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About Holland America Cruise Line

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Holland America Line offers premium, mid-sized cruise vacations that focus on immersive destination experiences and classic, personalized service. For over 150 years, this award-winning cruise line has been a leader in global exploration, visiting nearly 400 ports across all seven continents with exceptional Grand Voyages and extended itineraries.

One of the highlights is Explorations Central (EXC), an onboard program featuring EXC Talks by local experts where guests can learn more about top cruise destinations. Holland America is especially known for its Alaska cruises, as well as popular trips in the Caribbean and Europe, including the Mediterranean.

Onboard, guests enjoy thrilling activities like competitive pickleball at sea (as the official cruise line of the PPA) and world-class entertainment at the Music Walk, including B.B. King's Blues Club and the Rolling Stone Lounge. Dining is a major standout. Global Fresh Fish Program brings 80+ varieties of sustainable seafood from port to plate in under 48 hours. You'll find menus curated by a Culinary Council of world-class chefs, featuring Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto's dishes at Morimoto by Sea and premium steaks at the Pinnacle Grill.

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Holland America Line Ships

Ship NameStar RatingYear Built
5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2008
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2016
5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2010
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2018
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2006
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2003
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2021
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 1999
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2004
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2000
4.5 Stars - Holland America Line Ship Rating 2002

11 Holland America Line Ships

Why Choose Holland America Line?

Holland America Line is the premier choice for travelers seeking a premium, sophisticated cruise that prioritizes cultural enrichment, world-class dining, and award-winning service. Onboard their perfectly sized ships, guests enjoy an elegant, uncrowded atmosphere that allows for deeper connections with the world's most captivating destinations. Whether you are exploring the rugged frontiers of Alaska or the historic ports of the Mediterranean, Holland America offers a refined way to "Savour the Journey" without the frantic pace of mega-ships.

Key Reasons to Choose Holland America Line:

  • Best Mid-Sized Ships & Award-Winning Service: Recognized as the "Best Mid-Sized Ocean Cruise Line" by Travel + Leisure, HAL's fleet offers the perfect balance of spaciousness and intimacy. With a high crew-to-guest ratio, you'll experience personalized service that has earned the "Best Service" title from Cruise Critic for consecutive years.
  • Unrivaled Alaska & Global Leadership: With over 75 years of expertise in the Great Land, Holland America provides the most comprehensive Alaska cruise experience, featuring exclusive access to Glacier Bay and immersive Yukon Cruisetours. Their Legendary Voyages and Grand World Voyages also offer unique, extended itineraries to all seven continents.
  • Port-to-Plate Culinary Excellence: Say goodbye to generic buffets. The first-of-its-kind Global Fresh Fish Program sources 80+ varieties of sustainable seafood locally, moving from port to plate in under 48 hours. Guests can enjoy world-class menus at Morimoto by Sea, refined steaks at the Pinnacle Grill, and regional flavors curated by a Culinary Council of elite chefs.
  • Deep Destination Immersion (EXC): Through Explorations Central (EXC), your cruise becomes an educational experience. Engage with local experts during EXC Talks, witness BBC Earth Experiences in concert, and participate in cultural encounters that bring the history and traditions of each port to life before you even step ashore.
  • The Music Walk & Active Enrichment: Evenings are defined by the Music Walk, featuring soul-stirring performances at B.B. King's Blues Club, the Rolling Stone Lounge, and Billboard Onboard. During the day, stay active with pickleball at sea, as the official cruise line of the PPA, or rejuvenate at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon.

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What Are Holland America Line Ships Like?

Holland America Line ships are mid-sized cruise ships renowned for their elegant design, spacious public areas, and refined onboard atmosphere. They are ideal for travelers who value comfort, cultural enrichment, and a strong connection to the sea.

Unlike neon-lit mega-ships, Holland America vessels focus on classic cruising with a modern touch, featuring museum-quality art collections, fresh floral arrangements, and iconic teak wrap-around promenade decks. Each ship is large enough to offer diverse dining options and world-class live music, yet small enough to access smaller, more intimate ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach.

