Boston Cruise Guide

Holland America Line cruises from Boston

Holland America Line offers cruises from Boston to Canada & New England and Iceland . See the detailed schedule of departures below.

The Holland America Zaandam's features include America's Test Kitchen cooking shows & workshops, Explorations Central, O the Oprah Magazine, Greenhouse Spa, The Mainstage theater, casino, Explorer's Lounge, Club HAL for kids age 3 to 17, fitness center, and Ocean Bar. Read a Holland America Zaandam cruise review .

7-day Canada & New England cruise on the Volendam. Round-trip from Boston to Portland (Maine), Saint John (New Brunswick), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia) and Bar Harbor (Maine). • 2024 departure: July 20.

7-day Canada & New England cruises on the Volendam. One-way from Boston to Montreal (Canada). Visit Bar Harbor (Maine), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island) and Quebec City (Quebec). • 2024 departures: May 11, May 25, June 8, June 22, July 6, September 28.

7-day Canada & New England cruises on the Zuiderdam. One-way from Boston to Quebec City (Canada). Visit Bar Harbor (Maine), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Sydney (Nova Scotia) and Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island). • 2024 departure: August 24, September 7, September 21, October 5.

11-day Canada & New England cruise on the Volendam. One-way from Boston to Montreal (Canada). Visit Portland (Maine), St John (New Brunswick), Halifax (Nova Scotia), Corner Brook (Newfoundland), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Saguenay (Quebec) and Quebec City (Quebec). • 2024 departures: August 20, September 10.

14-day Repositioning cruise on the Zuiderdam. One-way from Boston to Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Visit Bermuda, St Thomas, St Maarten, St Lucia, Barbados, Curacao and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departure: November 9.

21-day Caribbean Escape cruise on the Zuiderdam. Round-trip from Boston to Kings Wharf (Bermuda), Half Moon Cay (Bahamas), Grand Turk (Turks & Caicos), Curacao, Aruba, Cartagena (Colombia), the Panama Canal (partial transit), Colon (Panama), Puerto Limon (Costa Rica), Key West (Florida), Bimini (Bahamas) and Port Canaveral (Florida). • 2024 departure: October 19.

25-day Iceland & Canada cruise on the Volendam. Round-trip from Boston to Sydney (Nova Scotia), Corner Brook (Newfoundland), Red Bay (Labrador), Qaqortoq (Greenland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Seydisfjordur (Iceland), Djupivogur (Iceland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Grundarfjordur (Iceland), Nanortalik (Greenland), St Anthony (Newfoundland), St Johns (Newfoundland), Halifax (Nova Scotia) and Bar Harbor (Maine). • 2024 departure: July 27.

35-day Voyage of the Vikings cruise on the Zuiderdam. Round-trip from Boston to Bar Harbor (Maine), Sydney (Nova Scotia), Corner Brook (Newfoundland), Red Bay (Labrador), Paamiut (Greenland), Nanortalik (Greenland), Isafjordur (Iceland), Akureyri (Iceland), Eidfjord (Norway), Rotterdam (Netherlands), Cork (Ireland), Dublin (Ireland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Djupivogur (Iceland), Reykjavik (Iceland), Qaqortoq (Greenland), St Anthony (Newfoundland), St Johns (Newfoundland) and Halifax (Nova Scotia). • 2024 departure: July 20.

Have fun. Explore the world. Take a Holland America Line cruise from Boston .

Holland America cruise

Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

Sometimes Sailing logo in grey letters with blue waves in the O.

All About Our Cruise from Boston to Canada with Holland America Line

' src=

Knowing that summer is the perfect time to explore New England and areas north led us to cruise from Boston to Canada with Holland America Line.

This popular Canada & New England Discovery itinerary presented fabulous places to explore nearby Boston, including Bar Harbor, Halifax, and Prince Edward Island. We ended up in Quebec City and chose to explore the area for a few days, not wanting our vacation to end.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Disclosure: This page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We thank Holland America Line for hosting our cruise. We recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally try and use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Highlights of a Cruise from Boston to Canada

The ease of boarding Zuiderdam (pronounced Zy-der-dam), our Holland America Line (HAL) ship, from Boston so we could cruise north for seven nights was a breeze.

There are so many wonderful places to explore in our own backyard in North America, and using Boston as the jumping-off point for a cruise that started on the East Coast was the catalyst for northeast exploration. Highlights included Bar Harbor, Prince Edward Island, and ending in Quebec City, where we stayed a few more nights before heading home.

Overview of the Holland America Line Cruise from Boston to Canada

  • Pre-cruise: Overnight stay in Boston, arranged by the cruise line
  • Day 1: Cruise embarkation at the Port of Boston
  • Day 2: Bar Harbor, Maine
  • Day 3: Halifax
  • Day 4: Sydney
  • Day 5: Charlottetown and Prince Edward Island

Day 6: Day at Sea, Cruising the Gulf of St. Lawrence

Day 7: quebec city.

  • Day 8: Disembark in Quebec City

Considerations for a Late Summer cruise in New England and Canada

This is a great cruise if you're looking for a vacation to enjoy a cruise ship balanced with interesting destinations where everyone speaks English. While most people in Quebec City speak French, they also speak English, and we hardly encountered anyone who wasn't bilingual.

If you go on this cruise from Boston to Canada during late August into September or October, you won't be sweating on excursions because the weather starts to cool off again. However, pack a light jacket. We experienced a lot of wind onboard during our cruise that started the last week of August and ended the first days of September. This meant that it was often unenjoyable to sit on the outside decks but an incredibly pleasant temperature exploring all the ports. Additionally, we were glad that there was an indoor hot tub and pool in addition to the outdoor pool.

Don't forget to pack a passport : this cruise travels internationally from the United States to Canada.

Cruise Itinerary Day-by-Day: Starting in Boston, Massachusetts, and Ending in Quebec City, Canada

Pre-cruise and day 1: boston, massachusetts.

We flew into Boston from the West Coast, as we were in Vancouver for a trip to Alaska before this late summer cruise in New England and Canada. Holland America Line arranged our pre-cruise stay.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

The Fairmont Copley Plaza is where HAL organized our overnight. It's a gorgeous hotel, and we were so pleasantly surprised by its beauty. We were also impressed by how well check-in went by the hotel staff and Holland America Line's team, who welcomed us. The HAL representatives at the hotel also let us know what time to be in the lobby the next day to board the buses to the Boston Cruise Terminal.

We were happy to lead ourselves on a self-guided tour of Boston for the morning. We downloaded an audio guide app that helped us navigate Boston's famous Freedom Trail. It also educated us about the Boston Tea Party as we walked through the city's historic districts. We visited the Boston Public Library across the street from the hotel before we gathered our things to board the cruise transfer bus.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Day 1: Boston Embarkation Day

The Boston Cruise Terminal is not in the city center. Rather, it's a 20-minute bus ride from the center of the city, where the pre-cruise hotel (The Fairmont Copley Plaza) was located.

Boarding the buses and loading our luggage was very organized and efficient. Within the half-hour, we were at the Boston Cruise Terminal. It didn't take long to check in and proceed through security. Then we walked the gangway onto Zuiderdam, our HAL home for the next seven nights.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Day 2: Bar Harbor

We were incredibly excited to return to Bar Harbor after previously visiting during our 7-day Maine road trip and Maine Windjammer cruise along the state's coastline. Bar Harbor is such a fantastic city; it comes alive during summer when tourism is at its peak.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

We were sure to tender to the shore from our Holland America Line Zuiderdam ship before we met our group. This was because we knew we wanted to walk around town for a bit before the excursion.

