Holland America Will Move Guests To Comparable Alaska Cruise In 2022
Those who are currently booked on the canceled roundtrip Seattle-Alaska June departures will automatically be moved to an equivalent cruise in 2022 retaining their 2021 fare. All cash and Future Cruise Credit funds will be moved to the new booking.
If a booked guest decides not to accept the 2022 cruise booking, they have the option to decline the booking. Instead, theyll receive an FCC of 110% of any cash paid. Guests will also be able to request a full refund of all monies paid to Holland America Line.
Holland America Cruises Things To Do
- The refined atmosphere of Holland America Line ships draws interest from older cruise travelers who can also afford to pay the cruise line’s higher prices. When you set sail on a HAL ship, you will enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. Therefore, guests onboard like the afternoon tea service and activities that feature ballroom dancing. However, that does not mean the cruise line does not attract families. KId-friendly programs are available online for the younger crowd, 3 to 17 years old. Nevertheless, if you are seeking a more family-friendly adventure, you may want to set your sights on a cruise provider, such as Disney or Carnival. Most families take a HAL cruise during the summer when the kids are on summer vacation from school. Older travelers, who have retired, like to take the world cruises as well as longer excursions. Because the cruise line features life enrichment programs, it draws people who have both creative and intellectual interests and goals.
Passenger Shipping Pause 2020
Due to the Coronavirus crisis, Holland America Line suspended its entire fleet’s passenger shipping operations canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 13, 2020, through June 30, 2021.
HAL’s fleet was fully operational by June 12, 2022.
Next are listed HAL’s first departures by ship in 2021-2022: ROTTERDAM , NIEUW AMSTERDAM , NIEUW STATENDAM , KONINGSDAM , EURODAM , ZUIDERDAM , NOORDAM , OOSTERDAM , ZAANDAM , VOLENDAM , WESTERDAM .
- All HAL Alaska cruises and Alaskan cruisetours in 2020-2021 were initially canceled, but in 2021 NIEUW AMSTERDAM was rescheduled for Alaskan roundtrips from Seattle .
- Due to Canada’s extended ban on cruise ships, HAL’s Canada and New England 2021 schedule was entirely canceled.
- VOLENDAM’s “World Cruise 2022” from Fort Lauderdale was canceled.
- ZAANDAM’s “World Cruise 2022” was canceled.
- All ship relocation itineraries visiting ports in the USA-Canada were canceled.
- NOORDAM’s Asia 2021-2022 program , OOSTERDAM’s Australia-New Zealand 2021-2022 program , WESTERDAM’s South America 2021-2022 program, and ZUIDERDAM’s Caribbean-Mediterranean 2021 programs were also canceled.
- HAL’s Europe 2021 schedule was canceled.
- ROTTERDAM’s Maiden Voyage was rescheduled from August 1 to Sept 26 and finally Nov 3, despite the on-schedule delivery from Fincantieri .
You May Like: What Is The Best Alaskan Cruise To Take
Holland America Canceled Alaska Cruises Again
Holland America made the decision to cancel all Alaska cruises sailing round-trip from Seattle, Washington until at least July 2021.
In total, six voyages on Eurodam and Oosterdam are affected by the cancellations. The Alaska itineraries for both ships included a call at Victoria, British Columbia in Canada.
The cancellations are a result of the Canadian Transport Ministry Interim Order that closed Canadian ports to passenger vessels carrying in excess of 100 passengers and crew.
RELATED: Holland America Eurodam Alaska Cruise Review
So far, Alaska cruises have not been canceled on roundtrip sailings from Seattle scheduled to depart in July and onward.
The cruise lines continue discussions with Canadian and United States government authorities to try to salvage the remaining Seattle to Alaska sailings. Holland America Line already has announced the cancellation of all 2021 Alaska cruises to or from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
We continue to stay actively engaged in dialogue with authorities in Canada and the United States to understand what cruise opportunities may still exist in Alaska, knowing how important this market is not only to our brand, but to the communities and individuals who depend on our business, said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line.
