Music Walk area, the two-level World Stage theater, and top-notch specialty dining options, including Tamarind for Southeast Asian and Rudi’s Sel De Mer for haute French-inspired cuisine.

Inaugural Year : 2016

Capacity : 2,650 passengers 

Thanks to its clean lines, modern decor, and natural light-filled spaces, Koningsdam has a brighter, airier aesthetic than Holland America's other vessels. It was the first ship in the line’s Pinnacle Class and is home to live music venues, outdoor movie screenings by the pool, pickleball courts, and a lively casino. For some well-deserved R&R, head to the spa or the adults-only Retreat area.

Nieuw Amsterdam

Inaugural Year : 2010

Ship Class : Signature

Capacity : 2,106 passengers 

As you might be able to guess by its name, this sophisticated ship pays homage to New York City. Design elements hammer the theme home: There's a crystal chandelier shaped like the skyline, tons of photos and paintings with motifs of "The City That Never Sleeps," and a full-size yellow cab in the kids club.

Stroll along the wraparound promenade, listen to live music at Billboard Onboard, and rent a plush cabana at the swanky adults-only Retreat. Be sure to indulge in the ship's dining options, too — this is the only Holland America Line vessel with a permanent Morimoto by Sea restaurant. Iron Chef alumnus Chef Masaharu Morimoto, who was named the line's Fresh Fish Ambassador when the Global Fresh Fish Program launched, designed Morimoto by Sea pop-up experiences on several HAL ships, but his pièce de résistance is the full-time, standalone Morimoto eatery exclusive to Nieuw Amsterdam.

Inaugural Year : 2008

Capacity : 2,104 passengers 

The first vessel in Holland America’s Signature Class, Eurodam exudes elegance in every sense, sans any stuffiness. I cruised to Alaska on this ship in August 2022 and was especially blown away by the live music at Music Walk.

I also relaxed on a thermal lounger at the spa, tucked into crispy fish and chips (made with Alaskan halibut, of course), lounged by the Lido Pool — the retractable roof here comes in handy in inclement weather — sipped iced lattes and hot cocoa, and kept an eye out for whales in the Explorer’s Lounge.

Inaugural Year : 2006

Ship Class : Vista 

Capacity : 1,924 passengers 

Noordam boasts a gallery-worthy art collection and elegant staterooms. There are ample public spaces and activities, but don’t expect over-the-top entertainment. Instead, you can play pickleball, sing along to live tunes in one of the Music Walk venues, cozy up with a good book in the library, relax at the spa, or take a dip in one of the pools.

Inaugural Year : 2004

Capacity : 1,916 passengers

Westerdam celebrated its 20th birthday this year, but it feels as contemporary as any of the other vessels, thanks to the addition of music venues such as Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge. It also hosts activities like wine tasting and bingo. If you're a fitness lover, check out the sports court to perfect your pickleball game with a free lesson.

Inaugural Year : 2003

Capacity : 1,964 passengers 

Oosterdam — the second Vista Class ship in the fleet — is among the line’s most family-friendly vessels. Although all HAL ships have complimentary kids clubs for children ages three to 17, only a few ( Oosterdam included) offer High Score!, a game room where children and adults can play games like skeeball.

While the little ones play, grown-ups can enjoy a massage at the spa or cocktails at a stylish bar or lounge like Ocean Bar. Regroup for dinner before heading out to Billboard Onboard or Rolling Stone Lounge on a date night or trying your luck at the casino.

Inaugural Year : 2002

The 22-year-old Zuiderdam is a Holland America fan favorite for its classic nautical design elements, modern bells and whistles, and numerous dining options, including the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse and Dive In, a casual poolside eatery serving Nathan’s Famous hot dogs and fries.

The public spaces are equally impressive, including the posh cabana-lined Retreat (exclusively reserved for adults) and the buzzy Rolling Stone Lounge. The ship is also the 2025 home of Holland America’s annual Grand World Voyage , a world cruise that sails to six continents over an eye-popping 124 days.

Inaugural Year : 2000

Ship Class : R Class 

Capacity : 1,432 passengers 

Along with its near-identical sister ship the Volendam, Zaandam represents the small end of HAL's fleet. The vessel — designed to carry a line-minimum 1,432 passengers while offering plenty of room to roam — is ideal for a more personal and intimate cruising experience. The ship’s musical-inspired decor includes signed guitars from Queen, The Rolling Stones, and Eric Clapton.

Inaugural Year : 1999

Volendam is the line’s oldest operating ship, dating back 25 years. Despite its age, this small vessel delights with its elaborate public spaces, which feature elegant garden-inspired touches like fresh blooms, floral fabrics, and tapestries. Volendam is one of just two Holland America ships without a Music Walk, so expect a quieter, more low-key onboard atmosphere.

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Holland America: Included Drinks, Tours, Specia...

Holland America Alaska cruises from $844*

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Holland America Line, a premium, upscale cruise line founded in 1873, offers a perfect balance between a formal and relaxed ambiance aboard mid-sized ships. Their long history of shipping and transportation has developed their tremendous pedigree in the cruising industry so you can be sure every aspect of your vacation will be spectacular. Holland America Line’s ‘Signature of Excellence’ means constant improvements and updates to ships, which means an innovative and exciting onboard experience for you - and staterooms that are on average 25% larger than those on similar class vessels. In addition, Holland America Line strives to offer you the most unique destinations, itineraries, and shore excursion offerings so you’ll return with a wealth of memorable experiences.

View Holland America Cruises

Accessibility

Learn about Holland America's handicap accessible cruises and accommodations for guests with special needs or disabilities, including hearing impairment, service animals and oxygen needs.

Savor dining aboard Holland America, including the Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, Tamarind, Lido Restaurant, Master Chef's Room, main dining room, room service and more.

Entertainment

Enjoy Holland America's onboard entertainment, including BB King's Blues Club, an onboard theater, casino, indoor and outdoor movie screens, bars and lounges.

Onboard Activities

Engage in Holland America's onboard activities, including culinary classes, digital workshops, regional experiences, art galleries, pools, sports courts, duty-free shopping and more.

Service & Awards

Learn how Holland America's friendly staff take care of your every need with an extensive list of onboard services. Plus, view Holland America's cruising awards.

Spa & Fitness

Relax in Holland America's greenhouse spa, salon, fitness center and fitness classes. There are also Hydrotherapy pools on some Holland America ships.

Special Events

Make the most of your Holland America Line cruise with exclusive special events and signature experiences in select cities.

Explore Holland America's deluxe cruise staterooms, including Pinnacle, Neptune, Signature and Vista Suites, along with balcony, ocean-view and inside staterooms.

Youth Programs

Learn about cruising with children aboard Holland America. Youth programs provide supervision and activities for children ages 3-17, along with babysitting programs.

Top 10 Holland America Line Itineraries

• Oosterdam 10-day Mediterranean Odyssey Departing From Barcelona, Spain (Sep 2024)
• Oosterdam 21-day Mediterranean Odyssey & Venetian Delight Departing From Barcelona, Spain (Sep 2024)
• Nieuw Statendam 14-day Ancient Mysteries & Egypt Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Sep 2024)
• Rotterdam 21-day Norse Legends & Jewels Of The Baltic Departing From Rotterdam, The Netherlands (Sep 2024)
• Nieuw Statendam 28-day Ancient Mysteries & Eternal Cities Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Sep 2024)
• Westerdam 34-day Majestic Japan Departing From Yokohama, Japan (Sep 2024)
• Volendam 7-day Canada & New England Discovery Departing From Montreal, Quebec (Sep 2024)
• Zuiderdam 7-day Canada & New England Discovery Departing From Boston, Massachusetts (Sep 2024 - Oct 2024)
• Rotterdam 7-day Norse Legends Departing From Rotterdam, The Netherlands (Sep 2024)
• Nieuw Amsterdam 7-day Alaska Inside Passage Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (Sep 2024 - Sep 2026)

Holland America Line Cruise Destinations

Holland America Line prides itself on offering a superb variety of destinations. This cruise line visits 7 continents and over 320 ports worldwide while embarking from all types of ports, from convenient close-to-home ports to far-away exotic departure ports. You can plan a special romantic cruise to the Greek Isles or an enriching vacation in Asia. In addition, Holland America's connections with Alaskan hotels and their ownership of Half Moon Cay (their private Caribbean island) have differentiated them in Alaska and the Caribbean. 

Enjoy the natural beauty and inherent adventure of America’s 49 th State with an Alaska cruise.

Alaska Cruisetours

Thrills, massive hills, and a few chills in America’s 49 th state—that’s the way we do Alaska Cruisetours.

Culinary eccentricity meets historical adventure when you cruise to Asia and the Pacific.

Get a taste of the land under, and wander the outback with some wallabies with a cruise to Australia/New Zealand and the South Pacific.

From the changing of the seasons to clam chowder that defies reason, cruising to Canada and New England is an unforgettable vacation experience.

It’s an investment in happiness and cultural enrichment when you choose to get tropical and take a Caribbean cruise.

Eastern Caribbean

Spend some time in the sunshine and fill your nights with tropical delights in the Eastern Caribbean.

Royalty, culinary excellence, interesting cities and ports—all this and more when you cruise to Europe. 

Delve into the unique Hawaiian culture and spectacular tropical delights of the islands with a cruise to Hawaii.

Mediterranean

Delve into culinary treats in Italy and Turkey or enrich yourself with the history of France and Spain with a Mediterranean cruise.

Mexican Riviera

Sail along the coast of the Mexican Riviera in style while you delve into ancient civilizations—take a cruise to Mexico.

Northern Europe

Inspire yourself with a Northern Europe cruise highlighted by Viking legends, grand, looming fjords, and a history of royalty.

Panama Canal

Man-made and natural spectacles unite when you cruise to the unique Panama Canal.

South America

Visit lands of contrasting weather, where you can challenge yourself and your palate—that’s the mantra of a cruise to South America and Antarctica.

South Pacific / Tahiti

The South Pacific and Fiji are your tropical paradise. Holland America wants you to experience true bliss when you sail with them to these secluded islands. 

Southern Caribbean

From snorkeling to smoothies, cultural treasures to creatures of the jungle—cruising to the Southern Caribbean is an incredible vacation option.

Transatlantic

Experience premium cruising at its best on a relaxing cruise across the Atlantic Ocean aboard one of Holland America’s elegant cruise ships.

Transpacific

Cruise across the Pacific Ocean in style aboard one of Holland America’s premium ships. You could visit a wide variety of exotic ports while traveling between stunning worlds.

U. S. Pacific Coast

Discover the history of the West and the cultures of some of the finest America cities with a Pacific Northwest or Pacific Coast cruise.

Western Caribbean

Diverse cultures, sunny days by the sparkling water, and thrilling excursions await you on a Western Caribbean cruise.

From the Alaska to Australia, Bahamas to Burma, and everywhere in between—choose a Grand Voyage or World cruise and see it all.

Holland America Line Departure Ports

Sail to the world’s hot spots with Holland America. This revered cruise line has sailings from cities around the world like Ft. Lauderdale, Valparaiso, Barcelona, Sydney and Montreal.  All of their departure ports are convenient to get to with major airports and public transportation. Get ready for an amazing cruise vacation with Holland America, your first step is to call us at The Cruise Web to speak with a consultant and find your perfect itinerary. 

With Amsterdam’s beautiful canals and an open attitude you’ll find no shortage of interesting attractions in the capital of The Netherlands.

Anchorage, Alaska

Discover something new while exploring Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city. The city is surrounded by natural beauty ripe for sight-seeing.

Auckland, New Zealand

The mild temperatures in Auckland enhance an outdoorsy cruise destination. Tour the many beaches, hike beautiful mountain ranges or just wander Auckland’s city streets.

Discover imaginative architecture, impressive Spanish dishes and beautiful excursions into nature when you cruise to Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia.

Boston is home to great sports, great food and loads of history with the Freedom Trail and Harvard.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is a charming European style city with the perfect combination of new world characteristics mixed with old world history and culture.

Cape Town, South Africa

See the beautiful sights of Cape Town, South Africa’s most visited city, which offers cruisers natural beauty, plentiful wine, historical significance and a sense of peace.

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

Dover (London), England

Dover, with its striking white cliffs, is one of the most popular gateways to England. Take in the area’s natural beauty or head to nearby London to see more of England’s most popular attractions.

With incredible weather, delicious fare and some stupendous attractions, you will find that Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is one of the most attractive ports in the entire US.

Fremantle, Australia

Beautiful beaches mixed with alternative art and music fill the Western Australia port city of Fremantle.

Hong Kong, Hong Kong Sar, China

One of the world’s most exciting modern cities, Hong Kong offers a true East meets West experience where you can shop for traditional Chinese cure-alls and attend high tea all in the same afternoon.

Ijmuiden, Netherlands

Ijmuiden offers cruisers a great spot from which to travel all over the northern part of The Netherlands, making it a popular port for cruisers seeking a more in-depth Northern European experience.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has deep cultural roots that are exposed through ruins and museum artifacts. Cruise to Lisbon and discover the culture and history of Portugal in its capital city.

In Miami, you’ll enjoy a small taste of the tropical weather many of you will experience during your cruise, and you’ll see why Miami is one of the most popular places to live in America.

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal combines Old World style and New World cosmopolitan inspirations, along with a French culture, for a beautiful all-encompassing city and cruise destination.

Take in the incredible art scene of New York City, expand your cultural horizons in the city’s diverse neighborhoods and marvel at the architectural wonders.

Learn about the Greek gods and the early philosophy of Socrates when you visit the incredible ruins left in Athens, Greece. At night, go out and take in the culture with the modern Athenians.

Quebec City, Quebec

It’s easy to be wowed by Quebec City as Old World Europe is mixed with North American cultures alongside breathtaking landscapes and the flowing Saint Lawrence River.

Reykjavik was just a small village until seeing a major expansion after World War II, but this popular cruise destination still offers a small town feel different than any other European capital.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

With modern buildings and a bustling population, Rotterdam offers an interesting contrast to the more laid back feel of city’s like Amsterdam.

San Antonio, Santiago, Chile

Experience the history of San Antonio or head to Santiago to experience everything Chile’s capital has to offer. The choice is yours!

San Diego, California

Situated on the Pacific Ocean, San Diego is known for its near perfect weather, beautiful beaches and abundance of activities.

Known as The Emerald City, Seattle is a beautiful, luscious city with incredible views of the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay. The city is full of activities for both water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Singapore, Singapore

Southeast Asia’s most modern city, Singapore, also contains a lot of history and treasures from the past, along with a perfect tropical climate – all making Singapore a wonderful destination year round.

The near perfect days, beautiful scenery, pristine beaches and sparkling water offer the perfect backdrop for any dream adventure in Sydney, Australia.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a dazzling city where you might be overwhelmed at first by its modernity but will find lots of interesting subcultures in its various neighborhoods.

Trieste, Italy

Sit back and enjoy the sea breezes in Trieste, an Italian city that despite being close to Venice is more akin to Vienna, the capital of the Hapsburg Empire. 

Whether it’s your cruise destination or a launching point, Vancouver is a beautiful destination in itself with a sophisticated downtown and lots of natural elements to explore.

Whittier, Alaska

Experience the best of the Last Frontier in quaint Whittier, Alaska. Enjoy the clear water filled with salmon, red snapper and trout along with the freely roaming wildlife, all combining to make Whittier a treat to visit.

Yokohama, Japan

See Japanese history in person as you discover Yokohama, Japan’s biggest port city, where the country was first opened to outside trade after more than 200 years of seclusion.

Holland America Line Ships

Holland America Line has used their history and cruising pedigree to create a semi-formal, yet innovative fleet of cruise ships. Each class in the fleet boasts unique and intriguing features for a stupendous onboard experience. Aside from the elegant traditional dining, each ship offers delicious specialty dining such as the Pinnacle Grille or the Canaletto Italian Restaurant. Each ship has comfortable and modern accommodations, spa and fitness availability, and bright and exciting onboard activities and entertainment. 

• Passenger Capacity: 2,104 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2008
• Last Refurbished: 2015

• Passenger Capacity: 2,650 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2016
• Last Refurbished: N/A

Nieuw Amsterdam

• Passenger Capacity: 2,106 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2010
• Last Refurbished: 2017

Nieuw Statendam

• Passenger Capacity: 2,666 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2018

• Passenger Capacity: 1,972 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2006
• Last Refurbished: 2019

• Passenger Capacity: 1,964 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2003
• Last Refurbished: 2018

• Passenger Capacity:  2,668 (double occupancy)
• Year Built:  2021
• Last Refurbished:  N/A

• Passenger Capacity: 1,432 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 1996

• Year Built: 2004
• Last Refurbished: 2023

• Passenger Capacity: 1,432 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2000

• Year Built: 2002

Photo Gallery for Holland America Line Cruises

Are you a visual learner? Check out this photo gallery of the Holland America experience. Here you can see the amazing dining venues, spacious staterooms and beautiful destinations the ship sails to. 

Horse Back Riding Excursion in the Caribbean

Ship cruising into Istanbul, Turkey

ms Ryndam in Alaska

Guest enjoying their balcony stateroom in Alaska

ms Maasdam Penthouse Veranda stateroom

Signature Suite Stateroom

ms Veendam Spa Suite Veranda Stateroom

ms Maasdam Greenhouse Spa

ms Nieuw Amsterdam Cabana Club

ms Statendam Lido Pool Deck

Pool Deck and Onboard Activities

Loft Oasis youth programs

Fitness Center

Casino and Entertainment

Entertainment at Sea

Canaletto Dining Room

ms Eurodam Tamarind dining room

Machu Picchu, Peru

Bahai Temple and Gardens in Haifa

Cruising past Sydney Opera House

Ship cruising the Panama Canal

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Holland America Line: The Complete Cruise Guide

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Table of Contents

Is a Holland America cruise right for you?