It's important to know that not many retail shops open before 11:00 am in Bar Harbor. The ice cream shops open later in the day along with most restaurants. Despite not being able to walk into most stores it was a beautiful morning. It was still nice to walk around before our official Holland America Line tour began.

Lobster Lunch Followed by Acadia National Park

A local guide was our narrator as the buses drove to a casual waterfront restaurant for a Bar Harbor Lobster Bake. If you go to Maine and don't have lobster , were you really there?

After lunch, our bus took us through Acadia National Park to Cadillac Summit. The local guide knew the park inside and out, so it was fun to hear his personal stories of exploration.

Next time around, we will tour Bar Harbor on our own. The lunch was delicious but it took so much time that we barely had time in Acadia National Park. This reminded us why booking your own excursion or tour in the right cruise ports is sometimes best.

Bar Harbor is very easy to navigate in a short amount of time. Though a car is required to tour Acadia National Park, it's doable with some arranging.

Day 3: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

holland america cruise quebec to boston

We decided to spend the morning on the ship in favor of not rushing around the city before our 1:15 pm excursion.

Halifax's cruise port looked largely industrial when we looked out from our balcony. We couldn't tell with 100% certainty how far the walk into the city would be from the cruise ship (even with the help of Google Maps) or if a car service could pick us up at the port. So instead we opted to hang out on the ship and enjoy our stateroom balcony before our excursion.

After breakfast and lunch on Zuiderdam, we were on the bus to go to Peggy's Cove. Afterward, we headed to Fairview Lawn Cemetery to learn more about the Titanic.

Peggy's Cove & Titanic Combination Excursion

We arrived at Peggy's Cove after an hour tour on a double-decker coach bus with a local guide. We admit that this wasn't our favorite stop, but we also knew that we took the tour largely for the second stop, which was at a cemetery in Halifax where victims of the Titanic were buried.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Except for the tourists visiting Peggy's Cove during the summer, it's a tiny, simple fishing village. You can walk along the rocky coast for the pretty views and visit a small lighthouse. You can also roam around and visit a few small shops in the area.

At Fairview Lawn Cemetery, our knowledgeable guide shared sobering stories of the recovery efforts after the tragedy. As we visited specific gravestones, she told us corresponding stories of who the epitaph was in memory of.

Though it's a bit ironic, perhaps, to be on a cruise and go on an excursion that discusses the most infamous cruise ship of all time, it was important to us that we go. We wanted to learn more about what happened to honor the victims and educate ourselves about Halifax's connection to the tragedy.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

It was interesting to learn that Halifax was the closest seaport and most well-equipped area in proximity to where the ship sank. This was important for the recovery of Titanic victims because the city's railway allowed the bodies of the deceased to be shipped to their families for a final return home. White Star Line paid for the majority of the gravestones in Fairview Lawn Cemetery for the bodies that remained there.

Additionally, it's important to acknowledge that with this tragedy came learning and industry improvements so lives were not lost in vain. Because of the Titanic sinking, there are strict regulations for passenger lifeboats on cruise ships.

Day 4: Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada

This port was a nice place to get off the ship for one or two hours. We walked ashore to explore the small city for a little while. Locals officially welcomed us to the port in such a lovely way, including with live music performances.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

We didn't do much here but stretch our legs and get some exercise. And of course, we got a photo with the oversized violin, a landmark at the port.

One activity we enjoyed was browsing the racks at a cool secondhand clothing store that was filled to the brim with interesting clothing and jewelry. After photographing some interesting architecture, we returned to the ship.

We were sure to get a photo with the “SYDNEY” sculpture before getting back onboard Zuiderdam.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Day 5: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Our favorite port of the trip was Charlottetown, the entry port to Prince Edward Island.

Despite the cold rain, we had the warmest welcome. We walked into the terminal building when we got off the ship to find it alive with vendors of all kinds, including people shucking oysters for guests to try and handing out mini lobster rolls.

Three women from the Mi’qmak First Nation performed several traditional songs and dances to welcome us.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

It was a preview of the things we would soon learn about the island, including what makes it beautiful and unique in various ways, from food to culture. We bounced around Prince Edward Island to visit the home of Lucy Maud Montgomery, who wrote Anne of Green Gables then had a wonderful seafood lunch.

Sculpture of Lucy Maud Montgomery in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

We were lucky enough to view the gorgeous coastline at Prince Edward Island National Park that day as well. To end our time on land that day, we walked around the downtown area. This included walking back to the port, where there were plenty of restaurants and a couple of shops, including an ice cream shop.

A day at sea is one we always look forward to. Our day on the water aboard Zuiderdam was a great time to get to know the ship better and enjoy our stateroom. We opted to walk up later than usual as a treat and enjoy a casual day.

Our favorite part of that day's special programming was the A City on the Sea presentation. The presentation was in the ship's World Stage theater and provided a behind-the-scenes look at the ship's operations and history.

If you've never been to Quebec City, you're in for a real treat with this cruise from Boston to Canada. Ending or beginning your itinerary in this French Canadian destination is truly lovely during summertime.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

The highlight of visiting Quebec City is its old city center, where you can walk around the romantic cobblestone streets. It's abuzz with tourists during summer when it's filled with colorful flowers and sunshine during longer days.

There is so much to do beyond what meets the eye in Quebec City. You can sign up for ghost tours or historical walking tours through HAL or on your own. There are also vineyards and waterfalls not too far away from the city center, where the ship docks.

The ship overnighted in port on the last evening of our cruise from Boston to Canada. This provided even more opportunity to explore Quebec City during the last leg of our New England and Canada cruise.

Though we could have easily dined on land for lunch or dinner on the last full day of our cruise vacation, we opted to dine onboard to enjoy our last hours with Zuiderdam and our new cruise friends.

Day 8: Disembarkation in Quebec City

We said goodbye to Zuiderdam in the morning. But luckily, we didn't need to go far for our next adventure. We transferred from our ship to the historic and centrally located Auberge St. Antoine hotel , where we did a post-cruise stay to explore Quebec City further.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Our Top Tip for a New England Cruise from Boston to Canada

Since the season for this cruise is short — sailing only during summer months and sometimes into very early fall — our number one recommendation is to book early. This is especially true if you have your heart set on a specific date or itinerary.

Holland America Line Cruise Itineraries from New England to Canada

If this 7-day cruise from Boston to Quebec City doesn't fit the bill for you for one reason or another, HAL has several incredible itineraries in the area. Here are a few more options :

  • Canada & New England Discovery 7-day cruise on Volendam from Montreal to Boston. Stops in Quebec City, Prince Edward Island, Halifax, Sydney, and Bar Harbor.
  • Historic Coasts cruise starting and ending in Boston. This 7-day closed-loop cruise on Volendam visits Portland, St. John (Bay of Fundy), Halifax, Sydney, and Bar Harbor.
  • Newfoundland & New England Discovery for 11-days on Volendam. This cruise begins in Boston and ends in Montreal. In between, ports include Portland, St. John (Bay of Fundy), Halifax, Corner Brook, Prince Edward Island, Saguenay, and Quebec City.
  • Newfoundland & New England Discovery 10-days on Volendam. Starting and ending in Boston then Montreal, with ports of call in Rockland , Halifax, St. John's, St. Anthony, Corner Brook, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Baie-Comeau, and Quebec City.

Our recommendation is to check HAL's “Have it All” package pricing no matter the itinerary you select. This pricing is inclusive of WiFi, a drinks package, shore excursions, and specialty dining.

Zuiderdam Ship, Overall Review

Two ships that currently sail to this area of North America in the HAL fleet are Volendam and Zuiderdam. Zuiderdam — the ship we cruised on — is part of Holland America Line's Vista Class of ships.

