One of Holland America’s taglines is “Discover the World with Us.” You might think this is just a marketing stunt, but let me tell you… they’re right.
Holland America isn’t anywhere close to being one of the biggest cruise lines in the world, but they are present all over the globe. Yep, they have cruises on every continent and actually visit over 50 countries and 300 ports of call. That’s mind-blowing, but it also explains how they’ve been recognized as one of the cruise lines offering some of the best itineraries in the globe.
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Some of their most popular destinations include:
- Alaska
- Hawaii
- Caribbean
- Europe
- World Cruises
Now let’s check some of the most popular destinations in detail.
Alaska
- Price: 7-Day Alaska Explorer Roundtrip Cruise from Seattle for $1100 per guest.
- Main Destinations: Glacier Bay, Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Anchorage.
If you want to experience Alaska in all its raw, untamed glory, without giving up comfort or style, Holland America is your go-to. They've been cruising these waters for over 75 years, and it shows.
Holland America is so confident in their Alaska itineraries that they offer a Glacier Guarantee: you'll see at least one glacier on your trip, or you'll receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to 15% of your fare. That's how committed they are to delivering the icy spectacles you came for.
Their ships glide through Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm Inlet, and other jaw-dropping fjords, offering front-row seats to towering ice walls and calving glaciers. It's like watching nature's own fireworks show… minus the noise… plus the cold.
Shore Excursions
From whale-watching in Juneau to exploring the Misty Fjords near Ketchikan, Holland America's shore excursions are designed to get you up close and personal with Alaska's natural wonders. You can hike through rainforests, kayak past icebergs, or even try your hand at dog sledding. Holland America has such a massive presence in Alaska that they even operate their own lodges in the region.
Alaska Up Close Program
Onboard, the Alaska Up Close program brings the destination to life with expert-led talks, cooking demonstrations featuring local ingredients, and performances inspired by the region's rich cultural heritage. It's like having a National Geographic documentary come to life, but now you can taste the delicious food.
Europe
- Price: 7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord wirth History Channel from Rotterdam for $1,600 per guest.
- Main Destinations: Norwegian Fjords, British Isles, the Mediterranean.
Ah, Europe! If you’re looking for a classy and beautiful cruise through the Old Continent, Holland America is a fantastic choice. Whether you're drawn to the sun-soaked Mediterranean or the rugged beauty of Northern Europe, Holland America has you covered.
Their cruises visit over 100 European ports, from iconic cities like Rome and Barcelona to lesser-known gems like Tallinn and Bergen. Holland America is huge in Europe… so big, in fact, that almost half of their fleet cruises there at any given time.
Culinary Experiences
Love good food? I know the answer to that! Well, foodies will appreciate the Destination Dining program, which brings local flavors onboard. Think Spanish jamón ibérico, Sicilian cannoli, and Norwegian cod, all prepared with authentic recipes and ingredients.
Shore Excursions
Holland America's shore excursions in Europe are more than just sightseeing that bring you to popular places like the Coliseum… they're amazing immersive experiences. You can take a cooking class in Tuscany, explore ancient ruins in Greece, or enjoy a candlelit canal cruise in Amsterdam. It's about connecting with the culture, not just ticking off iconic landmarks.
Caribbean
- Price: 7-Day Eastern Caribbean San Juan & St Thomas Cruise from Fort Lauderdale for $1200 per guest.
- Main Destinations: Half Moon Cay, San Juan, St Thomas, Barbados, Curaçao.
Every major cruise line in the world cruises the Caribbean, and it’s no different with Holland America. Feel like you want a more elegant and quiet cruise in the Caribbean, much different than what you’d find with Royal Caribbean or Carnival Cruise Line? Then Holland America might be a great option.
Half Moon Cay
Nearly all Caribbean cruises include a stop at Half Moon Cay, Holland America's award-winning private island in the Bahamas. Here, you can ride horses along the beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax in a private cabana. Half Moon Cay is often considered one of the best private islands in the Caribbean, with a top tier beach, so make sure to visit it! We even have a review for it right here.
Lots and lots of Itineraries
With cruises ranging from 7 to 21 days, Holland America offers over 200 Caribbean itineraries that fit any schedule. You can explore the vibrant cultures of the Southern Caribbean, the historic sites of the Eastern Caribbean, or the natural beauty of the Western Caribbean. That’s a lot of Caribbean in one sentence.
Authentic Experiences
Onboard, you'll find Caribbean-inspired cuisine and entertainment that reflect the region's rich cultural tapestry. And with smaller ships, you'll enjoy a more intimate experience, free from the crowds and chaos of larger vessels! That’s definitely a big plus for those travelling with their parents or those that seek a romantic cruise while getting a nice tan.
World Cruises
- Price: 61-Day Grand World Voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Sydney for $15,000 per guest.
- Main Destinations: Tokyo, Sydney, Venice, Cape Town, Petra and that beautiful place we call planet Earth.
Holland America is huge when it comes to world voyages and transatlantics. In fact, they have more than 20 world cruises right now, lasting from 14 all the way to 133 days. Most of their World Cruises cover dozens of countries and hundreds of ports. If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up in a different iconic destination every few days without dragging a suitcase through airport security, this is it. This is the (cruise) dream.
Grand World Voyages
Holland America’s Grand World Voyages usually depart in January and return in April or May. They’re typically hosted aboard mid-sized ships like the Zaandam or Volendam, which are built for comfort and long-distance elegance. You’re not battling crowds, and the vibe onboard is super relaxed, perfect for an extended time outside your house.
We’re talking about over 30 countries and ports across six continents, all in one go. You might start in Fort Lauderdale, then sail through the Panama Canal, cross the Pacific, explore the wonders of Asia, trek through the Middle East, stroll through Mediterranean villages, and cap it off with a transatlantic crossing back home.
And yep, there are sea days, but you’ll want them. The ships turn into floating resorts with stage shows, wine tastings, cooking demos, live music, lectures, and even language classes. You’re not just killing time between ports, you’re living like a celebrity.
