Holland America Cruise Line are one of the unsung heroes within the cruise industry in our opinion. With over 75% of their guests repeating with Holland America they are certainly doing something right.
Why cruise with Holland America Cruises?
Holland America Line (HAL) has been in existence since 1873 and is jointly owned by British/American concerns. During its long and illustrious history, HAL has learned a thing or two about the fine art of elegant cruising. With an outstanding fleet of fifteen ships in varying categories travelling around seven continents, HAL must be doing something right because 75 per cent of their passengers re-book with them. HAL is steeped in cruising tradition and this goes some way to underlining its reputation as a stately cruise line, faithful to the old traditions such as dressing for dinner, promenade decks and Crow’s Nest bars with panoramic views. Recently, HAL have been making changes aimed to attract younger passengers, whilst still retaining its elegant image and reputation for quality.
Entertainment on Holland America cruises may be a little understated compared to other cruise lines, attachment to rituals such as afternoon tea and Bingo are still strong. However, libraries have been integrated into new internet and music listening centres and passengers are able to learn and watch demonstrations at the new culinary arts centres. Evening entertainment has been upgraded for a younger crowd and a Northern Lights Disco has been introduced on some ships.
Dining on HAL cruises will always be an elegant and refined affair. Fine dining can be enjoyed in a formal setting in the elegant main dining room where innovative and delicious menus are presented by highly trained, knowledgeable waiting staff. The Pinnacle Grill gives a more intimate dining experience or for a more relaxed meal there is the Lido restaurant where fresh food is cooked to order in a laid back setting. Dress rules have been relaxed, and although many passengers continue to dress formally, there are equal numbers who opt for a more casual approach. The choice is very much yours.
Where do Holland America Line cruises go?
Holland America Cruises everywhere. There are few places in the world this intrepid fleet do not venture. Dropping anchor in 280 ports in all seven continents, HAL offers itineraries of great variety and scope, giving real choice to adventurous cruise enthusiasts. Lengths vary enormously from a five day Pacific Coast trip to a 100 day world voyage of epic proportions. Passengers can choose from destinations such as Alaska, Australasia, Bahamas, Canada, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii and Mexico. HAL run a selection of Grand Voyage packages, extended cruises taking in fascinating parts of the world such as South America and Antarctica, the Mediterranean; North Africa and the Holy Land, Asia and Australia.
Who goes on Holland America Line cruises?
Traditionally, HAL was considered a company frequented by the older, die-hard fans of elegant cruising from a bygone age. Through recent modernisation and repositioning in the market, a HAL cruise is now suited to all fans of cruising, young or old. Children are well looked after on a HAL cruise with programmes devised to keep them entertained. All ages from toddlers through to teens are included in the fun and specially designated areas have been reserved specifically for children’s use. You won’t find water-slides and rock climbing walls on a HAL cruise, what you will discover is great service and real attention to detail that sets this cruise line apart from its competitors.