The vessel was lovely, though she was showing her age a little bit. The main lobby area had a nice design, though not a focus of the ship or too grandiose. The wrap-around staircase encircled a couple of decks, from a little lounge area where there was nightly jazz music to the guest services area below.

The restaurants were comfortable and served good food, as is to be expected on most cruises. The music venues were some of our favorite places to be, especially the dueling pianos area, a favorite Holland American Line musical feature. Though we're not gamblers, it was next to the casino, and it was fun sometimes to look over to see people at slot machines or card tables enjoying this aspect of the cruise line.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

The shops were best for Holland America Line cruise gear. Nothing particularly caught our eyes like the watch stores on other cruise lines. But they had shopping events like a clearance sale one day that was very popular, sales on metal chains by the foot as we've seen on other cruise lines, and an assortment of non-cruise line apparel and gifts.

Neptune Suites are part of the cruise line's ship-within-a-ship class. This ship seemed to have been somewhat retrofitted to accommodate the suite class. The Neptune Suites lounge was very nice, but the top deck cabanas and such that are part of Neptune Suites weren't anything like The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises . This is likely because the ship was built in 2002, though its last refurbishment was in 2017. Pinnacle suites do not exist on HAL's Vista Class ships, the ship class of Zuiderdam.

We really enjoyed that there was an indoor and outdoor pool. It's great to have both options during a cruise that heads north in summer when the temperatures can be a bit breezy outside.

We look forward to sailing with Holland America Line in the future and discovering more ships in the fleet!

Read this next:

  • United States Cruise Ports Map and Information
  • Top Amazon Cruise Essentials for Your Packing List
  • How to Text on a Cruise Ship for Free

Pin This Pinterest call to action button

Similar Posts

Unprecedented Historic 35-Day Civil War River Cruise

Unprecedented Historic 35-Day Civil War River Cruise

Why are River Cruises So Expensive? (Or are They the Best Cruise Value Out There?)

Why are River Cruises So Expensive? (Or are They the Best Cruise Value Out There?)

Mekong River Cruise Essential Information 

Mekong River Cruise Essential Information 

Rhone River Cruise Review: AmaWaterways Colors of Provence

Rhone River Cruise Review: AmaWaterways Colors of Provence

Complete Guide to Closed-Loop Cruises (and Open Jaw Itineraries)

Complete Guide to Closed-Loop Cruises (and Open Jaw Itineraries)

Complete Guide to Alaskan Cruises in 2024, Including Ports of Call + What to Pack

Complete Guide to Alaskan Cruises in 2024, Including Ports of Call + What to Pack

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Why I Loved My Cruise Through New England And Canada

A fter my first cruise in 2002, I was hooked. I began cruising whenever I could afford it and could take time away from work. I studied cruises — the costs, ports of call, different cruise lines, amenities, and so forth. I longed to do the New England and Canada cruise, but the price was steeper than the cruises I typically took. Finally, in 2019, I took this dream cruise with Holland America. 

I flew into Montreal , where I embarked on a 7-day cruise to Boston . Here is what I loved about my voyage through the beautiful regions of Canada and New England.

I was hosted by Holland America on a familiarization trip for this cruise itinerary. Opinions and reviews are entirely mine and unbiased.

Checking Off A Canada And New England Cruise

If you desire to see some of the greatest cities in New England and the gorgeous places around Nova Scotia and its neighboring provinces, this is the cruise for you. It is chock full of history, beautiful scenery, unique attractions, and delicious food. I like to call this one a “smart people’s cruise” because you will come out ready to answer Jeopardy questions after going to wondrous, historic ports of call that the Canada and New England itinerary offers.

While my Holland America Canada and New England cruise was 7 days, I would suggest 10+ days to add more ports like Newfoundland and Saguenay , Quebec. The region is so rich with culture and fun that you won’t be ready to leave in only 7 days. I sure wasn’t.

Montreal’s Cultural Windfall

My cruise started in Montreal. I arrived a day early to ensure no flight interruptions, so I had a day and a half before boarding my cruise, giving me time to see the metropolitan city. My friend Angie and I ate Swiss and mushroom crepes from Chez Suzette (the best I’ve ever had), shopped in boutiques and from vendor stalls around town, and visited the prestigious Notre Dame Basilica. We strolled along the Saint Lawrence River, toured the gardens, and watched a historical reenactment at Chateau Ramezay , a National Historic Site of Canada. 

Simply walking through Old Montreal and checking out the 17th, 18th, and 19th-century architecture was enough to keep us busy for hours. There are dozens of galleries and museums to see, too. 

Pop into the three-story Bier Markt for dinner, perfect for tasty nibbles like classic poutine, charcuterie boards, and beer cheese dip with pretzels. Oh, and they have really great beer. 

Pro Tip: For a sweet treat in the most adorable shop ever, pop into Le Petit Dep .

Enchanting Quebec City

In Quebec City , prepare to be wowed, but even more so in Old Quebec City. Expect picture-perfect architecture, brilliant murals, beds of blooming flowers that look too pretty to be real, appealing shops, and drool-worthy cafes. Take the Old Quebec Funicular from the Dufferin Terrace (your place for buying souvenirs), which is a traditional offering, then go for indulgent afternoon tea at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , more commonly known as Château Frontenac.

I never miss visiting a Fairmont Hotel in Canada as the afternoon tea is sinfully enjoyable, namely the gourmet tower of sandwiches, scones, and pastries. This one was no less impressive. The price was a little higher than the others I’ve been to, but the tea itself was on a much larger scale, too. I encourage the splurge on this activity.

Again, take time to soak up the architecture around Quebec City. The Old Fortified City was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for reasons apparent in nearly everything you lay your eyes on.

Anne Of Green Gables

Prince Edward Island was one of our favorite stops. Angie is nuts about Anne of Green Gables , so a museum tour was on our agenda. We went to Silver Bush , the lovely Campbell Homestead and Anne of Green Gables Museum, which is filled with family treasures. The property includes a barn and lake, all in the pristine, picturesque countryside. Lucy Maud Montgomery’s niece was a tour guide at the house and will sign books if you wish. Lunch was included with our excursion. 

We then made a stop at Confederation Bridge, which links Prince Edward Island to the mainland of New Brunswick and takes 10 minutes to drive. The 820-foot bridge fee will set you back $50.25 for a commercial vehicle to cross. I loved the Port Borden Front Range Lighthouse, sitting in a stately fashion on the banks by the bridge.

Unique Nova Scotia 

Nova Scotia is intriguing. We appreciated our stops at the ports of Sydney, where we did a walking tour of historic churches and Jost House, then breezed through Old Town and Halifax. In Sydney, my favorite thing was the incredible and big gourmet cinnamon rolls and decadent coffee from Selkie’s Neighborhood Diner and Doktor Luke’s , both at the same address. Sydney has colorful murals, too. 

We did a half-day excursion in Halifax to visit the iconic Peggy’s Cove fishing village and Instagram-worthy lighthouse. It is a bit of a drive to get there, but I had to see the site of the most iconic photo of Nova Scotia. It was worth it, fog and all. Our tour included a panoramic drive through Halifax to see its old buildings and National Historic Sites. A second big stop on the excursion was Fairview Lawn Cemetery , hallowed ground and the final resting place for 100+ passengers from the sunken Titanic .

Angie and I made time in the morning to go to Halifax Public Gardens before our excursion. This free attraction is for you if you are into flowers, trees, and natural landscapes. We loved it! 

Note: The Titanic cemetery requires a lot of walking and has some steep hills. If you combine this with Peggy’s Cove as an excursion, you can sit on the bus if you don’t think you can walk to the historic site.

