holland america cruise videos

Holland America Line Guarantees Glacier Views on All Alaska Cruises

Holland America Line has been showcasing Alaska’s glaciers since 1947. The cruise line ensures guests will see a glacier during their Alaska cruise with the Glacier Guarantee, providing a 15% Future Cruise Credit if a glacier visit  is missed .

“Our guests, and especially first-time guests, are understandably as obsessed with Alaska’s glaciers as we are, and our new Glacier Guarantee™ underlines our confidence in providing unforgettable glacier sightings on our Alaska cruises and Cruisetours,” said Kacy Cole, chief marketing officer, Holland America Line. “We know our guests are going to return home from their cruise with special memories of these icy wonders. In fact, we guarantee it.” 

Every Alaska cruise with Holland America Line includes visiting iconic glaciers, where the ship will sail up to the face of the ice formations and provide a 360-degree view. Holland America Line has more permits to visit Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve than any other cruise line. In addition, the cruise line offers visits to other glaciers like College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier, and Tracy Arm Fjord’s Twin Sawyer Glaciers.

RELATED: HOLLAND AMERICA INTRODUCES ‘DUTCH DAY’ EXPERIENCE

During Glacier Bay’s scenic cruising, Glacier Bay National Park Service Rangers come aboard Holland America Line ships to interact with guests and discuss the national park.

A new addition for 2024, Holland America Line introduced “Glacier Day” on its Alaska cruises as part of the “We Love Alaska” onboard experience. Glacier Day enhances the glacier viewing experience with scheduled sighting times, informative commentary, presentations, viewing stations, photo opportunities, themed food and drinks, talks by park rangers, and an open bow for viewing.

Holland America Line also offers opportunities for wildlife sightings in Alaska , with a  wildlife expert on board to help guests spot animals like whales, eagles, bears, moose, otters, seals, and sea lions.  A Wildlife Spotting Guide and onboard announcements help guests locate wildlife along the cruise route. Onshore, Holland America Line offers numerous animal sanctuaries and wildlife tours.

Alaska cruises with Holland America Line in 2024 and 2025 are available on six ships. The itineraries include longer voyages and a special 28-day Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice cruise. The cruise line is the only one to offer a tour that visits Denali National Park & Preserve in addition to the cruise itinerary.

Holland America Line offers the Glacier Guarantee program to ensure guests see at least one glacier or receive a future cruise credit equal 15 percent of their fare. The guarantee applies to all Alaska cruises and cruise tours, except for select Yukon cruise tours featuring a three-day cruise component. 

Julie Bouchner

Julie Bouchner is the Digital Editorial Manager for Porthole Cruise and Travel. She has a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Syracuse University. When she is not writing, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, baking, and playing with her Siberian Husky named Ellie.

You may also like

Nieuw amsterdam cruise ship review.

Cruise Ship Review – Nieuw Amsterdam Holland America Line’s latest ship tips its hat to

A Standing O: Sailing with Oprah Winfrey

A Standing O Setting sail with Oprah is the ultimate fan experience. By Michel Verdure “Each momen

Viking River Cruises Breaks its Own Record

Viking River Cruises broke a Guinness World Record christening 16, 190-passenger Longships within a

Pack Smart: 5 Items to Leave at Home When Going on a Cruise

Fit and balanced: staying active on a cruise, hard rock, seminole gaming, royal caribbean, and celebrity cruises team up for travel benefits.

• Cruise Videos

Cruise Search

Special cruise offers.

Royal Caribbean

• 60% OFF 2nd Guest + Kids Sail FREE + Instant Savings + FREE GRATUITIES or Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

Norwegian Cruise Line

• 50% OFF Cruises + Take All FREE + BOGO Airfare + Up to $1,700 Cash Back

Holland America

• Up to 45% OFF + Up to $1,000 Onboard Crerdit + 50% Reduced Deposit + 3rd & 4th Guests FREE

Princess Cruises

• Up to 35% OFF + 3rd & 4th Guest FREE + Up to $1,785 Onboard Credit

Celebrity Cruises

• Up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest + FREE Amenities Included: FREE Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi + Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

Featured Cruise Deals

Other cruise options.

• Last Minute Cruise Deals
• Land Tour Deals
• View Golf Vacations
• Shop by Destination
• Shop by Cruise Line
• Cruise From Port Near You
• Holiday Sailings
• Luxury Cruises

Cruise Line Videos

Cruise video library.

