It's National Shortbread Cookie Day, and there's nothing sweeter than this buttery goodness. We asked our Master Chef Rudi Sodamin for his favorite recipe, and he's sharing it with you so you can make it in your own kitchens. YIELD: Approximately 60 INGREDIENTS:
 9 oz butter
 4.5 oz sugar
 16 oz flour
 8 oz cornstarch 1 piece of orange zest ...

Today is National Take a Hike Day, and to celebrate we're showcasing five of our favorite hiking tours that you can experience on a Holland America Line cruise. On our shore excursions, immerse yourself in the great outdoors and be rewarded with spectacular views and unforgettable memories. Like the saying goes, "It's not only about the destination, but the journey, ...

Photo courtesy of Controller Yono Sudarto. Alaska: the last frontier. The untouched quality of Alaskan wilderness lends itself to a sense of adventure and exciting natural occasions. Alaska Inside Passage cruises offer guests incredible views of one of the most exciting natural attractions in the state, glacier calving. Glacier calving is a natural event that occurs when large ...

We received this plaintive cry for help and just couldn't resist the opportunity to share a Rudi Sodamin recipe with you: We have sailed on the Westerdam before and loved the trip and the bread pudding. I know I found the recipe on line before but can't find it now. Could you tell me how to find it or e-mail ...

On April 22, 2022, Stephanie DerGarabedian was starting her day with her favorite morning personalities on The Today Show. As she sipped her morning brew and began plugging away at work, something caught her attention. The Today Show was hosting a Mother’s Day contest where viewers could nominate their moms to join them on The Plaza for brunch. Stephanie ...

As you stand on deck while touring Glacier Bay, notice the remarkable silence of a place empty of traffic, pedestrians and shops. Even without human infrastructure, the landscape is ever-changing. We’ve been bringing guests to Alaska for more than 75 years, but Glacier Bay always feels new. Here are the top five experiences: 1. Get ...

Glacier Bay National Park should have a top spot on every family’s bucket list. But unlike most national parks, you can’t just load up the family car and drive to it. Glacier Bay is only accessible by air or sea. Here’s how to explore Glacier Bay National Park with kids. A Day in Glacier Bay ...

The Yukon is a true bucket-list destination. It’s unlike anywhere else with endless wilderness punctuated by Canada’s five tallest peaks and tiny towns with big personalities. Read on for 20 wild facts about Yukon Territory.   The Yukon, Big and Small   The Yukon is vast, but it’s the smallest of Canada’s three territories. The Yukon covers ...

Celebrations are underway for Holland America Line’s 150th Anniversary, and you still have time to join the fun. If you’re craving a getaway but not sure where to go or what to do, consider embarking on one of our Heritage Cruises. Focused on ports rich in our brand’s history, Heritage Cruises feature unique onboard and shoreside experiences, and there ...

Alaska isn’t just home to towering blue glaciers and dense green forests. You’ll find bears flocking to the water for their catch of the day, whales breaking through the sea’s surface to exhale, and bald eagles soaring across the sky. Looking for the best places for wildlife sightings? Here are some of the magical creatures that have made Alaska ...

If both land and sea are calling your name, but you’re not sure where to travel, we’ve got you covered. From breathtaking views to wildlife experiences, an Alaska cruise and Yukon adventure should definitely be on your bucket list. Here are the top five reasons to visit Yukon Territory. Land & Sea Adventures Though ...

If going on a cruise is something you’ve wanted to do for weeks, months, or even years, but you don’t know where to start, don’t sweat it. We’ve got you covered! Here are quick tips to help you navigate your first cruise adventure. 1. Find a cruise that excites you. Whether it’s Alaska, Europe, the ...

On a cruise over the holidays, reconnect with loved ones and rejuvenate yourself. Spend time lazing by the pool while we prepare a holiday feast. Explore sun-drenched ports while we make the ship clean and tidy for the celebrations. Admire the gingerbread villages, mistletoe and ornament-adorned trees around the ship, all while enjoying daytime enrichment and nightly entertainment. Worried your ...

Mexico is a colorful culture, known for its deep history, rich customs and vibrant flavors. Holland America Line's Mexican Riviera and Sea of Cortez cruises are designed to showcase the different facets of each port, so whether you want to learn more about the region, take an adventurous tour or get to know the culture, there's something that will meet ...

Alaska’s pristine waters teem with tasty fish. Whether you want to reel in a king salmon or try your hand at crab fishing, the Last Frontier is the place. Alaska fishing trips make it easy by providing the gear, some sage advice, and the ability to buy a fishing license. On select adventures, you can have your catch prepared and ...

Today is International Book Lovers day, and while a cruise is the perfect vacation to catch up on a good book lounging on deck overlooking the sea, it's also the ideal way to explore the homes, birthplaces and locales of your favorite author or book. From Prince Edward Island and the home of Anne of Green Gables to Isla Robinson ...