Impressive Maine

In Maine, Angie and I rented a car in Bar Harbor and hit the roads on our own. We wanted to see Acadia National Park , one of the top 10 most visited national parks in the U.S., and also the extravagant and affluent neighborhoods of Northeast Harbor, Seal Harbor, and Ellsworth. Of course, eating a local lobster roll was most definitely in the cards. You’ll have no hard time finding a fresh seafood restaurant every few miles in this area. We chose Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound and had amazing lobster rolls, coleslaw, and tea. 

Pro Tip: Bar Harbor is the most adorable, walkable town on the whole cruise itinerary. You could easily skip taking an excursion and hang out here all day. Don’t miss blueberry ice cream from CJ’s Big Dipper. 

Holland America’s Zaandam : Our Floating Paradise

Holland America’s Zaandam was an excellent ship to spend the week on, especially as it only had 1,432 passengers. It had two relaxing hot tubs for unwinding after busy touring days and a library for playing games and working puzzles in the afternoon. There were several different options for seeing and hearing live music onboard, which we both enjoyed.

Afternoon tea is always our favorite thing to do, so we didn’t miss a single day unless we were on an excursion. A close runner-up was the nightly entertainment, with incredibly talented singers and dancers. However, I think the crowd would agree that the outstanding BBC Earth Experience big-screen film, with a live orchestra on the World Stage, was unbelievable.

The Zaandam’s Amazing Food

Holland America’s Zaandam had good food in the main dining room, but the Canaletto and Pinnacle Grill specialty restaurants were really top-notch. We also had the pleasure of dining at Rudi Sodamin’s Sel de Mer , an extraordinary evening full of perfectly prepared dishes. A unique dish to try is the fruits de mer, a massive sampling of lobster, crab, langoustines, jumbo shrimp, mussels, oysters, and clams.

After looking through my pictures from this impressive Canada and New England cruise, I realized that one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen on a cruise ship was the poutine bar, typical for this region. Cheese curds were the base (classic and fried) with a wide array of toppings — shredded cheeses, sautéed mushrooms, sautéed onions, chives, and several gravies.

For lunch, Tandoori chicken and tuna poke tostadas were a few of my favorite offerings. Holland America also does a fantastic job of providing vegetables and healthy choices. I appreciated the creamed spinach, sautéed zucchini, and cheddar cheese grits side dishes, though they aren’t necessarily healthy.

Appetizers always win me over — they are my favorite part of the evening’s dining experience. Bay Shrimp potato tots and seafood deviled eggs were incredible choices. For the main course, try the beef short rib stroganoff, citrus grilled rainbow trout, and any beef dishes.

Spa Experiences

I’m a spa girl on my cruises and haven’t had a bad one yet. First, I love the Elemis product line that they use, and second, I enjoy meeting the friendly spa aestheticians who are as well-trained and sweet as can be. Visit the Greenhouse Spa and Salon for a sublime and blissfully relaxing massage, body treatment, or facial.

Related Reading:

  • 6 Tips For Choosing The Best Yacht Charter Experience
  • 6 Best Antarctica Expedition Cruises To Add To Your Bucket List
  • My 8 Favorite Meals I’ve Had Cruising Holland America’s Pinnacle Ships

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

R.M. Nunes / Shutterstock.com

5 best fall foliage cruises in New England, Canada and beyond

Erica Silverstein

If you feel left out whenever your social media feeds blow up with beautiful pictures of fall foliage, you probably should plan your own leaf-peeping trip. Sure, you could arrange an epic road trip, complete with traffic jams and overpriced, overcrowded tourist traps. Or, you could take a fall foliage cruise.

From a cruise ship, you can enjoy the autumnal hues of the Canadian and New England coastline as you sail between northeastern U.S. home ports like New York and Boston and Canada's Montreal or Quebec City. Book shore excursions for a more relaxing day out; the bus driver will navigate the traffic along tree-lined byways to scenic vistas, and your mealtimes will be prearranged (or held on board your ship's multiple dining venues).

If you'd rather explore fall's colors outside of the Northeast, a few cruise lines will take you to fall foliage destinations in other parts of the U.S., too.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You'll want to book your Canada and New England cruise at least six months (if not a year or more) in advance for the best pricing and availability. Here, we present the five best fall foliage cruises you should consider in New England, Canada and beyond.

7-day Canada and New England Discovery cruise on Holland America

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Holland America 's 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam is a delightfully midsize ship, so you don't have to worry about crowds as you sail between Boston and Quebec City. The ship starts sailing this route in late August, but for the best leaf peeping, you'll want to book one of the two October departures.

Ports of call include Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Portland or Bar Harbor, Maine. Take your pick of scenic drives or strolls through gardens or along hiking paths, camera at the ready. On board, spend your evenings rocking out to live music or enjoying a leisurely meal of steak or seafood at the Pinnacle Grill.

Best for : Holland America attracts mainly retirees and couples who appreciate the line's focus on fine dining and live performances. Zuiderdam's itinerary is ideal for anyone who doesn't mind flying in and out of different cities in order to travel farther north into Canada than the one-way sailings.

Related: 11 best cruises to Canada and New England

7-day Canada and New England cruise on Princess Cruises

holland america cruise quebec to boston

For an easy round-trip New York cruise that leans more into New England than Canada, consider Princess Cruises ' weeklong October sailings on the 3,660-passenger Enchanted Princess. Choose from itineraries with four or five ports, including Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Bar Harbor; Halifax; and (only on certain sailings) Saint John, New Brunswick.

If seascapes are your thing, don't miss the beautiful coastal landscape by the Bay of Fundy (from Saint John) or Peggy's Cove in Nova Scotia. Head to the hills in Bar Harbor for elevated views, or escape to sea with a harbor cruise from Newport.

Best for : Princess Cruises also attracts mature couples and lovers of classic cruising, but the 2019-debuted Enchanted Princess is much larger and bigger than Holland America's Zuiderdam. Kick back with the line's signature Movies Under the Stars (complete with blankets for fall nights in New England), or enjoy multiple specialty restaurants devoted to Italian specialties, steakhouse fare and seafood. Bundle up for a romantic breakfast on your balcony while the colorful coastline passes by.

Related: The best time for a Canada and New England cruise

7-night Canada cruise on Royal Caribbean

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Combine an easy Boston round-trip sailing with a fall foliage cruise focused more on Canadian than New England ports with Royal Caribbean 's seven-night voyages on the 2,191-passenger Jewel of the Seas, setting sail in September and October 2024, and 2,142-passenger Brilliance of the Seas, departing in September and October 2025. Most itineraries call in Portland, Maine; Saint John; Sydney; and Halifax.

The ships are among Royal Caribbean's older and smaller ships, so don't go in expecting a humongous megaship with wild top-deck amenities (a good thing or not, depending on your style). You'll still find plenty of dining options (including Izumi for Japanese cuisine and Giovanni's Table for Italian), the line's signature circular Viking Crown Lounge and — perfect for fall weather — an indoor, adults-only solarium.

Best for : Royal Caribbean fans seeking a midsize ship experience with fewer children on board should book this cruise. Anyone looking for a round-trip cruise to Canada that doesn't require a passport will appreciate the convenient Boston departure port (with plenty of beautiful fall foliage on its own) and three port calls in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

Related: Canada and New England cruise packing list: What to pack for every season

7-night Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise on American Cruise Lines

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Canada and New England aren't the only regions of the U.S. known for their fall foliage. American Cruise Lines offers several small-ship sailings in October to other leaf-peeping regions, including the Hudson River Valley, the Upper Mississippi and the Chesapeake Bay.

But for something completely different, why not try the line's seven-night, round-trip Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise from Seattle on the 90-passenger American Spirit or the 170-passenger American Constellation?

