Holland America Line is one of the world’s most well-known cruise lines, and offers a wide variety of itineraries that appeal to everyone. These include a wide range of destinations such as Alaska, the Caribbean, Canada and New England. The ships are also well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including fitness and spa centers, and a selection of fine dining options.
Dining options
Holland America ships have a variety of dining options to choose from. Some are complimentary, while others will cost you a few extra bucks. In addition to fine dining, there are also casual dining spots located near the deck.
The Culinary Council is a team of world-class celebrity chefs who help to enhance your on-board culinary experience. A few of the group’s members include Jonnie Boer, Jacques Torres, and David Burke.
The Grand Dutch Cafe has a menu that focuses on Belgian beer and classic Dutch beverages. There’s also a menu that consists of apple and bacon pancakes.
One of the more impressive dining options on board is Le Cirque. This restaurant has a James Beard award to its credit. It offers a multi-course rotational menu and a nifty wine list.
Spas
The spas on Holland America ships offer a variety of massage treatments. Some of the most popular treatments include hot stone massages.
In addition to massages, the spas on Holland America cruises offer holistic health and beauty treatments. They also feature live music events. A day at the spa will help you relax and rejuvenate.
Onboard spas feature luxurious, state-of-the-art facilities. These may include heated ceramic loungers, a thermal suite, and steam rooms.
Some ships also offer an extensive fitness center. The fitness center offers guided Pilates and yoga practices. You can also join a personal training session or participate in a fitness class.
For those looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, the ship’s spas offer a wide range of massage therapies. There are also facials, pedicures, and nail care. Spas on Holland America cruises may also feature hydrotherapy pools filled with warm seawater.
Fitness center
If you’re looking for a fun way to get in shape on your next cruise, consider checking out the fitness center on Holland America ships. They’re all fully-equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, and you can even take part in some individualized workouts.
There are several types of exercise classes to choose from, and each one is unique. For example, yoga is a balancing practice that uses deep breathing and physical poses. Similarly, Pilates is a series of exercises that help to improve core strength.
Aside from the aforementioned exercise classes, there are plenty of other ways to keep your body in shape while on a cruise. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune. In fact, you can find free exercise classes on some cruises.
Land+Sea Journeys to Canada’s Yukon Territory
During the 2020 Alaskan cruise season, six Holland America ships will sail roundtrip from Vancouver, BC. The ships will depart from Whittier, Alaska, and spend one day in Glacier Bay National Park before sailing the rest of the way to Vancouver.
For 75 years, Holland America has been creating travel experiences in Alaska. In the last five years, Holland America has been named “Best Cruise Line for Alaska Voyages” three times, and has been named a “Top Pick” for Alaska cruises in the 2020 AFAR Travelers’ Awards. Guests on these itineraries enjoy a range of onboard programming that reflects real life in Alaska.
Holland America also offers land+sea journeys to Canada’s Yukon Territory, the only cruise line to offer this unique experience. Located in the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush, the Yukon Territory is rich in spellbinding scenery.
Cancelled cruises
Holland America has announced it will not be conducting cruises until the spring of 2020. While the cruise industry hasn’t shut down, the global health concern with COVID-19 has forced the cruise lines to put their ships on hold.
While the cancellations won’t affect cruises already scheduled for 2020, the pause will impact travel options to Hawaii, the Panama Canal, the Pacific Coastal, South America, and the Antarctica. The cruise line is offering generous compensation to affected guests.
Guests who booked a cruise on a ship that was impacted by the pause will automatically be moved to a different date. If they choose to get a refund, they will receive a full refund. But they can also opt for a cruise credit. This can be used for future trips.