Holland America Line

Founded more than a century ago in the Netherlands, Holland America Line continues to work its Dutch heritage into the elegant but affordable cruise experience it offers. This line prides itself on its company slogan and guiding principle, “Tradition of Excellence.” Each of the 15 cruise ships currently in operation is named after a classic vessel in the line’s history. For example, the current ship Rotterdam is the sixth ship in the company history to bear that name. On each ship, there are large paintings and ship memorabilia that honor the company’s history. Some of the antiques and themes presented have a touch of Indonesian culture – presented in honor of the former Dutch colony.

Activities On Board The ‘Dam’ Ships

In conjunction with the subtle touch of history, you will see that Holland America rolls with time. The interior of the ships features trendy Internet cafes, fun piano and sports bars, roomy cabins with all the latest amenities along with several trendy and traditional dining options. The company prides itself on having several contracts with well-known companies to offer entertain: America’s Test Kitchen offers cooking demonstrations, BBC Earth sponsors cultural immersions and lecture-style classes about cruise destinations and a partnership with Oprah Winfrey’s O Magazine offers yoga and meditation classes – all complimentary to passengers. 

The ships offer plenty of quiet nooks, and crannies, such as the well-stocked libraries with gorgeous inlaid marble tables, to hide with a good book or a deck of cards. There are self-guided tours of the history of Holland American and the art collection. Traditionally this has attracted an older clientele, but in the past decade has succeeded in appealing to a broader demographic – particularly during summer and holiday cruises. The cabins are quite roomy – the décor of the line’s newer ships is bolder and more colorful than the older ones, making it tasteful for younger travelers. Families are welcomed by cheerful playrooms, video arcades and secluded teen rooms. Goofy team games poolside or in a lounge cater to the young (and silly) at heart and always attract a big crowd. When there are 25 to 30 plus kids aboard, supervised activities are programmed for at least three age groups between 3 and 17; at other times of the year, there’s always at least one counselor onboard every trip.

Dining On The ‘Dam’ Ships

When it comes to dining, guests can experience a more traditional way of cruising – all included with reservations. The line features an “As You Wish Dining” program meaning there are early and late-seating dining options with assigned tables, reserved tables, or the option to show up anytime. In addition to the complimentary options, all the ships’ have paid restaurant options focused mostly on specialty or international cuisine.

Holland America ships’ cruise the world, with an especially strong presence in Alaska, Mexican Riveria, Central America and the Panama Canal. When travelers need travel assistance, Holland America has introduced Exploration Central (EXC). This service provides travelers with full-service assistance such as overland packages and cultural immersions, flights, hotels, transfers and cancelation protection.

These People Will Love Holland America Line

Destination Collectors. Holland America Line’s expansive fleet sails to more than 450 ports.

Premium ship lovers. Holland America’s ships are mid-sized, carrying from 793 to 2,104 passengers, and featuring wraparound teak decks and staterooms that are on average 25 percent larger than other ships in its class.

World cruisers. Holland America Line has operated world cruises for more than 25 years.

Long cruisers. Holland America Line’s Grand Voyages allow passengers to explore a specific region of the world on an extended Holland cruise. Combine Grand Voyages to circumnavigate the globe.

What’s Included On Holland America Line

All meals, except for dining in the optional reservations-only restaurants.

Fitness Center, except for instructor-led classes such as Spin, Yoga and Pilates.

Entertainment, including Broadway-style shows and cinema.

Daily World Newspapers news from all over the globe is published daily.

Youth Programs, catering to toddlers, kids or teens.

Destinations Served By Holland America Line

• Africa
• Alaska
• Asia & Pacific
• Australia & New Zealand
• Bahamas
• Canada & New England
• Caribbean
• Europe
• Hawaii
• Mexico
• Panama Canal
• South America
• Transatlantic
• West Coast

Holland America Line Ship Reviews

Articles About Holland America Line
[catlist id=’68’ numberposts=-1]