Holland america destinations, holland america ships, holland america: how much does it cost, is cruising with holland america worth it.

Holland America Line’s current fleet includes 11 ships, which are mostly midsize. They visit all seven continents, with stops in the Caribbean, Tahiti, the Mediterranean, Antarctica and more. Its Alaska presence is especially strong, and Holland America claims it has visited Glacier Bay National Park more than any other cruise operator.

Trip lengths vary. Some might opt to sail for just one night, such as the jaunt between Seattle and Vancouver. Other itineraries sail around the world for 100 days or more.

Holland America’s parent company is Carnival Cruise Line , which acquired Holland America in 1989. But while Carnival touts offerings like the “first roller coaster at sea” on its flagship brand, Holland America is for folks with — let’s call it — more refined tastes.

Here’s your guide to Holland America, including amenities, costs and how you might save money on your next sailing.

Many ships feature a library. (Photo by Sally French)

Here are some types of people best suited for Holland America:

Travelers ready for relaxation rather than partying

Though open to travelers of any age (infants must be at least six months old to embark on most cruises), Holland America caters to the mature set.

Unlike Disney Cruises or Royal Caribbean ships, which are laden with waterslides, flashy designs and high-energy shows, Holland America is more subdued. Its most lively entertainment includes a casino, trivia nights and live music. Children or adult travelers seeking maximum stimulation might be less enthused.

But relaxed cruisers seeking peace might find it here.

Cruisers who prefer a ship that’s not too big yet not too small

The salon. (Photo by Sally French)

Every Holland America ship has a gym, portrait studio, sports courts, a spa, salon and multiple pools. On a short three-night cruise, you could eat three meals a day at a different restaurant and never hit them all. The largest ship has 10 restaurants, not including snack spots like the café and gelato shop.

Still, Holland America ships are relatively small. While Royal Caribbean’s behemoth Icon of the Seas ship has more than two dozen restaurants and a capacity for 5,610 guests, Holland America’s largest ship, Rotterdam, accommodates 2,668 guests.

Holland America covers almost 100 countries or territories and more than 470 ports, including stops in the Amazon and Antarctica.

For its 2025-26 cruise season, Holland America will operate in 11 countries in Asia alone. The primary focus is Japan, where it will dock in 24 ports around the country.

Mexico and Panama Canal cruises are also big. The 2025-26 cruise season adds a new stop at the port of Acajutla, El Salvador, on most Panama sailings. Meanwhile, two ships will offer Mexico itineraries with stops including Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.

(Photo courtesy of Holland America)

The 2025-26 season brings an iconic Pacific Northwest itinerary that hasn’t been offered in decades. Dubbed the “Great Bear Rainforest,” the seven-day itinerary departs from Seattle and includes stops in Ketchikan, Alaska. Expect to see whales, eagles and potentially bears.

Explore all the current Holland America destinations .

Though ships vary slightly, they are generally more similar than different. Here’s a breakdown of all 11 Holland America ships, sorted by largest to smallest guest capacity:

Suites feature whirlpool bathtubs. (Photo by Sally French)

The smallest, two-guest rooms are about 143 square feet, though suites are easily double that. The smallest suite, the Vista Suite, ranges from 260-356 square feet. For maximum space (and service), book the Pinnacle Suite, which fills roughly 1,290 square feet. High-end suites include frills like whirlpool bathtubs, vanities, dressing rooms, decks and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Holland America also caters to solo travelers by offering single-person staterooms that are as small as 127 square feet.

Whether you choose a lavish suite or an inside stateroom, expect fairly upscale accommodations. Sleep in the cruise line’s signature Mariner’s Dream bed, fitted with a Euro-Top mattress, and use the premium massage shower heads as you scrub.

Holland America food

Larger ships have a dozen or more eateries. Some restaurants operate on every ship, such as Canaletto (a casual Italian restaurant) and Lido Market (which serves meals in an all-you-can-eat, cafeteria-style setting).

All you can eat

Meals at The Dining Room are included with your cruise fare — a rare exception for fine dining restaurants on Holland America. (Photo by Sally French)

Most casual restaurants are complimentary and all-you-can-eat, included in your cruise fare. Holland America is also picky eater-friendly, with options that less-adventurous eaters may gravitate to such as pancakes, pasta and potatoes. Additionally, every ship features a poolside burger stand Dive-In, serving burgers, hot dogs and fries at no additional cost.

While most restaurants cost extra, the exception is The Dining Room. Its multicourse dinners feature rotating, elevated menu items (such as lamb loin). As part of a partnership with Masaharu Morimoto, The Dining Room serves dishes similar to those in Morimoto’s restaurants.

No matter your cabin class, 24-hour room service is complimentary, delivering items such as salads and sandwiches.

With beverages, the free stuff is generally limited to the basics like water, tea and coffee. Sodas, specialty coffees, mocktails and alcohol cost extra.

What food costs extra?

Aside from The Dining Room, waiter-service restaurants cost extra. Some operate an à la carte model, such as Nami Sushi. There, entrees cost about $15, while sushi rolls run about $5 each.

Others charge fixed prices. For example, dinner at Pinnacle Grill, a steakhouse, costs an additional $46 per person. Certain items also have an additional charge (caviar costs an extra $50).

Though the additional charges might be annoying, they can be considered a deal relative to dining at a steakhouse on land. For example, a 36-ounce tomahawk ribeye from Omaha Steaks can cost $200 each — and you’ll still have to cook it yourself. That makes Pinnacle Grill’s $46 admission plus $35 tomahawk supplement (served to you on a white tablecloth, no less) look like a deal.

In addition to fancy restaurants, some casual dining options (including the cafés and gelato shop) incur an extra fee.

For free ice cream, head to Lido Market, where you can DIY dessert at the ice cream station.

Holland America drink packages

On Holland America, you'll need to purchase a drink package to sip from these soda machines. (Photo by Sally French)

For beverages beyond the basics, buy them individually or through a drink package.

The soda-only package entails unlimited fountain drinks for $8 per person, per day.

The Quench package costs $17.95 per person, per day and includes sodas, premium coffee (like lattes), juice, mocktails and bottled water. It’s technically not unlimited, but there's plenty to go around with a 15-drink daily limit.

For packages with alcohol, you’ll owe at least $55 per person, per day (premium spirits cost more). Again, there’s a 15-drink daily cap.

Is the food any good?

Food quality varies. Lido Market is your run-of-the-mill buffet but other restaurants are generally excellent (just note the surcharge).

For example, dinner at Canaletto costs $25 extra per person and includes pasta and gelato — both made fresh on board.

Holland America also has some food options from famous chefs. The first Morimoto By Sea opened aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam, bringing the award-winning restaurant chain to sea.

A spread of items served at a Morimoto pop-up restaurant on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Holland America activities

The art gallery on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Holland America activities are pretty tame, such as live music and wine tasting.

A music venue. (Photo by Sally French)

Every ship features World Stage, a theater hosting entertainment like expert lecturer talks and dance performances. Ships also have at least one lounge or club, such as Rolling Stone Rock Room or B.B. King’s Blues Club.

A shuffleboard court on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Every ship has a casino, spa, fitness center and outdoor sport courts, including pickleball courts. After all, Holland America is the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association.

Holland America Kids Club

Most cruises offer a kids club with crafts, video games and scavenger hunts.

Kid-friendly offerings are extremely limited (especially compared with competitors like Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line ) so don’t expect many kids onboard. Many cruisers consider the lack of kids one of Holland America’s best features.

Which Holland America ship is best?

Unlike some competitors that build ultra-distinct ships with one-of-a-kind amenities, Holland America is not that. After all, some people sail on the Disney Wish purely (or at least, in large part) to ride on the AquaMouse water slide.

Holland America’s offerings just don’t stand out like that. Instead, consider the destination rather than the ship itself.

That said, here are some key differentiators:

If you want the most options: Rotterdam is the largest (and has the most restaurants).

If you want the newest ship: The Rotterdam is also the newest ship, which first set sail in 2021. Newer ships often (though not always) mean better layouts and up-to-date fixtures.

If you prioritize smaller ships: Volendam and Zaandam are the smallest.

If you want to live on a ship: Two ships, Volendam and Zuiderdam, carry out the Grand Voyages and World Cruises, which sail around the world for months. Zuiderdam is slightly larger than Volendam — offering more guest rooms and entertainment venues.

The Crow's Nest offers a lounge for relaxing and panoramic views. (Photo by Sally French)

According to a NerdWallet analysis of more than 100 Holland America cruise itineraries through 2024, the average seven-night, inside stateroom starts at $646 per person. That figure assumes double occupancy (so a couple sharing a room would owe about $1,300), but doesn’t account for extra fees, including taxes and gratuities, or optional add-ons like beverages or Wi-Fi.

Suites can easily cost double that (or far more). For example, the average Vista Suite (the lowest class of suites), averaged $1,322 per person for a seven-night trip. The fanciest of the suites, the Neptune Suite, averaged $2,766 per person.

An inside stateroom on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

Prices can also vary widely by region. Here were the average prices per person for seven-night journeys (assuming inside staterooms with double occupancy), broken down by major regions:

California coast: $349.

Alaska: $413.

Caribbean: $609.

Mediterranean: $909.

Northern Europe: $972.

Other costs

The dessert spread at the Morimoto pop-up restaurant on the Koningsdam. (Photo by Sally French)

That’s the base fare, but anticipate other expenses, including:

Taxes, fees and port expenses: Holland America passes on fees and taxes imposed by governments or port operators. Expect a few hundred dollars added to your base rate. 

Gratuity/tip: An automatic $17 ‘Crew Appreciation’ charge is added per stateroom guest, per day. For guests in suites, it’s $19. Though automatically added, you can adjust the figure upon settling your bill at checkout.

Service charge: Add-ons like beverages, speciality meals and spa services incur an 18% service charge.

Ability to choose your stateroom: For those who want to sleep closest to the best deck on a cruise ship , there’s an additional fee to select your specific stateroom, though prices vary by cruise.

Some activities: Certain activities incur extra costs, such as spa treatments. 

Shore excursions: Upon docking, you’re free to exit the ship and roam around on your own, but Holland America sells curated shore excursions, too, that easily cost more than $100 per person. Prices vary by excursion. In Maui, you can tour a pineapple plantation for $190, while a behind-the-scenes tour of the Maui Ocean Center costs $560. Although you can book excursions through third parties, beware. Benefits of booking through Holland America include early departure and a guaranteed return.

Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi starts at roughly $22 per day depending on cruise length. More robust Wi-Fi (such as streaming capabilities) costs more than $30 per day.

Specialty dining and drinks: Specialty restaurants — as well as most beverages beyond basics such as coffee, tea and water — cost extra.

Is the Have It All premium cruise package worth it?

For the latter three items — shore excursions, Wi-Fi, speciality dining and drinks — the Have It All premium cruise package may be worth it.

Packages vary depending on the cruise length. Here’s what’s included:

NerdWallet analyzed dozens of Holland America cruise fares. On average, here’s how much money you would save, depending on the cruise length:

In every data point in NerdWallet’s analysis, the Have It All package ended up cheaper than buying all of those things a la carte. But consider what you really need. If you only drink one alcoholic beverage per day, the $55 beverage package probably isn’t worth it.

How to save on a Holland America cruise

Cruise last-minute: The Last Minute Cruise Deals page lists discounted sailings within the next 60-90 days. However, don’t overlook other costs such as potentially-expensive, last-minute airfare.

Scout out promotions: Holland America’s general deals page is the spot for Black Friday cruise deals or other seasonal promotions.

Refer a friend: Holland America regularly runs a referral program where you might get a cruise credit if your friend enters your name in the referral form.

Become an AARP member: AARP members can earn up to $200 in stateroom credits. Actual amounts depend on room type and cruise length. Considering AARP membership costs $16 annually (and potentially less if you commit to more than one year), joining pays for itself based on the cruise credit alone.

Should you purchase travel insurance for a Holland America cruise?

Holland America sells a cancellation protection plan, which allows you to cancel your cruise for any reason. It’s called the Holland America Line Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP). Unlike traditional insurance plans that require proof (e.g., a doctor’s note confirming illness) or have tons of fine print around reasons the insurer doesn’t have to pay out, CPP is convenient because it lets you cancel for truly any reason.

Plans start at $79, but can run higher depending on coverage and trip length.

The cheapest plan, Standard, requires you cancel at least 24 hours before departure. The Platinum Plan lets you cancel any time up to departure. Neither gets you a full refund though. The Standard Plan refunds up to 80% of your total cost, and Platinum refunds up to 90%.

The Platinum Plan also covers potential costs such as emergency medical and dental care, coverage for lost or delayed bags and trip delay insurance.

Be sure to compare prices with third-party insurance providers , and don’t overlook credit card coverage. Some credit cards offer travel insurance benefits on cruises purchased with that card. While credit cards likely won’t offer Cancel For Any Reason coverage, some plans are still quite comprehensive.

Is the Holland America credit card worth it?

The Holland America Line Rewards Visa® Card has a $0 annual fee, so it’s hard to knock it. It earns 2 points per $1 spent on Holland America purchases and 1 point per $1 spent everywhere else. There are also no foreign transaction fees.

Redemptions are somewhat complex and restricted to mostly Holland America purchases. That’s far more limiting than other credit cards which let you redeem points for cash back or for a wider range of travel .

Plus, most redemptions on the Holland America Line Rewards Visa® Card are worth just 1 cent per point. Considering some points on travel credit cards can be redeemed for more than 2 cents per dollar, you’re likely better off using another travel credit card.

on Chase's website

on Bank of America's website

on Citibank's application

• 10 points per $1 on Chase Dining, hotel stays and car rentals purchased through Chase.

• 5 points per $1 on air travel purchased through Chase.

• 3 points per $1 on other travel and dining not booked with Chase.

• 1 point per $1 on other purchases.

• 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center.

• 3 points per $1 on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending on Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay.

• 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.

• 10 ThankYou® points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked through the Citi Travel site.

• 3 points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases.

• 3 points per $1 on supermarkets.

• 3 points per $1 on gas stations and EV charging stations.

• 3 points per $1 on restaurants.

$300 annual travel credit .

$325 annual credit.

$100 in airline incidental statement credits.

This card does not offer a travel credit benefit.

The casino. (Photo by Sally French)

Holland America offers a traditional and elegant cruise experience. The emphasis on high-quality dining makes it good for foodies — just note that the best restaurants cost extra. Crowds are mature, which is a pro or a con depending on the level of entertainment, nightlife and energy you seek.

Families or people seeking high stimulation and constant entertainment should skip it. Additionally, budget travelers might find the additional charges aggravating (though additional charges are common across pretty much any cruise line).

In short, cruisers who value sophisticated service, delicious food, and exploration may love Holland America.

(Top photo courtesy of Holland America)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Ships & Ratings

Ship Ratings Key

Best Holland America Cruises

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Debuted in October 2021, Rotterdam welcomes up to 2,668 guests at double occupancy, 3,172 guests at maximum capacity and 1.048 crew members. The name hearkens back to the line's founding in the late 19th century, when its first ship, Rotterdam, sailed from the Netherlands to New York. Though the ship's name is rooted in the cruise line's past, its amenities are anything but antiquated. 

Among Rotterdam's standout facilities is World Stage, a performance venue that features a two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screen that creates a panorama of light and sound for audience members. For more entertainment, passengers can catch a performance at any of the ship's numerous music venues, including the Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King's Blues Club.

When travelers aren't grooving to live tunes, they can test their luck at the onboard casino or relax at the spa. Meanwhile, kids can play the day away at the Kids Club. Foodies will be pleased to hear the ship offers eight dining options, including Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French brasserie, and Tamarind, which highlights the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan.

Cabins range in size from 143 square feet to 1,290 square feet, with some of the luxury suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool baths and verandas with hot tubs.

Sailings aboard Rotterdam depart from ports like Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Amsterdam to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The art collection aboard Rotterdam is valued at more than $4.1 million and has 2,645 pieces of diverse works ranging in value from $500 to $620,000. Take some time to walk around the ship to explore the collections. Each of the three stairwells has a theme that reaches from top to bottom: architecture, music or zoology. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Launched in 2016, Koningsdam is one of Holland America's newer ships and the first in the more contemporary Pinnacle Class. Passengers can participate in everything from cooking classes to duty-free shopping, or simply relax by the pool or at the spa. The ship holds 2,650 passengers at double occupancy, 3,154 passengers at maximum capacity and 1,036 crew members.

Holland America now features an exclusive amenities program, Club Orange. Members can receive benefits such as a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a dedicated concierge hotline and skip-the-line priority access.

Members of Club Orange will also receive additional benefits when onboard Koningsdam including a premium in-room breakfast menu and a private dining venue with an expanded menu.

Guests can spend their evenings playing casino games or watching stage shows and musical acts through a partnership with "Rolling Stone" magazine. While the ship does offer youth clubs for children ages 3 to 17, most of the entertainment and activities are geared toward adults.

When hunger strikes, passengers can choose between 11 dining venues, ranging from the casual New York Pizza & Deli to the more formal Pinnacle Grill steakhouse.

The ship's cabin categories are also diverse. Staterooms range from Interior and Ocean View cabins to Verandah rooms and three Suite categories.

Koningsdam departs from ports like Fort Lauderdale , Florida, San Diego , Seattle ,  Vancouver  and Anchorage , Alaska, for sailings through the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii , Alaska and California. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: The three Pinnacle Class ships (Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam) have Single and Family Staterooms. Family Staterooms accommodate up to five guests and have two bathrooms, plus extra closet space. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

More colorful than most of Holland America's fleet, Oosterdam launched in 2003 and was last updated in 2016. The 1,964-passenger ship houses 812 crew members, making the passenger-to-crew ratio roughly 2-to-1. The vessel holds 2,587 at maximum capacity.

