HALentine’s Day: A Love Story That Set Sail with Holland America
Some journeys lead to unforgettable destinations—and for Christine and Howard, their journey led to each other. What started as two solo travelers embarking on an Antarctic adventure turned into a love story that spans continents, seas, and five future voyages booked together.
Christine, 72, and Howard, 80, met aboard a Holland America Line cruise to South America and Antarctica in February 2024. Both were traveling alone, drawn by a mutual love of exploration and the promise of breathtaking destinations. Little did they know, the voyage would forever change their lives.
Love at First Cruise
On the first evening of the cruise, Christine and Howard crossed paths at a solo-traveler meetup. Howard recalls, “It was only when we found ourselves sitting together at the onboard lectures and evening entertainment that our friendship began to grow as we discovered that we shared a mutual love of traveling.”
For Christine, the voyage to Antarctica was her very first cruise—a step outside her comfort zone that came with initial apprehension. “I needn’t have worried,” she reflects. “The crew were so helpful, and I soon made lots of friends.” By the end of the voyage, Christine and Howard had arranged to meet up in the UK, where their friendship blossomed into a romance.
Sailing into the Future
A year later, Christine and Howard are inseparable travel companions with an adventurous itinerary ahead. Their next stops include spending Valentine’s Day in Hong Kong before embarking on a 14-day cruise to the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan. And with five more voyages on their calendar, including a 28-day Alaska to Hawaii journey and a 36-day South Pacific Crossing, their story is just beginning.
“We’ve created onboard traditions as a couple, from attending lectures to enjoying the evening entertainment,” says Howard. “Each destination offers something new to share together.”
Advice for Aspiring Lovebirds
Christine encourages anyone considering a cruise to take the leap: “I would encourage anyone to embrace cruising—it changed my life forever.”
Howard adds, “Holland America not only takes you to incredible destinations but creates an environment where meaningful connections can happen. We are living proof of that.”
Celebrate Love with Holland America
As we celebrate HALentine’s Day, Christine and Howard’s story is a testament to the magic of travel—proof that some journeys lead to more than unforgettable destinations. They lead to unforgettable connections.
From romantic getaways to solo adventures, Holland America offers something special for everyone. Start planning your own love story at sea.