  • Mid-Sized Modernity, The Pinnacle Class: As the flagships of the fleet, the Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Koningsdam represent the peak of Holland America Line's design. These Pinnacle Class ships accommodate approximately 2,670 guests and provide premium amenities. A central highlight is the World Stage, featuring an immersive 270-degree panoramic LED screen that wraps around the audience. These ships also offer the greatest selection of specialty dining, including the Pan-Asian flavors of Tamarind and the newly launched Morimoto by Sea Sushi Bar.
  • The Music Walk & World Stage: Evenings center on the Music Walk, a collection of venues that has redefined cruise entertainment. You can transition from the soulful rhythm of B.B. King's Blues Club to the chart-topping hits at Billboard Onboard or high-energy rock at the Rolling Stone Lounge. For larger-than-life productions, the World Stage hosts the Step One Dance Company and BBC Earth in Concert, blending live music with breathtaking nature cinematography.
  • Explorations Central (EXC): Every ship is a hub for global learning. The Explorations Central, the ship's library, and the Crow's Nest observation lounge become resource centers where you can join EXC Talks by local experts, access specialized travel guides, and use interactive tools to customize your time in port.
  • Sophisticated Sanctuaries, Staterooms & Suites: Accommodations are built for comfort, featuring the signature Mariner's Dream beds with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The Neptune Suites offer elevated luxury with floor-to-ceiling windows, private verandas, exclusive access to the Neptune Lounge, and personal concierge service. Family and solo staterooms are also available on Pinnacle Class ships, offering accommodation solutions for everyone.
  • Wellness & Active Leisure: Find your balance at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, where you can enjoy thermal suites, hydrotherapy pools, and Elemis-branded treatments. For active enrichment, take a swing at a friendly game of pickleball at sea, or take a yoga class with a relaxing, panoramic ocean view.

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What Destinations Does Holland America Line Offer?

Holland America Line visits nearly 400 ports across 114 countries, renowned for its immersive itineraries, such as their "Grand World Voyages". Holland is most celebrated for its 75-year legacy as the leader in Alaska cruises, as well as its extensive "Legendary Voyages" that offer extended stays in South America, the South Pacific, and the Arctic. Every voyage is designed for cultural discovery, often featuring late-night stays and overnights in the world's most iconic cities.

Top Holland America Line Destinations

  • Alaska & The Yukon: As the top-rated line in the Great Land, Holland America offers more sailings to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. Their exclusive Yukon Cruisetours are the only ones that take you into the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush territory, combined with stays at their private 60-acre Denali lodge.
  • The Caribbean & Half Moon Cay: Experience a refined tropical escape with a focus on Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, and the pristine Half Moon Cay, Holland's Bahamian paradise, voted as best private island for 20 consecutive years, offering everything for a perfect beach day.
  • Europe & The Mediterranean: From the sun-drenched ruins of Greece and Italy to the dramatic Norwegian Fjords and Iceland, HAL's mid-sized ships can reach smaller, boutique ports like Villefranche-sur-Mer or the heart of Amsterdam. Their partnerships with local experts bring European history to life with exclusive shore excursions.
  • Grand & Legendary Voyages:Designed for the ultimate explorer, these 25- to 120-day voyages venture deep into remote regions. Highlights include the Grand World Voyage, journeys around Australia, and the "Voyage of the Vikings" across the North Atlantic.
  • Panama Canal & South America: Holland America is a specialist in Panama Canal transits, complemented by full-day narration from local experts. South America itineraries reach the "Bottom of the World," featuring scenic cruising to Antarctica, Chile's dramatic fjords, and overnight stays in Lima to experience Machu Picchu.

Explore all of Holland America Line's destinations!

What Are the Dining Options on Holland America Line?

Holland America Line offers a refined dining experience featuring fresh, high-quality, and seasonal ingredients sourced from each destination. Authentic local recipes bring the flavors and traditions of every port to the table. A key highlight is the Global Fresh Fish Program, which brings more than 80 varieties of sustainably sourced seafood from port to plate in under 48 hours. Guided by a Culinary Council of celebrated chefs, such as Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and David Burke, Holland America offers elegant complimentary dining and award-winning specialty restaurants inspired by cuisines from around the world. On each cruise, Holland America celebrates its heritage with a special Dutch Day, featuring Royal Dutch Tea, a Dutch Dinner, and its signature Orange Party.

