holland america cruise insurance

Holland America’s Cancellation Protection Plan

Cancel your vacation plans, for any reason, and receive a refund with a Holland America Line Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP). Get a refund of up to 80% of your total cruise vacation with a Standard Plan, or upgrade to the Platinum Plan to receive additional refunds, worldwide emergency assistance and other protections.

5 Reasons to Choose Holland America Line's Cancellation Protection

• Cancel before departure for any reason.  Cancel up to 24 hours before departure under our Standard Plan or right up to departure with our Platinum Plan. We make it easy with no claims to submit or fine print to review.
• You get money back.  Holland America Line refunds 80-90% of eligible amounts paid, for cancellations up to 24 hours prior to departure (or up to departure with the Platinum Plan).
• No exclusions for pre-existing conditions  for either Standard or Platinum Plans.
• Same price for all ages.  We offer the same excellent protection for everyone, at the same cost.
• Easy book.  Cancellation Protection Plans can be booked until the date cancellation fees begin to accrue (varies by cruise). Opt in when making your booking or visit Manage my Bookings to add a plan to your existing reservation. 

Our Standard and Platinum plans at a glance Unforeseen events do happen. When you book your next cruise, be sure to ask about our Cancellation Protection Plans to protect your cruise investment.  

This is only a brief description of the programs – see additional details below * In addition to Holland America Line's baggage liability ** Trip interruption benefits apply at the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line. + Additional benefits underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company ◊ Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services provided by CareFree Travel Assistance TM

NOTE: CPP Standard is available to all guests, regardless of residency (excluding permanent residents of the United Kingdom).

CPP Platinum is not available to residents of New York State, Quebec, Puerto Rico or the United Kingdom.

CPP Standard Cancellation Plan Details  Our Standard Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP Standard Plan) will allow you, for any reason, to provide written cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line and receive a refund equal to 80% of the eligible amounts paid to Holland America Line. CPP Standard is available to all guests, regardless of residency, excluding permanent residents of the United Kingdom.   In addition, Holland America Line (HAL) automatically assumes an additional $500 (USD) of liability for lost, damaged or delayed baggage of guests who purchase the CPP Standard Plan still subject, however, to the limitations in our baggage policies. For example, we do not cover losses while baggage is in the custody of airlines.    Please note: The CPP Standard Plan is not insurance – this is an optional purchase offered by and administered by Holland America Line. It may be added to your reservation to provide you with trip cancellation protection for up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled travel. It provides no rights other than those explained above. For example, it does not protect double-triple-quad occupancy rates should one or more members of your party cancel, nor does it cover expenses for unused services due to trip interruption.   The CPP Standard Plan is available for purchase prior to the date on which cancellation fees begin to accrue. Payment is due at time of purchase. The cost of CPP Standard is non-refundable. The per person, per cruise cost is listed with the cruise fares. 

CPP Platinum Cancellation Plan Details  Our Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP Platinum) enables you to supplement the benefits provided under the CPP Standard Plan with higher cancellation reimbursement and extends the eligible cancellation period up until the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line. CPP Platinum also provides insurance coverage for trip delays and interruptions, medical expenses and much more. In addition, CPP Platinum includes 24-hour worldwide emergency assistance services.   CPP Platinum is comprised of the following:   Cancel for Any Reason Waiver - Provided by Holland America Line You may cancel for any reason prior to the start of your scheduled travel (sea, land and/or air) arrangements made by Holland America Line and receive reimbursement equal to 90% of the eligible amounts paid to Holland America Line. Note: CPP Platinum does not protect double-triple-quad occupancy rates should one or more members of your party cancel prior to departure.   TRAVEL INSURANCE PROGRAM - Underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, OH

• Trip Interruption:  Enables you to cancel or interrupt your cruise vacation for illness, injury or death to you, an immediate family member or a traveling companion, as well as certain other non-medical reasons affecting you or your traveling companion, and receive up to 150% of your cruise vacation cost.
• Trip Delay:  If you miss the departure of your cruise due to carrier-caused delays or other specified reasons, you could be reimbursed up to $500 for additional accommodations, meals and “catch-up” transportation expenses.
• Baggage Protection:  If your baggage or personal property is lost or damaged, you could be reimbursed up to $1,000. If your bags are delayed or misdirected by a common carrier for more than 24 hours, you could be reimbursed up to $500 for the purchase of necessary personal effects.
• Medical Expense Coverage:  Should you become injured or sick during your vacation, you could be reimbursed up to $10,000 for medical expenses.
• Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation:  In the event that serious illness or injury requires air or ground transportation to a specialized facility or to return home, you could be provided up to $50,000 in covered medical services and supplies (coordinated by our 24-hour assistance provider) to help ensure your safe transport. Repatriation coverage provides for shipment of remains in the event of death during the cruise vacation.

WORLDWIDE EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE - Services Provided by CareFree Travel AssistanceTM   Provides 24-hour assistance services including: pre-cruise health, safety and weather information; assistance with travel changes; lost luggage assistance; emergency cash transfer assistance; emergency medical and dental assistance; lost travel document assistance; and emergency medical payment assistance.   Note that the benefits and services provided in CPP Platinum are available only to guests who enroll in and pay the appropriate program cost to Holland America Line. Payment of the required cruise deposit does not automatically activate enrollment in CPP Platinum Protection. In order to activate enrollment, you must pay the appropriate program costs  in addition  to the required cruise deposit amount.   IMPORTANT:  This is only a brief description of the program   The CPP Platinum Plan is in effect for cancellations for any reason up to the start of your scheduled travel. Other benefits and services provided in CPP Platinum are effective once you depart on your trip.   The CPP Platinum Plan is optional and available for purchase prior to the date on which cancellation fees begin to accrue. Payment is due at time of purchase. The cost of the cancellation portion of CPP Platinum is non-refundable. The per person, per cruise cost is listed with the cruise fares.  Note that CPP Platinum is not available to residents of New York State, Quebec, Puerto Rico, or the United Kingdom.

This is not a complete description of all benefits and limitations. For full terms and conditions of coverage, ask your Vacations To Go cruise counselor. Prices, terms, and conditions listed in this summary are subject to change without notice, and need to be reconfirmed with your Vacations To Go cruise counselor at the time of booking. If you book a Holland America cruise, you can purchase insurance from Holland America or from the independent insurance provider, Generali Global Assistance (formerly CSA Travel Protection).  Click here  to see details of the Go Plan from Generali Global Assistance. 