The ship features six stateroom categories: Inside, Ocean View, Verandah, Signature Suite, Pinnacle Suite and Neptune Suite. All accommodations are outfitted with Sealy-Premium Euro-Top mattresses, flat-screen TVs and plenty of storage space.

Like other Vista-class ships, Oosterdam   is equipped with a large pool and a sizable spa and fitness area, along with BBC Earth Experiences and sports courts. While there are kids and teens clubs for younger passengers, most of the activities and entertainment on the ship are geared toward adults.

When it's time to dine, guests can enjoy varied dishes in the main dining room, Italian fare at Canaletto or other options ranging from casual to fine dining. 

Oosterdam departs from ports in  Fort Lauderdale , Buenos Aires , Rome , Athens and more. Itineraries include destinations in Europe, South America and Antarctica.

Originally launched in 2008 and updated in late 2015, Eurodam   carries up to 2,104 passengers at double occupancy, 2,731 passengers at maximum capacity and 876 crew members.

The ship’s 11 decks include multiple cabin categories: Interior staterooms, Ocean View and Verandah staterooms, Signature Suites and Neptune & Pinnacle Suites. All cabins come equipped with plush Euro-Top mattresses and flat-screen TVs. Suites received updates to the furniture, carpeting and bathrooms, as well as a USB outlet on the bed's headboard and a Bose Bluetooth speaker. 

Recent cruisers of Eurodam were pleased with the versatile selection of nine dining venues. Most notably, the ship offers Tamarind, which serves exotic fare from Southeast Asia, China and Japan. 

Daytime activities range from the Greenhouse Spa & Salon to the BBC Earth in Concert experience. More active pursuits include two swimming pools, pickleball courts and more. In the evenings, passengers can sip cocktails at one of the bars or lounges or take in a show at B.B. King's Blues Club.

Eurodam departs from Fort Lauderdale , San Diego , Seattle  and  Vancouver  for sailings in the Caribbean, Alaska, the Pacific Coast and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure to attend a show or two – which feature comedy, dancing or singing – offered at the Main Stage. There are also piano duels in the lounge by the casino, and fantastic music at the B.B. King's Blues Club (which can be hard to get a seat at – get there early!). – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

Nieuw Statendam

One of Holland America Line's newest cruise ships, Nieuw Statendam, launched in December 2018. This 2,666-passenger ship (at double occupancy) is the second in the line's contemporary Pinnacle Class collection. Like its sister ship, Koningsdam , this vessel emphasizes elegant, eye-catching design. The ship carries 3,170 passengers at maximum capacity and 1,036 crew members.

Along with its great aesthetics, Nieuw Statendam features a mix of engaging daytime and nighttime activities, as well as facilities designed to keep guests rested and relaxed. Passengers can unwind at the spa or pools, work up a sweat at the fitness center or pickleball court or participate in enriching activities like cooking demonstrations and wine-blending classes. At night, cruisers have several entertainment options, including the B.B. King's Blues Club, Rolling Stone Rock Room or the World Stage for theatrical performances.

For dining, expect a mix of options, including a traditional dining room, casual spots and specialty restaurants that feature cuisines from Asia, France and – of course – Holland. Cabin categories are just as diverse: Accommodations range from Inside and Ocean View staterooms to Verandah staterooms to spacious suites with balconies and living areas. 

Holland America now features an exclusive amenities program, Club Orange. Members can receive benefits such as a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a dedicated concierge hotline and skip-the-line priority access.

Members of Club Orange will also receive additional benefits when onboard Nieuw Statendam including a premium in-room breakfast menu and a private dining venue with an expanded menu.

Nieuw Statendam departs from Fort Lauderdale  and European ports in  Rome , Barcelona and more. It sails to various destinations in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're looking for a little outdoor privacy with pampering, book a cabana at The Retreat on one of the following ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Oosterdam, Rotterdam, Westerdam or Zuiderdam. The Retreat has double or family cabanas available to rent by the day or for the whole cruise, with an attendant for beverage and food service. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Nieuw Amsterdam

Borrowing its name from the former city of New Amsterdam (now known as  New York City ), this 2,106-passenger (2,731 maximum capacity) member of the Holland America fleet launched in 2010 and is famous for its extensive art collection valued at more than $3 million. Guests can admire works from Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein through a complimentary self-guided tour.

Passengers can also pass the time by the pool or in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, while more enriching programs include the BBC Earth in Concert and onboard movie screenings. While the ship offers youth clubs for kids ages 3 to 17, most activities are geared toward adults.

When it comes to dining, guests can choose from New York Pizza on the pool deck, Asian delicacies at Tamarind and more. Several casual eateries and the main dining rooms are included at no extra cost.

Meanwhile, staterooms range from Interior cabins to expansive Signature, Neptune and Pinnacle Suites, all of which are equipped with Sealy Premium Euro-Top mattresses and flat-screen TVs.

Holland America now features a new exclusive amenities program, Club Orange. Members can receive benefits such as a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a dedicated concierge hotline and skip-the-line priority access. 

Nieuw Amsterdam departs from ports across the United States and Canada for sailings in the Caribbean, Alaska, the Pacific Coast and the Panama Canal. 

Carrying up to 1,964 passengers and 812 crew members, Westerdam first debuted in 2004 and last received small updates in January 2023. 

Onboard facilities include the World Stage live music venue, as well as BBC Earth Experiences, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon and multiple swimming pools.

When it’s time to dine, the ship's dining venues range from the casual poolside Dive-In grill to the upscale Pinnacle Grill. After dinner, guests can enjoy live music at the B.B. King’s Blues Club, take in a theatrical performance or try their luck in the casino.

Lodging options include Inside, Ocean View and Verandah cabins, as well as three Suite categories. Standard amenities include Euro-Top mattresses and flat-screen TVs.

Westerdam departs from  Hong Kong , Seattle , Vancouver ,  Singapore ,  Tokyo  and more for sailings across Alaska, Australia, the Pacific Coast and Asia. 

Launched in 2002 and last refurbished in 2017, Zuiderdam features BBC Earth in Concert and cooking demonstrations with Explorations Central. If you're looking to relax on your voyage, head to the line's signature Greenhouse Spa & Salon for a calming treatment. 

With room for 1,964 passengers at capacity, 2,587 at maximum capacity and 812 crew members, the ship maintains a 1-to-2 staff-to-guest ratio. Recent passengers said everyone was friendly and attentive, from the bartenders to the room stewards.

Inside and Ocean View staterooms aboard Zuiderdam measure between 151 and 233 square feet. All cabins include sofas, coffee tables, chairs and vanities, in addition to a queen-sized bed (or two twin beds). Other amenities include Euro-Top mattresses and flat-screen TVs. Dining venues include the upscale Pinnacle Grill, traditional dining rooms and more. 

Zuiderdam   departs from ports around the world for sailings in Canada, the Caribbean and Europe, as well as world voyages. 

Launched in 2000, Zaandam attracts older, more sophisticated travelers, with onboard activities catering more to those in need of R&R than those seeking an adrenaline rush. The 1,432-passenger  (1,839 maximum capacity) ship carries up to 604 crew members and was most recently updated in 2017. It is designed to cater to fewer guests while offering spacious common areas. 

While active pursuits include pickleball courts and a fitness center, the majority of onboard activities are geared toward enrichment. Examples include Explorations Central (EXC), Step One Dance Company and BBC Earth in Concert. The ship also offers kids clubs for passengers ages 3 to 17.

Most recent guests described the cabins as comfortable. Inside and Ocean View cabins measure between 182 and 319 square feet – large enough to fit a queen bed (or two twin beds), a sitting area and a vanity space. Travelers were also pleased with the multiple onboard restaurants, ranging from the casual Lido Market buffet to Canaletto, which serves Italian fare.  

Zaandam sails from Fort Lauderdale , Vancouver , San Diego  and more for itineraries in Canada, Alaska, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Mexico, the Pacific Coast and Australia. 

Volendam maintains an almost 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio, with 1,432 passengers at capacity, 1,839 at maximum capacity and 604 crew members. Originally launched in 2000 and last updated in 2017, cabins come equipped with flat-panel TVs and 100% Egyptian cotton towels. Upgrade to a Neptune suite for a private balcony and access to the private Neptune Lounge.

The ship's other features are similar to the rest of Holland America's fleet. Cruisers can enjoy games at the casino, treatments at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon and drinks at the piano bar or catch a live show on the World Stage, a two-story with a 270-degree wraparound LED screen stage. While the ship does cater to more mature passengers, kids ages 3 to 17 can participate in Kids Club programs, and there are pickleball courts on board. Volendam houses multiple dining venues, including the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse. 

Volendam   departs from Fort Lauderdale , Montreal , Buenos Aires , Boston and more for sailings in the Caribbean, the Amazon and Canada. The ship also has world voyage interneries.

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Holland America fleet

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HAL-Holland America Line (HollandAmerica.com) is a Seattle -based cruise shipping company owned by Carnival Corporation .

HAL's current President is Gustavo Antorcha (since July 2020) who was previously the COO/Chief Operating Officer of CCL-Carnival Cruise Line . HAL's current CEO/Chief Executive Officer is Stein Kruse. HAL's current CFO/Chief Financial Officer is Jeremy Schiller (former CCL employee). HAL's current CMO/Chief Marketing Officer is Kacy Cole (promoted in May 2023 from VP of Marketing & E-commerce).

Holland America Group's current President is Jan Swartz (since December 2020) who is the Group President of four of Carnival's brands/subsidiaries (Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Australia) plus HAP-Holland America Princess Alaska Tours. Jan Swartz also manages all inter-group operations.

Company history and changes

Between 1873-1989, HAL was a Dutch mail-, cargo- and passenger shipping company operating regularly scheduled Transatlantic crossings between Holland and North America (also between Europe and South America). HAL was founded in 1873 (as "Nederlandsch-Amerikaansche Stoomvaart Maatschappij"/Dutch-American Steamship Company) and is headquartered in Rotterdam Netherlands .

On October 15, 1872, started the company's first cruise itinerary (15-day Transatlantic crossing from Rotterdam to NYC ).

In 1989, HAL was acquired by Carnival Corporation for ~EUR 530 million.

On April 18, 2020, HAL celebrated its 147th anniversary. Nowadays, the company's main assets are the Westmark hotel chain (Alaska-Yukon region), Worldwide Shore Services (warehouses and logistics) and the Caribbean private island Little San Salvador Island (approx 160 km / 100 mi southeast of Nassau Bahamas). Widely known as Half Moon Cay , the island is an exclusive port destination for all Carnival Corporation-owned vessels.

Westmark hotels allow Holland America to dominate completely the Alaskan cruisetour market, offering the most diverse and cheap "land and sea" Alaska travel packages.

Being one of the cruise brands rated "best for couples", "best for adults" and "best and cheapest for Alaska", Holland America is a featured brand of Carnival Corporation - the world's largest cruise shipowner by tonnage and fleet capacity. One of the main operating companies in Carnival Group, HAL is also a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines Alliance (WLCLA) - together with the sister-brands CCL-Carnival , Cunard , Costa , Princess , P&O (UK and Australia) , Seabourn .

Holland America Line is also amongst the premium-deluxe and mainstream ship travel brands. HAL ships visit 300+ seaports in 100+ countries, with 500+ traditional and Transoceanic itineraries scheduled annually. Voyages' lengths range from 2-day to 110+ days ( World Cruises ), but the majority are 7-day roundtrips, and many are between 10-21 days (including B2Bs/back-to-back itineraries ). In 2023, voyages leaving from the USA (FL, CA, MA, WA) visited 225 ports in 91 countries.

The company has a fleet of specifically designed liners providing home-feel accommodations, first-class theater productions, professionally-served and well-equipped wellness facilities (fitness/sports, health/spa and beauty), complimentary onboard programming for adults University at Sea (enrichment) and children Club HAL (kids and teens).

In 2017, was celebrated the company's 70 years of Alaskan cruisetour operations. HAL's Alaska passenger shipping services started in 1947 with a spontaneous cruisetour in Fairbanks. The idea eventually evolved into the "Alaska Land+Sea Journeys" - HAL's itinerary program that combines sea voyages with land-based adventure tours to Denali NP and Yukon Canada.

Since April 21, 2021, HAL has offered the all-inclusive package (alcohol included) "Have It All". It includes beverages (also spirits/max 15 drinks per day, bar service included), specialty dining (1x dinner for all passengers in the stateroom), Wi-Fi package (1st and 2nd passengers in the stateroom), 1x shore excursion (max value $100). "Have It All" costs USD 99 per person per day and offers at least 50% savings (as included amenities) in comparison to purchasing them separately. On longer itineraries (10-20 days in length) the "Have It All" package additionally offers US$100 (tour credit) per passenger.

In 2022, HAL became the first cruise shipping company awarded with RFM (Responsible Fisheries Management) certification (for wild-capture fisheries). HAL's credential is for serving on all its Alaska-deployed boats (6x in 2022) Alaskan wild seafood that is certified, traceable and fresh-caught via sustainable fishing methods. RFM is aligned with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization's CCRF (Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries/1995-issued). Also in 2022, HAL partnered with ASMI (Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute/state's official seafood marketing arm) thus committing to serve onboard only sustainably sourced seafood.

In October 2022 HAL partnered with Pike Brewing Company (Seattle WA-based craft brewery) for "HAL Pils" (limited-edition Pilsner beer) available fleetwide (in all ship bars and lounges) since January 2023.

In December 2022, HAL became PPA's exclusive cruise line (Professional Pickleball Association). The company announced plans to add fleetwide pickleball courts (installed on every ship's top deck) by April 2023. Beginner lessons led by onboard instructors are offered complimentary. HAL also added Play Pickleball tutorial videos (on the interactive cabin TV programming) and started selling branded pickleball starter kits at the ships' retail shops.

In March-April 2023, HAL completed the expansion of its Onboard Enrichment Program (fleetwide) by adding to each liner new or expanded activity facilities (art studio, sports courts for playing basketball/volleyball/pickleball/tennis, and deckgames zones for playing ping-pong, cornhole, ladder ball, shuffleboard) and full-time specialists (art and crafts instructor, sports director). The new supervised Art Studios host classes like painting, drawing, coloring, crafting, needlework. In 2023-2024 were upgraded the entire fleet's libraries as well as the ships' card rooms (with new board games and jigsaw puzzles).

On April 27, 2023, the birthday of Willem-Alexander Claus George Ferdinand (The Netherlands' King/1967-born), HAL debuted the company's new mascot "Lewie the Lion". The mascot honors Holland's King's Day (celebrated as a national holiday).

In September 2023 Michael Stendebach (HAL's VP of Food and Beverage) announced the Global Fresh Fish program. Through this initiative, HAL locally sources ~80 different types of fish (from ~60 different ports globally) which are served on the ship in less than 48 hours. The announcement also mentioned that Masaharu Morimoto (1955-born Japanese chef) was appointed as HAL's Fresh Fish Ambassador. Dishes made with fresh fish are also available in the MDRs/main dining rooms at no charge. However, Morimoto's signature dishes offered in the MDRs cost extra.

In January 2024, HAL launched its "fresh fish" program announced by Michael Stendebach (HAL's VP of Food & Beverage).. ~80 different fish types are locally sourced globally (from 60 ports). Fresh fish is served on the ship in less than 48 hours and at no extra charge in the MDRs/main dining rooms.

In May 2024 was introduced fleetwide the "Dutch Day" (complimentary experience) available on every voyage in Europe, Asia, Alaska, and the Caribbean. The focal point is the Dutch Dinner (Holland food-themed dinner served in the MDR/Main Dining Room) once per cruise. Most of the dishes (both classic and contemporary, including Stroopwafel Cheesecake) are also available in the buffet restaurant (Lido Market). The Orange Party is also held on Dutch Day and features live band performances, craft beers, classic cocktails, and Dutch-inspired appetizers. On Dutch Day in the Crow’s Nest Cafe are served fresh-baked poffertjes (traditional Dutch batter cakes resembling small pancakes).

Also in May 2024, HAL's shipboard beverage program was enhanced with itinerary/destination-inspired cocktails made by certified mixologists. The upgraded program is based on cocktail menus exclusive to the current itinerary/region. The drinks are created by the famous bartenders Sam Ross (Australian/Alaskan menu) and Tess Posthumus (Dutch./European menu).

In June 2024 was announced a partnership with the USA's leading premium chocolate brand Lindt (Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli AG) to enhance the shipboard experience. By this exclusive collaboration were introduced (fleetwide) the "Sweet Dreams" (on Gala Night, in all passenger staterooms are delivered milk chocolate truffles - Lindt LINDOR or Sea Salt), Lindt chocolate desserts on Dutch Day dinners (including a tulip-shaped mousse cake), the Lindt Sundae (vanilla ice cream with a custom-made chocolate sauce) and chocolate tulips (served one night per cruise during the Dutch Day dinner).

Dutch Royal Family members serving as HAL ship godparents

On October 17, 2021, HAL officially announced the name of the new Rotterdam ship 's godmother - HRH Princess Margriet Francisca of the Netherlands (1943-born, from the house of Orange-Nassau/van Lippe-Biesterfeld). Princess Margriet is the 3rd daughter of Queen Juliana Louise Emma Marie Wilhelmina (1909-2004) and Prince Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld (1911-2004) and is an aunt of Holland's current monarch Willem-Alexander Claus George Ferdinand (1967-born, King of the Netherlands since 2013).