Complimentary Dining

  • The Dining Room: Perfect for an elegant breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a multi-course dinner, the Main Dining Room offers family favorites and regionally inspired cuisine. Guests can enjoy classic dishes, such as boneless lamb en croute, as well as vegetarian selections influenced by local flavors. With attentive, refined service, the Main Dining Room delivers a timeless and classic dining experience.
  • Lido Market: A modern take on the traditional buffet, Lido Market features a delicious selection of grab-and-go and order-in options. Featuring themed stations, guests can enjoy fresh pastries and bread, hearty salads, comforting classics, and other mouthwatering dishes, as well as frozen juices, premium coffee, beer, wine, and ice-cold sodas. Just steps from the Lido pool, explore a world of exciting culinary possibilities at Lido Market.
  • Dive-In: Enjoy perfectly cooked gourmet burgers served on toasted brioche buns with crispy, hand-cut fries and Holland's secret signature "Dive-in Sauce." The menu also features premium Nathan's Famous beef hot dogs with golden fries, grilled chicken breast sandwiches, and juicy portobello mushrooms, all grilled to perfection and ideal for a poolside bite.
  • New York Deli & Pizza: Experience a slice of the Big Apple at sea at New York Deli & Pizza. This poolside eatery serves authentic, thin-crust 9-inch personal pizzas, all made to order with your choice of premium toppings. On HAL's newest ships, the menu expands into a classic neighborhood deli, featuring tooting pastrami on rye, corned beef sandwiches, and fresh bagels with shmear. Grabbing a quick slice between dips in the Lido pool or sitting down to enjoy a custom-crafted sandwich for a casual lunch, guests will find a world of savory made-to-order options at New York Deli & Pizza.

Specialty Dining

  • Pinnacle Grill: This intimate venue, Holland's flagship and award-winning specialty restaurant, offers a refined dining experience with menu highlights such as premium Double R Ranch beef, fresh Alaskan King Salmon, and famous clothesline bacon, inspired by culinary ambassador David Burke. Every dish is meticulously prepared with the finest ingredients, beautifully presented, and paired with an extensive selection of award-winning wines. With impeccable service, where every detail is thoughtfully considered, Pinnacle Grill creates a luxurious atmosphere for guests who appreciate exceptional food, fine wine, and polished service at sea.
  • Morimoto by Sea: Available as a restaurant on the Nieuw Amsterdam and a pop-up experience fleetwide, Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Holland America's global ambassador for fresh fish, brings culinary creativity with a Japanese-inspired menu, featuring his most famous signature dish, the Tuna Pizza with anchovy aioli, the crispy Hamachi Tacos, or the sizzling, decadent Angry Lobster Pad Thai. Guests can also enjoy the new Sushi Bar debuting on board Pinnacle and Signature Class ships.
  • Tamarind: This Pan-Asian sanctuary blends panoramic views with the vibrant flavors of the Far East. Praised by critics as one of the best dining venues at sea, Tamarind's recently refreshed menu offers bold, aromatic flavors, like the ginger-scented Pork Bao Buns, the umami-rich Korean Beef Tacos, and the wok-fired, succulent Lobster, paired with zesty, aromatic cocktails and beers.
  • Canaletto: This sophisticated, dinner-only venue serves authentic, family-style Italian comfort food. The menu is inspired by Italy's rich, robust flavors, made with locally sourced ingredients and daily handmade pasta. Guests can share dishes like soft, creamy burrata, pacceri with Italian sausage, and a lemon ricotta bake.
  • Rudi's Sel de Mer: A cozy Mediterranean bistro where guests can savor a menu curated with the mastery of Chef Rudi Sodamin, Chairman of Holland America's Culinary Council. Following a significant refresh in early 2025, it now features his classic, beloved French dishes and the vibrant new flavors from Italy, Greece, and Spain. From zesty Nicoise salads to succulent Greek Spiced Lamb Chops, every dish is a celebration of regional authenticity.

Casual Bites and Quick Eats

  • Grand Dutch Cafe: Found on Pinnacle and Signature class ships, this is the perfect spot for specialty coffees and Dutch-inspired snacks. Enjoy complimentary treats like Erwtensoep (traditional pea soup) and Friet & Mayo, or have a fresh-made stroopwafel to go.
  • New York Deli & Pizza: Serving freshly made thin-crust pizzas and authentic deli sandwiches, this spot is great for a quick lunch or late-night slice. The menu includes NYC staples like Reuben on Rye and Pastrami sandwiches.
  • Explorations Cafe: Located in the Crow's Nest or the library area, this quiet retreat offers specialty coffees, lattes, and a selection of pastries and small snacks to enjoy while taking in panoramic ocean views.