Travel Insurance

An illness, an accident or an unexpected situation can arise before or during any type of vacation. Such an event might cause you to cut short your cruise or cause your trip to be canceled altogether. Unfortunately, most cruise lines impose penalties for canceling a cruise, up to and including loss of the entire cruise price.

Because a cruise is a significant investment, most cruise lines offer some form of insurance to protect their passengers from financial loss in the event of an emergency. Details and prices vary from cruise line to cruise line, as do coverage limits and exclusions.

If you decide to purchase insurance, you will have two options, to go with the cruise line's plan or to use our independent insurance provider, Generali Global Assistance. Use the summaries below to compare policies and prices.

Generali can provide insurance coverage to all customers, regardless of their country of citizenship, except residents of the province of Quebec, Canada.

For more information or a complete copy of a policy, ask your Vacations To Go cruise counselor.

Independent Insurance Coverage

Generali Global Assistance

Cruise Line Coverage

Cruise Destinations

Holland america’s flexible cruise cancellation and protection plans.

By sheer chance, I discovered Holland America’s Flexible Cruise Cancellation and Protection Plans during my quest for my upcoming journey. I must say, these plans are a real breakthrough for anyone aiming to reserve a cruise without worries.

With varying cancellation policies based on the length and type of the cruise, Holland America offers options that cater to every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer voyage, they’ve got you covered.

And that’s not all. They also have the Flight Ease program, which provides affordable flight options and the flexibility to make changes without fees. Plus, they recommend purchasing insurance for unforeseen events and offer two Cancellation Protection Plan options, each with different levels of coverage.

Oh, and did I mention their Worry-Free Promise for those affected by Covid-19? It’s a relief to know that they’ve got our backs, offering a Future Cruise Credit for non-refundable cancellation fees.

So, if you’re like me and value flexibility and protection when it comes to planning your cruise, Holland America is the way to go.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Holland America Line offers flexible cancellation options for cruises booked by September 30, 2022, allowing passengers to cancel for any reason up to 30 days before departure and receive a Future Cruise Credit.
• The Flight Ease program offered by Holland America Line provides low-priced flight options and allows changes without fees.
• Holland America Line offers two types of fares, Flexible Fares and Restricted Fares, each with different cancellation policies.
• Holland America Line recommends purchasing insurance to protect against unforeseen events and offers two Cancellation Protection Plan options, the Standard Plan and the Platinum Plan, each with different coverage and cancellation policies.

Cancellation Policy

I should review Holland America Line’s cancellation policy to understand the penalties and refund options based on the length and type of cruise I’m considering. The refund options vary depending on the duration of the cruise.

For cruises lasting 6 nights or less, a 100% refund is available if cancelled 76 days before sailing. If cancelled between 56 and 29 days before sailing, a 50% refund is offered. However, if cancellation occurs within 15 days of travel, no refund will be given.

For cruises of 7 nights or more, a 100% refund is possible if cancelled 91 days before sailing. A 50% refund is available for cancellations made between 75 and 61 days before sailing. Cancellations made 30 days or less before sailing are not eligible for a refund.

It’s important to note that these cancellation penalties may not apply to non-refundable promotions.

Flight Ease Program

The Flight Ease program offers affordable flight options and allows me to make changes without any additional fees. It provides low-priced flight options, making it easier for me to plan my travel arrangements.

I can choose from a range of flights that suit my needs and preferences. Whether I want a direct flight or a layover, the program offers flexibility.

I appreciate that I can make changes to my flights without worrying about extra charges. This gives me peace of mind, knowing that I have the freedom to adjust my travel plans if needed.

The Flight Ease program is a convenient and cost-effective way for me to book my flights in conjunction with my Holland America cruise.

Worry-Free Promise

During these uncertain times, the Worry-Free Promise provides peace of mind for my upcoming cruise with Holland America. With Holland America’s worry-free promise, I know that I’m protected in case any unforeseen circumstances arise.

One of the benefits of the Worry-Free Promise is that it applies to bookings made by September 30, 2022, and sailing on or before December 31, 2022. If I need to cancel my cruise due to non-refundable cancellation fees, I’ll receive a Future Cruise Credit, which allows me to reschedule my trip for a later date. This gives me the flexibility and assurance that my investment won’t go to waste.

Additionally, Holland America offers cancellation protection plans, such as the Standard Plan and Platinum Plan, which provide coverage for trip delays, medical expenses, and emergency assistance. These plans give me the peace of mind knowing that I’m protected against any unexpected events.

How Can Holland America’s Flexible Cruise Cancellation And Protection Plans Help with Avoiding Common Cruise Disembarkation Mistakes?

Holland America’s flexible cruise cancellation and protection plans provide peace of mind and help avoid common tips for cruise disembarkation mistakes. With the option to cancel or reschedule, passengers can navigate unforeseen circumstances and ensure a smooth end to their journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for making a name change on a holland america line cruise reservation.

To make a name change on a Holland America Line cruise reservation, I can submit a request in writing. However, it’s important to note that name changes require prior approval and may be subject to name change fees.

Are there any penalties or fees for changing a reservation on a Holland America Line cruise?

Changing a reservation on a Holland America Line cruise may come with penalties and fees. The process for name changes requires prior approval. It’s important to be aware of the specific cancellation policies and options when considering making any changes.

Can I cancel my cruise and receive a full refund if I purchased a non-refundable promotion?

Unfortunately, if you purchased a non-refundable promotion for your Holland America Line cruise, you will not be eligible for a full refund if you decide to cancel. Non-refundable promotions typically have strict cancellation policies in place.

Is there a deadline for purchasing the Cancellation Protection Plan for a Holland America Line cruise?

The deadline for purchasing the cancellation protection plan for a Holland America Line cruise is typically 24 hours after making the initial deposit. The plan offers benefits such as the ability to cancel for any reason and coverage for trip delays and medical expenses.

Are there any restrictions or limitations on using the Future Cruise Credit received through the Worry-Free Promise?

There are some restrictions and limitations on using the future cruise credit received through the worry-free promise. These include not being applicable to specially priced promotions and only being valid for bookings made by September 30, 2022, and sailing on or before December 31, 2022.

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform. With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Azamara onward: origins, renovation, and future plans.

Step aboard the Azamara Onward, a ship that has sailed through a remarkable journey of transformation. Previously known as Pacific Princess, this vessel has undergone a complete renovation to become a true gem in the Azamara fleet.