HAL's connection to The House of Orange-Nassau (Huis van Oranje-Nassau/Dutch Royal Family) started in 1929 when Duke Henry of Mecklenburg-Schwerin (1876-1934, Prince of the Netherlands/husband of Queen Wilhelmina between 1901-34) godfathered Statendam III (1927-built passenger liner). Next are listed the godmothers of HAL liners through the 20th-21st centuries.

Princess Margriet Francisca (1943-born) named 5x liners - Prinsendam I (1972), Nieuw Amsterdam III (1983), Rotterdam VI (1997), Oosterdam (2003), Rotterdam VII (2021).

Queen Maxima Zorreguieta Cerruti (1971-born/spouse of King Willem-Alexander) named 2x liners - Nieuw Amsterdam (2010), Koningsdam (2016).

Princess Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard (1938-born) named Statendam IV (1957) and/as Queen Beatrix (reign 1980-2013) named Eurodam (2008).

Queen Juliana Louise Emma Marie Wilhelmina (1909-2004) named Rotterdam V (1958).

Queen Wilhelmina Helena Pauline Maria (1880-1962) named Nieuw Amsterdam II (1937).

HAL's newest vessels are from the PINNACLE class and named Koningsdam (2016), Nieuw Statendam (2018) and Rotterdam (2021). These are also the company's ever largest, with volume 99500 GT-tons and max passenger capacity 3200.

In late-January 2017, the shipowner/Carnival Corporation announced 2 more shipbuilding orders. The new liners were ordered for Princess (ROYAL-class) and HAL (PINNACLE-class). Carnival signed an MoA (memorandum of agreement) with the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri to construct both units. They were delivered in 2021 ( Nieuw Rotterdam for HAL, at Marghera yard) and 2022 ( Discovery Princess , at Monfalcone yard). By the time when both contracts were finalized (February 2017), Carnival Corporation had a total of 19 new boats scheduled for deliveries between 2017-2022.

In 2023, HAL conducted 5 wet-dock refurbishments to expand the casino space on its vessels in the PINNACLE-class (Nieuw Rotterdam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam) and Signature-class (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam). Each of the enlarged gambling facilities now has 140 of the gaming industry's newest slot and video poker machines. In addition, a separate non-smoking area was added in the casinos of Nieuw Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam.

HAL's 150th Anniversary (2023)

On April 18, 2023, the company celebrates its 150th Anniversary. In July 2022 were announced the special events and activities including on the two themed Transatlantic crossings (April 4th/16-day from Fort Lauderdale to Rotterdam, and October 15th/15-day from Rotterdam to Fort Lauderdale) on the fleet's newest member MS Rotterdam VII .

The planned commemorative onboard activities and amenities include expanded food and beverage menus, entertainment and enrichment programs (special guest speakers and artists).

More details are expected in the coming months.

HAL ships names

In the company's over 130 years of maritime history, there are some quite charmingly special traditions and truly unique practices. One of them is that all HAL ships go with the "dam" suffix. They usually bear names of famous Dutch landmarks, the 4 compass points, or some of the most prominent river dams or port cities in the Netherlands. And this special list of "Dutch landmarks" includes rivers, mountains, sea, city/town.

Some vessel names have been reused (some of them several times) with the old ship's retirement. This practice of renewing ship names allows the company to emotionally connect its glorious past with its amazing business growth in our times.

HAL ship classes (ordered high to low)

The fleet's newest and ever largest vessels are from the PINNACLE-class - Koningsdam (2016), Nieuw Statendam (2018) and Nieuw Rotterdam (2021).

SIGNATURE-class (enhanced Vista-class design) are Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. Compared to Vista-ships, they have 1 additional deck (between Lido and Observation) allowing more staterooms (mostly spa cabins) and public venues ("Tamarind", "Silk Den").

VISTA-class are Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam and Noordam.

SINGLE-class is Prinsendam (sold in 2018).

ROTTERDAM-class (R-class) are Rotterdam VI, Volendam, Zaandam and Amsterdam.

The fleet's oldest are from the STATENDAM-class (S-class). These are Statendam (now Vasco da Gama ), Maasdam (now CFC Renaissance ), Ryndam (now Celestyal Journey ) and Veendam (now Aegean Majesty) . They were the fleet's first to have an Atrium, a 2-deck dining room, a theater lounge, Lido Pool Deck (with a retractable glass roof).

In July 2018, MS Prinsendam was sold to Phoenix Reisen , starting operations for the German company (as MS Amera) on July 1, 2019. Prinsendam's schedule was assimilated by the fleetmates Rotterdam , Volendam and Veendam .

In July 2020 were sold 4 units - Amsterdam/Bolette and Rotterdam/Borealis (to Fred Olsen ), and Maasdam/Renaissance and Veendam/Aegean Majesty (to Seajets Greece). Their schedules were canceled or assumed by other HAL ships.

Holland America Line refurbishments

In 2003-2008, by the SOE (Signature of Excellence) program, HAL upgraded all older vessels, on which were also added new venues, stateroom categories, and amenities.

In November 2015, HAL announced a USD 300 million fleetwide drydock refurbishment program. The fleet renovation project included Suite improvements (new decors, furnishings, amenities and services upgrades) for all staterooms on Vista-Signature-R-Class boats. The first scheduled for drydocks were Oosterdam and Eurodam , followed by Westerdam , Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam, Zuiderdam, Amsterdam , Rotterdam , Volendam , Zaandam .

All passenger Suites were upgraded with new sofas, chairs, headboards, carpets and wall coverings, privacy curtains, draperies, bed runners, bed skirts, quartz stone tops (on the vanity desks), vanity lighting, dressers, dressing tables, nightstands.

Other upgrades included a new USB outlet (on the headboard), bedside LED lights, upgraded electrical outlets, lighted closet rod, new interactive HDTV system (allowing complimentary movies-on-demand, access to the ship's daily scheduled activities program, ship information - restaurants, bars, spa services, checking onboard accounts, Internet). Suite bathrooms received a wall of designer glass tiles (backdrop to the new dressing area with modern taps, under-mount sink), new mirrors (with integrated LED lighting), stylish floor tiles, nightlight.

Since 2016, all Suites (fleetwide) received the following exclusive amenities - priority services (embarkation, disembarkation, tendering, dining reservations), complimentary services (laundry, pressing, dry cleaning), exclusive access to Neptune Lounge, private breakfast service (at Pinnacle Grill). The list of new suite cabin amenities includes a premium duvet, luxury bathrobes, and slippers, luxury bath products (by Elemis). BOSE SoundDock (iPod docking station), umbrella, binoculars, complimentary mimosa cocktails (with in-cabin breakfast), Nespresso coffee machine.

In 2018, HAL contracted ABB Group (Swedish-Swiss corporation specializing in robotics, marine power, and propulsion equipment) for installing shore-power systems fleetwide. The technology allows docked ships to receive shoreside power supply (from the port city's grid) and turn off their diesel engines/generators, thus reducing to zero emissions and noise. ABB installed its shore-power equipment on 11x HAL liners. Switchover (ship-to-shore power) at seaports takes ~20 min.

HAL's Club Orange

"Club Orange" program provides exclusive amenities to HAL's Suite passengers booked in cabin categories Neptune and Pinnacle. The bonus perks by this program include:

• priority services (check-in, disembarkation, tendering, dining reservations)
• 24-hour concierge service (assistance, information, reservations, hotline)
• exclusive dining venue (serving complimentary Pinnacle Grill breakfast and Dining Room dinner, plus exclusive dishes)
• dedicated Concierge Desk (Guest Services and Tours)
• room service (a la carte breakfast menu with complimentary gourmet dishes - including smoked salmon with eggs Benedict, steak and eggs), sparkling wine (welcome glass, at embarkation day)
• Club Orange tote bag (welcome gift)
• premium bathrobes (in-cabin use, available for monogramming and purchasing)

Club Orange is also available for a limited number of non-suite staterooms per voyage. The program was launched in December 2018 (on Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam) and available fleetwide since 2019. On other HAL ships, Club Orange Restaurant is designed as a dedicated section in MDRs (Main Dining Rooms) opened for breakfast and dinner. On Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam, "Culinary Arts Center" was renamed "Club Orange Restaurant".

In October 2019, HAL implemented fleetwide new Club Orange amenities, including cabin upgrades (within the booked category) and the "Captain's Choice" event.

• HAL customers purchasing the "Club Orange" package receive a cabin upgrade to the best available (within the booked category) stateroom (based on availability at the time of the package purchase).
• The "Captain's Choice" is during the voyage and offered as an exclusive event for Club Orange passengers only. It could be one of several pre-scheduled experiences - like exclusive pre-opening shopping access, behind-the-scenes hotel department tour, private coffee chat with Music Walk musicians, etc.

The Club Orange package costs USD 35 per person per day (on Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam) and USD 25 pp per day on all other HAL cruise liners. The stateroom's first and second passengers are both required to buy the package. Stateroom's 3rd and 4th passengers are not charged. Club Orange must be purchased prior departure (not available for onboard purchasing).

(NEW 2019) Holland America Line's coffee brand "Rotterdam 1873"

Since February 2019, passengers on all HAL ships (fleetwide) can enjoy the new specialty coffee "Rotterdam 1873". The new brand was created exclusively for Holland America Line via partnership with Beukenhorst Coffee USA Inc (Dutch coffee house in West Palm Beach, Florida ).

"Rotterdam 1873" is a small-batch roasted coffee blend named after the port city Rotterdam and the year in which Holland America Line was established. The new coffee blend consists of the best Indonesian and Central-South American Arabica coffee beans. It is available for purchasing (by the cup) in all shipboard beverage venues. As a souvenir (at ship's Grand Dutch Cafe, and Explorations Cafe) is available for purchasing regular and decaffeinated 12-oz bag (Rotterdam 1873 beans).

The new coffee blend is roasted fresh in batches (by Beukenhorst Coffee USA) then supplied to the liners. Since 1989, HAL offered as an alternative (at extra cost) the Netherlands-imported "Beukenhorst Koffie" in Main Dining Rooms, Lido Market (buffet restaurants) and other onboard venues serving complimentary coffee.

(NEW) HAL cruise gratuities (2024)

Prior to December 2018, HAL's daily gratuities per person/pp were USD 13,50 (interior-oceanview-balcony staterooms, applied to both adults and kids) and USD 15 (suites).

On HAL cruises after December 1st (2018), daily gratuities were increased to US$15,50 pp per day (non-suite passengers) and US$17 pp per day (for suite passengers).

On February 1st, 2023, HAL's daily gratuities were increased to US$16 pp per day (non-suites) and US$17,50 pp per day (suites).

Starting February 1st, 2024, HAL's daily gratuities are increased by 9% - to US$17 pp per day (non-suites) and US$19 pp per day (suites).

Daily gratuity is an automatic service charge (applied to both adults and kids) that is added to the passenger's onboard account each day. Passengers can prepay cruise gratuities. The amount of gratuities is split between the ship's staff (dining, housekeeping, cabin stewards).

However, the charge can be removed/its amount adjusted at any time during the voyage up until the onboard account is settled before debarkation.

Note: On May 1, 2017, Holland America Line raised daily gratuities from USD 12,50 to 13,50 pp (non-suite pax).

Holland America fly-cruise deals

In August 2015, Holland America added enhanced features to its flight booking program "Flight Ease". HAL's website allows travelers to choose flights (departure and return) separately, also to compare real-time airfares, plus detailed schedules. HAL also allows adding of stopover flight segments.

Flight Ease's improved functionality includes:

• calendar for flight cruise planning based on the cruise itinerary's departure and arrival dates
• independent selection of departing/return flights
• improved website navigation - you can move across fly bookings, including search, select, summary, pay
• improved search box filters to select best flights as preferred airlines, number of stops, ticket price, departure time, flight duration
• easy airfare comparison for the same flight
• flight schedules with detailed info on aircraft types, flight connections, layover times.

HAL's "Flight Ease" air booking program offers up-to-the-minute flight schedules and selection of 2 competitive pricing on flights with arrival/departure dates same as the booked cruise itinerary. All flight cruise deals booked through HAL's Flight Ease program feature 24-hour assistance and "Next Port Protection". The latter guarantees that in case of flight delays or cancelations, Holland America Line takes care of the flight changes in order to join the cruise ship at the next port of call along the booked itinerary.

Airfare payments are due with HAL cruise's final payment. Restricted Fares include cancelation fees and require full payment for the flight reservation at booking time.

(NEW) HAL cruise shore excursions "Best Price Guarantee"

Since November 2017, HAL offers a "best price guarantee" for customers with pre-booked shore excursions (land tours). The new program is available fleetwide and on all cruise itineraries, excluding only voyages in Asia. By the program, any booked passenger who finds a comparable excursion/tour deal (offering same amenities, including date, duration, transfers, transportation, meals) elsewhere at a lower price will receive an OBC ("onboard credit") of 110% of the price difference.

The request must be submitted online up to 7 days prior cruise ship departure. Booked passengers are notified within 2 days of submission if the tour/excursion meets the "Best Price Guarantee" requirements. If eligible, booked passengers receive a non-refundable OBC to be used during the voyage.

Best Price Guarantee applies only to publicly available and advertised with pricing tour deals. Passengers canceling their HAL tour on the ship are not eligible for "Best Price Guarantee" OBC. The new program further guarantees HAL tour deals' exceptional value, competitive pricing, and best quality. As of 2018, through HAL can be purchased over 4100 tours/excursions in around 550 cruise ports.

Holland America smoking policy

Implemented in January 2017, Holland America Line has a new cruise ship smoking policy banning smoking on all cabin balconies. As previously, in-cabin smoking is also not allowed. Smoking E-cigarettes and vaping devices is permitted in designated areas, as well as inside passenger staterooms (but not on cabin balconies).

Passengers who violate the company's ship' smoking policy will be fined a cleaning fee USD 250 per day.

There are smoking-allowed areas for active slot machine players located in all HAL cruise ship casinos - excepting on MS Oosterdam and MS Eurodam, which casinos are entirely smoke-free. Follows the list of Holland America ships' designated smoking-allowed areas:

• MS Maasdam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side; Sports Deck forward and aft of Crow's Nest on the starboard side
• MS Veendam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side; Sports Deck forward and aft of Crow's Nest on the starboard side
• MS Volendam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side; Sports Deck forward and aft of Crow's Nest on the starboard side
• MS Zaandam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side; Sports Deck forward and aft of Crow's Nest on the starboard side
• MS Rotterdam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side; Sports Deck forward and aft of Crow's Nest on the starboard side
• MS Amsterdam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side; Sports Deck forward and aft of Crow's Nest on the starboard side
• MS Noordam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side and the Oak Room
• MS Oosterdam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side
• MS Eurodam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side
• MS Zuiderdam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side
• MS Prinsendam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the port side
• MS Nieuw Amsterdam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side
• MS Westerdam - Seaview Bar/Pool on the starboard side
• MS Koningsdam and MS Nieuw Statendam - Seaview Bar/ Pool (aft portside on deck 9) and Sun Bar (aft starboard on deck 11).

For comparison, NCL Norwegian banned smoking in November 2014, Royal Caribbean - in 2011, Carnival Cruise Line - in July 2014.

Holland America Alaska cruisetours (land-and-sea packages)

The 7-day "Alaskan Explorer" (roundtrip from Seattle WA ) is the company's signature cruise tour itinerary for this unique destination.

The other itinerary (7-day "Inside Passage") is roundtrip from Vancouver Canada .

HAL liners in Alaska offer cruisetours with lengths 10-13-14-15 days. They are inclusive of 3-day cruising (between Vancouver-Juneau) plus scenic train travel (Juneau-Anchorage) on the White Pass-Yukon Route Railway.

• (Y5C) 10-Day Yukon+double Denali (Vancouver to Anchorage)
• (Y3C) 13-Day Yukon+triple Denali (Vancouver to Anchorage)
• (Y3L) 14-Day Yukon+triple Denali (Anchorage to Vancouver)
• (Y2l) 15-Day Yukon+triple Denali (Anchorage to Vancouver).

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, HAL suspended its entire fleet's passenger shipping operations (all 14 liners) canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 13, 2020, through June 30, 2021.

HAL's fleet was fully operational by June 12, 2022.

Next are listed HAL's first departures by ship (homeport/destination) in 2021-2022 : ROTTERDAM (October 20, 2021/ Maiden Voyage /Transatlantic from Amsterdam to Fort Lauderdale), NIEUW AMSTERDAM (July 24, 2021/Alaska from Seattle), NIEUW STATENDAM (Nov 21, 2021/Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale), KONINGSDAM (Oct 10, 2021/Mexico from San Diego California), EURODAM (Aug 15, 2021/Mediterranean from Piraeus-Athens), ZUIDERDAM (Dec 24, 2021/Mexico from San Diego California), NOORDAM (April 24, 2022/Fort Lauderdale to San Diego/Alaska from Vancouver), OOSTERDAM (May 8, 2022/Mediterranean from Civitavecchia-Rome), ZAANDAM (May 12, 2022/Fort Lauderdale to Montreal/Canada-New England), VOLENDAM (July 3, 2022/Norway from Rotterdam), WESTERDAM (June 12, 2022/Alaska from Seattle).

• All HAL Alaska cruises and Alaskan cruisetours (Land+Sea Journeys) in 2020-2021 were initially canceled, but in 2021 NIEUW AMSTERDAM was rescheduled for Alaskan roundtrips from Seattle (July 24 thru Oct 2).
• Due to Canada's extended (through 2022) ban on cruise ships, HAL's Canada and New England 2021 schedule was entirely canceled.
• VOLENDAM's "World Cruise 2022" from Fort Lauderdale (74-day "Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage 2022") was canceled.
• ZAANDAM's "World Cruise 2022" (129-day roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale/Jan 3-May 12) was canceled.
• All ship relocation itineraries (through November 1, 2021) visiting ports in the USA-Canada were canceled.
• NOORDAM's Asia 2021-2022 program (from Hong Kong-Singapore-Yokohama), OOSTERDAM's Australia-New Zealand 2021-2022 program (from Sydney and Auckland), WESTERDAM's South America 2021-2022 program, and ZUIDERDAM's Caribbean-Mediterranean 2021 programs (from Fort Lauderdale and Barcelona-Venice-Rome) were also canceled.
• HAL's Europe 2021 schedule (ships Eurodam, Nieuw Statendam, Volendam, Rotterdam) was canceled.
• ROTTERDAM's Maiden Voyage was rescheduled from August 1 to Sept 26 and finally Nov 3, despite the on-schedule delivery from Fincantieri (July 30).