Holland America Line Activities: What Enrichment and Entertainment are Included?

Holland America Line offers a sophisticated alternative to high-energy theme park cruising, focusing on culture, enrichment, and "the best live music at sea." Guests can stroll the Music Walk and experience the atmosphere of a night out on the vibrant city streets of Memphis or Nashville, drifting between the rhythms of B.B. King's Blues Club, the chart-topping energy of Billboard Onboard, and iconic rock anthems at the Rolling Stone Lounge. Beyond music, Holland's enrichment programming invites deeper discovery through destination-focused lectures and immersive experiences at Exploration Central, as well as Port-to-Table culinary workshops, designed to immerse guests in the local food culture of the regions they visit.

The Music Walk & Nightlife (Included)

The Music Walk is Holland America's signature entertainment hub, featuring a collection of venues where world-class musicians perform nightly. All performances are free to attend.

  • B.B. King's Blues Club: Experience the best of Memphis R&B as an all-star band brings the blues, soul, and rock to life. High-energy performances and an intimate club atmosphere keep the dance floor moving late into the night. Featured on Pinnacle and Signature Class ships.
  • Rolling Stone Lounge: A high-energy venue where a seven-piece band delivers everything from classic rock to R&B and today's pop hits. Each set celebrates five decades of iconic music in a dynamic, concert-style setting.
  • Billboard Onboard: Two talented pianists take your requests and perform sixty years of chart-topping hits in a lively, interactive sing-along environment. Expect spontaneous fun, crowd favorites, and a playlist shaped by the audience.
  • Vivace & Classical Strings: For a more refined evening, enjoy elegant string duos and trios performing classical and contemporary pieces. These intimate performances set a relaxed, sophisticated tone in the Ocean Bar or Explorers Lounge on select ships.

World Stage & Productions (Included)

The World Stage is a state-of-the-art theater featuring panoramic LED screens (on Pinnacle Class ships) and high-production shows.

  • Step One Dance Company: Watch elite dancers blend innovative choreography with artistic video projections for a truly immersive visual experience. Performances combine athleticism, storytelling, and cutting-edge stage design.
  • New Production Shows: Enjoy the latest 2024-2025 productions like "Song & Dance", a concert-style journey through Broadway and Hollywood, or "Class Act", a Vegas-style tribute to iconic female performers. Each show features contemporary staging, dynamic vocals, and polished theatrical flair.
  • BBC Earth in Concert: Experience breathtaking natural history footage from the BBC on the big screen, accompanied by a live orchestral score. This powerful pairing of music and imagery creates an unforgettable cinematic event.
  • Regional Soloists: Depending on where you sail, you'll see local performers like folk guitarists in Alaska, steel pan drummers in the Caribbean, or mariachi in Mexico. These authentic performances offer a deeper connection to the cultures of each destination.

Enrichment & Destination Discovery (Included)

True to its "Explorations Central" (EXC) philosophy, Holland America turns your cruise into a learning opportunity.

  • EXC Talks: Join local experts for insightful presentations on the history, culture, and wildlife of your upcoming ports. In Alaska, this includes National Park Service Rangers who join the ship to provide live commentary. These talks add meaningful context and enhance your understanding of each destination.
  • Port briefings: Get practical, "insider" tips on what to do and see in each destination before you go ashore. Learn about highlights, timing, and logistics to help you make the most of your time in port.
  • Workshops & Socials: Participate in floral design classes, origami, and the signature Orange Party, a fleetwide celebration of the line's Dutch heritage. These hands-on activities and social events encourage creativity, connection, and onboard camaraderie.

Pickleball & Active Leisure (Included)

As the Official Cruise Line of the PPA (Professional Pickleball Association), Holland America is the leader in court sports at sea.