As I explore the origins, renovation, and future plans of this magnificent ship, I invite you to join me on a voyage filled with unique features, immersive experiences, and a glimpse into the exciting future of Azamara.

So, let’s set sail and discover the captivating story of Azamara Onward together.

• Azamara Onward was previously known as Pacific Princess and underwent a renovation to remove any trace of its previous life as part of the R-class ships.
• Azamara Onward is identical to its three sister ships in the Azamara fleet and has unique features like the Atlas Bar offering exclusive artisanal cocktails.
• Onboard activities and entertainment include trivia competitions, cake-decorating competitions, swimming pool, Jacuzzis, shuffleboard court, and board games.
• Azamara offers destination-immersive cruising with unconventional experiences ashore, more late departures and overnights in port, and the ability to dock in most ports due to its small size.

The Birth of Azamara Onward

After its christening in Monte Carlo, Azamara Onward made its debut in May 2022, marking the birth of a new ship in the Azamara fleet.

This stunning vessel was not always known as Azamara Onward. Previously, it sailed under the name Pacific Princess. However, a significant transformation took place to remove any trace of its previous life.

Originally called R-Three, it was part of the R-class ships built for Renaissance Cruises. Now, Azamara Onward stands identical to its three sister ships in the Azamara fleet.

It’s incredible to see how this ship has evolved from its past identity as Pacific Princess and embraced a new beginning as Azamara Onward.

A Transformation: From Pacific Princess to Azamara Onward

I was amazed to learn that the ship was previously known as Pacific Princess and underwent a complete renovation. The transformation process was truly remarkable. Design changes were made to remove any trace of its previous identity and create a fresh, modern look.

The ship now exudes elegance and sophistication, with sleek lines and a contemporary color palette. The interior spaces have been reimagined to offer a luxurious and comfortable experience for guests. From the stunning atrium to the stylish cabins, every detail has been carefully crafted.

The onboard amenities have also been enhanced, with new dining options and entertainment venues. It’s incredible to see how the ship has been transformed into Azamara Onward, a true masterpiece of design and luxury.

R-Class Legacy: The Origins of Azamara Onward

The R-class ships, originally named R-Three, were built for Renaissance Cruises and now they are divided between Azamara and its rival, Oceania. These ships have a rich R-class legacy and bring a unique charm to the fleets of both cruise lines. Here are five key points to understand the significance of the R-class ships in the fleet:

These ships were built with elegance and sophistication in mind, offering a classic cruising experience.

The R-class ships are known for their intimate size, allowing for a more personalized and immersive journey.

With their sleek design and luxurious amenities, these ships provide a comfortable and stylish environment for passengers.

The R-class ships have a reputation for visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations and offering unique itineraries.

Despite being divided between Azamara and Oceania, the R-class ships continue to uphold their legacy of delivering exceptional service and unforgettable experiences to travelers.

Azamara Onward: A Sister Ship in the Fleet

Exploring the fleet, I discovered that Azamara Onward is one of the sister ships with unique features like the Atlas Bar. This exclusive onboard experience sets it apart from the other ships in the fleet. The Atlas Bar offers artisanal cocktails that can only be found on Azamara Onward. To give you a taste of what to expect, here is a snapshot of some of the sister ship highlights:

Each sister ship offers its own special ambiance and amenities, ensuring that every passenger finds their perfect onboard experience. Whether you prefer a cozy atmosphere at The Den or indulging in the exclusive cocktails at the Atlas Bar, Azamara Onward promises to provide an unforgettable journey.

Expanding Horizons: Future Plans for Azamara

As president of Azamara, Carol Cabezas and the team are actively considering all options for expanding the cruise line’s horizons. Our expansion plans are driven by a commitment to providing unique offerings to our guests.

We believe in creating unforgettable experiences that set us apart from other cruise lines. Azamara’s focus on destination-immersive cruising allows us to offer unconventional and unexpected experiences ashore, known as AzAmazing experiences. From picturesque destinations like Porto Venere to the vibrant streets of Cinque Terre, we strive to immerse our guests in the local culture and beauty of each port.

Additionally, our small ship size enables us to dock in most ports, eliminating the need for tenders and maximizing our time in each destination.

We are excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for Azamara to continue delivering exceptional experiences to our guests.

Unique Features of Azamara Onward

I’m particularly impressed with the unique Atlas Bar on Azamara Onward. It offers exclusive artisanal cocktails that can’t be found on any other ship in the fleet. The attention to detail and craftsmanship in these cocktails is truly exceptional.

As I sit at the bar, I can’t help but be amazed by the skill and creativity of the bartenders. They mix, shake, and garnish each drink with precision. The atmosphere in the Atlas Bar is sophisticated and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind and indulge in a delicious libation.

Along with the Atlas Bar, Azamara Onward also boasts a variety of other onboard amenities. From a swimming pool and Jacuzzis for relaxation to shuffleboard courts and board games for entertainment, the ship truly has something for everyone.

Onboard Delights: Activities and Entertainment on Azamara Onward

One of the onboard delights on Azamara Onward is participating in trivia competitions, such as music trivia. It’s a fun way to test your knowledge and engage with fellow passengers.

The ship offers a variety of activities and entertainment options to keep everyone entertained throughout their voyage.

Day drinking options are plentiful, with various bars onboard offering a wide selection of beverages. Whether you prefer a refreshing cocktail by the pool or a glass of wine at one of the ship’s many restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

In addition to trivia, guests can also enjoy the unique AzAmazing experiences offered by Azamara. These immersive shore excursions provide an opportunity to explore picturesque destinations and create lasting memories.

Overall, Azamara Onward provides a range of onboard delights, from engaging activities like trivia to unforgettable experiences ashore. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and exploration.

Immersive Cruising: Azamazing Experiences With Azamara Onward

Exploring picturesque destinations and participating in AzAmazing experiences is an immersive way to create lasting memories while cruising on Azamara Onward. The ship offers a wide range of activities and amenities that cater to every passenger’s interests and preferences. Here are a few highlights:

AzAmazing Experiences: Azamara Onward provides unique and unforgettable shore excursions that allow guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions of each destination.

Immersive Destinations: From the stunning coastal towns of Porto Venere and Cinque Terre to the vibrant cities of the Caribbean and South America, Azamara Onward takes you to some of the most captivating and immersive destinations around the world.

Late Departures and Overnights: Unlike other cruise lines, Azamara Onward offers more late departures and overnight stays in port, allowing guests to fully explore and experience each destination without feeling rushed.

