Sharp navigator. Savvy and spirited seafarer. Adventure seeker. These are ways you could describe Captain Mark Trembling, but none of them come close to adequately describing his passion for sailing and caring for guests and crew. He’s joy in a bottle, skill at the helm and a comedian on stage. When asked how many years ...

In a recent article in World of Cruising, Captain Timmers — the first master of our new Rotterdam — shared how different Holland America Line ships have sentimental value for very different reasons. Much like our guests who often cruise on a particular ships, Captain Timmers has his favorites in our fleet. Read on to see which ships are special ...

Holland America Line has named Werner Timmers, a captain with nearly 40 years sailing for the cruise line, to take the helm of Rotterdam when the ship enters service in July 2021. Captain Timmers joined Holland America Line in 1984 and has worked on all classes of ship within the brand, most recently as master of Koningsdam. Captain Timmers will ...

I know this island well, one might say ‘intimately’, for not only did I call here on the ‘Mail’ run, but I also spent over a week here, after abandoning my ship, along with 83 others, we were brought back here by the tanker which sighted our lifeboats and rescued us. Having nothing but a rather dirty-white uniform to my ...

Chef Morimoto Named Fresh Fish Ambassador Calling all seafood lovers! Holland America Line is serving a mouthwatering port-to-plate experience for guests through our new global fresh fish program beginning October 2023. That means you won’t just see the world from your doorstep when you cruise with us; you’ll taste it with fresh flavors, locally sourced ingredients and destination-inspired ...

From serene bamboo forests, hot springs (onsen) and tranquil temples to incredible skyscrapers and world-class museums, Japan offers a unique and enriching experience for those who have dreamt of visiting. You can now turn that dream into a reality with Holland America Line’s first-ever roundtrip sailing to Japan from Seattle. Get ready to see the world from your doorstep ...

When you cruise with Holland America Line, you’ll feel energized, uplifted and delighted by the sights, sounds and experiences of world-class entertainment. Breathtaking performances by our Step One Dance Company are just one example. When they take center stage, you’ll embark on a journey with them through fantasy, light and beautiful human emotion – all with incredible music and ...

Are you a sports enthusiast that enjoys a good game and friendly competition? Would you like to explore fun sports activities on a cruise ship, like pickleball, ping pong, shuffleboard and more? Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Holland America Line has plenty of onboard cruise activities to help you break a sweat and try something new, and ...

Whether you prefer guided tours in Europe or want to explore on your own, there are many breathtaking sights to enjoy on a Europe cruise. If you like fine art and sculptures, or you enjoy enriching learning experiences, then you’ll want to add a museum visit to your itinerary. Here are just some of the must-visit art museums in ...

Want to see the world on a family cruise? Is Europe calling your name? Whether you want to explore castles and fjords in Northern Europe, or build castles of your own on Mediterranean beaches, there’s a lot to enjoy on a Europe cruise. Here are some cruise tips to help you make the most of a Europe family vacation: ...

It’s a whale. It’s a seal. It’s the Big Five! Holland America Line now offers more ways to see Alaska wildlife than any other cruise line, bringing you closer to the wondrous creatures of the Last Frontier. With the guidance of onboard wildlife experts and National Park Service Rangers, you could see whales breaching or bubble-net feeding, seals chilling ...

When you embark on a cruise adventure, you may be excited about the sights you’ll see, the shore excursions you’ll experience and the endless cruise activities you'll enjoy, from live music to pickleball. What you may not expect is Justin, one of our art and craft instructors. He’s an artist by trade and a comedian at heart, and he ...

From Northern Europe’s majestic fjords and castles to the Mediterranean’s sun-soaked sands and the Holy Land, an epic cruise awaits you with Holland America Line. Here’s how you can make the most of a Europe cruise vacation:   Choose Your Adventure and See the World from Your Doorstep Northern Europe Whether you’re a fan of ...

When you meet Jordyn, you quickly feel like she’s your best friend on board. She’s incredibly warm and energetic, and she has a passion for people and the cruise experience. She’s also an adventurer and entertainer at heart. That combination makes her an amazing cruise and travel director for Holland America Line, and it's her mission to help guests ...

Explore a dazzling array of natural wonders on a cruise to Iceland. You can walk between tectonic plates, watch geysers erupt, and stand at the edge of a massive waterfall on the same tour. During summer, you’ll get the unique thrill of the Midnight Sun and in winter, the elusive Northern Lights. Few places have Iceland’s stunning variation in ...

