Holland America Line Brings Magnolia Bakery's Banana Pudding Bar to Caribbean Cruises
New partnership introduces the iconic dessert on board during the 2026-27 Caribbean season in anticipation of 30 years of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay
Seattle, Wash., Sept. 24, 2026 — Holland America Line is preparing to mark the 30th anniversary of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay — the cruise line’s private Bahamian island — with a sweet new partnership that welcomes Magnolia Bakery’s iconic Banana Pudding on board. Guests sailing on Holland America Caribbean cruises during the 2026-27 season will be able to indulge in the bakery’s Banana Pudding, bringing a beloved dessert to a region where bananas are deeply woven into the culinary culture.
Guests aboard all ships in the Caribbean will be able to enjoy Magnolia Bakery’s signature Banana Pudding Bar in the Lido Market. Served once per cruise, the dessert — which was named No. 1 in the “Sweets” category on Food Network’s Top 10 — gives guests a special opportunity to experience one of New York’s most iconic sweet treats as part of their Caribbean journey.
“Magnolia Bakery and Holland America Line share a commitment to creating memorable experiences, and this partnership gives us an opportunity to bring one of the bakery’s signature offerings to our guests as they explore the Caribbean,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line. “Bringing Magnolia Bakery’s Banana Pudding on board is a fitting way to celebrate the upcoming 30 years of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and the special role the destination and its distinct culinary flavors have played in our history.”
While banana pudding has long been a beloved American classic, Magnolia Bakery has made the dessert its own. The bakery’s signature version brings together familiar ingredients — including bananas, vanilla wafers, vanilla pudding, sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream — in carefully balanced proportions and a distinctive preparation that creates its signature creamy texture. What began as a familiar comfort-food dessert has become one of Magnolia Bakery’s most iconic offerings.
Holland America Line chefs learned that signature preparation firsthand, training alongside Magnolia Bakery’s Chief Baking Officer Bobbie Lloyd in New York City to bring the dessert’s authentic taste and presentation on board.
“Bringing Magnolia Bakery on board for the Caribbean season marks the first time our desserts will be available at sea — a fitting extension of the innovative ways we continue to share the magic of the brand with our guests,” said Lloyd. “We’re so excited to be working with Holland America Line on this one-of-a-kind partnership and look forward to sharing the joy of Banana Pudding with guests on board.”
Discovering the Caribbean while on board
In the Dining Room, guests can discover Caribbean specialties across every course, from Rum Barbeque Chicken Wings and Jamaican Braised Oxtail to Tomato Braised Pork Ossobuco and Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Global Fresh Fish dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients include roasted grouper and spiced Barramundi.
The experience continues with an elevated Caribbean Seafood Boil in Lido Market, as well as a Caribbean Brunch in the Dining Room, Caribbean Teatime and a Caribbean-themed dinner around the Lido Pool.
The flavors of the Caribbean extend beyond the plate, with regionally inspired beverages showcasing the destination through its distinctive tastes. Holland America Line’s Rum Ambassador program, exclusively on Caribbean ships, features more than 35 distinct rums available exclusively on Caribbean cruises.
From regional ingredients and locally inspired dishes to culinary experiences that connect guests with the places they visit, Holland America Line offers unique ways to discover the Caribbean through food, while the partnership with Magnolia Bakery enhances the journey with access to one of the most celebrated culinary brands.