Small Ship Advantage: With its smaller size, Azamara Onward can dock in most ports, eliminating the need for tenders. This means you can step off the ship and start your immersive adventure right away.

Embarking on a journey with Azamara Onward guarantees an immersive and unforgettable cruising experience, filled with AzAmazing experiences and visits to breathtaking destinations.

What Is the History Behind the Name "Azamara Onward"?

The name "Azamara Onward" has an intriguing history. It originated from the ship’s previous name, Pacific Princess, which underwent a renovation to become Azamara Onward. It symbolizes the ship’s transformation and continued journey into the future.

How Does Azamara Onward Differ From Its Sister Ships in the Fleet?

Azamara Onward stands out from its sister ships with its unique features. From the exclusive Atlas Bar serving artisanal cocktails to intimate spaces like The Den, it offers a luxurious and cozy atmosphere. Compared to other luxury cruise lines, Azamara Onward provides a truly exceptional experience.

Are There Any Plans to Acquire Oceania Vessels in the Future?

No, there are currently no plans to acquire Oceania vessels in the future. However, Azamara is exploring all options for future expansion and considering various possibilities to enhance its fleet.

What Are Some Unique Features of Azamara Onward That Set It Apart From Other Ships in the Fleet?

One unique feature of Azamara Onward is the Atlas Bar, where you can enjoy exclusive artisanal cocktails. Onboard amenities include a swimming pool, Jacuzzis, shuffleboard court, and seven different restaurants for a truly luxurious experience.

How Does Azamara Onward Offer a More Immersive Cruising Experience Compared to Other Cruise Lines?

Azamara Onward offers a more immersive cruising experience compared to other cruise lines. With its AzAmazing experiences and picturesque destinations, it allows guests to truly immerse themselves in the local culture and create unforgettable memories.

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.

From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

Anthony Bourdain: Unconventional Culinary Icon and Global Influencer

Ah, Anthony Bourdain – he truly was an intriguing individual! He challenged traditional expectations within the culinary world and left a significant mark on the gastronomic landscape. With his captivating TV shows and widely acclaimed memoir, Bourdain seized the interest of audiences and inspired fellow culinary artists, including me.

His unapologetic authenticity and boundary-breaking approach were a breath of fresh air. But behind the scenes, there was a darkness that many of us didn’t see. In this article, we’ll explore the life and legacy of Anthony Bourdain, a man who taught us the power of food and the importance of mental health.

• Anthony Bourdain’s unconventional approach to culinary exploration and storytelling captivated audiences worldwide.
• He used food as a means of cultural exchange, promoting understanding and empathy.
• Bourdain’s legacy continues to shape the way we view travel, tourism, and the culinary industry.
• His advocacy for mental health and authenticity resonates with people from all walks of life.

Early Life and Career

I first learned about Anthony Bourdain’s early life and career through his book ‘Kitchen Confidential’. In it, he shared anecdotes about his childhood and how it shaped his love for food and exploration.

Bourdain grew up in New York City, surrounded by diverse cuisines and cultures, which ignited his curiosity and passion for culinary adventures. His early career was marked by hard work and determination. He started as a dishwasher and worked his way up to become a renowned chef.

Bourdain’s rebellious nature and non-conformist attitude set him apart in the culinary world. He challenged traditional practices, advocated for authenticity, and embraced a spirit of adventure. These early experiences laid the foundation for his unconventional approach to food and his later success as a global influencer.

Rise to Celebrity Status

Gaining fame through television shows and culinary expertise, Anthony Bourdain’s widespread recognition as a celebrity was well-deserved. His rise to fame was nothing short of extraordinary. With his unique blend of charisma, wit, and culinary talent, he captivated audiences around the world.

Bourdain’s influence on travel and food culture cannot be overstated. Through his adventurous spirit and insatiable curiosity, he inspired a generation of food enthusiasts to explore new cuisines and embrace different cultures. His shows, such as ‘Parts Unknown,’ not only showcased exquisite dishes but also shed light on the social and political issues faced by the places he visited.

Bourdain’s impact went beyond the kitchen; he was a voice for authenticity, challenging traditional culinary practices and advocating for a deeper understanding of the world through food. His legacy continues to resonate, reminding us to savor life’s flavors and embrace the unknown.

The Power of Bourdain’s Voice

Embracing a rebellious spirit, Bourdain’s captivating voice challenged traditional norms and inspired a generation to explore the world through food. His influence on travel and tourism cannot be overstated.

Through his storytelling, Bourdain transported viewers to far-flung destinations, enticing them to experience different cultures through their cuisine. His ability to weave narratives around food created a deep connection between people and places, igniting a desire to travel and explore.

Bourdain’s raw and honest storytelling allowed him to connect with his audience on a personal level, making his impact all the more profound. His authentic approach to storytelling, combined with his culinary expertise, transformed the way we view travel and tourism.

Bourdain’s legacy as a global influencer continues to shape the way we experience and appreciate the world around us.

Breaking Culinary Boundaries

Challenging traditional culinary practices, Bourdain pushed boundaries and transformed the way we perceive food. His relentless pursuit of culinary innovation and his refusal to conform to societal norms set him apart as a true icon in the culinary world.

Bourdain’s rebellious spirit and advocacy for authenticity encouraged exploration and adventure in the kitchen. He constantly challenged traditional culinary practices, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable and introducing new flavors and techniques.

Through his TV shows and books, Bourdain inspired aspiring chefs to think outside the box and embrace their own creativity. His impact on the food industry cannot be overstated, as he not only elevated the status of chefs but also raised awareness about different cultures through food, promoting understanding and empathy.

Bourdain’s legacy continues to be remembered and admired, as he remains an influential figure in the culinary world.

Impact on Food Culture

As a food enthusiast, I am amazed by the immense impact that Anthony Bourdain had on food culture around the world. His unique personality and non-conformist attitude made him a beloved figure in the culinary world.

Through his book ‘Kitchen Confidential’ and his celebrity chef status, Bourdain showcased his great mind and culinary expertise. His passing left many of us with mixed emotions of sadness and relief, as we recognized his struggles while appreciating his contributions.

Bourdain’s refusal to conform to societal norms and his advocacy for authenticity led him to bridge culinary traditions and challenge traditional practices. He used food as a means of cultural exchange, raising awareness and promoting understanding and empathy.

His legacy continues to inspire aspiring chefs and his influence in the food industry is undeniable.