Cruising is an experience like no other! Whether you are a first time cruiser or a seasoned sailor our cruise video library can help you learn about all of the amazing ships and itineraries that are available. Learn about the different amenities, accommodations and destinations offered by each cruise line. Take in all of the onboard activities that are available and set your eyes on the many culinary delights waiting for you onboard. Take a 'virtual cruise' on any size ship, from a small intimate vessel to a floating mega-resort. Our cruise video library is YOUR ticket to a fabulous cruise holiday!

Featured Cruise Video

Entertainment Aboard the Royal Princess

Entertainment onboard the Royal Princess offers something for the entire family. Production shows including musicals, comedy, magic and other shows written and produced just for the Royal Princess. Enjoy a variety of musical entertainment including country western, Rock and Roll Nights, Hot Latin Nights and more. Participate in the Princess Live TV Studio with interactive TV, games and other programming streamed live throughout the ship. Relax with the ultimate cinema experience with Movies under the Stars which shows classic movies by day and feature films at night - complete with popcorn.

See more cruise videos from our Cruise Video Library

• CRUISE LINE VIDEOS
• CRUISE DESTINATION VIDEOS
• GENERAL CRUISE VIDEOS
• Azamara Cruise Videos
• Avalon Waterways Cruise Videos
• Carnival Cruise Videos
• Celebrity Cruise Videos
• Crystal Cruise Videos
• Fathom Cruise Videos
• Norwegain Cruise Line Videos
• MSC Cruise Videos
• Oceania Cruise Videos
• Princess Cruise Videos
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Videos
• Regent Seven Seas Cruise Videos
• Scenic Cruise Videos
• Silversea Cruise Videos
• Viking Cruise Videos
• Windstar Cruise Videos
• Explore Bermuda
• River Cruises – Learn what it is like to explore Europe, Asia and the Nile
• Alaska Cruises – An Incredible Vacation Destination
• Experience the Latest in Cruising
• Exceptional Cruise Values
• Selecting the Perfect Cruise Cabin
• The World Of Cruising

AZAMARA CRUISE VIDEOS

• Azamara Club Cruises – Destination Immersion
• Azamara Club Cruise Experience

AVALON WATERWAYS CRUISE VIDEOS

• Avalon Waterways Cruise Webinar

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE VIDEOS

• Carnival Cruise Line – Breeze
• Cruise Activities Aboard Carnival Cruise Line

CELEBRITY CRUISE VIDEOS

• Celebrity Cruises Spa Experience
• Celebrity Cruises - Sail To Extraordinary Destinations Throughout The World
• Celebrity Cruise's Food & Wine Experience
• Celebrity Cruises Galapagos Islands

CRYSTAL CRUISE VIDEOS

• Crystal Cruises All-Inclusive Luxury Vacations

FATHOM CRUISE VIDEOS

• Fathom Adonia Cruise - Dominican Republic Social Impact Travel Experience
• Fathom Cruises – Sailing to the Dominican Republic
• Fathom Cruises – Sailing to Cuba

NORWEGAIN CRUISE LINE VIDEOS

• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Escape Christening Ceremony
• Norwegian Getaway - Miami's Newest Ship
• Norwegian Breakaway Sailing Year Round From New York

MSC CRUISE VIDEOS

• Introducing MSC Seaside
• MSC Meraviglia Cruise Ship Tour
• MSC Cruises Yacht Club Experience
• MSC Divina An Elegant And Exciting Cruise Vacation

OCEANIA CRUISE VIDEOS

• Oceania Cruises – Oceania Riviera

PRINCESS CRUISE VIDEOS

• Entertainment Aboard The Royal Princess
• The Lotus Spa Aboard The Royal Princess
• Exceptional Dining Options Aboard the Royal Princess
• Fitness And Sports Activities Aboard The Royal Princess
• Youth & Teens Centers Aboard The Royal Princess

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE VIDEOS

• Royal Caribbean Harmony Of The Seas Seven Neighborhoods
• Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISE VIDEOS

• Regent Cruises – Explore the world in luxury

SCENIC CRUISE VIDEOS

• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours – River Cruises

SILVERSEA CRUISE VIDEOS

• Silversea Expeditions

VIKING CRUISE VIDEOS

• Viking Cruises — Viking Star
• Viking Cruises — Small Ship Expert
• Viking Cruises — Scandinavian Spa Experience
• Viking Cruises — Destination Inspired

WINDSTAR CRUISE VIDEOS

• Windstar Cruises Star Legend Christening Ceremony
• Gloria Bohan Named Godmother of Windstar Cruises Star Legend
• The Star Legend Cruise Experience

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER SAVINGS

• Forgot Password?