Your itinerary will take you to Anacortes, Friday Harbor, Port Angeles (gateway to Victoria, British Columbia, and Olympic National Park), Port Townsend and Poulsbo, Washington, with a day spent cruising around the San Juan Islands. Take advantage of the Fidalgo Island walking trails near Anacortes, and don't miss the photogenic Deception Pass nearby. Gaze at the Olympic and Cascade mountains in their fall glory, and enjoy the fall weather in historic waterfront towns.

Best for : Travelers looking for a different destination for their fall foliage cruise, but also cruisers who prioritize time on shore over time on the ship. American Cruise Lines' ships are tiny, just four to six decks, with amenities limited to a restaurant, a couple of lounges, small fitness areas and a sun deck, perhaps with a putting green. Be prepared to entertain yourself in the evenings — or go to bed early so you're energized for a full day in port nearly every day. Also, know that these ships generally draw an older retiree crowd.

12-day Canada and New England Fall Foliage cruise on Seabourn

holland america cruise quebec to boston

Smaller ships can visit more off-the-beaten-path ports than their big-ship counterparts. Seabourn 's 458-passenger Seabourn Quest (2024) and Seabourn Sojourn (2025) sail 12-day cruises between New York and Montreal. Itineraries vary slightly by sail date, but visit several destinations in Quebec, including Trois-Rivieres, Quebec City, Baie-Comeau and Saguenay, with scenic cruising along the Saguenay Fjord. The ship also visits Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Halifax, Nova Scotia; it stops at a couple of American ports, too, such as Newport, Rhode Island, and Boston, Martha's Vineyard or Provincetown, Massachusetts.

This is also one of the best fall foliage cruises if you're looking for an all-inclusive voyage in luxurious surroundings. On Seabourn Quest, every cabin is a suite with a view (not to mention a walk-in closet and spacious bathroom with tub). You can enjoy gourmet cuisine, complimentary wine and cocktails and a friendly crew that will go above and beyond for you.

Best for : Luxury lovers who wish to be pampered on their leaf-peeping vacation will enjoy this nearly two-week cruise around Canada and New England. The extended itinerary features several days at sea to enjoy the ship's spa or delicious afternoon tea service, as well as some lesser-visited ports and, on select departures, an overnight in Halifax. It's ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their fall Northeast trip.

Bottom line

You might be surprised by how many choices you have for late-September and October fall foliage cruises. In addition to Seabourn, all the major luxury cruise lines dedicate a few cruises to this region, including such lines as Silversea Cruises , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Windstar Cruises , Oceania Cruises and Crystal . Big ships like NCL's Norwegian Breakaway and Getaway also get into the leaf-peeping action.

Here, we've picked the best fall foliage cruises for different itinerary configurations and ship styles. They might be our favorites, but only you know which combination of ports and onboard experience is the perfect match for your travel style.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • Top ways cruisers waste money
  • The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

This New ‘Standby’ Cruise Fare Costs Just $49 Per Day—but Is It Worth It?

By Jessica Puckett

Image may contain Clothing Hat Shorts Water Waterfront Adult Person Footwear Shoe and High Heel

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Would you be willing to wait at a port city with your bags packed, hoping to board a cruise at the last minute, all in order to secure one of the cheapest cruise deals out there? Holland America—with its industry-first standby fare offerings—is betting yes.

The line’s new Standby List Program allows travelers to put their names on a list of prospective passengers to be confirmed for a voyage if there are unsold rooms on the ship. Standby cruisers only pay $49 a day, but they receive as little as two days’ notice to get ready for the trip.

For flexible travelers, the scheme offers the possibility of huge savings. Here’s everything cruisers should know about sailing on standby.

How do the fares work?

To get on the standby list, travelers can select an itinerary on Holland America's list of standby-eligible voyages and call 877-724-5425 to join. (You can also have your travel advisor add you to the standby list on your behalf.)

Once you're on the list, you'll be charged $49 per person per day (not including taxes, fees and port expenses, which can cost several hundred dollars more). If you’re not selected for the cruise, you’ll receive a full refund.

When the week of the sailing arrives, the cruise line will start notifying standby passengers whether they made the cut. Guests are confirmed for their sailings in the order they were added to the standby list, so signing up early counts. Would-be passengers should expect to hear their status between seven to two days before the voyage’s departure.

Travelers who aren’t confirmed within two days of the sailing’s departure receive an immediate refund. Truly spontaneous travelers can choose to cut things even closer with a more nail-biting option: They can opt to remain on the standby list all the way up until 90 minutes before departure to see if there’s a no-show. If that doesn't work out, they’ll still get a full refund.

The deal could offer major savings to group travelers who have a bit of flexibility this summer, as the third and fourth guests in a stateroom can travel nearly for free—they would just be on the hook for taxes and fees. But young families are not eligible for cruising standby, as the fares are only available for travelers ages 21 and older. Since it would be a major gamble to travel long distances for an unconfirmed trip, the standby option makes the most sense for people who live in or near eligible ports like Vancouver , Seattle , San Diego , Fort Lauderdale , Boston , Montreal , or Quebec .

How can travelers take advantage?

In 2024, the bulk of standby fares that Holland America is offering are for Alaskan voyages departing Seattle, Whittier, and Vancouver, as well as New England and Eastern Canada voyages departing from Boston, Montreal, and Quebec City.

There are also a handful of transatlantic sailings departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, including an extended six-week sailing in November that meanders through dozens of Mediterranean ports in Italy, Portugal, Spain, Morocco, and Egypt, to name a few. Most of the dates for the standby itineraries stretch from May through September, with a few options in October and November as well.

It all sounds appealing, but there are a few factors travelers should keep in mind. “With this program, you've got to be extremely flexible in all aspects of your trip,” says Tanner Callais, founder of cruise travel advice site Cruzely . “Some of these cruises sail for extended periods of time, including up to 42 days,” which is the duration of that lengthy Mediterranean sailing. “You also don't know what sort of cabin you'll receive,” he says. “If you're someone that has to have a balcony room, then this might not be for you.

The type of cabin could, in fact, be a deal breaker for certain travelers. Holland America says it charges standby guests for an interior stateroom, a space as small as 143 square feet with no windows. But travelers could be assigned any category of room ranging up to a verandah stateroom, which ranges from 228 to 405 square feet with enough outdoor space to fit two deck chairs. However, it’s all based on availability.

“Travelers who want to benefit from a standby fare should keep in mind that once confirmed, Holland America Line assigns their room,” says Rob Clabbers, founder and president of the agency Q Cruise + Travel . “While that might result in savings, it means travelers may end up in the last remaining and likely less preferred location—above a theater or night club [or] all the way forward or aft. While this may work for some, it is definitely not recommended for those who fear seasickness, have mobility issues, would like to be close to travel companions, [or] want to be near or away from elevators,” he says.

Holland America Line also notes that these deals are intended for travelers who live within driving distance of the departure ports. “Booking a last-minute airline ticket could end up being more than the cost of the cruise,” Callais says. “That said, the fares are so low that if you have the flexibility, then it might be one of the best deals you'll ever find. This is especially the case if you're a solo traveler, as the double occupancy fare doesn't apply.”

Travelers will want to run the numbers on each voyage to ensure they’re receiving the best possible deal for enduring the hassle of last-minute arrangements. Some of the sailings do offer incredible value. “However, on other sailings, the savings are not nearly as great,” Clabbers says. “If you or your travel advisor do some research, you may very well find some sailings at fares that are similar or even lower than the $49 per day standby fare—and without the restrictions.”

For instance, it’s possible to book a seven-day Alaska sailing that departs June 9 on Holland America’s website, with prices for an inside room starting at $349 per person, plus $310 in taxes, fees, and port expenses. “You even get a $50 credit to spend on board per room, but the biggest advantage is that you can confirm this several weeks before sailing, so you can fine-tune your travel plans rather than have to wait until the very last minute,” says Clabbers.