Bourdain’s Exploration of Global Cuisine

I’m fascinated by how Bourdain explored a wide range of global cuisines, introducing viewers to diverse flavors and culinary traditions from around the world. His shows, such as ‘No Reservations’ and ‘Parts Unknown,’ showcased his insatiable appetite for cultural appreciation through food.

With each episode, he took us on a journey, immersing us in the local communities and their culinary landscapes. Bourdain’s global culinary exploration was not just about eating delicious food; it was about understanding the people behind the dishes, their stories, and their unique perspectives.

Through his lens, we learned to appreciate the significance of food as a universal language that connects us all. His ability to bridge cultural gaps through food was a testament to his unwavering curiosity and deep respect for different cultures.

Bourdain’s legacy in global culinary exploration continues to inspire us to embrace diversity and celebrate the richness of our shared human experience through food.

Inspiring a New Generation of Chefs

After exploring global cuisine and showcasing the diverse flavors of different cultures, Anthony Bourdain’s impact on the culinary world goes beyond just introducing new dishes. His unconventional techniques and non-conformist attitude have inspired a new generation of chefs to challenge traditional culinary practices and embark on their own culinary revolution.

Breaking the rules: Bourdain’s rebellious spirit encouraged chefs to think outside the box and experiment with unconventional techniques, pushing the boundaries of traditional cooking methods.

Embracing authenticity: He advocated for the use of locally sourced ingredients and highlighted the importance of preserving culinary traditions, inspiring chefs to prioritize authenticity in their own creations.

Promoting creativity: Bourdain’s adventurous approach to food sparked the imaginations of aspiring chefs, encouraging them to explore unique flavor combinations and innovative cooking methods.

Revolutionizing the dining experience: By challenging norms and embracing unconventional techniques, Bourdain inspired chefs to create dining experiences that are not only delicious but also thought-provoking and memorable.

Through his unapologetic pursuit of culinary excellence, Anthony Bourdain continues to inspire and shape the future of the culinary world.

Advocacy for Mental Health Awareness

Advocating for mental health awareness, I appreciate how Bourdain openly discussed his struggles and brought attention to the importance of mental well-being in the culinary industry. He shattered the mental health stigma by sharing his own experiences, which encouraged others to seek help and prioritize self-care. Bourdain’s legacy goes beyond his culinary expertise; he was a trailblazer in addressing the mental health challenges faced by chefs and food professionals. In a society that often overlooks the emotional toll of high-pressure industries, Bourdain’s honesty and vulnerability were refreshing. His advocacy for mental health not only created a safe space for others to share their stories but also highlighted the importance of self-care in a demanding profession. Through his words and actions, Bourdain reminded us that taking care of our mental well-being is essential for a fulfilling and successful life.

Remembering Bourdain’s Legacy

Reflecting on the impact of his life and work, it is undeniable that Bourdain’s legacy continues to inspire and resonate with people from all walks of life.

His unique personality, non-conformist attitude, and culinary expertise made him a celebrity chef like no other.

I remember the sadness that swept across social media when news of his passing broke. But amidst the sadness, there was also a sense of relief. We recognized his struggles and appreciated his contributions.

Bourdain’s legacy and influence are far-reaching. He left a lasting impact on the culinary world, inspiring countless aspiring chefs.

Through his TV shows and writings, he raised awareness about different cultures and promoted understanding and empathy.

Bourdain’s non-conformist spirit and advocacy for authenticity will continue to be remembered and admired for years to come.

Continuing the Bourdain Influence

Experiencing his TV shows and reading his writings, I continue to be inspired by Bourdain’s unique perspective and his passion for exploring different cultures through food. His influence goes beyond his celebrity status, leaving a lasting impact on culinary innovation and cultural exchange.

Here’s how Bourdain continues to shape the culinary world:

Culinary innovation: Bourdain challenged traditional culinary practices and encouraged chefs to think outside the box. His fearless approach to experimenting with flavors and techniques has inspired many aspiring chefs to push boundaries and create their own unique dishes.

Cultural exchange: Through his travels, Bourdain showcased the diverse cuisines of different countries, promoting understanding and empathy. He believed that food was a universal language that could bridge cultural gaps, and his exploration of local cuisines opened doors to new perspectives and appreciation for various cultures.

Legacy and influence: Bourdain’s legacy lives on through the countless chefs and food enthusiasts he has inspired. His commitment to authenticity, adventure, and embracing the unknown continues to shape the way we approach food and cultural exploration. Bourdain’s influence will forever be remembered and admired in the culinary world.

What Was Anthony Bourdain’s Childhood Like and How Did It Shape His Future Career?

Anthony Bourdain’s childhood and early career influences shaped his future. Growing up in a culinary household sparked his interest in food. Working in restaurants exposed him to the industry, fueling his passion for cooking and eventually leading to his iconic career.

How Did Anthony Bourdain’s Rise to Celebrity Status Impact His Personal Life and Relationships?

The rise to celebrity status had a profound impact on Anthony Bourdain’s mental health and personal relationships. The pressures and demands of fame took a toll, leading to struggles and strain in his personal life.

What Were Some of the Key Moments or Events That Showcased the Power of Bourdain’s Voice and Influence?

Key moments or events showcasing Bourdain’s influence include his exploration of different cultures through food, his advocacy for authenticity and non-conformity, and his ability to promote understanding and empathy. His impact extended beyond the food industry, leaving a lasting legacy.

In What Ways Did Anthony Bourdain Challenge Traditional Culinary Practices and Push the Boundaries of the Food Industry?

Anthony Bourdain challenged culinary norms and redefined boundaries by refusing to conform, advocating for authenticity, and encouraging exploration. His rebellious spirit and unconventional approach pushed the food industry to embrace new ideas and practices.

How Did Anthony Bourdain’s Exploration of Global Cuisine Contribute to a Greater Understanding and Appreciation of Different Cultures?

Anthony Bourdain’s exploration of global cuisine contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures. Through his culinary adventures, he showcased the diversity and richness of food traditions, fostering a sense of cultural connection and empathy.

Arctic Adventure: Uncharted Destinations With Le Commandant Charcot

I’ve always been enchanted by the allure of the Arctic, with its pristine landscapes and splendid wildlife. Upon learning about the Arctic Expedition on Le Commandant Charcot, I found it irresistible.