To all affected bookings were offered 2 options. The first offer is rebooking with 125% refund in FCC (future cruise credit) plus USD 250 pp in OBC (onboard credit) on any itinerary through Dec. 31, 2022. The second offer is canceling with a full (100% monetary) refund including on prepurchased through HAL packages and services.

• HAL's cruise cancelation policy was expanded to allow penalty-free cancelation of cruises departing through December 31, 2020. Fully refunded (100%) were all prepurchased through HAL packages and services. HAL also reimbursed cancelation fees for flights and other travel arrangements to and from the ports of the canceled voyage.
• In July 2020, Carnival Corporation (via Holland America Line) sold 4 liners - MS Amsterdam and MS Rotterdam (to Fred Olsen ) and MS Maasdam and MS Veendam (to Seajets Greece). All scheduled for the 4 ships voyages were canceled or assumed by other HAL ships.

In 2021, HAL's Alaskan program (cruises and "Alaska Land+Sea Journeys" packages) was canceled entirely but (unlike in 2020) the Carnival Corporation-owned Alaskan businesses Gray Line Alaska (Westours Motor Coaches LLC), Princess Alaska Lodges (Princess Cruises) and Westmark Hotels (Holland America Line) remained operational offering travelers lodging and escorted land tours (fishing, flightseeing, wildlife viewing, river rafting, etc).

Itinerary of Holland America

The list of HAL-Holland America cruise destinations includes Alaska, Caribbean (also Panama Canal), Hawaii, Europe (mainly Mediterranean, but also Baltic, UK, Iceland, Greenland, Bermuda), Australia, Asia, Canada and New England USA, Transatlantic crossings (RepositionCruises.com), South America, Grand Voyages and Around The World voyages .

At CruiseMapper you can easily compare all HAL cruise itinerary changes per liner (now and in the coming two years) on a single page. The comparison of all HAL destinations by boat will give you all homeport and itinerary changes in the company's current program.

Note: Holland America Line is famous for having the most Glacier Bay NP permits (more than any other cruise company). HAL ships also visit College Fjord (Prince William Sound), Dawes Glacier (Endicott Arm Fjord), Hubbard Glacier (Wrangell–St Elias NP) and Tracy Arm Fjord (Twin Sawyer Glaciers/south of Juneau). In Alaska, HAL offers ~180 shore excursions/tours themed on wildlife viewing.

Pole-to-Pole World Cruise 2025 (Volendam & Zuiderdam)

In April 2023 HAL announced MS Volendam's "Pole-to-Pole World Voyage 2025" (133-day itinerary).

Curiously, this first for the brand pole-to-pole voyage runs simultaneously with MS Zuiderdam's "Grand World Voyage 2025" (124-day itinerary), both are roundtrips from Florida USA ( Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale ) and both depart in January 2025.

To book the unique itineraries customers were required to contact HAL's World Cruise Reservations Desk or a travel agent, starting from April 20th. Customers with a deposited Future Cruise Request get priority booking confirmation before these voyages officially open to the public on May 24th, 2023.

Volendam's 133-day "Pole-to-Pole Grand Voyage 2025" departs on January 25th (2025) and visits 68 ports (28 countries/5 continents). The south-north-south route features a Panama Canal transit, navigation along South America's west coast to Antarctica and the Falklands, then up and along South America's east coast (Argentina and Brazil/including cruising on Amazon River). Follows a Transatlantic crossing to Africa, northbound to Europe and up to Norway's Nordkapp/North Cape and the Norwegian Fjords, then westbound (crossing again the Atlantic Ocean) and via Iceland and Greenland back to North America/USA.

HAL's first "pole-to-pole cruise" also features 8 overnight ports (Fuerte Amador/Panama City, Callao-Lima, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Barcelona, Lisbon, Reykjavik).

Zuiderdam's 124-day "Grand World Voyage 2025" departs on January 4th (2025) and visits 46 ports (32 countries/6 continents). The east-to-west route features a Panama Canal transit, Transpacific crossing (via Easter Island) to Australia, then up (via the Great Barrier Reef) to Asia (Indonesia, Sri Lanka), then southwards to South Africa, up to Seychelles and along Africa's east coast. Follows a Suez Canal transit to Europe/Mediterranean and a Transatlantic crossing back to the USA.

Zuiderdam's World Voyage 2025 also features 9 overnight ports (Callao-Lima/2 nights for a visit to Machu Picchu, Hanga Roa/Easter Island, Papeete Tahiti, Sydney NSW, Singapore, Cape Town South Africa, Mombasa Kenya, Safaga-Luxor Egypt, Barcelona) as well as 7 late-night departures (Manta Ecuador, Seychelles, Cape Town, Durban, Aqaba-Petra Jordan, Civitavecchia-Rome, Gibraltar UK).

Both HAL ships also are scheduled to meet in Barcelona on April 24th (2025), for a joint overnight port stay with planned festivities to mark the unique occasion.

HAL cruise itineraries 2024-2025-2026 review

San Diego is HAL's principal West Coast USA homeport since the 1990s. HAL's 2023-2024 schedule includes two "solar eclipse" voyages (ms Koningsdam and ms Zaandam) for total viewing during the eclipse over Mexico on April 8th (2024). Zaandam's 14-day Solar "Eclipse Cruise" (departure March 30th, 2024) visits Mazatlan on April 8th. Koningsdam's 22-day "Solar Eclipse Cruise" (San Diego to Vancouver relocation itinerary) departs on April 5th and will be at sea on April 8th.

Pacific Coast, Mexico, Hawaii, and Panama Canal sailings are operated by 6 ships (39 departures), and are either San Diego roundtrips or begin/end in the port.

(Volendam) 12-day "Historic Baja & Sea of Cortez" voyage departs on December 10th, 2023, and explores Baha Peninsula. The roundtrip from San Diego visits La Paz, Loreto, and Vallarta.

Highlights of HAL's MEXICO 2024 program (all roundtrips from San Diego) include:

• 3 ships (Koningsdam, Volendam, Zaandam)
• all 7-day "Mexican Riviera" voyages feature calls at Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas.
• all 10-, 11- and 12-day itineraries include the ports on the 7-day voyage, plus a combination of Guaymas , Loreto , Manzanillo , La Paz (Pichilingue) , Santa Rosalia , Topolobampo , Zihuatanejo .
• a 5-day trip calls at Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas.

Highlights of HAL's HAWAII 2024 program include:

• 2 ships (Koningsdam, Volendam)
• the itineraries are roundtrip from San Diego CA/Vancouver BC, or between Vancouver-San Diego.
• "Circle Hawaii" voyages range between 16-18 days:

17-day roundtrip from Vancouver with calls at Lahaina , Hilo , Honolulu , Kailua-Kona , and Nawiliwili, Hawaii . The 17-day roundtrip from San Diego also includes Ensenada .

16-day with calls at Lahaina, Hilo, Honolulu, Kona, and Ensenada.

18-day with calls at Lahaina, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight), Nawiliwili, Kona, and Ensenada.

HAL's 2024 Pacific Northwest and West Coast USA program features:

• 6 ships (Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Volendam, Zaandam)
• Itineraries are roundtrip from San Diego CA, roundtrip from Vancouver, or between Vancouver-San Diego.
• 2 one-day "Pacific Northwest" getaways are offered in October 2023 & May 2024 between Vancouver-Seattle aboard ms Eurodam.
• "Pacific Coast" itineraries are 4- and 5-day. The 4-day offers a call at Avalon (Santa Catalina Island CA) , Astoria Oregon , or 3 days at sea. The 5-day visits are a combination of Monterey CA , Santa Barbara , San Francisco CA , and Victoria BC Canada .
• "Classic California Coast"/"Wine Country and Pacific Northwest" are 6- or 7-day. Ports of call include a combination of Ensenada, Monterey, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, and Victoria BC.
• a special 5-day itinerary roundtrip from Vancouver BC on April 30th calls at Ketchikan AK and Prince Rupert, BC Canada .

HAL's Panama Canal 2024 transition program features:

• 4 Panama Canal transit ships (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Volendam, Zaandam)
• voyages sail between Vancouver BC/ Seattle WA /San Diego and Fort Lauderdale Florida .
• Transits range between 14-22 days and visit Aruba, California, Canada, Costa Rica, Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Grand Turk.

Most Panama Canal sailings visit Half Moon Cay Bahamas . Passengers enjoy a daylight canal transit, with commentary on the open decks.

HAL's South America 2024-2025 program (November through March) offers to visit Antarctica's glaciers and the Amazon's lush jungles with the ship Oosterdam . Itineraries (14 to 22 days in length) offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences like Machu Pichu's ruins (from Cusco ) and circumnavigating Cape Horn en route to the Antarctic Peninsula .

The 14-day "South America Passage" itinerary offers overnight stays in Buenos Aires , visits ports in Chile, Argentina, Falkland Islands UK, and Uruguay, and features scenic cruising through the Chilean Fjords , Strait of Magellan, Beagle and Cockburn Channels/Glacier Alley Patagonia , and rounding Cape Horn.

The 17-day "Panama Canal and Inca Discovery" connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, with a full transit through Panama Canal 's lakes and locks. The itinerary visits Grand Cayman, Panama, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, with an overnight at Fuerte Amador (Panama City), and two nights at Callao-Lima (Peru), allowing extra time for guests to take a land tour to Machu Pichu.

The 22-day "South America and Antarctica" itinerary offers four memorable days exploring Antarctica and ports in Uruguay, Argentina, Falkland Islands UK, and Chile, with scenic cruising through the Chilean fjords, Drake Passage , and Beagle Channel/Glacier Alley Patagonia.

The 27-day "Amazon Explorer Cruise" (ship Zaandam ) visits 12 ports in the Caribbean and Brazil,. The itinerary includes an overnight at Manaus/Amazonas , several days cruising along the Amazon River and two equator crossings.

HAL's 2024-2025 West Coast cruise season includes sailings from San Diego, California , and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada . These cruises offer guests the opportunity to explore various destinations without the need for international air travel, making it convenient for North American travelers. The cruise itineraries range from four-day voyages along the Pacific Coast to 21-day transits of the Panama Canal , with options for roundtrip cruises from San Diego or Vancouver, or cruises that begin or end in either of these two ports.

The itineraries are thoughtfully curated to include both popular and lesser-visited ports, showcasing the natural beauty, cultural diversity, and rich history of each region. Holland America Line is also featuring more Panama Canal Collectors' Voyages this season, which combine multiple itineraries into longer journeys ranging from 14 to 31 days, allowing guests to visit multiple regions in one trip at more economical fares compared to booking individual cruises.

Highlights of the 2024-2025 Mexico cruise season include itineraries on two ships, Koningsdam and Zaandam , with roundtrip cruises from San Diego. There are seven-day "Mexican Riviera" cruises that visit Puerto Vallarta , Mazatlan , and Cabo San Lucas , as well as a seven-day "Baja Peninsula and Sea of Cortez" itinerary that includes La Paz , Loreto , and Cabo San Lucas. There are also 10-day and 11-day itineraries that combine the ports from the seven-day itineraries with additional stops in Manzanillo, Mexico .

For the 2024-2025 Hawaii cruise season, Holland America Line offers cruises to Hawaii on Koningsdam and Zaandam, with roundtrip itineraries from either San Diego or Vancouver. These itineraries range from 16 to 18 days and include visits to various Hawaiian ports such as Honolulu , Lahaina , Hilo , and Kona , as well as Ensenada, Mexico . The overnight call at Honolulu allows guests extra time to explore popular sites such as Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head State Monument, or enjoy an authentic luau.

The 2024-2025 Pacific Northwest and Coast cruise season features five ships, including Eurodam , Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam , Westerdam , and Zaandam, sailing along the West Coast of the United States. Itineraries include roundtrip cruises from San Diego or Vancouver or cruises between Vancouver and San Diego. There are four to seven-day itineraries that visit ports such as Avalon , Santa Barbara , San Francisco , Astoria , and Victoria, offering opportunities to explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest and California coast.

For the 2024-2025 Panama Canal cruise season, Holland America Line offers three ships, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Zaandam, with itineraries that sail between Vancouver, Seattle, San Diego, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Guests can enjoy a daylight transit of the Panama Canal with commentary on the open decks, providing insights into this amazing man-made marvel. The itineraries range from 14 to 21 days and include calls at various destinations such as Aruba, California, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Turks and Caicos. Many Panama Canal cruises also include a call at Half Moon Cay , Holland America Line's private island in the Bahamas, known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty.

HAL's 2025-2026  Panama Canal  and Hawaii cruises depart from 5 North American homeports, featuring sailings on 5 distinct ships. The upcoming season introduces 6 diverse Panama Canal cruises, boasting several inaugural experiences. Notable additions include the inclusion of the  port of Acajutla, El Salvador , on most Panama Canal sailings. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to embark on the Pinnacle-Class ship  Koningsdam  for its maiden transit through the canal. Furthermore,  Zuiderdam offers new departures from  Miami  for those seeking to traverse the canal aboard this vessel. Spanning from 15 to 22 days, these voyages cater to travelers seeking varied vacation durations.

In Hawaii, the debut of  Nieuw Amsterdam  marks a significant addition, as it offers roundtrip itineraries from  San Diego, California . Joining Nieuw Amsterdam are Koningsdam and  Zaandam , embarking on island-hopping adventures that typically include an overnight stay in  Honolulu , Hawaii's captivating capital. These Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises are available from October 2025 through April 2026, with durations ranging from 15 to 22 days.

Highlights of the 2025-2026 Panama Canal Cruise Season:

• Cruises available aboard  Eurodam , Koningsdam, and Zuiderdam.
• Departures from  Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada ;  Seattle, Washington ; San Diego, California; or Miami or  Fort Lauderdale, Florida .
• Daylight transit of the Panama Canal with informative commentary on open decks.
• Itineraries include calls in Aruba, California, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Turks and Caicos.
• Select sailings offer multiple embarkation or disembarkation options, such as Fort Lauderdale to San Diego, Seattle, or Vancouver.
• Select cruises include a call at Acajutla, a new port for Holland America Line, offering excursions to well-preserved Mayan ruins, volcanoes, and cacao plantations, as well as opportunities to explore El Salvador further.
• Many itineraries feature a visit to  Half Moon Cay , Holland America Line's private island in the Bahamas.

Highlights of the 2025-2026 Hawaii Cruise Season:

• Cruises aboard Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Zaandam, with Nieuw Amsterdam making its Hawaii debut.
• Guests sailing on Nieuw Amsterdam can indulge in the culinary delights of the ship's newest restaurant, Morimoto by Sea. Guests on Koningsdam or Zaandam can enjoy the restaurant menu during special pop-up dinners.
• Itineraries range from roundtrip voyages from San Diego to Vancouver, or from Vancouver to San Diego.
• The 17-day "Circle Hawaii" itinerary from Vancouver to San Diego visits  Nawiliwili ,  Kahului ,  Hilo , Honolulu (overnight), and  Kona . The roundtrip from San Diego includes an overnight or late departure from Honolulu, a call to  Ensenada, Mexico , and additional Hawaiian ports.
• The 18-day "Circle Hawaii" itinerary, roundtrip from San Diego or Vancouver, includes stops at Kahului, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight), Nawiliwili, and Kona. The roundtrip from San Diego adds a call at Ensenada, while the roundtrip from Vancouver includes  Victoria, Canada .

HAL's Mexico and Pacific Coast seasons for 2025-2026 offer extended visits to distinctive ports such as  Loreto  and  Topolobampo  in Mexico, alongside a novel 7-day Great Bear Rainforest itinerary, a rarely explored route highlighting the natural beauty of British Columbia, Canada. These cruises operate from August 2025 to May 2026, ranging from single-day trips to 29-day Collectors' Voyages.

Known for its prominence in cruising in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, Holland America Line introduces a 7-day "Great Bear Rainforest" itinerary, departing on October 5, 2025, and April 19, 2026, aboard  ms Noordam . This journey provides travelers seeking an intimate experience with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture, nature, and unique wildlife of  Ketchikan, Alaska , and  Prince Rupert ,  Nanaimo , and  Victoria  in British Columbia. Departing from  Seattle, Washington , the roundtrip voyage includes stops in Ketchikan before venturing south to explore various ports in British Columbia, with an overnight stay in Prince Rupert. The ship then embarks on a scenic cruise through Greenville Channel, past Bella Bella's First Nations village, Johnstone Strait, and Seymour Narrows, offering guests a chance to observe wildlife such as whales, eagles, and the rare Kermode bear, known as the spirit bear. A maiden call at Nanaimo and visits to popular Victoria allow guests to immerse themselves in diverse communities in British Columbia.

Additional itineraries along the Pacific Coast showcase the region's stunning landscapes, sailing from  San Diego, California , to Seattle or  Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada . These cruises include stops at popular ports like  Astoria, Oregon ,  Santa Barbara, California , and  Ensenada, Mexico , with select itineraries featuring overnight stays in  San Francisco, California .