Holland America Line Sees A Surge In Demand For Alaska Cruising
Bookings to the Great Land hit the highest levels since pre-pandemic AAA Washington declares Seattle the top domestic summer destination for statewide residents
SEATTLE, June 30, 2022 /CNW/ — With pent up demand and the U.S. Independence Day travel rush approaching, premium cruise line Holland America Line is reporting a surge in interest for Alaska, experiencing the highest booking levels for Alaska cruising to the bucket list travel destination during the month of June since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Alaska cruising is growing as travelers look to explore again.
“People are excited to travel again while reconnecting with family and friends in a meaningful way,” said Beth Bodensteiner, senior vice president and chief commercial officer for Holland America Line. “We’re seeing the pent-up demand leading to increased booking as guests realize cruising is a hassle-free way to enjoy unique destinations such as Alaska.”
As a bucket-list locale for many travelers, Alaska offers close-to-home departures without the need for overseas air, stunning scenery and wildlife, deep history and culture, and areas like Glacier Bay that are best reached from the water.
For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL or visit hollandamerica.com.
Editors Note: Photos are available at .
CONTACT:Bill Zucker, Erik ElvejordPHONE: 800-637-5029, 206-626-9890
Recommended Reading: Are There All Inclusive Cruises
Dutch Royal Family Members Serving As Hal Ship Godparents
On October 17, 2021, HAL officially announced the name of the new Rotterdam ship‘s godmother – HRH Princess Margriet Francisca of the Netherlands . Princess Margriet is the 3rd daughter of Queen Juliana Louise Emma Marie Wilhelmina and Prince Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld and is an aunt of Holland’s current monarch Willem-Alexander Claus George Ferdinand .
HAL’s connection to The House of Orange-Nassau started in 1929 when Duke Henry of Mecklenburg-Schwerin godfathered Statendam III . Next are listed the godmothers of HAL liners through the 20th-21st centuries.
Princess Margriet Francisca named 5x liners – Prinsendam I , Nieuw Amsterdam III , Rotterdam VI , Oosterdam , Rotterdam VII .
Queen Maxima Zorreguieta Cerruti named 2x liners – Nieuw Amsterdam , Koningsdam .
Princess Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard named Statendam IV and/as Queen Beatrix named Eurodam .
Queen Juliana Louise Emma Marie Wilhelmina named Rotterdam V .
Queen Wilhelmina Helena Pauline Maria named Nieuw Amsterdam II .
Day 0vancouver British Colubmia
Vancouver is the ideal home port to begin or end an Alaskan cruise adventure. Regarded as one of the best airports in the world, the Vancouver International Airport is served daily with direct flights from airports around Canada, the US and internationally, allowing cruise passengers to easily get to Vancouver to begin their vacation.
Don’t Miss: What Do I Need For Cruise To Bahamas
Taking No Chances Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Has Canceled All Departures Worldwide Until July And Even Then Its Not A Guarantee That Theyll Start To Fill Up Ships In Mid
Whether or not well see a return to service for Alaska cruises in July remains a mystery. Aside from Canadas Order, theres much preparation for the cruise lines to do to comply with the current CDC guidelines. Its not a matter of whenbut if well see any cruise lines sailing this summer from a U.S. port.
Im the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world on waves and wheels, collecting recipes along the way. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breathstop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.
Holland America Alaska Cruises
Holland Americas Alaska cruises are the ideal choice if youre looking to explore Americas largest state on your next cruise holiday.
We have a fantastic selection of Alaska cruises available with Holland America Line. Choose from hundreds of itineraries, many of which visit several of the regions most interesting and beautiful destinations, including the Inside Passage, the Hubbard Glacier and the Tracy Arm Fjord.
Recommended Reading: Are European Cruises Worth It
Holland Americas Alaskan Cruise Fairbanks To Vancouver: The Ship + Best Tours & Excursions
The Holland America 11-Day Double Denali cruise and land tour is the perfect way to see Alaska. The itinerary includes stops in Fairbanks, Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, as well as a three-day land tour of Denali National Park.
In Fairbanks, travelers can take the Riverboat Discovery Tour or visit the very chilly ice museum. Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Alaska and is home to glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Juneau is the capital of Alaska and offers more than just stunning views visitors can go whale watching, visit the Alaska State Museum, or take a ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway. Skagway is a quaint town with a rich Gold Rush history. And finally, Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the World and is home to Creek Street, a historic boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants.