This luxurious expedition promises to take me to uncharted destinations, where I’ll witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, explore remote islands, and meet indigenous communities. With a team of experts, I’ll uncover the mysteries of this pristine region, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a polar icebreaker.

It’s an adventure of a lifetime, and I can’t wait to embark on this extraordinary journey.

• Arctic exploration unveils wonders at every step.
• Meeting indigenous communities preserves their culture.
• Interacting with indigenous cultures enriches the experience.
• Responsible travelers preserve the fragile Arctic ecosystem.

Uncovering the Mysteries of the Arctic

I’m excited to uncover the mysteries of the Arctic as I embark on this unique adventure with Le Commandant Charcot.

Arctic exploration is a journey into the unknown, where every step unveils a new wonder. As we sail through icy waters, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and anticipation.

One of the highlights of this expedition is the opportunity to meet and learn from local indigenous communities. Their rich culture and traditions are intricately woven into the fabric of this remote land. It is our responsibility to preserve and respect their way of life, ensuring that future generations can continue to thrive.

This voyage is not just about discovering the Arctic’s untouched landscapes, but also about fostering a deep appreciation for the indigenous cultures that call this frozen wilderness home.

Immersive Encounters With Arctic Wildlife

Excited to witness the majestic Northern Lights and explore remote islands, I can’t wait to have immersive encounters with Arctic wildlife on this unique Arctic adventure. As I embark on this journey, I look forward to experiencing the wonders of nature up close and personal. Here are four incredible things I anticipate:

Interactions with indigenous cultures: Meeting local communities and learning about their traditions and way of life will be a truly enriching experience.

Arctic wildlife conservation efforts: I am eager to witness the dedicated efforts of experts in protecting and preserving the delicate Arctic ecosystem, ensuring the survival of magnificent creatures such as polar bears, whales, and seals.

Breathtaking scenery: The Arctic offers awe-inspiring landscapes, from towering icebergs to vast expanses of pristine wilderness. I can’t wait to capture these breathtaking views in my memory forever.

Unique wildlife encounters: From observing polar bears hunting for seals on the ice to spotting majestic whales breaching the surface, I anticipate unforgettable encounters with Arctic wildlife that will leave me in awe of nature’s wonders.

This Arctic adventure promises to be an unforgettable experience, combining adventure, education, and a deep appreciation for the natural world and its conservation efforts.

Exploring Remote Islands and Indigenous Communities

Exploring the remote islands and meeting indigenous communities will provide a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the rich culture and traditions of these fascinating Arctic regions. As I set foot on these uncharted destinations, I am filled with a sense of adventure and curiosity.

The traditional cultures that thrive in these remote corners are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of harsh conditions. Connecting with the local communities will allow me to witness their unique way of life, handed down through generations. From learning about their traditional hunting and fishing practices to participating in cultural ceremonies, every interaction will be a chance to gain a deeper understanding of their rich heritage.

The Arctic is not just a land of icy landscapes, but a tapestry of diverse cultures waiting to be discovered.

Unparalleled Luxury and Comfort on Le Commandant Charcot

Sailing aboard the luxurious Le Commandant Charcot promises unparalleled comfort and indulgence throughout my Arctic voyage. The Ultimate Arctic Escape awaits, offering unforgettable experiences in the remote corners of this icy wilderness. With its expert team of naturalists, historians, and geologists, the ship provides enriching insights about the flora, fauna, and geological wonders that surround us. As I explore the uncharted destinations, I am greeted by breathtaking scenery and encounters with Arctic wildlife. The luxurious accommodations and exquisite cuisine onboard ensure that every moment is filled with relaxation and delight. From the personalized experiences in remote corners to the visits to indigenous communities, Le Commandant Charcot creates an atmosphere of luxury and adventure. This unique polar ice breaker experience guarantees a safe and comfortable voyage, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the last great wilderness. Join me on this extraordinary journey, where style, safety, and comfort are seamlessly combined to create an Arctic adventure of a lifetime.

Sustaining the Arctic: Responsible Tourism and Ecosystem Protection

As a responsible traveler, I am committed to preserving the fragile ecosystem of the Arctic during my voyage on the luxurious Le Commandant Charcot. With its dedication to sustainable practices and Arctic conservation, PONANT ensures that my journey will have a minimal impact on this pristine environment.

The dedicated team onboard is passionate about protecting this unique region and will guide me in exploring the Arctic with the utmost care and respect. From the moment I step foot on this luxury polar icebreaker, I will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and have the opportunity for unique wildlife encounters.

As I indulge in personalized experiences in remote corners, I will also gain a deeper understanding of the Arctic’s flora, fauna, and geological wonders. With PONANT, I can embark on this adventure knowing that style, safety, and comfort go hand in hand with responsible tourism and ecosystem protection.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Witness the Northern Lights During the Arctic Adventure on Le Commandant Charcot?

The best time to witness the Northern Lights during this Arctic adventure is in the winter months when the nights are darkest. It’s a breathtaking experience that I can’t wait to share with you on Le Commandant Charcot.

How Long Is the Typical Stay in Each Remote Island During the Expedition?

The typical stay duration in each remote island during the expedition is around two to three days. It allows ample time for exploration, immersing in the local culture, and experiencing the natural wonders of these untouched destinations.

Can Guests Participate in Any Hands-On Research Activities Conducted by the Expert Team of Naturalists, Historians, and Geologists?

Yes, guests can participate in hands-on research activities conducted by our expert team. It’s an incredible opportunity to contribute to scientific discovery while exploring remote islands and learning about the Arctic’s unique ecosystem.

Are There Any Specific Dietary Options Available for Guests With Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

Yes, there are specific dietary options available for guests with dietary restrictions. The culinary team onboard is experienced in accommodating various dietary needs, ensuring a personalized and satisfying dining experience for all guests.

How Does PONANT Ensure the Safety and Comfort of Passengers During the Arctic Expedition on Le Commandant Charcot?

Safety is our top priority. Onboard Le Commandant Charcot, we have implemented rigorous safety measures to ensure a comfortable and secure Arctic expedition. With state-of-the-art amenities, we provide a worry-free journey like no other.

Affiliate disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

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Holland America Line Travel Insurance - 2024 Review

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For 147 years, Holland America Line has been a recognized leader in cruising. With more than 500 sailings a year and taking in all seven continents, their cruises include both popular and less-traveled ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mexico, South America, the Panama Canal, Australia, New Zealand and Asia — as well as unique voyages to the Amazon, Antarctica and their extended Grand Voyages.