Holland America Line is debuting three new dishes from Culinary Council Member Chef Ethan Stowell that were developed in alliance with the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI). The partnership between the two organizations is a shared commitment to serving sustainably sourced Alaska seafood on all six of our ships that sail to the Great Land. This is the first formal ...

This week we welcomed the first day of summer! As schools let out for break and travelers seek new adventures, Holland America Line offers several exciting locales to embark on a memorable vacation. Do you want to explore the gorgeous glaciers of Alaska? How about the incredible lush greenery and charming seaside towns of Canada and New England? Golden beaches ...

Voting is underway for the USA TODAY 2022 10Best Readers' Choice awards, and Holland America Line is excited to be nominated for five awards in three categories! Not only were we selected by an esteemed panel of experts for the "Best Ocean Cruise Line" category, but Koningsdam is nominated for "Best Ship for Dining" and all three of our Pinnacle ...

Today is Nature Photography Day, and the world is filled with an abundance of natural beauty. From the glaciers of Alaska to the blooms in the South Pacific to New England's rivers and waterfalls, the ports we visit offer some amazing sights and scenes. If you're looking to capture the beauty of the locales through the eyes of a camera ...

In celebration of 75 years exploring Alaska, Holland America Line is partnering with Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI) to highlight the line’s leadership and commitment to sustainably sourced local seafood. The first formal partnership of its kind between ASMI, a partnership between the state of Alaska and Alaska’s fishing industry, and a major cruise line will highlight Holland America Line’s ...

It's official! While Rotterdam has been cruising since the fall, today in the city of Rotterdam we formally welcomed her as the flagship of our fleet in an affair fit for a royal! Following a tradition that started in the 1920s, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands christened the ship in a ceremony attended by local dignitaries and ...

On a Holland America Line excursion in Alaska, guests will have the opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and serenity of Alaska’s wilderness. From pristine glaciers and awe-inspiring scenery to rich forests with abundant wildlife, you will be amazed by the wonders of Alaska. Read on to discover tours in each port and get ready to embark on an expedition ...

Every night on a Holland America Line cruise is filled with the best entertainment and live music at sea. From the incredible Memphis Blues of B.B. King's All Star Band to our talented troupe of Step One performers, evenings are filled with a rich selection of options to suit every taste. Culture, comedy, upbeat tunes, dancing and immersive performances all ...

It's hard to believe that your cruise is here! Today is departure day, and for the next seven, 10, 12, or maybe even 128 days, you're going to be cruising with us to new and wondrous places. For some of our guests, the ship is the destination and the ports we visit are an added bonus. Regardless, we're thrilled to ...

At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, the port town of Skagway served as the primary gateway to the legendary gold fields, and quickly grew into Alaska’s largest settlement. It was then a raucous frontier hub packed with trading posts, saloons and guesthouses. As the gold rush faded into the 1900s, so did Skagway — but today it has ...

Our "Love Letters to Alaska" contest had an incredible response, with more than 40,000 entries received from people hoping to win a cruise to Alaska. Deborah Thelwell was named the grand prize winner of a seven-day Holland America Line Alaska cruise for two in a Neptune Suite. But we also have nine runners-up who will each receive a seven-day Alaska ...

On Valentine's Day, Holland America Line launched a contest asking fans to pen love letters to Alaska. This year we celebrate 75 years of Alaska exploration, and the Love Letters contest is a tribute to the beloved cruising region. Thousands of people entered their thoughts on why they love Alaska or why they would like to visit Alaska. Holland America ...

Norway is known for its jagged coast, staggering cliffs and 1,190 glass-like fjords. Cut by glaciers during the ice age, these saltwater inlets are a cruising paradise with calm waters and fairytale landscapes. Like a diamond or a snowflake, each fjord is unique. Here are the best fjords in Norway along with what makes each one different. 1. Geirangerfjord - ...

Today's is St. Patrick's Day, and it's all about the Emerald Isle. From Guinness to the Book of Kells to Irish Dance, there's so much to see, do and enjoy on a visit. On Holland America Line's cruises to Northern Europe or the British Isles, guests can explore Dublin and Cobh — the gateway to Cork — with day-trips to ...

Holland America Line has been exploring Alaska since 1947, and the premium cruise line is putting 75 years of expertise into new “Alaska Up Close” programming — a 360° experience that immerses guests in The Great Land in a way that only Holland America Line can deliver. Through authentic experiences on board and ashore that focus on culture, cuisine and ...

This International Women's Day, we invite you to meet some of the talented women who currently are on board our ships — touching all departments and leadership roles. Join us in celebrating the achievements of women around the world and help #breakthebias.

Dear Alaska, you amaze me … Fans who declare their love for Alaska in a letter or poem can enter to win one of 10 suites, including a grand prize Neptune Suite, on a 2022 cruise to the Great Land in Holland America Line’s “Love Letters to Alaska” contest. This year, we're celebrating 75 years of Alaska exploration, and the ...