The Sale Celebrates The Return Of The Cruise Line’s Full Fleet
Holland America Line is offering a month-long sale with up to 50% off cruise fares and other perks, the cruise line told Travel + Leisure.
The company’s “Celebration Sale” comes as the cruise line plans to have its full fleet back in service this month. To take advantage, travelers must book a cruise by June 30 and sail by Sept. 30, 2023.
“Having our full fleet of 11 ships back in service after more than two years on pause is cause for celebration, and the promotion is our way of thanking guests for their loyalty and choosing to cruise with Holland America Line,” Beth Bodensteiner, the chief commercial officer of Holland America Line, said in a statement provided to T+L. “The Celebration Sale crosses all of our global destinations, and the perks make it more affordable to book a dream vacation now.”
The sale is valid on 2022 and 2023 sailings throughout the company’s network, including to the Caribbean, Mexico, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Panama Canal, Canada and New England, Hawaii, the U.S. Pacific Coast, and the South Pacific. The sale is also valid on sailings in Alaska as well as on Alaska Cruisetours, which combine an Alaska cruise with a land tour to Denali National Park and the Yukon.
Travelers can also book the promotion for cruises to South America and Antarctica, as well as to New Zealand and Australia, which dropped its ban on cruise ships in April.
The sale is not valid on Grand Voyages or on itineraries that are three days or less.
Don’t Miss: What Is The Best Cruise Line For The Panama Canal
Holland America Line Refurbishments
In 2003-2008, by the SOE program, HAL upgraded all older vessels, on which were also added new venues, stateroom categories, and amenities.
In November 2015, HAL announced a USD 300 million fleetwide drydock refurbishment program. The fleet renovation project included Suite improvements for all staterooms on Vista-Signature-R-Class boats. The first scheduled for drydocks were Oosterdam and Eurodam, followed by Westerdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam,Zuiderdam,Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zaandam.
All passenger Suites were upgraded with new sofas, chairs, headboards, carpets and wall coverings, privacy curtains, draperies, bed runners, bed skirts, quartz stone tops , vanity lighting, dressers, dressing tables, nightstands.
Other upgrades included a new USB outlet , bedside LED lights, upgraded electrical outlets, lighted closet rod, new interactive HDTV system . Suite bathrooms received a wall of designer glass tiles , new mirrors , stylish floor tiles, nightlight.
Since 2016, all Suites received the following exclusive amenities – priority services , complimentary services , exclusive access to Neptune Lounge, private breakfast service . The list of new suite cabin amenities includes a premium duvet, luxury bathrobes, and slippers, luxury bath products . BOSE SoundDock , umbrella, binoculars, complimentary mimosa cocktails , Nespresso coffee machine.
Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float
If youre looking for an adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Alaska, the Chilkoot Trail Hike & Rafting Float is definitely for you.
The Chilkoot Trail was once a vital access route used to get through the Coast Mountains into the Yukon goldfields back in the late 1890s. Today, travelers can experience and walk the same path the prospectors and packers used back in the day. You can arrange the full 33-mile hike, but the Holland America cruise excursion only covers a 2-mile portion.
The hike itself is a bit challenging but incredibly rewarding, and the float down the river is the perfect way to relax after a long day on the trail. Plus, you might get to see some fascinating wildlife along the way.
Recommended Reading: Carnival Cruise Line Official Site
Holland America Cruise Ship Delayed Until Mid
Holland America’s Westerdam will not be resuming operations when planned, and with several Alaskan sailings now canceled, guests will be rebooked on Eurodam.
In an email to booked guests, Holland America Line has announced that Westerdam will not be resuming sailings from May 8 as planned, but instead is now scheduled to restart operations in mid-June. Affected guests can choose to accept equivalent cruises on a different ship or opt for a full refund.
Holland America Line And Princess Cruises Bring Back Face Mask Requirement On Alaska Cruises
Holland America Line and Princess cruises will be requiring guests onboard their ships to wear face masks during sailings to Alaska.
Out of an abundance of caution due to the rise in positive COVID-19 cases throughout Alaska, all guests will be required to wear face masks at all times while onboard, except when eating or drinking or in their own staterooms, stated Holland America Line about the recent change.