  • Pickleball at Sea: All ships feature top-deck courts with stunning ocean views. You can join complimentary beginner lessons, participate in organized tournaments, or simply play a casual match with friends. Courts are open daily, making it easy to fit a game into your sea-day schedule.
  • Fitness Center: Access to the state-of-the-art gym and select fitness classes, like morning stretching, is included. Specialized classes like yoga or Pilates have a fee. The facility offers modern equipment for cardio, strength training, and independent workouts.
  • Pools & Hot Tubs: Relax at the Sea View Pool or the Lido Pool, which features a retractable Magrodome roof so you can swim in any weather. Multiple hot tubs provide the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Kids Club & Family Fun (Included)

While HAL is known for its adult-focused atmosphere, the Kids Club (formerly Club HAL) provides supervised fun for travelers aged 3 to 17.

  • Age-Specific Programs: From pirate treasure hunts for 3-6-year-olds to Xbox tournaments and The Loft teen lounge for ages 13-17. Activities are thoughtfully designed for each age group and led by trained youth staff.
  • High Score!: A dedicated family game room found on select ships, featuring arcade classics and modern gaming consoles. It's a fun, casual space for friendly competition and all-ages entertainment.

What Are the Best Holland America Line Staterooms?

Holland America Line offers a selection of refined accommodations that prioritize comfort, classic style, and "the best sleep at sea." Every room features the signature Mariner's Dream bed with a plush Euro-Top mattress and high-end Elemis bath amenities. From cozy solo retreats to the sprawling luxury of the Pinnacle Suite, there is a space tailored for every type of explorer.

1. Interior Staterooms: The Sophisticated Value

Interior staterooms are the most cost-effective way to sail while still enjoying the same five-star service and signature bedding as the rest of the ship.

  • Standard Interior: These rooms are designed for efficiency and comfort, making them a perfect sanctuary for those who prefer to spend their days in the ship's public lounges or exploring on shore.
  • Large Interior: Available on select decks, these offer a bit more square footage and a seating area, providing extra breathing room for longer voyages.
  • Spa Interior: Located near the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, these rooms include wellness-focused amenities like yoga mats and organic bath products.

2. Ocean View Staterooms: Perspectives and Proportions

Ocean view rooms feature large picture windows or classic portholes, filling the space with natural light and keeping you connected to the sea at all times.

  • Large Ocean View: Offering more space than a standard interior, these rooms are a favorite for those who want a view of the passing scenery without the price tag of a balcony.
  • Family Ocean View: Exclusive to Pinnacle Class ships (Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam), these unique rooms accommodate up to five guests and feature two bathrooms, one with a bathtub and one with a shower, to make family mornings much smoother.
  • Single Ocean View: Specifically designed for the solo traveler, these rooms allow you to enjoy a private sanctuary with a view without paying a single supplement (available on Pinnacle Class ships).

3. Verandah Staterooms: Private Outdoor Living

The most popular choice for cruisers, the Verandah stateroom, provides a private teak-lined balcony for morning coffee or sunset viewing.

  • Standard Verandah: Features floor-to-ceiling glass doors, a comfortable sitting area, and a private balcony.
  • Aft-View Verandah: Highly sought after for their 180-degree views of the ship's wake. These balconies are often deeper than standard side-view verandahs.
  • Verandah Spa: Located just steps from the spa, these rooms include special "wellness" touches and are ideal for those planning a relaxation-focused cruise.

4. Suites: Elevated Luxury and Exclusive Access

Suites on Holland America offer a "ship-within-a-ship" feel, with escalating perks that include private lounges and dedicated concierge service.

  • Signature & Vista Suites: The entry-level suites offer significantly more space, a large sitting area, a full-size whirlpool bath (on select ships), and a larger verandah.
  • Neptune Suites (The "Sweet Spot" of Luxury): Guests in Neptune Suites receive the "full suite experience," including access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private, staffed retreat offering concierge service and additional perks such as dry cleaning, priority boarding, and expanded room service menus.
  • The Pinnacle Suite: The largest and most luxurious room onboard. It features a grand entry, separate living and dining rooms, a dressing room, and a private verandah with its own whirlpool hot tub.

5. Specialty Accommodations

  • Club Orange: While not a room type itself, this premium program is included for Neptune and Pinnacle Suite guests (and available for purchase for others). It provides access to a private, intimate dining room with expanded menus and priority services throughout the ship.
  • Accessible Staterooms: Holland America is highly regarded for its accessibility, offering rooms with wider doorways, roll-in showers with grab bars, and lowered counters.

Holland America Kids & Teens: What is the Kids Club?