Often cruise lines offer special rates that cannot be displayed to the general public. By registering with Cruise.com you will be able to view these special rates and offers.

Register with Cruise.com to get access to:

• Exclusive Rates
• Special Amenities

Login to Your Account

There was an error! Please re-enter your credentials and try submitting the form again.

Reset Your Password

Please enter the email associated with your account so that we may send you a link to reset your password.

An email was sent to the address provided with instructions on how to reset your password.

Oops! There was an error with the email you provided.

• Get 7 Days Free

Holland America Line Strengthens Love for Alaska with Guarantee of Glacier Viewings on Every Alaska Cruise and Cruisetour

PR Newswire

SEATTLE, May 1, 2024

New Glacier Guarantee™ allows guests to sail with confidence, knowing they're guaranteed to see Alaska glaciers

SEATTLE, May 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland America Line loves Alaska. Since 1947, the cruise line has led the way in showcasing the majesty of the state — including its magnificent glaciers. In fact, Holland America Line's passion for Alaska's glaciers runs so deep that the cruise line now guarantees guests will see one or more glaciers on their cruise in the region.

With guests citing seeing glaciers as one of the top reasons for choosing an Alaska cruise , the Glacier Guarantee ™ assures travelers they won't return home disappointed. The Glacier Guarantee™ is offered on Alaska departures from now through September 2025. Under the guarantee, if Holland America Line does not visit an Alaska glacier, guests are eligible to receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to 15 percent of their cruise fare.  

"Our guests, and especially first-time guests, are understandably as obsessed with Alaska's glaciers as we are, and our new Glacier Guarantee™ underlines our confidence in providing unforgettable glacier sightings on our Alaska cruises and Cruisetours," said Kacy Cole, chief marketing officer, Holland America Line. "We know our guests are going to return home from their cruise with special memories of these icy wonders. In fact, we guarantee it." 

Every Alaska cruise includes a scenic visit to Alaska's iconic glaciers during which the ship sails up to the face of the ice formations and then rotates for a 360-degree view. Holland America Line has more permits to visit Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve than any other cruise line, and other glacier visits including College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier and the Tracy Arm Fjord's Twin Sawyer Glaciers. 

During Glacier Bay scenic cruising, Glacier Bay National Park Service Rangers visit Holland America Line ships for the day to engage with guests and talk about Alaska's most famous national park. 

'Glacier Day' Puts a Spotlight on Alaska's Majestic Glaciers New for the 2024 season, Holland America Line also debuted "Glacier Day" on its Alaska cruises as part of its "We Love Alaska" onboard experience. Leaning into the cruise line's enthusiasm for glaciers, Glacier Day includes sighting times, scenic commentary, presentations, informational viewing stations, photo opportunities, Dutch Pea Soup on deck, Glacial Ice cocktails, insightful talks by Glacier Bay National Park Service Rangers, and an open bow for viewing. 

More Opportunities to See Alaska Wildlife Than Any Other Cruise Line In addition to glaciers, Holland America Line offers more ways to see the wildlife of Alaska. Holland America Line carries a wildlife  expert on board to help guests witness the majestic animals found in Alaska, including whales, eagles, bears, moose, otters, seals, sea lions and more. A Wildlife Spotting Guide points out the native animals found along the cruise route and includes a map with the best places to see each species. Between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., wildlife sightings are announced for guest viewing. 

The wildlife experience continues ashore. With nearly180 animal sanctuaries and sightseeing opportunities, Holland America Line is #1 in Alaska wildlife and wilderness tours.  

Alaska Features Six Ships Exploring The Great Land In 2024 and 2025, guests can embark on Holland America Line's Alaska cruises and cruisetours aboard Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam. In addition to seven-day itineraries, guests can take longer 14-day voyages and a 28-Day Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice cruise. Holland America Line is the only cruise line that ventures up into the wilds of the Yukon on a cruisetour that combines a cruise and visit to Denali National Park & Preserve.  

