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Ship officers discussing navigation plans on a modern vessel bridge with ocean view.

Behind the Scenes Tours

Access rarely seen areas such as the Bridge, Engine Control Room, Galley, Backstage, and more.

Step behind the scenes on an exclusive ship tour and explore areas rarely seen by guests — from the Bridge and Engine Control Room to the Galley, Laundry Room, and more. Along the way, you’ll receive insider stories and a ship keepsake gift to mark the experience.

The Holland America Line logo next to the words Behind the Scenes.

Preview the Tour

Venture into the heart of the ship — from lively lounges and dazzling performances to the behind-the-scenes spaces few guests ever see. Discover how entertainment and engineering come together to create unforgettable moments at sea.

What Our Guests Are Saying

“What a fantastic tour! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge & passion with us. Would recommend this to everyone. Special thank you to Farrah, couldn’t imagine a cruise without such a great personality.” - Tahana

 

“Excellent tour. Actually, the highlight of my voyage. As an engineer, I especially enjoyed appreciated Day 1, but was surprised with the behind-the-scenes detail of Day 2. Our host, Farrah, did a superb job. Thanks!” - Kent L.

 

“Thank you for a fantastic tour which was the highlight of my time on board. Finding out what is going on behind the scenes of the calmness at the front of house public areas. It was great value hearing from the persons who actually do the job. Once again, great, fantastic, thank you for your enthusiasm & the information you have provided.” - Phil S.

 

“Amazing experience. Totally recommend this tour. The crew have been exceptional and very knowledgeable.” - Steve L.

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Backstage Access: Entertainment & Operations

Step beyond the stage and into the hidden spaces - from backstage dressing rooms to the ship's command center - that bring each journey to life.

World Stage

Discover how our shows come to life from lighting and sound to our dazzling LED displays.

Dressing Rooms & Props

Step backstage for a glimpse at the inventive props, imaginative sets, and dazzling costumes that bring every show to life.

Navigational Bridge

Tour the ship’s command center and meet the officers who chart our course and ensure your safety.

Behind the Daily Operations

Discover the essential operations that keep the ship running — from non-stop laundry systems to advanced recycling and ship-wide engineering.

Laundry Room

Explore the 24/7 onboard laundry center — including a unique machine that washes, dries, presses, and folds linens in one seamless process.

Engine Control Room

Step into the nerve center of ship operations and see how our engineering team monitors and powers every part of your journey.

Recycling Center

Get a close-up look at onboard recycling systems, including incinerators and compactors that match land-based environmental standards.

Behind the  Galley Doors

From inventory to plating, step into the behind-the-scenes spaces where our culinary process begins — and where freshness and precision lead the way.

Storerooms & Provisions Area

Meet the Storeroom Manager and learn how thousands of ingredients are tracked, stocked, and loaded for each voyage.

Main Galley

Join the Executive Chef for a tour of the food-preparation area and see the scale and care behind every plated dish.

Bakery

Take in the aroma of fresh bread as you explore our “Made Fresh Daily” commitment and the hands that bring it to life.

Booking, Cost & Accessibility

Reserve your exclusive Behind the Scenes Tour at Guest Services during your cruise. Tours can only be booked once on board.

Behind the Scenes Tour

Go behind the scenes for a premium ship tour and discover how the ship comes to life each day.

  • $179 per person
  • Maximum of 14 guests per tour
  • Must be at least 16 years old
Accessible Behind the Scenes Tour

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour designed with accessibility in mind — offering a premium, insider’s view of daily life aboard our ships.

  • $155 per person
  • Maximum of 14 guests per tour
  • Must be at least 16 years old

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