In our Holland America Line Travel Insurance review, we highlight the costs of its two Cancellation Protection Plans and what we believe are the limited benefits that are provided by those plans.

In order to best demonstrate the plans offered by Holland America versus other travel insurance plans available from the wider travel insurance marketplace, we need to set sail with Holland America. So sit back, relax and enjoy as we hoist the main-sail, weight anchor and head to the lido deck for the sail-away party.

Our Holland America Line Cruise

Our sample couple are aged 55- and 60-year-old, and we have chosen for them a Holland America 7-day Western Caribbean cruise.

The total fare for 2 travelers, including taxes and fees, is $2,628. Later, we’ll use this trip cost to compare alternative travel insurance plans.

Holland America Line Cancellation Policy

Holland America Line offers two cancellation plans: Standard and Platinum. The Standard Cancellation Protection Plan is just that: standard cancellation protection with no extra coverage, other than up to $500 for Baggage/Personal Effects loss while the traveler’s bags are in the custody of Holland America Line.

The Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan, on the other hand, includes limited coverage for Medical Insurance, Medical Evacuation, Trip Interruption, and Baggage Coverage, which we will discuss later in our review.

Holland America Line’s cancellation coverage is reasonably generous when compared with other cruise line insurance plans. However, this is limited to certain destinations.

This information comes directly from Holland America’s website:

The following applies to cruises to Caribbean; Panama Canal; Mexico; Canada & New England; Pacific Coastal; Pacific Northwest; Alaska and Alaska Land+Sea Journeys; Europe (except Prinsendam Europe, 30+ day Transatlantic and segments of 30+ day Transatlantic) and 27-day or less Hawaii sailings

For other destinations, the cancellation fees begin sooner and reimbursements are less. On the positive side, Holland America Line is one of the few cruise lines that provides a refund in cash. Many cruise lines only offer a future cruise credit but keep your money if you cancel. Under those circumstances, this is a positive feature of Holland America Line. If you had an issue onboard, you don't know if and when you will be able to cruise again, and a future cruise credit may sound fine, but as the months move on, you run the risk of losing your entire holiday investment. Cash is always king!

Cruise lines, like airlines, moved in the direction of non-refundable deposits, so at minimum you will lose your deposit for a cancellation.

What is Holland America Line’s Cancellation Protection Plan?

When you book your Holland America Line cruise, you will be invited to buy Holland America Line insurance plans: either the Holland America Line Cancellation Protection Plan Standard or Platinum.

Holland America Line Insurance

Upon inspection, we discover the Standard Cancellation Protection Plan is not a travel insurance policy. This is not new in the cruise market. any of the plans offered by cruise lines are infact not insurance policies.

Instead, it is an optional upgrade to Holland America Line’s Standard Cancellation Protection Plan and is administered by Holland America Line.

Holland America Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan

On the other hand, the Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan is an exclusive insurance policy written for and sold by Holland America Line, underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. This is a highly reputable insurer.

Holland America Standard Cancellation Protection Plan

Adding the Standard Holland America Line Cancel Protection Plan increases the trip cost to $2,866. Holland America Line charges  each traveler  $119 for the Standard Cancellation Protection Plan

Holland America Insurance Cost

This plan costs our travelers $238 to extend the cancellation out to 24 hours prior to departure for an 80% refund. That means they paid a $238 fee and will lose at least 20% of the cruise fare cost: $573.20.

Still, it lacks full trip coverage. While this plan provides baggage loss/damage protection up to $500 (while bags are in the custody of Holland America Line), it has  no medical expense insurance or emergency medical evacuation benefits .

If you are searching for Holland America Platinum Travel Insurance, the Standard Cancellation Protection Plan is not an insurance policy. It’s simply an improved partial refund due to cancellation than without the plan.

Adding the Holland America Line Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan charges $149 per person for the trip insurance. This brings the total trip cost to $2,926.

What does the Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan cover for $298?

This plan is made up of two parts: First is the upgraded Cancellation policy sponsored by Holland America Line and second is the actual insurance policy with Trip Interruption, Baggage coverage, and medical benefits.

Holland America Line - Standard vs Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan

The Standard Plan offers no medical coverage. It’s just an expensive, upgraded cancellation policy.

Side by side, the Platinum Plan has better coverage than  the Standard Plan , but, the traveler still risks incomplete coverage and unfavorable value buying the Platinum Plan.

Holland America Platinum Plan has low levels of Emergency Medical Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation, which may be acceptable if traveling domestically, but not internationally.

Neither plan covers privately booked travel arrangements, such as airfare, accommodations, rental cars, or other tours and excursions one may take while on their trip.

Under the Platinum Plan, cancellation and interruption coverage only apply to products and services sold by Holland America Line.

On the contrary, every policy at  Cruise Insurance 101  provides trip coverage for all prepaid and non-refundable costs, not just the cruise cost.

These may include airfare, rail tickets, excursions and tours, event tickets, hotel rooms, long term parking, medical device or mobility rentals and port/airport transfers. If you buy the Holland America plan and want to cover these aditonal items, you will need to buy a stand-alone travel insurance plan. So why not simply buy one plan that covers your entire vacation expense, providing more coverage at a lower price. That would be our recommendation.

In our opinion, Holland America Line’s Travel Insurance will leave you completely unprotected in the time spent traveling to and from the cruise or afterward – which is a critical omission of coverage.

What Medical Insurance Benefits Do I Need on a Cruise?

No one goes on a trip expecting massive medical bills or for a medical evacuation.

Travel Medical Insurance covers your emergency doctor and hospital bills while outside the US. Emergency Medical Evacuation gets you to the best place to treat your condition, and later brings you back home should you require further treatment.

Medical Insurance Overseas

At  Cruise Insurance 101 , we believe the only time it’s appropriate to consider lower medical protection overseas is when a traveler has a health insurance that pays full benefits outside the US. Unfortunately, few Americans own health insurance policies with international coverage.

Travel Medical Insurance  is only effective when it can mitigate a worst-case scenario. We have seen worst-case scenarios, so we always recommend a traveler carry  at minimum $100,000 of Travel Medical Insurance  protection when outside the US.

That may seem like a lot, but unexpected traumatic injury or illness often result in significant medical expense. International private hospitals can charge up to $3,000-$4,000 per day.

A policy with only $10,000 in medical coverage won’t last long before the hospital bills you personally. A minimum medical benefit of $100,000 will buy you time and treatment.