Holland America Line's Kids Club (formerly known as Club HAL) is a vibrant, included program where kids and teens can find their own space to socialize and have fun. While Holland is known for its adult-focused elegance, the Kids Club offers age-specific, high-energy fun and creative educational activities. It's a place for younger travelers to make friends and explore the world at their own pace while parents enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

Kids Club Age Groups and Activities

The program is divided into three groups to ensure every activity is perfectly matched to children's age and interests:

  • Kids (Ages 3-6): This group focuses on imaginative play and creative expression in a safe, supervised environment. Little ones can dive into themed events like "Dino-Mite Night," participate in ship-wide pirate treasure hunts, and explore their artistic side with "Painting Picassos" art sessions. Please note that children must be fully toilet-trained to participate in this drop-off program.
  • Tweens (Ages 7-11): Middle-grade explorers enjoy a balance of social competition and high-tech fun. Activities range from Nukeball (a fast-paced version of volleyball) and scavenger hunts across the ship to the "Amazing and Awesome Fact Show" created in partnership with BBC Earth. It's a great way for tweens to stay active and learn cool facts about the destinations they are visiting.
  • Teens (Ages 12-17): The teen program is all about independence and social connection. It centers around The Loft, a cool, "adult-free" lounge where teens can hang out, join mocktail parties, compete in late-night sporting events, or take the stage for karaoke contests. With no formal sign-in/sign-out requirements, teens have the freedom to come and go as they please.

What are the Kids Programs' Key Features?

  • Complimentary Fun: Most Kids Club activities are included in your cruise fare during sea days and port days, providing parents with a worry-free way to keep the family entertained.
  • National Park Service Junior Ranger Program: Exclusive to Alaska cruises, Park Rangers come onboard to help kids earn their official Junior Ranger badges through interactive lessons about glaciers and local wildlife.
  • Expert Supervision: Every staff member is a youth professional with a background in education or recreation, ensuring a safe and high-quality experience for every child.
  • The Loft: A signature teen-only space designed with a modern, lounge-like feel that gives older kids the independence they crave.
  • After Hours Care: For a small hourly fee, supervised "After Hours" fun is available from 10 p.m. to midnight, allowing parents to enjoy the ship's late-night nightlife.
  • Family-Friendly Dining: Children 12 and under eat for half price at specialty restaurants like the Pinnacle Grill, or they can enjoy free favorites from the dedicated kids' menu found in all venues.

Holland America Line ensures that families can explore the world together. While kids have fun, parents can unwind at the spa or enjoy world-class music, so everyone gets to enjoy a memorable vacation.

How Accessible is Holland America Line for Guests with Disabilities?

Holland America Line is recognized as a leader in accessible cruising, guided by their "Access to Excellence" program. Their mid-sized ships feature a logical, intuitive layout that supports easier navigation for guests with limited mobility. Holland is committed to providing a seamless experience for guests with sensory and cognitive disabilities through specialized equipment and a dedicated support team.

Requesting Accommodations

  • Special Requirements Information (SRI) Form: To ensure all needs are met, guests should complete the SRI form, which allows you to detail mobility device dimensions, oxygen requirements, or the need for assistive technology in your stateroom.
  • Timing: It is highly recommended to submit the SRI form at the time of booking, but no later than 45 to 60 days before departure. This is especially important for guests who require specific equipment or plan to travel with a service animal.
  • Contact Information: You can reach the Guest Accessibility Department at 1-800-547-8493 or via email at GuestAccessibility@HollandAmerica.com.

Available Services and Features

Holland America offers comprehensive features across its fleet to support various needs:

  • Mobility Disabilities

    Accessible Staterooms: HAL offers three types of accessible rooms: Fully Accessible (wide doors and roll-in showers), Single-Side Approach (accessible for one side of the bed), and Ambulatory Accessible (designed for those who use canes or walkers and need grab bars but not necessarily a roll-in shower).

    Unique Tendering System: Holland America was the first in the industry to develop a specialized wheelchair transfer system for tenders, ensuring guests in wheelchairs can safely visit ports that require boat transfers (available on nearly all ships).

    Embarkation Assistance: Complimentary wheelchair assistance is provided to help guests navigate the pier and board the ship safely.

    Equipment Rentals: Holland America does not provide personal wheelchairs or scooters for the duration of the cruise, but partners with Special Needs at Sea to deliver rented equipment directly to the stateroom.