On Holland America Line cruises to Alaska, guests have an extended evening stay in Juneau to enjoy some of the adventures that are best experienced later in the day. The ships arrive at 1 p.m. and stay until 10 p.m. With the sun setting well into the evening, you can certainly pack your day full of amazing explorations that allow ...

Holland America Line serves up an incredible variety of dining venues that range from the casual Lido Market to elegant Pinnacle Grill, and everything in-between. While all ships have the Dining Room, Pinnacle Grill and Canaletto options, in addition to a Rudi's Sel de Mer pop-up, our Pinnacle Class ships expand some specialty options, like a stand-alone Rudi's Sel de ...

No one knows the ins and outs of Alaska better than our guests who have been there, done that ... many more than once! As we look to celebrate our 75th year exploring Alaska in 2022, we have an exciting season of cruises and Cruisetours that take you to the must-see places and hidden gems of this most gorgeous region. ...

A Holland America Line Cruisetour combines an Alaska cruise with an overland adventure to Denali and the Yukon. Ranging from nine to 18 days, Cruisetours delve deeper into the region with an unforgettable experience that includes a stay at our own McKinley Chalet Resort at the entrance to Denali National Park. The property is Holland America Line’s magnificent 68-acre hotel ...

Alaska is on the bucket list of many travelers, and there are plenty of reasons why: incredible scenery, imposing landscapes, warm and welcoming locals, a step back in time to the days of the Gold Rush, elusive wildlife and endless adventure. You can explore Alaska many ways, but if you're looking to cruise to Alaska, Holland America Line is your ...

Old-world cultures, breathtaking scenery and landscapes steeped in history bring Holland America Line’s 2023 Europe season to life on cruises that were crafted to highlight the best of each region. From April through November, dozens of unique itineraries — ranging from seven to 35 days — will be offered aboard two of the line’s Pinnacle Class ship, Nieuw Statendam and ...

Are you looking to chart a course to Alaska in 2022? With our Alaska Exploration Sale there's no better time to Have It All! We're back with a full Alaska season and Cruisetours to Denali and the Yukon in 2022, and with this event you can splurge on the shore excursion of your dreams. Book a 2022 Alaska cruise or ...

Cup of Joe, coffee or java, not matter what you call it there are some amazing brews produced all over the world. Today is International Coffee Day, and for all of you coffee connoisseurs Holland America Line offers some amazing tours that delve deep into the world of coffee making in ports known for producing some incredible beans. If you're ...

The one word that describes Alaska to me is “home.” I was born and raised in Ketchikan. In the early days of cruise ship visits, one of the pioneering lines was Alaska Cruise Lines, later to become Westours, Inc., which years later merged with Holland America Line. But that is another story. And all this is to say that Holland ...

Today is World Oceans Day, and the theme for 2021 is The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods. One way we can better understand the ocean is by experiencing it and understanding the life that lives below the surface. On a Holland America Line cruise, guests can take an immersive shore excursion that explores the world of ocean animals — from whale ...

In my 44 years with Holland America Line, I have been asked numerous times where is my favorite place to visit. Although there are a few, one at the top of the list is Greece. The whole experience — from the extraordinary culture and antiquities to the people, cuisine and remarkable architecture — is overwhelming. One of the magical Greek ...

When Holland America Line sets sail for Greece this summer, guests can choose from three different seven-day voyages over four departures dates. The itineraries were designed to offer different ports so guests can book back to back cruises and experience new ports over 14 days. We carefully crafts our cruises to be able to form these Collectors’ Voyages, which enable ...

Holland America Line is set to return to cruising this summer with itineraries in the gorgeous eastern Mediterranean. There's no better locale than Greece to become immersed in the culture of the region that is drenched in sun-kissed skies, azure seas and a history that stretches back to ancient times. The seven-day “Adriatic Allure” itinerary departing Sept. 5 will sail ...

It’s International Museum Day, and the world’s most fascinating museums can be discovered on a Holland America Line cruise. Of course, there are the well-known museums like the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, Russia; the Guggenheim in Bilbao, Spain; and the Louvre in Paris, France, but what about the off-the-beaten path museums? The destinations we visit are filled with incredible history ...

As we get ready to set sail for Greece this summer, our thoughts have us dreaming of the light and flavorful cuisine that awaits at each island. Not only is the food fresh and fun, it's also full of so much tradition that goes back to Ancient Greece. To get your taste buds ready to cruise, here are two incredible ...

When was the last time you played with your food? If you’re ready to get creative in the kitchen, join Holland America Line April 6 to celebrate the first annual National Food Faces Day. Designated in the National Day Archives, the day commemorates the culinary pop art created by the brand’s Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, whose birthday is April 6. ...

Paul Thornton, author of “The Joy of Cruising”, has a new book out called “Cruising Interrupted”, and in it he features Holland America Line guest Kandes Bregman. Paul and Kandes have granted us permission to share an excerpt of Kandes' chapter to give a glimpse into her passion for cruising and Holland America Line. Enjoy the segment, and then be ...