Letters were sent to guests booked for upcoming and future sailings with the Carnival Corporation-owned cruise brands stating that Holland America Line and Princess Cruises will be implementing the measure in response to a recent increase in the amount of COVID-19 cases.
Holland America Line has also said that they are strongly recommending that face masks be worn while guests are visiting the ports of call their itinerary will be visiting within Alaska.
Princess Cruises also stated, as you may be aware, positive COVID-19 cases are currently on the rise throughout Alaska. Consequently, out of an abundance of caution, we will be requiring guests to wear face masks while onboard except when eating or drinking or in their own staterooms.
In addition to wearing face masks while onboard, guests sailing to Alaska with either Holland America Line or Princess Cruises will also be required to wear face masks while traveling on all Holland America Line or Princess Cruises-sponsored transportation, such as motor coaches.
Also Check: New York City Twilight Cruise
What To Expect On A Holland America Alaskan Cruise
Eagles, moose and bearsoh my! If youre looking for an unforgettable Alaskan cruise and land experience, look no further. Holland America Line has 149 years of experience , and offers some of the best Alaskan land and sea tours available.
From Fairbanks to Vancouver, youll enjoy breathtaking scenery as you sail through iconic destinations such as the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay, and have plenty of time to explore Alaskas stunning towns and villages onshore. Plus, with their award-winning service and extensive range of onboard activities, youre sure to have a vacation youll never forget!
Holland America Alaska Itineraries 2023
Sailing from either Seattle or Vancouver, Holland Americas 2023 Alaska cruises are between seven and 14 nights long and run between late April and early September. There are six ships for you to choose from, including the beautiful MS Nieuw Amsterdam. No matter which voyage you choose, you will be taken on an unforgettable journey past stunning mountain ranges and towering glaciers while cruising through the deepest blue waters.
Don’t Miss: Cruise Ship Ports In Florida
Guests Rebooked On Similar Sailings
For guests booked on the now canceled Westerdam sailings, their reservations are being transferred to comparable sailings on the slightly larger, Signature-class Eurodam. While the cruise itineraries are similar and both vessels are sailing from Seattle, Eurodam does depart on its 7-day voyages on Saturdays, whereas Westerdam departs on Sundays.
Read Also: IDEAL Hotels Near Seattle Cruise Port
Reservations are being transferred automatically, and guests are receiving the same or equivalent stateroom category with all incentives and promotions of their cruise fare protected. Guests who booked airfare through Holland America Lines Flight Ease air program will also have those travel arrangements rebooked accordingly.
Guests who booked airfare independently can fill out a reimbursement form for consideration for Holland America to cover change fees for those travel arrangements. All other purchases through Holland America Line, such as shore excursions, gifts, dining and spa, will be refunded in the original form of purchase.
New booking arrangements aboard Eurodam will be confirmed no later than February 14, 2022.
Eurodam is currently sailing from Fort Lauderdale on a series of Panama Canal itineraries. On April 10, 2022, the ship will depart Fort Lauderdale to reposition to Seattle with a 20-day sailing that is scheduled to visit ports of call in Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, California, and Canada along the way.
Alaska Railroad Anchorage To Whittier
The Alaska Railroad is one of the most scenic railways in the world, and the Anchorage to Whittier route is one of its most popular.
The train travels through some of Alaskas most stunning landscapes, including the Chugach Mountains and the Kenai Peninsula. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, and there are plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery along the way.
Also Check: What Cruise Ships Go To The Bahamas
Why Choose Holland America
There is no better way of exploring Alaska than with Holland America Line. They are the first choice for many guests looking at an Alaska cruise as their itineraries offer ample opportunities to explore ashore.
After disembarking your ship at one of the numerous ports of call, venture further inland and you will soon see why Alaska is a region that has captivated so many discerning travellers as you explore vibrant port-side communities, stunning dense forestry and visit towns still echoing with gold-rush splendour.
When not exploring a port of call or taking part in a land tour, you can relax and enjoy Holland Americas luxurious onboard surroundings, the perfect environment for enjoying a region such as Alaska. Throughout your stay, youll receive award-winning service, enjoy locally-influenced cuisine and hear interesting, informative talks from Alaskan park rangers and local naturalists.