Ready to see the world from your doorstep? Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned pro, Holland America Line is here to help you plan your cruise vacation. Here are some quick tips to help you get started: 1. Find a destination that excites you. Whether it’s Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe or another ...

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: ...

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 ...

We asked Samantha Brown, celebrated travel expert, what her tips would be for first-time cruisers to Alaska. Here’s what she had to say! Note: Holland America Line is a proud sponsor of “Places to Love.” Cruising the Inside Passage of Alaska was one of the most incredible bucket-list adventures my family and I have ...

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 ...

To say we are beyond thrilled to welcome guests on board Holland America Line this month in Alaska is definitely an understatement! And next month we return to the Mediterranean with cruises aboard Eurodam. Did you know that our very first Mediterranean cruise departed on Feb. 2, 1910, onboard the s.s. Statendam I from New York to Rotterdam and also ...

You’ve been counting down the days until your Holland America Line cruise and the day has finally arrived! Filled with overwhelming excitement and anticipation, you may be wondering ... “What should I do first?” The first day of your cruise is one of the most important, as it sets the tone for the rest of your vacation. We’ve compiled a ...

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! How are you going to surprise the love of your live? A romantic dinner for two by candlelight cannot go wrong, right? Since right now it is hard to go out for dinner, it is extra important to show your significant other what skills you have in the kitchen. Holland America Line Culinary ...

Holland America Line is proudly headquartered in Seattle, and we have many partners that come from our hometown. One of our local culinary partners is Beecher's Cheese, located in heart of Seattle's historic Pike Place Market. Recently, Brand Ambassador Seth Wayne visited Beecher's Cheese and spoke with founder Kurt Beecher, who gave him key tips on how to make the ...

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 ...

If chasing waterfalls tops your list of activities on a Caribbean cruise, you’re not alone. There’s something magical about these glistening wonders. Here are some of the top waterfalls in the Caribbean that will leave you in awe: 1. Dunn’s River Falls This waterfall park is known worldwide for being a top attraction in ...

Are you a sports enthusiast that enjoys a good game and friendly competition? Would you like to explore pickleball, ping pong, shuffleboard and other activities while sailing the seas? Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Holland America Line has plenty of onboard activities to help you break a sweat and try something new, and we have amazing sports ...

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 activities on board, 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 ensures ...

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 ...

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 ...

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: ...

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 ...

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. ...

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. ...

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! — ...

Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned pro, there are many reasons to seek support from a Personal Cruise Consultant (PCC) to help you plan a cruise vacation that’s as unique as you. As members of our team, Personal Cruise Consultants have expertise on the Holland America Line experience and knowledge about destinations around the world. They’re here ...

Photo above shows the beauty of the northern lights as seen from Northern Europe. Every year, adventurers from all over the world flock to Iceland to see the northern lights. According to this Forbes article, the northern lights are the top sought-after bucket list experience, surpassing the Great Barrier Reef and cruising Norway’s fjords.   Even though the ...

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 ...

It’s not very often a company celebrates its 150th anniversary, and just as rare is the opportunity to work for one. As the new blog manager for Holland America Line, I recently had the opportunity to board the newest ship in its fleet before its transatlantic voyage to Rotterdam, the Netherlands, retracing (in reverse) its original journey 150 years ...

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 ...

Along with glaciers and wildlife, the northern lights top the list of Alaska must-sees. It is possible to see the northern lights from Anchorage. The lights dance year-round but are only visible in inky-black skies. If you cruise Alaska during the peak of summer, the blaze of the midnight sun outshines the aurora. If you’re ...

Alaska is a prime destination for wildlife viewing. But if you don’t have suitable binoculars, that Alaska brown bear and her cubs might look like … a few blurred dots. That mountain goat? Nothing but a spec. That humpback whale? A floating log. Find the best binoculars for wildlife viewing so you don’t miss a single magical moment. Everyone ...

Whether it’s $100, $200, $300 or more, Onboard Credit can make a sweet vacation even sweeter. While some credits are designated for certain activities (e.g., shore excursions), others give you the opportunity to spend it in multiple ways. From rejuvenating at the spa while enjoying ocean views to making magical memories during once-in-a-lifetime excursions, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how ...

As summer sunshine turns to fall foliage, we're thinking about one of our favorite cruise departure ports: Greater Fort Lauderdale. Nicknamed the “Venice of America,” this cosmopolitan destination offers 300 miles of winding waterways, a thriving art and culinary scene, and outdoor activities galore. See our list below for recommendations on what to do in Greater Fort Lauderdale before ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Europe takes fashion seriously, but that doesn’t mean you have to lug five suitcases across the ocean or teeter around on cobblestones in the world’s most uncomfortable shoes. Our packing list for Europe helps you pack smart, so you’ll be comfortable and stylish on cruise excursions. As our Europe cruises are a week or longer, start with a large suitcase ...

It's been a busy and exciting week for Holland America Line. Two more ships are back in service, with Oosterdam restarting in Trieste (Venice), Italy, and Zaandam setting sail from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. To commemorate both occasions, Holland America Line held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the terminal to open embarkation, attended by the ship’s captain and senior ...

In anticipation of the ports in Australia and New Zealand fully welcoming cruise ships back to their shores, Holland America Line opened bookings for a season of new itineraries aboard Westerdam starting in fall 2022. The new voyages, offered from Sept. 25, 2022, through March 13, 2023, explore Australia’s rich culture, the lush landscapes of New Zealand and the enchanting ...

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 ...

Alaska's "First City" of Ketchikan is so named because it’s the first major landfall for most cruisers as they enter the picturesque fjords of the Inside Passage, where the town clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain. A highlight of every Alaska cruise, Ketchikan gives the perfect glimpse into the cultures ...

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 ...

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 ...

Arriving at Istanbul, Turkey, on board a ship is an unforgettable experience. The Bosphorus, dividing Europe and Asia, welcomes passengers and on deck are where the views of Istanbul’s best attractions await. The shores of Asia to the east, the first Bosphorus Bridge to the north and the “old Istanbul” peninsula in the south — home to Topkapi Palace and ...

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. ...

Travel exposes us to new cultures, experiences and traditions around the world. Whether it's stepping back in time walking along the cobbled medieval streets of Tallinn or exploring the ruins of Tulum in Mexico, one of the best ways to remember your cruise and the places you visited is to bring home a souvenir that is unique to the region. ...