Finding Unexpected Joy on an Organized Day Tour Across Scotland

Vicki Denig

In Washington State's San Juan Islands, Time Stands Still and Nature Reigns Supreme

Jesse Ashlock

On Location: Japan's Serene Nagano Prefecture Stars in ‘Evil Does Not Exist’

Charlie Hobbs

The Best Places to Stay Near Yosemite, From Cozy Cabins to an Airstream

Emily Pennington

One of the better deals would be the 42-day Mediterranean Cruise leaving from Fort Lauderdale in November. Booking that sailing outright, “you would pay $5,479 plus $435 in taxes, fees, and port expenses per person based on double occupancy for an Inside room,” Clabbers says. But, if you sail the itinerary on standby and get confirmed, “you would pay a total $2,058 per person plus taxes. Obviously that would be a good deal.”

Will other cruise lines start offering standby prices?

You might be wondering why a cruise line would offer fares as low as $49 a day. At the end of the day, more guests on board means ships generate more money. “Obviously, a cruise line wants to sail with every cabin filled to maximize revenue and efficiency of scale,” says Callais. “If a room sails empty, the cruise line is still using the same amount of fuel and paying the crew and captain the same wage.”

The majority of new ships break even at 50% occupancy, while older ships need 80% occupancy to hit that benchmark, according to Tom Baker , president of Cruise Center .

Carnival Corporation, which is Holland America’s parent company, saw an average revenue of $236 per passenger each cruise day in 2023, while its direct expenses per passenger was about $156 each day, according to Callais’ analysis of the company’s earnings report . But whereas most of a line’s expenses are fixed, there’s always more room to increase revenue with more passengers, who are bound to spend more on the ship. “In other words, even if this standby rate is less than the cruise line would make at a normal rate, it's still better to earn a little money from it than zero,” Callais says.

Although Holland America is the only major cruise line currently offering the standby fare, it could catch on at other companies if it brings in enough money. “Like most industries, cruise lines are constantly looking at competitors and seeing what they are offering or doing that might benefit their business,” Callais says. “If it works, it will get picked up by others.”

Regardless, it’s likely that standby offerings will stay limited to certain lines, as well as specific ports and times of year. “If the program trains too many passengers to just wait and cruise standby, then that could actually end up hurting the bottom line,” Callais says.

But for many travelers, planning and looking forward to a trip is half the fun: "Part of the joy of travel is the anticipation of the experience," says Clabbers.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Standby cruising: A new option for bargain seekers

In February, Barb McGowan took a seven-day cruise on Holland America Line, visiting the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic for just $343, or $49 a day, excluding taxes, port fees and extras. By comparison, Holland America in April listed a seven-day Caribbean itinerary in October from about $700.

The catch: She had just 48 hours’ notice.

McGown, a 64-year-old from Naples, Florida, who runs a restaurant franchise, took one of the line’s new standby cruises, which are aimed at travelers who live near departure ports and intended to fill ship vacancies.

“I look for deals, and this was an especially good experience,” McGowan said, praising the food and entertainment. “I was impressed enough to put down a deposit on a future cruise.”

A way to keep ships full

Holland America, headquartered in Seattle, introduced its standby program in August to maximize ship occupancy, knowing that cancellations are inevitable. So far, the rest of the cruise industry has not followed its lead.

“If cancellations are within a week or two of sailing, it’s difficult to resell that space in the open market,” said Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management at Holland America.

In the same way that airlines oversell seats, cruise lines may compensate for cancellations by overselling staterooms. Filling in with standbys, however, reduces Holland America’s reliance on overselling, which runs the risk of bumping passengers to distant departures or potentially offering generous cash incentives to coax volunteers to cancel.

Although the company does not heavily promote the new practice, it has attracted a following among the thrifty by dangling a bargain rate — $49 a person, whether sharing a cabin or traveling solo, before taxes and fees — on a webpage that lists available departure dates to attract flexible travelers. Standbys should expect an inside cabin, according to the company, although ocean-view and veranda cabins have been assigned. (The company declined to say how many standby cabins it has offered.)

“Forty-nine dollars per person, per day is pretty exceptional,” said Colleen McDaniel, editor of CruiseCritic.com, a website that reviews cruises, noting that the price covers all meals and entertainment. “You can’t find a cheaper rate at a land resort for what’s included.” (In 2023, the average nightly rate for a hotel room in the United States was nearly $156, according to STR, a data analytics firm that monitors the hospitality industry.)

To participate, travelers choose an itinerary from the standby list on the website — current embarkation ports include Boston; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Montreal; Quebec City; San Diego; Seattle; Vancouver, B.C.; and Whittier, Alaska — and pay for the trip in advance by calling Holland America or booking through a travel adviser.

There are no refunds for standby cruisers who want to back out. However, if the gamble fails to pay off, and the cruise line cannot offer a cabin to someone on the standby list, it issues a refund.

The company says standby offerings are added on a rolling basis and usually lists itineraries within two to three months of departure. Current offerings include seven-day sailings in Alaska’s Inside Passage from April through September and seven-to-11-day trips cruising the coast of New England and Canada’s Maritime Provinces between May and October.

Proximity is a bonus

Standby cruisers don’t learn of their acceptance or denial until a week to two days before departure, complicating transportation arrangements.

“Last-minute airfare could offset the savings on a cruise,” Crystal Seaton, owner of Road to Relaxation Travel, a travel agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina, wrote in an email. Although she has not booked a client on a standby sailing yet, she surmised that it is intended for travelers who can drive to a port.

“We were lucky; we found out Tuesday we were going on a Friday 3 p.m. sailing,” said Sheila Valloney, 66, of Clermont, Florida, who with her husband spent nine days aboard a Holland America ship in the southern Caribbean in February by going standby.

Before being cleared, she reserved a parking spot near the ship dock in Fort Lauderdale, which would have set her back about $6 if she canceled. She also kept their vacation clothes ready to go at the last minute for the 3 1/2-hour drive to port.

Booking a refundable airline ticket — or at least one that guarantees a credit in loyalty points or cash in the event of cancellation — is one way travelers who must fly can take advantage of the deal.

For her standby sailing, McGowan drove 90 minutes from her home to the ship in Fort Lauderdale. But her travel companion was coming from Indiana, so when she joined the standby list a few months before the departure date, she booked her friend a Southwest Airlines flight using frequent flyer points that would be refunded if the last-minute cruise didn’t come through.

Avoiding extra charges

Once on board, charges for extras such as cabin upgrades, Wi-Fi, alcohol and shore excursions can inflate the bill, although the thriftiest travelers try to avoid them.

McGowan sprang for the $17.50-a-day charge for an upgraded drink package (basic nonalcoholic drinks are included in the cruise) and took one shore excursion, focused on coffee growing, which she deemed a good value at $89.

On their Caribbean cruise, the Valloneys asked around for recommendations for good beaches, where they went to relax on port days, and waited until they were on land to check emails, in order to avoid paying for Wi-Fi on the ship.

“We didn’t miss it at all,” Valloney said. “For beverages, we would wait until happy hour, when it was buy one, get one free.”

Most Read Business Stories

  • Whistleblower Josh Dean of Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems has died
  • Seattle-founded REI struggles to adapt to changing retail. What’s next?
  • A seized superyacht shows up in Everett — minus one Russian oligarch owner
  • Baby boomers have trillions squirreled away. Their kids may not see much of it
  • Boeing duped the flying public before Alaska Air blowout, Flight 1282 passengers say

Will other companies follow suit?