For those seeking sunny escapes, Holland America Line's Mexico season offers roundtrip cruises from San Diego or between San Diego and Vancouver, stopping at iconic Mexican ports like  Cabo San Lucas  and  Puerto Vallarta , as well as lesser-known destinations such as  Guaymas  and  Santa Rosalia, Mexico . Late-night stops in  Loreto  and  Topolobampo  provide opportunities for exploration and scenic appreciation.

Highlights of the 2025-2026 Pacific Coast Season include a variety of itineraries on  Eurodam ,  Koningsdam ,  Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam, and  Zaandam , ranging from one-day getaways to longer voyages. The Mexico Season, featuring Nieuw Amsterdam and Zaandam, offers 7-day "Mexican Riviera" and "Baja Peninsula" cruises, among others.

Alaska 2024-2025 voyages and cruisetours

A new 28-day Arctic Circle itinerary leads the 2024 Alaska season sailings. The cruise by ms Westerdam from Seattle WA departs on June 9th, 2024, in time for the summer solstice and features 12 Alaskan ports.

Two 14-day sailings from Vancouver BC Canada cover 8 ports in Alaska, with departures by ms Nieuw Amsterdam on May 5th and ms Noordam on September 15th.

The program also includes 117x 7-day voyages (ms Eurodam, ms Koningsdam, and ms Zaandam) between April-September 2024.

All HAL Alaskan voyages visit one or more of the glacier destinations: College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Glacier Bay National Park , Hubbard Glacier , and Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm .

HAL's Alaska 2025 schedule (April thru October) was open for booking in July 2023. The program is based on 6 ships (Koningsdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, Zaandam) and roundtrip itineraries leaving from homeports Seattle WA and Vancouver BC Canada; or between Whittier/Anchorage AK and Vancouver BC.

Signature itineraries include 28-day “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice Cruise" (ship Westerdam/June 8, 2025), 14-day “Great Alaskan Explorer” (Vancouver roundtrip), 7-day "Glacier Discovery” (Northbound and Southbound itineraries between Whittier and Vancouver, ships Noordam, Nieuw Amsterdam). 7-day “Alaska Inside Passage Cruise” (Vancouver roundtrip, ships Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Zaandam), 7-day “Alaskan Explorer” (Seattle roundtrip, ships Eurodam, Westerdam).

HAL's Alaska Cruisetours 2024 program features the new "Klondike Gold Tour" (in Dawson City, Yukon Canada) and upgraded accommodations at McKinley Chalet Resort (in Denali NP). As part of the resort's enhancements, 28x river-view accommodations received step-out balconies, all (84x) Denali Suites were completely refurbished, and a new Deluxe Room category was introduced (45x non-balcony accommodations) offering suite amenities.

• HAL's "Klondike Gold Tour" is complimentary for all tourists booked on select "Alaska Denali and Yukon Cruisetours". The land tour offers exploration of the Discovery Claim National Historic Site (where the Klondike Gold Rush started in 1896) and the "Gold Dredge 4" along Bonanza Creek Road 13 (utilized for gold mining in the period 1913-1959).
• HAL also introduced Klondike Gold Rush-themed onboard activities and shore excursions in Skagway (visiting the Gold Rush Training Camp, engaging in gold panning, White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad travel to Liarsville Gold Camp, exploring the Gold Rush Cemetery and Historic Skagway Inn/the city's largest brothel during that era).

HAL's Alaska 2024 Yukon and Denali Cruisetours have durations of 9 to 18 days and encompass either a 3- or 4-day "Inside Passage Cruise" (ships Koningsdam or Zaandam) or a 7-day "Glacier Discovery Cruise" (ships Nieuw Amsterdam or Noordam), along with a 2- or 3-night stay at Denali NP and additional city visits.

HAL's 2026 Alaska cruise season is deploying 6 ships in the region:  Eurodam ,  Koningsdam ,  Nieuw Amsterdam ,  Noordam ,  Westerdam , and  Zaandam . Running from April thrugh September 2026, the line offers a range of itineraries, including round-trip options from  Seattle WA  and  Vancouver BC , as well as voyages between Vancouver and  Whittier  ( Anchorage ). These itineraries span from 7 to 28 days, featuring the month-long “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” sailing and a new 14-day option round-trip from Seattle.

2026 Alaska Season Highlights include:

• For the first time in 5+ years, Westerdam returns to Alaska, departing from Vancouver, while Noordam sails round-trip from Seattle, providing guests with additional ship options for their preferred itineraries.
• A new offering in 2026, the 14-day “Great Alaska Explorer” cruise is available round-trip from Seattle, alongside the Vancouver departure.
• Noordam is due to depart Seattle on August 23rd, and Westerdam to embark from Vancouver on September 13th. Both cruises visit Anchorage,  Juneau ,  Ketchikan ,  Kodiak ,  Sitka , and  Valdez  in Alaska, as well as  (Prince Rupert, British Columbia) , with scenic cruising in  Glacier Bay .
• On May 3rd, Nieuw Amsterdam sails round-trip from Vancouver, calling at Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Prince Rupert, Sitka, Wrangell, and Valdez, with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay.
• The popular 28-day “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” cruise returns for its third year. Departing June 7 aboard Noordam, this voyage sails round-trip from Seattle, exploring the Bering Sea and Arctic Circle, with visits to 11 Alaska ports, Prince Rupert, and Vancouver. The itinerary includes an overnight in Anchorage and late-night departures from Juneau and Valdez.
• 7-day “Alaska Inside Passage” cruises sail round-trip from Vancouver on Koningsdam, Zaandam, and Nieuw Amsterdam, visiting Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
• 7-day “Alaskan Explorer” cruise sail round-trip from Seattle aboard Eurodam and Noordam, including calls at Victoria (evening visit), Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka. Eurodam also visits Icy Strait Point and Glacier Bay, while Noordam explores Dawes Glacier.
• 7-day “Northbound Glacier Discovery” and “Southbound Glacier Discovery” itineraries cruise between Whittier (Anchorage) and Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam, with stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
• The “Great Bear Rainforest” cruise aboard Noordam is scheduled to depart on April 19th, 2026, round-trip from Seattle. Highlights include an overnight in Prince Rupert and scenic cruising through Grenville Channel, Bella Bella, Johnstone Strait, and a transit of the Seymour Narrows.

Canada and New England USA 2024-2025 program

HAL's 2024 Canada and New England program groups 29 voyages (ranging from 7-day getaways to longer itineraries) and is based on homeporting in Boston (Massachusetts USA) . An extended roundtrip-Boston itinerary visits destinations in Iceland and Greenland.

The season runs from April thru October (2024) and two ships ( Volendam and Zuiderdam ) sail on a series of mainly 7-day "Canada and New England Discovery" voyages. Volendam's longer (10- and 11-day) voyages visit Newfoundland, while a 24-day itinerary adds Greenland plus a circumnavigation of Iceland.

A 24-day voyage (departing on July 27th on Volendam) sails roundtrip from Boston and circumnavigates Iceland. The trip visits 6 ports in Iceland plus 10 others (in Maine USA, Canada's Nova Scotia, Labrador, Newfoundland, and Greenland).

Volendam is scheduled to sail between Boston and Montreal (Quebec Canada) in the summer and fall (2024) on a series of 7-day "Canada & New England Discovery" itineraries. With weekend departures, they visit Bar Harbor , Quebec City , Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island) , Sydney NS , and Halifax .

Zuiderdam's 7-day "Canada and New England Discovery" itinerary is between Boston and Quebec City, with weekend departures from/overnight stay in Quebec City (at the beginning/end of the trip) and call ports Bar Harbor, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax.

Volendam's 7-day "Historic Coasts" roundtrip from Boston departs on July 20th and visits Portland, Bar Harbor, Saint John NB , Halifax, Sydney.

Volendam's longer "Newfoundland & New England Discovery" itineraries (between Boston and Montreal) are with lengths 10 days (Quebec City, Baie-Comeau, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Corner Brook, St. John's, Halifax, Portland) and 11-days (Portland, Saint John, Corner Brook, Charlottetown, Saguenay).

Holland America's Volendam and Zuiderdam ships are small enough to cruise the Saint Lawrence River and visit Quebec City and Montreal on nearly every voyage.

Volendam's 13- and 14-day relocation voyages (RepositionCruises.com) are along the Atlantic Coast and between Quebec Canada and Florida USA (Montreal to Fort Lauderdale/Port Everglades ) in 2024 (April and October). Both sailings include an overnight in Quebec City.

Zuiderdam's 11-day Atlantic Coast repositioning (Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale) in October (2024) adds Charleston (South Carolina) .

HAL's 2025 Canada and New England Season offers longer voyages, maiden ports, and a 25-day "Legendary Voyage" to Greenland and Iceland. MS Zuiderdam and MS Volendam provide a range of cruises exploring Canada, New England, Greenland, and Iceland from May to October.

MS Zuiderdam offers 7-day departures showcasing the Atlantic Coast's seafood, maritime history, charming towns, and natural beauty. Volendam's itineraries last ten to eleven days, emphasizing English and French influences at various ports, including fall foliage in September.

MS Volendam's 25-day "Canada, New England, Greenland, and Iceland" Legendary Voyage departs from Boston MA on July 12, featuring stops in Iceland, Greenland, Maine, and Canada, including a new port in Eastport, Maine .

Zuiderdam's 7-day itineraries include "Canada & New England: UNESCO Sites & Quebecois Nights" and "Canada & New England Circle: New Brunswick" between Boston and Quebec City , with late-night departures on select dates.

Volendam offers 10- and 11-day itineraries between Boston and Montreal during the summer and fall. An 11-day "Canada and New England Circle" itinerary is added, departing from Boston or Montreal and visiting various ports.

Repositioning cruises of 14 days are available between Montreal and Fort Lauderdale , including the maiden port of Yorktown (Williamsburg) . Zuiderdam offers a 15-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Quebec City in May, with late-night departures from Newport, Maine, and Charlottetown .

GRAND / COLLECTORS' VOYAGES 2024-2025 (Australia and New Zealand)

In Sept 2022 HAL announced the 94-day "Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage 2024" (San Diego roundtrip on MS Volendam ), leaving on January 3, 2024.

The 3-month-long Australian expedition features 43x total call ports, two Transpacific crossings (via Hawaii), visiting Indonesia's Komodo Island , cruising the Great Barrier Reef (2x days), 4x overnight port stays ( Fremantle-Perth , Sydney NSW , Auckland NZ , Papeete Tahiti ), cruising NZ's Fiordland NP (Milford Sound cruising).

GRAND VOYAGE 2024 includes two shorter itinerary segments - 58-day San Diego to Sydney NSW, and the return 36-day Sydney to San Diego.

The 14-day itineraries aboard  Noordam (November 2025 to March 2026) provide seamless travel between Australia and New Zealand, allowing guests to experience the best destinations in the region while enjoying Holland America Line's renowned service and authentic, localized programming. The introduction of New Collectors' Voyages combines a 2-week cruise with an epic Legendary Voyage to the South Pacific, extending vacation options up to 50 days across multiple cruising regions.

Departing from  Sydney, Australia , or sailing between Sydney and  Auckland, New Zealand , Holland America Line's Australia and New Zealand cruises offer a variety of highlights for guests to enjoy:

• All cruises are aboard Noordam.
• 14-day "Australia and New Zealand" itineraries between Sydney and Auckland, with departures in November, February, and March.
• 14-day "New Zealand Discovery" roundtrip from Sydney departing on December 7, 2025.
• 14-day "South Australia Discovery Holiday" roundtrip from Sydney departing on December 21, 2025.
• All itineraries featuring New Zealand include scenic cruising in the picturesque Milford Sound within  Fiordland National Park .

Guests can indulge in the Holland America Line's Global Fresh Fish Program, offering native fresh fish and local ingredients onboard, including New Zealand green-lipped mussels, Tasmanian Atlantic salmon, Sydney rock oysters, and Tasmanian meat pies.

Noordam is due to host 5 Collectors' Voyages, combining back-to-back, non-repeating itineraries for a seamless exploration of multiple areas:

• 41-day "South Pacific Crossing & New Zealand" Collectors' Voyage from  Seattle, Washington , to Auckland, departing on October 12, 2025.
• 28-day "New Zealand & South Australia Discovery" Collectors' Voyage roundtrip from Sydney, departing on December 7, 2025.
• 42-day "South Australia & South Pacific Islands" Collectors' Voyage from Sydney to Auckland, departing on December 21, 2025.
• 42-day "South Pacific Islands & New Zealand" Collectors' Voyage roundtrip from Sydney, departing on January 4, 2026.
• 50-day "New Zealand & South Pacific Crossing" Collectors' Voyage from Auckland to Seattle, departing on March 1, 2026.

EUROPE 2024-2025

HAL's Northern Europe 2024 schedule (April thru November) lists 4x boats (Nieuw Statendam, Oosterdam, Rotterdam, Zuiderdam) and 7- to 35-day itineraries.

The program is based on 11x departure ports (Amsterdam, Ijmuiden, Rotterdam, Copenhagen, Barcelona, Civitavecchia-Rome, Trieste-Venice, Piraeus-Athens, Reykjavik, and the USA"s Fort Lauderdale FL and Boston MA) and 9x overnight ports (Barcelona, Civitavecchia, Marghera-Venice, Haifa, Istanbul, Reykjavik, Piraeus, Rhodes, Valletta) and 33 late-evening departure ports.

The destinations include Baltic-Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany), Iberia-Canary Islands, Mediterranean (also Holy Land/Israel), as well as Atlantic Europe (UK-British Isles, Iceland and Greenland). Mediterranean itineraries (7- to 14-day) visit ports and islands in Greece, Turkey, Israel, Tunisia, Adriatic (Italy, Croatia, Montenegro), France, and Spain.

Two HAL liners in 2024 (Nieuw Statendam in April, and Zuiderdam in May) have scheduled Transatlantic crossings between Europe and North America (USA and Canada) along the way visiting North Atlantic destinations in Greenland and Iceland, Bermuda, the UK (England, Scotland, Ireland, Guernsey), Northern Ireland, France, Belgium, Norway.

HAL's 2025 European season has many longer (over 10 days) voyages, more sailings to Iceland, and a total of 62 overnight port calls or late-night departures. Europe 2025 schedule features Port Rotterdam as a homeport of 2 ships (ms Rotterdam, ms Nieuw Statendam) for roundtrips to Northern Europe/Baltic. The program also introduces itineraries to Holy Land , Iberia, Iceland and the UK. The 28-day Legendary Voyage "Arctic Circle Crossing" visits Greenland, Iceland, North Cape , and Scotland.

From April to November (2025), 3 ships (Oosterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam) have a full European season, while ms Zuiderdam sails the popular 35-day "Voyage of the Vikings". The itineraries range from 7 to 42 days, prioritizing destinations in Northern Europe/Baltic, British Isles, Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean.

Key highlights of HAL's 2025 Europe season include:

• 10x homeports/departure cities
• 11x overnight ports
• 32x late-night departures
• Northern Europe deployment - 2 ships (Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam)
• Mediterranean ship - Oosterdam
• Canary Islands ship - Nieuw Statendam (a 14-day voyage)
• Transatlantic "Voyage of the Vikings" (ship Zuiderdam, also offered in smaller segments)

Collectors' Voyages are B2Bs/combined itineraries allowing tourists to spend more time in Europe.

CARIBBEAN 2024-2025 itinerary program

HAL's Caribbean program is based mainly on ex-Florida roundtrips (7- to 21 days) and 6 ships - all leaving from homeport Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale Florida .

The program (running between October and April) features voyages that offer a day cruising in the Panama Canal's Gatun Lake . All the 6x HAL Caribbean ships (Nieuw Rotterdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Volendam, Zaandam) visit the private island Half Moon Cay Bahamas.

• 3-4-5-day "Bahamas Sampler" itinerary to Half Moon Cay and Nassau (ships Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Rotterdam)
• 7-day "Eastern Caribbean" itinerary to Grand Turk, San Juan Puerto Rico, St Thomas USVI and Half Moon Cay (ships Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Nieuw Rotterdam)
• 7-8-day "Western Caribbean" itinerary to Belize City, Falmouth Jamaica, Ocho Rios Jamaica, Grand Cayman Island, Cozumel Mexico, Half Moon Cay and Nassau (ships Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Nieuw Rotterdam)
• 7-9-10-11-14-day "Southern Caribbean" itinerary to Amber Cove Dominicana, Bridgetown Barbados, Oranjestad Aruba, Kralendijk Bonaire, Willemstad Curacao, Philipsburg St Maarten, Fort-de-France Martinique, Castries St Lucia, Basseterre St Kitts, Pointe-a-Pitre Guadeloupe, St Georges Grenada, Port-of-Spain Trinidad, Half Moon Cay, San Juan Puerto Rico, St Thomas USVI (ships Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Nieuw Rotterdam, Volendam, Zaandam)
• 6-7-day "Tropical Caribbean" itinerary to Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay (ships Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Nieuw Rotterdam)
• 10-11-day "Partial Panama Canal" itinerary to Cartagena Colombia, Colon Panama, Puerto Limon Costa Rica, Oranjestad Aruba, Half Moon Cay, Panama Canal partial transit (ship Eurodam)

Many Caribbean itineraries can be extended/combined into B2Bs (Collectors Voyages) and booked as discount-priced B2Bs/back-to-backs ranging between 13-21 days.

7x HAL ships (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam) are deployed in the Caribbean in 2022-2023 offering 5- to 14-day roundtrips from Fort Lauderdale. Some of the island-hopping itineraries include a day of scenic cruising in Panama Canal's Gatun Lake ) and all call at Half Moon Cay.