Holland America Line: The Leader in Alaska Cruising The new Glacier Guarantee™ program is part of Holland America Line's initiative to offer the most extensive Alaska experience in the industry. Holland America Line has been exploring Alaska for more than 75 years — longer than any other cruise line — weaving their expertise into every nuance of the journey. "We Love Alaska" is made up of authentic experiences that focus on culture, cuisine and adventures ashore as well as Holland America Line's enrichment and entertainment programming  'Alaska Up Close' . 

Voted Number-One Cruise Line in Alaska Throughout the years, Holland America Line has collected awards and accolades from the world's most discerning travelers and cruise experts for Alaska cruising. Holland America Line was named the top pick for Alaska in the Porthole Cruise Magazine Editor-in-Chief Awards, AFAR Travelers' Choice Awards, USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, Forbes, Cruise Critic Cruisers' Choice Destination Awards and TravelAge West Wave Awards Editor's Pick. 

Under the Glacier Guarantee™, Holland America Line ensures that guests will see at least one glacier or will receive a future cruise credit equal to 15 percent of their cruise fare. The Glacier Guarantee™ is valid on all Alaska cruises and cruisetours except select Yukon cruisetours that feature a three-day cruise experience. For full Glacier Guarantee™ terms and conditions, visit HollandAmerica.com.  

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com . 

Find Holland America Line on  X (formerly Twitter ) ,  Facebook , Instagram  and the Holland America Blog . You can also access all social media outlets via the home page at  hollandamerica.com . 

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)] Holland America Line has been exploring the world for 150 years with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service and genuine connections to the destinations. Offering an ideal perfectly-sized ship experience, its fleet visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world and has shared the thrill of Alaska for more than 75 years — longer than any other cruise line. Holland America Line's 11 vessels feature a diverse range of enriching activities and amenities focused on destination immersion and personalized travel. Guests enjoy the best entertainment at sea, and dining venues featuring exclusive dishes by world-famous chefs. A new global fresh fish program brings more than 80 types of fresh fish on board, sourced and served locally in regions around the world. 

SOURCE Holland America Line

Market Updates

Best- and worst-performing stocks of april 2024, magnificent 7 stocks earnings updates: ai remains the focus, small-cap and value stocks are undervalued, why we expect the job market’s slowdown to renew in 2024, 5 undervalued stocks to buy to play a little defense, markets brief: ai leaders excel in earnings season so far, what history tells us about the fed’s next move, what’s happening in the markets this week, stock picks, mastercard earnings: a stable environment highlights the firm’s strengths, pfizer earnings: solid results supported by steady tracking toward $4 billion in cost cuts, 10 top-performing dividend stocks, starbucks earnings: not a lot to like about results as global traffic sputters, cvs earnings: weak medicare advantage profits cut into 2024 outlook, amazon earnings: aws growth accelerates and profit margins improve, siriusxm earnings: decent results with plan for technology and content investment to drive growth, coca-cola earnings: solid volume on innovation and digital engagement, sponsor center.

Holland America Introduces ‘Dutch Day’ Culinary Experiences on Every Cruise

• April 28, 2024

Holland America Line is introducing a new “Dutch Day” culinary experience celebrating the cruise line’s history on every sailing in Alaska, Europe, Asia or the Caribbean, according to a press release.

The focal point of Dutch Day will be a themed Dutch Dinner served once per cruise in the main Dining Room, with many dishes also available in the Lido Market. Additionally, Holland America Line’s Orange Party will be held on Dutch Day, and guests can enjoy fresh-made poffertjes in Crow’s Nest Café.

“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.”

The special Dutch Dinner features 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 options 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, options include a Bosche Bol, Tompouce or a slice of traditional Dutch Apple Pie.

In collaboration with Daelmans Stroopwafels, Dutch Day will also feature Stroopwafel Cheesecake for dessert on the dinner menu in the Dining Room and Lido Market and a Stroopwafel Napoleon at tea time. Additionally, instead of the traditional stateroom turn-down chocolate, guests will find a Daelmans Stroopwafel waiting for them on their pillow.

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

54 Ships | 122,002 Berths | $36 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Pre-Order Offer
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

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

By Jessica Puckett

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.

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

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.

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Recently Viewed

Sign up for special offers.