To date, no other cruise lines have adopted standby programs.

Princess Cruises said it did not plan to offer cabins on a standby basis, but noted that it already offers last-minute deals, which tend to run about $50 to $60 per passenger per day. For example, a seven-day Alaska sailing from Vancouver to Anchorage departing May 8 is listed at $399 a person in a double-occupancy cabin.

Several other major cruise lines did not respond to inquiries about potentially adopting standby programs, although operators such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer last-minute deals on their websites.

“We would be surprised to see many mainstream cruise lines begin to adopt a similar model” to the standby system, Kimberly Coyne, head of sales and content strategy for Cruiseline.com, a cruise review site, wrote in an email. She said the standby fares might be financially unsustainable for cruise lines and cited the potential that travelers might become too accustomed to late-booking deals.

More ways to save

With the recent surge in cruise bookings, companies are discounting less, said McDaniel.

She identified more reliable ways to get a deal compared with going standby, such as booking during “wave season,” a sales period that generally runs January through March, or taking a repositioning cruise, in which a ship relocates from one region to another seasonally. A repositioning itinerary might sail in the fall from Alaska to the Caribbean via the Panama Canal.

“It’s not unusual to see a repositioning cruise at less than $75 per night,” McDaniel said, noting that other expenses such as an airline itinerary into one city and returning from another may cost more than a standard round-trip ticket.

Repositioning cruises tend to stop at fewer ports and add more shipboard enrichment programs, such as lectures and activities such as cake decorating classes and craft spirits tastings.

“For a lot of people, the ship is the destination and this is the perfect activity for people who like to be on the ship,” she said.

  • 1-877-932-4259
  • My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

New ‘Dutch Day’ on Every Cruise Celebrates Holland America Line’s Heritage with Themed Culinary Experiences

Daelmans Stroopwafel partnership offers a variety of sweet treats, while new special menus and the Orange Party highlight Holland America Line’s rich Dutch history

Seattle, Wash., April 26, 2024 — Holland America Line is introducing a new “Dutch Day” experience that celebrates the cruise line’s more than 150-year-history that began in the Netherlands. Whether sailing in Alaska, Europe, Asia or the Caribbean, many Dutch culinary favorites will be featured on board for the special day.

The centerpiece of Dutch Day will be a themed Dutch Dinner served once per cruise in the main Dining Room, with many of the dishes also offered in the casual Lido Market. Additionally, Holland America Line's popular Orange Party will be held on Dutch Day, and guests can enjoy fresh-made poffertjes in Crow’s Nest Café.  A new partnership with Daelmans Stroopwafel includes delectable desserts featuring the Dutch staple and a Daelmans Stroopwafel turn-down pillow treat in every stateroom.

“Holland America Line remains deeply connected to our roots in the Netherlands, and Dutch Day is the perfect way to honor our history through experiences that celebrate the culinary culture of the country,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line. “Our guests appreciate special touches like Daelmans Stroopwafel for turn down or a dish in the dining room that is distinctly Dutch, and we’re excited to expand the cultural experience for an entire day to showcase more of our heritage.”

Culinary traditions run deep in the Netherlands, and the special themed Dutch Dinner in the Dining Room features an extensive menu that includes both classic and contemporary Dutch delicacies. The selection of starters features a Bay Shrimp Cocktail with Dutch cocktail sauce, Erwten Soep (Dutch Pea Soup), and Mushroom Cream puff pastry with hollandaise sauce.

Dutch-inspired main course selections include Bami Goreng, a stir-fried noodle dish with chicken sate and peanut sauce; Pan-Fried Dover Sole with lemon butter; and Hodge Podge Klapstuk with chateau potatoes. For dessert, a Bosche Bol (large, chocolate covered cream puff), Tompouce (Dutch mille-feuille pastry) or a slice of traditional Dutch Apple Pie provide the perfect sweet ending to the meal. 

In collaboration with Daelmans Stroopwafels — a family-owned bakery founded in the Netherlands in 1904, renowned for its authentic recipe —Dutch Day will feature Stroopwafel Cheesecake for dessert on the dinner menu in the Dining Room and Lido Market and a Stroopwafel Napoleon at tea time. Select bars will serve a Stroopwafel Liqueur with hints of cinnamon and caramel only on ships in Europe. Additionally, in place of the traditional stateroom turn-down chocolate, guests will find a Daelmans Stroopwafel waiting for them on their pillow.

New in Crow’s Nest Café on all ships, fresh-made poffertjes — a traditional Dutch treat resembling small, fluffy pancakes — will be available daily (not just on Dutch Day) for a nominal charge.

Popular Orange Party Held on Dutch Day

Once per cruise, Holland America Line holds the Orange Party with live music, cocktails and treats, and now it will be held on Dutch Day. The Orange Party pays homage to the company’s Dutch heritage (orange is the color of the Dutch Royal Family, which hails from the House of Orange), and guests are invited to wear orange attire and accessories. During the after-dinner festivities, special orange-themed cocktails are available while servers pass around finger-foods and sweets.

Dutch Day is part of Holland America Line’s programming that offers authentic experiences to immerse guests in the culture, history and traditions of the places visited on each cruise.

  • CruiseMapper
  • Cruise news
  • Cruise Industry
  • Crystal Serenity ship welcomes American disco singer Gloria...

Crystal Serenity ship welcomes American disco singer Gloria Gaynor for special concert cruise

CruiseMapper logo

Renowned 2-time Grammy Award-winning artist Gloria Gaynor is set to perform aboard the Crystal Serenity during the October 26 sailing from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale .

Guests can anticipate an exceptional experience as they embark on a captivating journey enriched by Ms. Gaynor's mesmerizing performance.

Gloria Gaynor (1943-born as Gloria Fowles) is an American singer celebrated globally for disco hits like “I Will Survive” (1978) and “Never Can Say Goodbye” (1974). Her commanding vocal prowess and compelling stage presence continue to enthrall audiences worldwide. Now, those sailing aboard Crystal Serenity will have the exclusive opportunity to witness her talent firsthand.

Accompanied by her 10-piece ensemble, Gaynor's performance will feature a selection of her greatest hits, promising an electrifying atmosphere for all in attendance. Additionally, she will engage in an intimate Q&A session with booked guests.

The 14-night voyage will navigate south along the East Coast USA, showcasing the best of North America during one of its most scenic seasons. With overnight stays in Boston and New York City , as well as a stop in Nassau before concluding in Fort Lauderdale, guests will have ample time to explore some of the country's most captivating East Coast cities while indulging in the exquisite accommodations, world-class cuisine, and award-winning service synonymous with Crystal Cruises .

IMAGES

  1. Holland America's ms Veendam docked in Quebec Holland America Line

    holland america cruise quebec to boston

  2. Newfoundland & New England Discovery

    holland america cruise quebec to boston

  3. Holland America Cruises from Boston

    holland america cruise quebec to boston

  4. Historic Coasts

    holland america cruise quebec to boston

  5. Holland America Zaandam, Quebec City

    holland america cruise quebec to boston

  6. Holland America Cruises for 2023, 2024 & 2025

    holland america cruise quebec to boston

VIDEO

  1. 230522 Holland America Line : Quebec

  2. Cruise ship narrowly passes under 2 bridges in Quebec City

  3. Holland America Cruise Zuiderdam

  4. Ms Veendam Cruise Ship Québec City .Can. 30/ 06/ 2017

  5. New England to Canada June 2023 Holland America Line & boat tours #HollandAmericaLine

  6. Cruising Canada with Holland America Cruise Line #shorts

COMMENTS

  1. Cruises from Montreal, Quebec

    Experience Canada and New England coastal charms on cruises from Montréal to Boston. Glide the St. Lawrence River to the walled Québec City, then swirl to seaside gems: Prince Edward Island, Sydney, Halifax, and Bar Harbor. Before embarking on your adventure, get to know Montréal, one of North America's most culturally vibrant cities.