Eastern Caribbean

• 7-day (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Volendam, Zuiderdam, Rotterdam) with call ports Grand Turk, San Juan, St Thomas USVI, Half Moon Cay
• 5-day (Nieuw Amsterdam) with call ports Amber Cove, Half Moon Cay

Western Caribbean

• 7-day (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Zuiderdam, Rotterdam) with call ports Cozumel, Falmouth or Ocho Rios, George Town/Grand Cayman, Key West FL, Half Moon Cay

Southern Caribbean

• 7-day (Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Zuiderdam) with call ports Oranjestad Aruba, Willemstad Curacao, Half Moon Cay
• 9-10-11-14-day (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Volendam, Zaandam, Rotterdam) visit the islands St Kitts, Barbados, St Lucia, Martinique, Bonaire, St Maarten, St Georges, Amber Cove Dominicana, Aruba, Curacao, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Puerto Rico, St Thomas USVI

Tropical Caribbean

• 7-day (Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam) with call ports Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Key West

Longer Caribbean itineraries are scheduled for winter 2024-2025, including visits to Bermuda. The program is based on two homeports - Boston (Massachusetts) and Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale (Florida) , 5- to 21-day itineraries, and partial Panama Canal transits ( Gatun Lake ).

In the Caribbean (October 2024 thru March 2025), HAL has 6 ships (Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zuiderdam). Most roundtrips are from Florida (Fort Lauderdale), and two new itineraries are out of Boston. Most voyages visit Half Moon Cay Bahamas. Evening departures from Aruba, Curacao, Puerto Rico, and St Maarten are scheduled for selected/longer itineraries visiting more islands.

Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific 2024-2025 itinerary program

In the 2024-2025 season, HAL is offering 3 of its ships to explore the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. MS Westerdam is stationed in the region, while ms Koningsdam and ms Zaandam embark on longer Legendary Voyages to the South Pacific and Hawaii.

Westerdam kicks off her journey with a westward South Pacific crossing in October 2024, followed by the iconic Australia Circumnavigation. From December 2024 to March 2025, the ship operates a series of 14-day departures from Sydney, Australia , or between Auckland, New Zealand , and Sydney. Zaandam's "Tales of the South Pacific" voyage in September 2024 takes passengers from Vancouver, Canada , to San Diego, California , or on a roundtrip from San Diego. Koningsdam's "Hawaii, Tahiti, and Marquesas" voyage in February 2025 is a roundtrip from San Diego.

Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages are extended journeys lasting from 25 to 59 days, combining the elegance of a Grand Voyage with itineraries that feature an extensive selection of ports to enhance the experience in each destination. Most of these Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers the convenience of seeing the world from their doorstep with a domestic flight and easy embarkation.

The Australia and New Zealand 2024-2025 Season offers several exciting highlights, which include:

• A remarkable 35-day "Australia Circumnavigation" voyage departing on November 17, 2024. This roundtrip journey from Sydney aboard Westerdam takes guests to 16 ports around the continent of Australia, featuring scenic cruising in the Great Barrier Reef , Ribbon Reef, Far North Regions, and a visit to Komodo Island . Overnight stays are enjoyed at Fremantle (Perth), Australia , and Hobart, Tasmania , with a late-night departure from Adelaide.
• From January to March 2025, Westerdam presents 14-day "Australia and New Zealand" cruises between Auckland and Sydney. These sailings encompass six ports in New Zealand and include a call at Hobart. All itineraries offer scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park , while select dates also feature an exploration of Milford Sound.
• An exceptional 14-day "New Zealand Holiday" cruise, departing on December 22, 2024, is available as a roundtrip journey from Sydney. Guests have the opportunity to spend the holidays exploring 6 ports across New Zealand, including an overnight call at Wellington . The holiday itinerary also includes scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.

The South Pacific 2024-2025 Season offers several exciting highlights, including:

• A remarkable voyage called "Tales of the South Pacific" aboard Zaandam is available as a 51-day or 56-day itinerary. The 51-day journey departs from San Diego on September 30, 2024, and returns to the same port. Alternatively, the 56-day cruise begins in Vancouver and concludes in San Diego, departing on September 25. This expedition takes passengers on a counterclockwise route around the South Pacific, featuring 20 stops at various destinations such as Hawaii, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Niue, Cook and Society Islands, Marquesas, and Tahiti. Guests have ample time to explore with overnight stays in Honolulu, Hawaii, and Papeete, Tahiti, as well as late-night departures from Honolulu and Suva, Fiji.
• Westerdam presents a 23-day "South Pacific Crossing" from Seattle, Washington , to Sydney, departing on October 24, 2024. This Pacific Ocean crossing encompasses seven ports in Hawaii, New Caledonia, Fiji, and American Samoa.
• Koningsdam offers a 35-day "Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas" journey departing on February 15, 2025, from San Diego and returning to the same port. This roundtrip expedition makes four stops in Hawaii and 6 additional island visits in the South Pacific. Noteworthy overnight stays include Honolulu , Raiatea , Moorea , and Papeete .
• Westerdam presents another remarkable option with a 29-day "South Pacific Crossing" from Sydney to Vancouver, departing on March 30, 2025. This itinerary showcases 12 ports in Hawaii, American Samoa, Fiji, and New Caledonia. Guests enjoy an overnight stay in Honolulu and late-night departures from Lahaina and Kona in Hawaii, as well as Suva in Fiji and Noumea in New Caledonia.

The Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific Collectors' Voyages range from 43 to 58 days. These voyages offer a combination of back-to-back itineraries without repeating ports, providing guests with an extensive and varied journey. Additionally, these voyages offer exceptional value per day for guests.

Asia 2024-2025 itinerary program

HAL's 2024-2025 Asian season is based on homeporting in Hong Kong China , Yokohama-Tokyo Japan and Singapore .

MS Noordam sails 9 different 14-day itineraries around Japan, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia. The voyages feature late-night departures and overnight ports allowing extra time for sampling the local culture, cuisine, and nightlife of the region.

MS Westerdam sails Asia on a 53-day Legendary Voyage ("Majestic Japan") roundtrip from Seattle WA . Travelers can visit the Far East with a North American flight, easy embarkation, and a jetlag-free journey spanning several time zones.

Longer Legendary Voyages on 2 ships:

• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: 53-/52-day "Majestic Japan" aboard ms Westerdam departing September 1 or 2, 2024, either roundtrip Seattle or between Vancouver BC Canada and Seattle. Featuring 21 ports, 13 calls throughout Japan, and overnights at Yokohama-Tokyo, Kobe, and Honolulu Hawaii .
• LEGENDARY VOYAGE: 28-day "Coral Triangle, Volcanoes and The Great Barrier Reef" departing January 5, 2025, roundtrip from Singapore aboard ms Noordam that explores 10 ports in 5 countries, including Indonesia and the Philippines, with scenic cruising in the Great Barrier Reef , Torres Strait, and past Kumba and Krakatau volcanoes.

Highlights of HAL's Asia 2024-2025 season include:

ms Noordam (deployment September 2024-April 2025) offers overnights in Yokohama, Kobe-Osaka, Laem Chabang-Bangkok, and Da Nang. The voyages visit 49 ports, including 24 in Japan.

• 13-day "North Pacific Crossing" from Vancouver to Yokohama (Sept 29, 2024)
• 14-day "Circle Japan" roundtrip from Yokohama (3 itineraries)
• 14-day "Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines" from Yokohama to Singapore
• 14-day "Far East Discovery" from Hong Kong to Singapore
• 14-day "Far East Discovery Holiday" roundtrip from Singapore
• 14-day "Indonesian Discovery"
• 14-day "Japan and Taiwan" roundtrip from Yokohama
• 14-day "Japan and South Korea Discovery" roundtrip from Yokohama.

Asia Collectors' Voyages offer an ideal option for enthusiastic adventurers who desire a more extensive cruise experience, ranging from 27 to 42 days. These voyages are tailored for guests who want to explore various destinations without repeating itineraries, providing excellent value per day.

HAL's extended Legendary Voyages (25 to 59 days) combine a Grand Voyage with carefully curated itineraries. Most of these Legendary Voyages are roundtrips with one-way routes to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers to embark on a global adventure conveniently starting from their own doorstep, with the added convenience of domestic flights.

Panama Canal Sunfarer itinerary

HAL is among the few companies that offer partial Panama Canal cruises (ships Eurodam and Volendam) that combine popular Caribbean islands with Panama's Gatun Lake . The itinerary's "Panama Canal" segment features passing through the Gatun Locks and sailing in the Gatun Lake.

Next table shows the "Panama Canal Sunfarer" itinerary (11-day roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale ).

Prices vary between USD 750-1200 per person (with double occupancy) depending on ship and dates/season.

Holland America Line itinerary changes, ship deployments, homeports

IMPORTANT: In July 2020, MS Amsterdam (now Bolette) and ms Rotterdam (now Borealis) were sold to Fred Olsen Cruise Lines .

IMPORTANT : In July 2020, MS Maasdam (now CFC Renaissance) and MS Veendam (now Aegean Majesty) were sold to Seajets Greece.

Holland America Line's itineraries themed "Signature Experiences"

HAL's new culturally themed "Signature Experiences" are available on select voyages departing out of Montreal (Quebec Canada) and in Europe - from Amsterdam, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Civitavecchia-Rome and Venice.

• These are pre-cruise packages created exclusively for HAL with included evening event (themed on culture or culinary), 2-night luxury hotel stay and bus transfers to the cruise ship. Guests booking a suite cabin on these eligible cruises receive the package complimentarily, but as space is limited reservations are required.
• The pre-cruise "Signature Experiences" tour packages for non-suite passengers as prices range between USD 700-1000 per person (double occupancy). Taxes and port fees are additional.
• "Taste of Montreal" pre-cruise tour package is on select Canada New England cruises from Montreal. The tour visits the city's most popular sights. The package also includes a 2-night hotel stay and complimentary ship transfers. HAL passengers visit Place Ville Marie and its observation deck (Au Sommet Place Ville Marie) for fabulous city views. The tour culminates with the Pointe-a-Calliere museum where a private party with appetizers and an open bar is held.
• Port of Amsterdam Holland - the pre-cruise tour package includes an evening at Rijksmuseum - after-hours private tour, cocktail reception with hors-d'oeuvres in the museum's foyer, Rijksmuseum Honor Gallery tour, followed by a 3-course dinner in its cafe.
• Port Barcelona Spain - the pre-cruise tour package includes an evening at Casa Batllo - private tour, followed by an informal dinner with tapas and drinks while enjoying flamenco music by Son de Cajon.
• Port Copenhagen Denmark - the pre-cruise tour package includes a night at Kronborg Castle (UNESCO Heritage Site) where guests are entertained by local actors providing a history of Shakespeare's Hamlet, then follow appetizers and beverages.
• Port Civitavecchia (Rome Italy) - the pre-cruise tour package "A Night Out in Ancient Rome" includes an evening at Casa dei Cavalieri di Rodi. The formal dinner is on a terrace overlooking the Roman Forum. After in appetizers and prosecco, guests enjoy a private tour of the Colosseum lead by an expert guide.
• Port Venice Italy - the pre-cruise tour package "An Evening on the Grand Canal" includes an evening canal cruise to the entrance of a privately owned palace overlooking the Grand Canal. The guests enjoy a formal dinner with appetizers, drinks, and live music, all in the company of the countess or member of her noble family.

Signature Experiences" pre-cruise tour packages for departure ports in Australia, New Zealand, South America, and Asia will be added soon.

HAL's 2023 Grand World Voyage, 2023 Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage

HAL's world cruises (themed "2022 Grand Africa Voyage", "2023 Grand World Voyage" and "2023 Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage") range from 71 to 127 days and visit destinations across 6 continents. All itineraries are roundtrips from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) .

Grand Africa Voyage 2022

• 71 days departing October 10, 2022, and sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale FL aboard ms Zaandam on clockwise navigation around the continent.
• 4 overnights: Aqaba-Petra, Cape Town (two nights), Zanzibar, and Victoria (Mahe Island)
• 25 ports in 21 different countries and territories
• daylight Suez Canal transit en route to Aqaba, Jordan
• safari and wildlife opportunities
• 2 days at Cape Town to explore Table Mountain, Kulala Desert Lodge, Chapman's Peak Drive, Nelson Mandela's prison cell.

Grand World Voyage 2023

• 127 days departing January 3, 2023, aboard ms Zaandam roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale FL on an itinerary that circles the globe on a westwardly route.
• ms Zaandam crosses the South Pacific to Australia and New Zealand before sailing up Africa's west coast and heading to Northern Europe.
• 61 ports in 30 different countries and island nations
• 8 overnights: Fuerte Amador (Panama City), Papeete, Sydney, Hobart, Adelaide, Fremantle (Perth), Cape Town, and Amsterdam
• 20 calls around Africa with opportunities for safari experiences.

Grand South America and Antarctica 2023

• 74 days departing January 3, 2023, aboard ms Volendam roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale FL on an itinerary circling the continent on a counterclockwise route.
• 34 ports in 16 different countries and island nations across 2 continents
• 5 overnights: Fuerte Amador (Panama City), Manaus and Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Buenos Aires (2 nights); Callao (Lima, 2 nights)
• Daylight Panama Canal transit and opportunities to visit the Galapagos Islands , Machu Picchu, Patagonia, Iguazu Falls.
• 4 days of scenic cruising in Antarctica
• scenic cruising including the Chilean Fjords, Cape Horn, Amalia or Brujo Glacier, Strait of Magellan, Cockburn and Beagle channels.
• 12 calls in Brazil and Amazon River cruising (inland) to Manaus.

HAL cruises to Cuba

HAL scheduled cruises to Cuba leaving roundtrip from Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale (Florida USA) on MS Veendam .

HAL's 7-11-12-days long Cuban itineraries also visited other Caribbean ports of call. Prices started at USD 900 per person with double occupancy (inside cabin rates).

Note: According to the current Cuban law, US citizens of Cuban origin (born in Cuba) are not allowed to visit the island country (including on cruise ships). Regardless of their US citizenship status, Cuba-born Americans were denied booking on cruise itineraries visiting ports in Cuba. However, the situation changed in April 2016, after Carnival Corporation negotiated with the Cuban government for allowing ships with Cuban-born passengers, as such US citizens are allowed to visit the country on USA-Cuba charter flights. The Carnival-fathom line started Miami to Cuba cruises in May 2016.

Alaska Airlines offers regular nonstop flights to Havana from Los Angeles (California USA). An 80-min ling JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Havana costs less than USD 100. Previously, air travel from the USA to Cuba was thought charter flights only.

On June 4, 2019, the US Government announced new regulations (economic sanctions) that ended group travel to Cuba, including via US-homeported cruise liners, effective immediately. The ban relates to "private and corporate aircraft, cruise ships, sailboats, fishing boats, and other similar aircraft and vessels". The US travel restrictions impacted hundreds of pre-scheduled cruise itineraries, which were adjusted to no longer stop in Cuban seaports.

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The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Holland America ship

Of the seven big lines that account for the majority of cruises taken by North Americans, Holland America is the brand most known for far-flung, globe-circling itineraries.

You'll find Holland America ships in almost every corner of the world at some point during the year, operating itineraries that are unusual in their diversity of routes and specific port calls.

Still, the line's heaviest presence by far is in Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean. In a typical summer, the line will deploy around half of its vessels to Europe while sending the other half to Alaska. The two regions are often the line's entire focus for summers.

During the winter, the line will move at least half of these ships to the Caribbean, while also sending some on far-reaching voyages across the world to Asia, Australia and South America.

For the coming winter, seven of the line's 11 ships are scheduled to sail in the Caribbean, and there will be at least one ship each in Asia, Australia and South America. There also will be one ship operating an epic, around-the-world voyage — a long tradition at the line.

In all, Holland America ships sail to 98 countries, hitting all seven continents. They visit more than 470 different ports and cruise destinations. These are much larger numbers than found with such rival lines as Celebrity Cruises . The latter boasts voyages to around 300 ports in 79 countries .

Among Holland America's itineraries, you'll find everything from one-night sampler cruises between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., to 128-night around-the-world voyages that feature stops at dozens of countries. That's a much broader range than most other big lines, including Celebrity, Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line .

Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or an epic voyage, you can't go wrong with these five top Holland America cruise destinations.

Related: The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained

Some of Holland America's most popular itineraries are in Europe, where the line has traditionally been a significant player. In a typical year, Holland America will deploy around half of its vessels to the region from spring until fall, making Europe one of its biggest focuses for more than half the year.

The itineraries that Holland America offers in Europe are wide-ranging, with a diverse set of routings in both the Mediterranean as well as across Northern Europe.

In the Mediterranean, sailings include everything from seven- to 28-night voyages that offer the chance to see such iconic destinations as Barcelona, Spain, and Rome, Florence and Naples, Italy, on a single cruise.

Some Holland America cruises in the Mediterranean also include visits to Istanbul and Kusadasi in Turkey (the latter a gateway to the famed ruins of Ephesus), and Haifa and Ashdod in Israel (for visits to Jerusalem and other iconic destinations in the country).

In Northern Europe, Holland America will take you to such well-known Baltic cities as Stockholm, Sweden; Tallinn, Estonia; Helsinki, Finland; and St. Petersburg, Russia, in a single sailing (note that Holland America's calls in St. Petersburg are on hold for now due to the war in Ukraine). There also are itineraries that will bring you to Iceland, Greenland and the Norwegian fjords.

Related: The ultimate guide to Holland America cabins and suites

Among the longest sailings Holland America offers in Europe is a 35-night "British Isles, Spitsbergen & Iceland Fjords Explore" trip that brings a complete circumnavigation of England and Scotland, several stops along the coast of Norway, and calls in both Iceland and the Norwegian-controlled Arctic island of Spitsbergen.

In Northern Europe, Holland America ships mostly sail out of Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands (a nod to the company's Dutch heritage) and Copenhagen, Denmark.

