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Prepare For Your Cruise

Whether it's your first time on a Holland America Line cruise, or you're a 4-Star Mariner, this handy list ensures you don't miss a step.

Pre-Cruise Must Dos

Find answers about: 
Confirm Booking   |   Arrange Travel   |   Plan Activities   |   Prepare to Board

Confirm Your Cruise Booking Details

  1. Log in to review your booking.
    • Verify that your name and date of birth match your travel documents.
    • Provide up-to-date contact information.
  2. Ensure you have the proper travel documents for the countries you are visiting.
    • Visit travel.state.gov for identification, visa and vaccination requirements.

Arrange Travel To The Ship

  1. Book your flights.
    • Get specially negotiated low airfare by booking through Holland America Line Flight Ease. View More Details
    • Booking your flight independently? Log in to your Cruise Planner to provide your flight details.
  2. Book hotel stays and airport transfers.
    • Spend time before and/or after your cruise in departure and arrival cities. Arrange airport transfers to/from the cruise terminal for stress-free travel. Log in to your Cruise Planner to make arrangements.

Plan Out Your Days On Board And In Port

  1. Book Shore Excursions.
    • Get the most out of your time in each port with a seamless, stress-free shore excursion. Book your shore excursions in advance for the best selection and receive our Best Price Guarantee. Log in to your Cruise Planner to view and book your excursions.
  2. Make specialty dining reservations.
    • Seating is limited for our specialty restaurants—especially our one-night-only pop-up restaurants. Get your preferred dates and times by making specialty dining reservations in advance. View all dining options or log in to your Cruise Planner to make reservations.
  3. Download the Holland America Line Navigator mobile app.
    • Keep your cruise itinerary and all onboard activities in the palm of your hand. Download the Holland America Line Navigator app on Google Play or Apple's App Store. Upload your photo to the Navigator app expedite embarkation at the pier
      • Google Play Store
  4. Purchase your onboard amenities.
    • Celebrating a special occasion—such as a birthday, anniversary, or simply a much deserved vacation? Make your cruise experience extra special. Purchase beverage packages, spa treatments, pre-paid Internet packages, and other gifts and treats. Log in to your Cruise Planner to view available options.

Prepare To Board

  1. Complete Online Check In and required documents.
    • Cruise contract
    • Download or print boarding pass
  2. Check in for your cruise and print your luggage tags.
  3. Pack for your vacation!
    • Visit our What to Pack page for packing tips and a packing checklist.  
      In the event of unexpected travel delays and emergencies, please remember to bring additional prescription medication for at least two weeks beyond the length of the cruise. Also bring a list of the names, strengths and dosages of all medications in case refills are required.