If you’ve been following recent headlines on The Washington Post, New York Post and others, you may have noticed that domestic airfare is dropping. Why? International travel is on high demand, and as a result, you’re likely to find discounted airfare for domestic flights. So, if you’ve been dreaming of white sandy beaches, amazing adventures or sensational sunsets, now ...

Are you fascinated by ancient ruins, architecture and Greek mythology? Does your mouth water when you think of delicious Mediterranean dishes? If so, Athens could top your list of dream destinations, and a guided tour is one of the best ways to experience it. Here are five must-experience tours in Athens to help you make the most of your ...

There’s no denying the irresistible beauty of Norway as you cruise along its captivating coasts. From lush green forests and snow-capped mountains to breathtaking fjords and charming villages, there’s a lot to soak up on a Norway cruise with Holland America Line. Let’s take a look at some of the fjords Norway is famous for: ...

This holiday season my loved one gave to me: the gift of sailing the seas From dazzling lights and festive trees to treasured tunes and relished recipes, how you celebrate the season is as unique as you. At Holland America Line, travel is our tradition, and it can be yours, too. Start new holiday traditions this year while ...

If Portugal tops your list for must-see destinations, it’s no wonder why. From its rich history and captivating culture to charming cities and beautiful beaches, there’s a lot to enjoy. Here’s a look at some of the best places to visit on a Portugal cruise: Funchal Attracting explorers from all over the world and named ...

Though Blanche Bennett, a 100-year-old World War II veteran and Prince Edward Island resident, hadn’t been on a ship in 65 years, she continued to admire them from afar – especially cruise ships. Soaking up the sights of the ships as they docked at Chartlottetown, she often wondered what they looked like from the inside and how different they ...

Taking a vacation is one way to practice self-care, and on a Holland America Line cruise there are numerous ways to kick back and relax. Here are a few ways you can practice self-care at sea: Relax at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® Enjoy the thermal suite with ocean views or get a massage. ...

From thrilling adventures to kicking back with cocktails, there’s plenty to do on Holland America Line’s private Caribbean island. Here are 10 ways you can make the most of your day at Half Moon Cay, the highest-rated private island in the Bahamas: 1. Trot along the shore on a horseback ride. Have you ever ...

Do you have a heart for history, the arts, architecture and more? Looking for things to experience while you’re in port during longer stays or overnights? Exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites is a great way to immerse yourself in the destinations you cruise to with Holland America Line. Here are just a few of the must-see UNESCO World Heritage ...

Did you know Washington is the original home to pickleball and Holland America Line is pickleball’s home at sea? As a Seattle-based company, we're thrilled to be named the presenting sponsor for the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) tour stop in Emerald City, and you can join the fun! As the official cruise line for PPA, ...

Fall in love with jaw-dropping views as you cruise along icy-blue glaciers. Watch wildlife bask in the beauty of the Last Frontier. Explore the treasured terrain of the Great Land. With Holland America Line, you’ll uncover the best of Alaska and the Yukon. Here are the top reasons to cruise Alaska with us: ...

Holland America Line has loved Alaska for more than 75 years – so much so that we painted this declaration of love on our ships. We know firsthand how to help you uncover the very best of this beautiful state. Recently, we caught up with crew members aboard the Eurodam and asked what they love most about cruising Alaska. ...

There’s a lot to savor on a Grand South America Voyage, from dancing the tango in Buenos Aires to trekking Amazon jungles to exploring the beauty of Rio De Janeiro. With Holland America Line, you can see the world from your doorstep and go deeper into some of the destinations you visit with Overland Adventures. Departing on Oct. 7, ...

Make the unforgettable experience of a total solar eclipse more memorable on a wraparound deck of a perfectly-sized ship at sea. Join us for this rare cosmic phenomenon aboard Koningsdam and Zaandam, where guests will have exclusive access to lectures, demonstrations and firsthand tips from astronomy experts on how to make the most of a spectacular view. ...

The first thing to know about Dawson City, Yukon, is that it’s a small town by most standards, with a population just over 1,500. But for a small town, it has a booming personality, leftover from its days of gold-rush glory, when fever and fortune ran high. For a few glorious months in 1898, Dawson City held the nickname, ...

America has many treasures just waiting to reveal themselves to eager explorers. Imagine soaking up the sights of Glacier Bay National Park while cruising to Alaska or getting lost in the hidden gems and fall foliage of New England. Discover paradise on the beaches of Hawaii or bask in the sun as you sail the Pacific Coast. In honor ...