  2. 7-DAY CANADA & NEW ENGLAND DISCOVERY

    7-DAY CANADA & NEW ENGLAND DISCOVERY. Volendam. MAY 11 - MAY 18, 2024. Change Date. DEPARTS : Boston, Massachusetts, US. ARRIVES : Montreal, Quebec, Canada. A mesmerizing cruise to coastal gems in New England and Canada. Sweep charming Bar Harbor, wander Halifax's urban boardwalk, and spot belugas in the scenic Gulf of St. Lawrence. DATES.

  3. Cruises from Quebec City to Boston

    Are you looking for a cruise from Quebec City to Boston? September is the most popular month to cruise between Quebec City and Boston and there are 26 departures available from four of the world's leading cruise lines. ... Holland America (4) Norwegian Cruise Line (1) Princess (4) Silversea (1) Price $ 1,300 pp $ 10,250 pp.

  4. May 4th, 2024

    The Volendam sails this route five times this year. This is the only ship that sails this exact route. In the accompanying graphic you can see a visualization of when this ship sails as well as the relative price. $599. 7 Night East Coast Cruise from Montreal to Boston aboard the Holland America Volendam, leaving May 4, 2024.

  5. Canada & New England Discovery

    Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Holland America's 8 Day Canada & New England Discovery beginning your journey in Quebec City and travelling through to Boston. 1000-24 season departures. ... Begin your journey in Quebec City and cruise through to Boston onboard the Zuiderdam and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with ...

  6. Canada & New England Discovery

    Holland America Canada & New England (2024) Cruise Canada & New England with the best. Our curated itineraries allow you to experience the best of Canada & New England's stunning landscapes and classic charm. Our refreshingly uncrowded mid-sized ships are able to sail the St. Lawrence River from Québec City to Montréal under a series of ...

  7. Holland America Cruises from Quebec to Boston

    Holland America offers cruises from Montreal Quebec to Boston. The Holland America Veendam, Maasdam and Rotterdam are the luxury ships that make this trip. The cruise begins with cruising the Gulf of St Lawrence, which covers more than 90,000 square miles. The coastlines and islands are beautiful, and it's a good place to spot birds, whales ...

  8. Holland America Line Quebec City Cruise Reviews

    Zuiderdam Boston to Quebec City b2b Quebec City to Boston 8/26/2023-9/92023 My wife and I have over fifty cruises and our favorite cruise lines are, in no particular order, Holland America ...

  9. Holland America Line Cruises to Boston

    Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of April 29th, 2024. Looking for Holland America Line cruises to Boston? Find and plan your next Holland America Line cruise ...

  10. September 14th, 2024

    In the accompanying graphic you can see a visualization of when this ship sails as well as the relative price. $1,090. $1,090. 7 Night East Coast Cruise from Quebec City to Boston aboard the Holland America Zuiderdam, leaving September 14, 2024.

  11. October 12th, 2024

    From Quebec City. 7 nights. Zuiderdam October 12th, 2024 Quebec City to Boston. This Isn't Your Grandpa's Cruise! Visit Exotic Ports Like Charlottetown for $1,170 Total. Get ready for seven nights of exciting cruising through the sea when you reserve your cabin on the Holland America Zuiderdam from Quebec City to Boston.

  12. Cruises from Quebec City to Boston

    Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of April 27th, 2024. Looking for cruises from Quebec City to Boston? Find and plan your next cruise from Quebec City to ...

  13. Canada & New England Discovery

    Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Holland America's 8 Day Canada & New England Discovery beginning your journey in Quebec City and travelling through to Boston. 1000 season departures. ... Begin your journey in Quebec City and cruise through to Boston onboard the Zuiderdam and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with Holland ...

  14. Holland America Cruises from Boston

    Cruise on Holland America Line from Boston. Cruises to Canada and Europe on luxury ships. Cruises. Destinations. Ships. Cruise Deals. ... Sydney (Nova Scotia), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island) and Quebec City (Quebec). • 2024 departures: May 11, May 25, June 8, June 22, July 6, September 28. 7-day Canada & New England cruises on the ...

  15. Our Cruise from Boston to Canada with Holland America Line

    Overview of the Holland America Line Cruise from Boston to Canada. Pre-cruise: Overnight stay in Boston, arranged by the cruise line. Day 1: Cruise embarkation at the Port of Boston. Day 2: Bar Harbor, Maine. Day 3: Halifax. Day 4: Sydney. Day 5: Charlottetown and Prince Edward Island. Day 6: Day at Sea, Cruising the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

  16. Canada & New England Discovery

    Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Holland America's 8 Day Canada & New England Discovery beginning your journey in Boston and travelling through to Quebec City. 1000-24 season departures. ... Begin your journey in Boston and cruise through to Quebec City onboard the Zuiderdam and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with ...

  17. Boston to Canada & New England Holland America Line Cruise Reviews

    As one of Holland America's Legendary Cruises (and also as one of the most expensive), the Voyage of the Vikings on the Zuiderdam, which sailed July 22-August 26, 2023, should have been nothing ...

  18. Why I Loved My Cruise Through New England And Canada

    While my Holland America Canada and New England cruise was 7 days, I would suggest 10+ days to add more ports like Newfoundland and Saguenay, Quebec. The region is so rich with culture and fun ...

  19. 5 best fall foliage cruises in New England, Canada and beyond

    The Jesup Path boardwalk at Sieur de Monts in Acadia National Park in the fall. BYRON M ONEAL/GETTY IMAGES. Holland America's 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam is a delightfully midsize ship, so you don't have to worry about crowds as you sail between Boston and Quebec City.The ship starts sailing this route in late August, but for the best leaf peeping, you'll want to book one of the two October ...

  20. Everything You Should Know About the $49 'Standby' Cruise Fare

    To get on the standby list, travelers can select an itinerary on Holland America's list of standby-eligible voyages and call 877-724-5425 to join. (You can also have your travel advisor add you to ...

  21. Montreal to Boston Cruise on the Holland America Volendam

    Join the Holland America Volendam and prepare for seven nights of leisurely travel across the sea from Montreal to Boston! Visiting very uncommon ports such as Bar Harbor, Charlottetown, and Quebec City makes this cruise noteworthy. This is a typical route for the Volendam. This price includes all meals, entertainment, taxes, and fees.

  22. Standby cruising: A new option for bargain seekers

    In February, Barb McGowan took a seven-day cruise on Holland America Line, visiting the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic for just $343, or $49 a day, excluding taxes, port ...

  23. New 'Dutch Day' on Every Cruise Celebrates Holland America Line's

    Seattle, Wash., April 26, 2024 — Holland America Line is introducing a new "Dutch Day" experience that celebrates the cruise line's more than 150-year-history that began in the Netherlands. Whether sailing in Alaska, Europe, Asia or the Caribbean, many Dutch culinary favorites will be featured on board for the special day.

  24. Would You Roll The Dice On A $49-A-Day Holland America Standby Cruise?

    Innovative new marketing programs are also boosting cruising. Holland America is expanding its Standby List Program, where passengers can potentially get booked on a cruise for as low as $49 a day.

  25. Crystal Serenity welcomes 2-time Grammy Award-winning ...

    Renowned 2-time Grammy Award-winning artist Gloria Gaynor is set to perform aboard the Crystal Serenity during the October 26 sailing from Quebec City to Fort Lauderdale.. Guests can anticipate an exceptional experience as they embark on a captivating journey enriched by Ms. Gaynor's mesmerizing performance.