In the Mediterranean, the line's hubs are Barcelona; Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) and Venice in Italy; and Piraeus (the port for Athens).

2. Caribbean and The Bahamas

You usually won't find a single Holland America ship in the Caribbean and the Bahamas over the summer, when the line turns its focus to sailings in Europe and Alaska. However, come winter, Holland America will reposition quite a few of its vessels to the Caribbean and Bahamas sailings.

For the coming winter, for instance, Holland America currently has seven of its 11 vessels scheduled to sail in the regions — including its two newest and biggest ships, the 2,660-passenger Rotterdam and the 2,650-passenger Nieuw Statendam.

Holland America offers a broad range of Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from a single home port in the regions — Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades .

If you're looking for something short, the line has you covered in the form of quick, three-night cruises out of Port Everglades to its private island in the Bahamas, Half Moon Cay. The line also offers four- and five-night voyages out of Port Everglades to the Bahamas and Key West, Florida. However, Holland America is best known for longer sailings in the Caribbean. These include lots of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean and Southern Caribbean, but also a large number of even longer, 10- to 21-nights Caribbean voyages.

The latter trips offer the chance to see a broader mix of Caribbean islands than is typical on Caribbean sailings.

Related: The ultimate guide to Holland America's Mariner Society loyalty program

Among the most elaborate of the itineraries that Holland America offers out of Port Everglades, for instance, is a 21-day "Southern Caribbean Wayfarer/Seafarer" voyage that brings calls at the islands of St. Martin (specifically, to the Dutch side of the island known as St. Maarten), St. Lucia, Barbados, Martinique, St. Kitts, St. Thomas, Grand Turk, Hispaniola (for a visit to the Dominican Republic), Bonaire, Curacao, Aruba and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas.

The voyage is actually a combination of two shorter, back-to-back sailings that are designed without repeating ports.

Holland America is particularly known for voyages to Alaska, where it dominates the market for cruises along with sister line Princess Cruises.

In recent years, Holland America has deployed as many as eight ships to Alaska in the summer — far more than most other lines. In the wake of a significant downsizing over the past two years , the line is cutting that number back a bit. However, it's still planning on deploying at least six vessels to Alaska in the coming summers — a huge number.

Holland America also operates its own wilderness lodges in Alaska, as well as tourist trains and buses. It uses the lodges, trains and buses to offer an extensive range of nine- to 14-night Alaska "cruisetours" that combine a cruise with land-based touring.

The Alaska cruise season is a short one, lasting roughly from May to September. For 2022, Holland America plans to deploy six ships to the Alaska market:

• Eurodam : The 2,104-passenger vessel will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Sitka, Juneau and Ketchikan; Icy Strait Point, Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia. It'll also visit Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Koningsdam : The 2,650-passenger ship will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Vancouver, B.C. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Tracy Arm and Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Oosterdam. Like Eurodam, the 2,388-passenger ship will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Sitka, Juneau and Ketchikan; and Victoria, British Columbia. It'll also visit Alaska's Hubbard Glacier for glacier viewing.
• Zuiderdam . Like Koningsdam, the 1,916-passenger ship will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Vancouver, B.C. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Nieuw Amsterdam: The 2,106-passenger ship will primarily operate one-way voyages to Alaska between Vancouver, B.C., and Whittier, Alaska. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing, as well as either Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.
• Noordam : Like Nieuw Amsterdam, the 1,924-passenger vessel will primarily operate one-way voyages to Alaska between Vancouver, B.C., and Whittier, Alaska. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing as well as either Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.

The appeal of the one-way sailings on Nieuw Amsterdam and Noordam is that they can be combined with stays at the Holland America lodges mentioned above to create the longer "cruisetours" of Alaska that combine a one-way cruise with a land tour.

The land tour portion of such trips brings visits to such well-known interior Alaska locations as Denali National Park and the town of Fairbanks. Holland America is also unique among cruise lines in offering cruisetours that include a land tour into the Yukon Territory of Canada.

4. Panama Canal

Have you always wanted to experience a transit through the Panama Canal? Among major cruise lines, Holland America has one of the biggest array of sailings through the waterway.

In a typical year, the line will operate more than two dozen voyages to the canal, some of which are round-trip sailings from Florida's Port Everglades while others are one-way trips between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, California.

In the case of the former sailings, Holland America ships only transit part-way through the canal after entering it through the Gatun Locks on its Caribbean side. Such trips typically include a transit into the canal through the locks, cruising in the canal to Gatun Lake and a transit out of the canal through the locks before a stop at nearby Colon, Panama.

Among the shore excursions available from the port of Colon is a bus tour to see the locks in action from observation areas on land.

Other port calls during such Panama Canal cruises typically include the Caribbean islands of Aruba and Curacao; Cartagena, Colombia; and Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.

In the case of the one-way voyages between Florida and California, Holland America's ships will make the full journey through the canal's three sets of locks from the Caribbean to the Pacific or vice versa.

Other port calls during such cruises typically include Puerto Vallarta and Hautulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica; and Cartagena, Colombia.

5. The World

In addition to focused voyages in a wide range of cruise destinations from Europe to Alaska, Holland America has long been known for epic around-the-world voyages that include stops at dozens of destinations in four, five or even six continents.

These trips typically take place on the line's smaller vessels and can last four months or longer, allowing Americans to travel across the globe without ever getting on an airplane.

Normally, Holland America's around-the-world voyages begin and end at Florida's Port Everglades.

The line plans one such trip for 2023 — a 128-day voyage from Port Everglades starting on Jan. 3, 2023, that includes stops in North America, Australia, Africa and Europe.

Taking place on the 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam, the trip includes a transit of the Panama Canal, multiple stops in French Polynesia including Bora Bora and Moorea; visits to multiple destinations in New Zealand; and calls at Madagascar, Mozambique, South Africa, Namibia, Angola, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Gambia and Senegal.

In addition to its around-the-world cruises, Holland America is also known for full circumnavigations of South America that begin and end in Port Everglades.

For 2023, the line plans one such journey — a 74-day cruise on the 1,432-passenger Volendam that starts on Jan. 3, 2023.

Bottom line

Holland America offers an incredibly wide range of itineraries in cruise destinations around the world, from South America to Asia. However, you'll find the most choices among Holland America itineraries in Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean. The line is also well-known for voyages through the Panama Canal and for its epic around-the-world cruises. Its annual around-the-world sailings, in particular, are something that sets it apart from other big lines.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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A Guide to All 11 Holland American Cruise Ships

Here's what you should know before booking your Holland America cruise.

Courtesy of Holland America

When you cruise with Holland America Line (HAL), a World’s Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree , you can expect incredible food, exciting destinations (over 300 ports of call across all seven continents), and luxe service. This Travel + Leisure reader-favorite cruise line provides a luxury cruise ship experience without the luxury price tag.

Based on my Holland America experience, I can confirm that the service is top-notch. I sailed on the Eurodam , and the main dining room servers always greeted my sister and me by name. Being treated like a friend, not just another passenger, is a luxury, especially on such a large ship. (Each vessel accommodates between 1,432 and 2,668 passengers.) HAL “prides itself on its beautifully appointed ships and gracious services where all of its guests can expect to enjoy touches of luxury throughout the journey," Holland America Line specialist and Marvelous Mouse Travels travel advisor Charlene Recio says.

Other features include the cruise line's partnership with the Professional Pickleball Association — which outfits every ship with courts and complimentary lessons — and sophisticated dining options like the new Global Fresh Fish Program , which allows you to enjoy over 80 varieties of fresh, locally sourced regional seafood specialties, depending on your location. Think yellowtail snapper while cruising the Caribbean, sardines in the Mediterranean, and halibut in Alaska.

Though all 11 ships have things in common, it's essential to understand their nuances when choosing the right cruise for you. “The Pinnacle Class ships offer more dining options and entertainment, but the smaller-sized ships, such as those that are part of the R or Vista classes, allow easier access to more unique destinations,” Recio explains. Here, learn about each Holland America ship, including essential amenities and capacities, and make booking your next sailing a breeze.

Inaugural Year : 2021

Ship Class : Pinnacle

Capacity : 2,668 passengers

Holland America’s newest ship, Rotterdam , is extremely impressive. Expect incredible entertainment, contemporary staterooms and suites, swanky public spaces, and over 20 drinking and dining options. Post-dinner, you can check out the casino, catch an outdoor movie screening by the pool, or take in a performance in the dazzling World Stage theater. For live music, the "Music Walk" area offers several options, from pop hits at Billboard Onboard to soul at B.B. King's Blues Club.

Nieuw Statendam

Inaugural Year : 2018

Capacity : 2,666 passengers

Nieuw Statendam offers a traditional cruising experience (formal nights, afternoon tea) with contemporary flair. Music is a big theme on the ship — its unique design draws inspiration from musical instruments, and there's a music-themed art collection on board. Additional highlights include an expanded Music Walk area, the two-level World Stage theater, and top-notch specialty dining options, including Tamarind for Southeast Asian and Rudi’s Sel De Mer for haute French-inspired cuisine.

Inaugural Year : 2016

Capacity : 2,650 passengers

Thanks to its clean lines, modern decor, and natural light-filled spaces, Koningsdam has a brighter, airier aesthetic than Holland America's other vessels. It was the first ship in the line’s Pinnacle Class and is home to live music venues, outdoor movie screenings by the pool, pickleball courts, and a lively casino. For some well-deserved R&R, head to the spa or the adults-only Retreat area.

Nieuw Amsterdam

Inaugural Year : 2010

Ship Class : Signature

Capacity : 2,106 passengers

As you might be able to guess by its name, this sophisticated ship pays homage to New York City. Design elements hammer the theme home: There's a crystal chandelier shaped like the skyline, tons of photos and paintings with motifs of "The City That Never Sleeps," and a full-size yellow cab in the kids club.

Stroll along the wraparound promenade, listen to live music at Billboard Onboard, and rent a plush cabana at the swanky adults-only Retreat. Be sure to indulge in the ship's dining options, too — this is the only Holland America Line vessel with a permanent Morimoto by Sea restaurant. Iron Chef alumnus Chef Masaharu Morimoto, who was named the line's Fresh Fish Ambassador when the Global Fresh Fish Program launched, designed Morimoto by Sea pop-up experiences on several HAL ships, but his pièce de résistance is the full-time, standalone Morimoto eatery exclusive to Nieuw Amsterdam.

Inaugural Year : 2008

Capacity : 2,104 passengers

The first vessel in Holland America’s Signature Class, Eurodam exudes elegance in every sense, sans any stuffiness. I cruised to Alaska on this ship in August 2022 and was especially blown away by the live music at Music Walk.

I also relaxed on a thermal lounger at the spa, tucked into crispy fish and chips (made with Alaskan halibut, of course), lounged by the Lido Pool — the retractable roof here comes in handy in inclement weather — sipped iced lattes and hot cocoa, and kept an eye out for whales in the Explorer’s Lounge.

Inaugural Year : 2006

Ship Class : Vista

Capacity : 1,924 passengers

Noordam boasts a gallery-worthy art collection and elegant staterooms. There are ample public spaces and activities, but don’t expect over-the-top entertainment. Instead, you can play pickleball, sing along to live tunes in one of the Music Walk venues, cozy up with a good book in the library, relax at the spa, or take a dip in one of the pools.

Inaugural Year : 2004

Capacity : 1,916 passengers

Westerdam celebrated its 20th birthday this year, but it feels as contemporary as any of the other vessels, thanks to the addition of music venues such as Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge. It also hosts activities like wine tasting and bingo. If you're a fitness lover, check out the sports court to perfect your pickleball game with a free lesson.

Inaugural Year : 2003

Capacity : 1,964 passengers

Oosterdam — the second Vista Class ship in the fleet — is among the line’s most family-friendly vessels. Although all HAL ships have complimentary kids clubs for children ages three to 17, only a few ( Oosterdam included) offer High Score!, a game room where children and adults can play games like skeeball.

While the little ones play, grown-ups can enjoy a massage at the spa or cocktails at a stylish bar or lounge like Ocean Bar. Regroup for dinner before heading out to Billboard Onboard or Rolling Stone Lounge on a date night or trying your luck at the casino.

Inaugural Year : 2002

The 22-year-old Zuiderdam is a Holland America fan favorite for its classic nautical design elements, modern bells and whistles, and numerous dining options, including the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse and Dive In, a casual poolside eatery serving Nathan’s Famous hot dogs and fries.

The public spaces are equally impressive, including the posh cabana-lined Retreat (exclusively reserved for adults) and the buzzy Rolling Stone Lounge. The ship is also the 2025 home of Holland America’s annual Grand World Voyage , a world cruise that sails to six continents over an eye-popping 124 days.

Inaugural Year : 2000

Ship Class : R Class

Capacity : 1,432 passengers

Along with its near-identical sister ship the Volendam, Zaandam represents the small end of HAL's fleet. The vessel — designed to carry a line-minimum 1,432 passengers while offering plenty of room to roam — is ideal for a more personal and intimate cruising experience. The ship’s musical-inspired decor includes signed guitars from Queen, The Rolling Stones, and Eric Clapton.

Inaugural Year : 1999

Volendam is the line’s oldest operating ship, dating back 25 years. Despite its age, this small vessel delights with its elaborate public spaces, which feature elegant garden-inspired touches like fresh blooms, floral fabrics, and tapestries. Volendam is one of just two Holland America ships without a Music Walk, so expect a quieter, more low-key onboard atmosphere.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

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Holland America Unveils Enhanced Stateroom Decor Packages

• September 17, 2024

Holland America Line is introducing enhanced stateroom décor packages for birthdays and anniversaries, available fleetwide by December 2024, according to a press release..

Guests can pre-purchase the décor packages and have them set up in their stateroom on embarkation day. Each package features decorations and exclusive keepsakes. Standard packages are priced at $54.95, and deluxe packages at $79.95. Both options include a celebratory door magnet, hanging magnetic ceiling banners and a lanyard. The deluxe package additionally features a “Time to Celebrate” blanket.

“So many of our guests choose to cruise to celebrate a special milestone, and these upgraded décor packages are a great way to enhance their at-sea experiences and create cherished memories,” said Carole Biencourt, vice president of guest commerce at Holland America Line. “With the variety of birthday and anniversary package options to choose from, we hope our guests will celebrate in style.”

Guests can customize their celebrations with exclusive add-ons, such as birthday cakes, champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and spa treatments.

The company will also add a range of new décor packages for winter holidays, bon voyage parties, Alaskan adventures and themed experiences featuring the line’s mascot, Lewie the Lion.

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Our newest ship, Rotterdam , delivers the best of everything we do: exquisite cuisine, award-winning service, superbly appointed staterooms and suites, and world-class entertainment. Dance the night away at B.B. King’s Blues Club or relive your favorite rock classics at Rolling Stone Lounge. Experience Rotterdam ’s Pinnacle Class luxury and find a mastery of the details that keep our guests returning again and again.

Explore Rotterdam

Cruise activities on board.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Movies On Board

Enjoy recent-release films in the movie theater on select ships or in the comfort of your stateroom.

Screening nightly in the movie theatre (on select ships) are recent-release films and perennially popular classics. You can also watch movies any time in your stateroom or suite. And aboard  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam , watch your favorite stars light up the night on a giant outdoor LED movie screen by the Lido Pool.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

Dining Experiences On Your Cruise

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi's Sel De Mer

Rudi's Sel De Mer offers a modern twist on classic French dishes and seafood.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. Menu selections include whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt, oysters on the half shell, fruits de mer, and salt-crust baked branzino, as well as favorites such as steak frites, duck cassoulet and coq au vin. Conclude your dinner with a classic dessert and fine French cheeses.  

Meals at Sel de Mer are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer restaurant is available on  Rotterdam ,  Koningsdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , but on other ships, the Rudi’s Sel de Mer menu is available on select evenings in Pinnacle Grill.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

With many flavors to choose from and ingredients like Sicilian pistachios and amarena cherries, each frozen spoonful transports you to Italy.

At “G” Gelato, you can indulge your sweet tooth with a classic European gelato (ice cream), made fresh on board each day by chefs trained at the Carpigiani Gelato University. Choose from among 12 delightful flavors, two of which are rotated daily. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, this tasty treat is served in a variety of ways, including gelato popsicles and the flavors of G, composed shots with layers of caramel, nuts and gelato. Love pistachio?  Select ingredients like Sicilian pistachios make our pistachio gelato out of this world!

Club Orange Program Benefits

Club Orange offers an added level of luxury on Holland America with expanded dining menus, special events and priority access. Learn more about Club Orange.

See the  full Club Orange benefits  (PDF)

Join Club Orange to experience a new level of luxury, from priority check-in and disembarkation to premium dining amenities. Club Orange benefits include a complimentary stateroom upgrade, a special event chosen by the captain and priority check-in and disembarkation. Read on for a full list of Club Orange benefits.

Please  contact us  for Club Orange pricing and availability or to enroll.

Morimoto By Sea (Pop-Up)

Masaharu Morimoto, our Fresh Fish Ambassador brings his innovative style to Morimoto by Sea, a specialty restaurant on board Nieuw Amsterdam and a pop-up dining experience on the rest of the fleet.

Chef Masaharu Morimoto, our Global Fresh Fish Ambassador brings his innovative style to Morimoto by Sea, a pop-up dining experience that will take over Tamarind or Pinnacle Grill at least once per cruise. The pop-up’s menu features artfully presented dishes, exclusive alcoholic beverages, and tantalizing desserts. Nieuw Amsterdam offers our full Morimoto by Sea restaurant.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Suites & Staterooms

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
• Ice service

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads.

Vista Suite

With a verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower, mini-bar and refrigerator.

Signature Suite

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity and large shower. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

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• Accessibility Routes (PDF)

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