Though sailing to the great land with Holland America Line includes spectacular glacier and wildlife views, it also offers something unique – the mouthwatering taste of fresh, certified and sustainable Alaska seafood. We’re proud to have earned the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, making us the first and only cruise line to achieve this distinguished ...

Canada is known for many things, from spectacular landscapes and beautiful wildlife to incredible maple syrup. From coast to coast to coast, there’s a lot of beauty to behold and treats to enjoy. In honor of Canada Day, we couldn’t deny the opportunity to highlight one of its many treasures. If you’ve ever wanted to visit a place unlike ...

When you embark on an Alaska cruise with Holland America Line later this summer, you’ll notice beautiful and intricate artwork on menus and other items representing stories and traditions of the indigenous people of the great land. The creator of these beautiful works of art is Rico Lanáat’ Worl, a Tlingit and Athabascan social designer and artist. He has artfully ...

From changing colors to cooler temperatures, the fall and winter seasons signal a time of change and remind us to cherish the present. It’s in that spirit we highlight unforgettable journeys you can take to explore the magic of the seasons. See the world from your doorstep on a Holland America Line cruise. Australia ...

June brought another month of unforgettable memories and fun at sea, as well as multiple moments celebrating those who make the journey possible – our employees. We’re grateful for our team members and the unique kind of awesome they bring to work every day, from ship to shore.    Here’s a look at recent meaningful moments celebrating those who share ...

If there’s ever a time to wish days were longer, it’s on an Alaska cruise. Between breathtaking landscapes and spectacular wildlife, there’s a lot to enjoy. That’s why cruising during the summer solstice makes it that much sweeter. Here are some of the ways you can soak up 22 hours of sun — yes, you read that right! — ...

Alexa Christine Sale gave her heart to the sea a long time ago, and it’s not just because she dreamt of a career in the cruise line industry. It’s because the sea is where her father, Alex Sale, spent most of his time since she was a little girl. She loved the tales her dad would share when he ...

Holland America Line recently introduced four new cocktails to delight the senses on our Alaska cruises. Inspired by the beauty of Alaska, they feature something you don’t find every day in a glass near you: authentic Alaska glacier ice. Harvested by state permit among floating glacier bergs in Prince William Sound and prepared to the highest standard under Alaskan ...

Calling all wanderlust cruisers! If wildlife safaris, golden vistas and rolling grasslands are part of your dream vacation, then Holland America Line’s Grand Africa Voyage is the bucket-list adventure you’ve been waiting for. Roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, this 73-day voyage gives you the opportunity to see the world from your doorstep with the comfort of a Holland America ...

With 227 breathtaking islands, Greece is incredible. Our Greek Isle cruises whisk you to small villages and iconic cities. Stand in the same place as the world’s greatest philosophers and poets, share mezes with friendly locals, or watch the sun sink into the jewel-blue Aegean Sea.   Athens, the Gateway to Greek Isles  Athens is the ...

When you embark on an Alaska cruise, you know you’re going to take in magnificent sights. There’s a lot to look forward to, including majestic landscapes, icy blue glaciers and beautiful wildlife. And if you love the great outdoors, you’ll also love the incredible hiking trails. Here are a few of the trails you’ll find near Alaska cruise ports ...

Leonard Wood was surprised and delighted with a special day aboard the Zaandam. Photo courtesy of the Port of Charlottetown. Cruise Ship Fan Receives Surprise After Admiring Vessels for More than 80 Years Since Leonard Wood was a little boy, he always admired cruise ships from afar. In fact, he has taken a picture in front ...

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 ...

When Holland America Line guests embark on a Grand World Voyage, they’re likely looking forward to one bucket-list adventure after the next. What they may not expect is a group of volunteers knitting and crocheting blankets on the world cruise for Project Linus in support of children in need. For Gail and Marty Gottlieb, hosting fellow “blanketeers” isn’t just ...

Holland America Line kicked off its 2023 Alaska cruise season on April 29 with the arrival of Eurodam at Port of Seattle. Known as “Seattle’s Hometown Cruise Line,” Holland America Line marked the day with a celebration at Pier 91. Festivities included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Miss Washington Regan Gallo and Miss Alaska Jessica Reisinger, and lively music with ...

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 ...

Enjoy the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, or soak up the sun along the California Coast. Savor the journey in Mexico, or experience the aloha of Hawaii. Whichever paradise you choose, Holland America Line can take you there on a West Coast cruise. Here are the best reasons to sail away with us and enjoy all that the ...