  • Hearing Disabilities

    Stateroom Assistive Kits: Portable kits are available upon request and include visual and tactile alerts for the door knock, telephone, alarm clock, and smoke detector.

    Assistive Listening Systems: Main theaters and show lounges are equipped with infrared assistive listening systems. Portable receivers are available at the Guest Services desk.

    Closed Captioning: Televisions in guest staterooms feature closed captioning for most primary programming and safety videos.

  • Visual Disabilities

    Braille and Large Print: Braille signage is standard in elevators and public areas. The ship also provides menus and the daily "Daily Program" (newsletter) in large-print formats.

    Screen Reading Software: The Explorations Cafe features computers equipped with "Window-Eyes" software to assist guests in reading internet content aloud.

    Service Animals: Service animals are welcome. With advance notice, the ship can provide a 4x4-foot relief area with sod or wood chips on a designated deck.

  • Cognitive and Developmental Disabilities

    Supportive Environment: Holland America's smaller ship size and quieter atmosphere are often preferred by guests who find large, crowded ships overstimulating.

    Kids Club Accommodations: Children with special needs are welcome in the youth programs. While one-on-one care is not provided, parents are encouraged to meet with staff to discuss modifications to activities.

  • Dietary Needs: The culinary team is highly experienced in managing severe allergies and special diets (gluten-free, low-sodium, etc.), which can be pre-arranged via the SRI form.

Note: Holland America Line crew members are happy to assist with mobility navigation but cannot provide personal care, such as assistance with eating, dressing, or hygiene. Guests requiring daily assistance must travel with a companion.

What is the Holland America Line Mariner Society?

The Mariner Society is Holland America Line's loyalty program, offering returning guests tiered onboard discounts, exclusive amenities, and priority services, with automatic enrollment following the first completed cruise.

How it Works

Members earn Cruise Day credits to determine their tier status. One credit is earned for each night sailed. Booking a suite or penthouse at the published fare earns double credits for every night. Additional bonus credits are also awarded for onboard spending, with a bonus credit for every $300 in eligible purchases, calculated based on the combined folio for the first two guests in a stateroom.

Membership Tiers and Key Benefits

The program features five "Star" tiers, with perks that increase in value at higher levels.

  • 1-Star Mariner (1+ credits): The entry tier provides an immediate welcome with a Mariner Cocktail voucher, a collectible gift, and up to $400 in onboard spending money when booking new seasons early. You also receive a 50% discount on cruise fares for 3rd and 4th guests on select sailings.
  • 2-Star Mariner (30 credits): In addition to all 1-Star perks, you receive a complimentary photo of the ship, a special recognition lapel pin, and a 10% discount on Holland America Line logo clothing in the onboard shops.
  • 3-Star Mariner (75 credits): This tier introduces significant savings, including a 25% discount on specialty restaurant surcharges, wine packages, and specialty coffees at Explorations Cafe. Guests also receive discounts on select treatments at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon.
  • 4-Star Mariner (200 credits): This is widely considered the "sweet spot" for loyalty. Benefits include complimentary laundry and pressing services, priority check-in, priority tendering, and priority disembarkation. Your discounts on specialty dining, wine packages, and mini-bar purchases increase to 50%.
  • 5-Star Mariner (500 credits): The highest advertised tier offers the ultimate luxury experience, including two complimentary dinners at specialty restaurants (Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind, or Canaletto), a free day pass to the Greenhouse Spa Thermal Suite, and a $30 credit toward any internet package.

Discover all Mariner Society's rewards!

Important Information

  • Recognition Medallions: Beyond the Star tiers, Holland America awards prestigious Medallions for total "actual" days sailed (bonus credits do not count here). These range from Bronze (100 days) to the elite Platinum Medallion (700+ days).
  • Sister Brand Benefits: While Holland America does not offer a direct one-to-one status match with sister brands like Princess or Carnival, guests who have sailed on any "World's Leading Cruise Lines" brand are automatically granted 1-Star Mariner status on their very first Holland America cruise.
  • The Presidents Club: This is the highest, most exclusive level of Holland's Mariner Society. Unlike the Star tiers, it is an unpublished and invitation-only level reserved for the line's most loyal cruisers who have surpassed 1,400 actual days at sea, offering the highest level of personalized service and recognition in the fleet.