Where to Seek Medical Treatment Overseas

Moreover, many Americans believe overseas public health services are free and open to treat a sick or injured American traveler. On the contrary, public health services are not open to foreign visitors, so Americans must seek treatment at costlier private health clinics and hospitals.

As a result, you will pay full price to use private health facilities. Again, the  US State Department does not provide financial support  to US residents needing overseas health care.

Therefore, proper Travel Medical Insurance is absolutely necessary.

What Medical Evacuation Benefits Do I Need When Cruising?

It’s not unusual for US tourists to require a Medical Evacuation.

If you experience a serious accident or illness on your trip and the local hospital is not equipped to treat you, you need evacuation to the appropriate facility.

Transport may be as simple as transfer to a nearby hospital or as complicated as a private jet outfitted with medical equipment accompanied by a nursing team to another country, such as back home to the US.

Without Medical Evacuation coverage, you’d be left to recover alone for weeks or months in a foreign country. Patients recover faster when supported by nearby family and friends. Medical Evacuation provides this.

Health Insurance Won’t Help You

Don't count on your health insurance to send a plane to pick you up and bring you home.

Even if you have good health insurance in the US, it does not include medical evacuation. If you break a leg in Canada, have a stroke in the Bahamas, or get a disabling virus in Belize, you will be stuck there until you are well enough to take a commercial flight home.

Recommended Medical Levels

Specifically, travelers who cruise within 3-4 hours of the United States border should carry a minimum $250,000 of Medical Evacuation benefits.

Travelers venturing further from home need a minimum $500,000 of Medical Evacuation coverage – the cost of a long-range private jet staffed with a medical evacuation team.

Holland America Trip Medical Insurance Benefits Are Dangerously Low

Next, we highlight the Holland America Line Cruise Insurance Medical Insurance, and the Emergency Evacuation levels of coverage.

In the event of serious illness or accident, both Cancellation Protection Plans have very low levels of medical insurance that will leave a traveler exposed to catastrophic financial risk. Later in this article, we go into more detail.

Holland America Line offers low Medical Insurance and Emergency Evacuation benefits despite the fact their primary clientele are seniors.

Travel Medical Insurance

Medical Evacuation Insurance

Emergency Medical Evacuation is provided, but again, it’s too low to be reliable in a true emergency.

Seniors who rely on Holland America Line’s Cruise Insurance for medical care and evacuation face increased financial risk. The Platinum Cancellation Plan only provides a meager $10,000 medical coverage and Medicare is not accepted outside of the United States.

Although Holland America’s Platinum Travel Insurance has helpful cancellation, it is not a strong or dependable insurance plan. Fortunately, there are many more affordable trip insurance options with better coverage throughout the wider travel insurance market.

Basic Cancellation Travel Protection

Every Travel Insurance policy includes some form of basic  Trip Cancellation  protection. Typically, trip insurance pays a 100% cash refund for reasons that include:

• Accident, illness, or death of you, a traveling partner, business partner, or family member
• Legal appearance
• Traffic accident en route to airport
• Death or hospitalization of your host at your travel destination
• Bankruptcy of your travel provider

The Holland America Line Cancellation Protection Plan has pretty good cancellation benefits.

Both the Standard and Platinum Cancellation Protection Plans have a “Cancel For Any Reason” option. However, this is the exception, not the rule, in the realm of cruise cancellation.

Most cruise lines that do offer Cancel For Any Reason pay cruise credits instead of a cash refund.

In fact, Holland America Line itself takes financial responsibility to pay the Cancel For Any Reason benefit under both protection plans, by issuing the traveler a cash refund for up to 80% of the cruise cost with the Standard Plan, and up to 90% of the cruise cost with the Platinum Plan.

The following Cancel For Any Reason Waiver is provided by Holland America and is not an insurance benefit.   Please see the dates set forth in the Cancellation Policy in the applicable Holland America Line brochure.

The Cancellation Policy further details the requirements for a payout:

Trip cancellation protection is effective for any reason up to 24 hours prior to scheduled cruise or cruise tour departure under the Standard and Platinum Plans. The Platinum Plan additionally offers cancellation protection for covered reasons within the 24 hours prior to departure. All other benefits of the Platinum Plan are effective upon departure.

Holland America Line’s Covered Reasons for Cancellation

In the final 24-hour window, Holland America’s Cruise Cancellation Plan restricts cancellation to a few listed reasons:

• your sickness, accidental injury or death, that results in medically imposed restrictions as certified by a physician at the time of loss preventing your continued participation in the trip
• sickness, accidental injury or death of a family member or traveling companion booked to travel with you that results in medically imposed restrictions as certified by a physician preventing that person’s continued participation in the trip
• sickness, accidental injury or death of a non-traveling family member
• you or a traveling companion being hijacked, quarantined, required to serve on a jury, subpoenaed; having your principal place of residence made uninhabitable by fire, flood, volcano, earthquake, hurricane or other natural disaster
• you or a traveling companion being directly involved in a traffic accident, substantiated by a police report, while en route to departure
• a terrorist attack (or attacks) occurs in your departure city or in a city that is still a scheduled destination for your trip, provided: the terrorist attack (or attacks) occurs within thirty (30) days of the scheduled departure date for your trip or during your trip.

By comparison, Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector (explained below) lists 33 covered cancellation reasons, including the points above.

Single Supplement

Most cruise fares are based on double occupancy of the room. In the event one of the cruisers cancels, they normally charge the roommate a supplement fee or even the remaining fare, if traveling alone.

If your companion cancels their cruise for a covered reason, and you still want to go without them, many travel insurance policies cover the added cost of the person who cancelled:

Benefits will be paid, up to the Maximum Benefit Amount, for the additional cost incurred as a result of a change in the per person occupancy rate for Prepaid Travel Arrangements if a Traveling Companion’s or Family Member’s Trip is canceled for a covered reason and You do not cancel Your Trip.

This is a benefit Cruise Insurance 101 recommends so that travelers can enjoy their cruise vacation even if their traveling companion cannot.

Work Cancellation Travel Protection

In the event a traveler previously received approval for vacation, but the employer later rescinds it, Cancel For Work Reason covers cancellation for a 100% refund.

Although Holland America’s Cancel Protection Plan does not specifically allow  Cancel for Work Reason, it falls under Cancel For Any Reason.

By comparison, the Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector plan allows for Cancel For Work Reason if a covered traveler is required to work during the trip. In fact, it pays a 100% cash refund to cancel for this reason. At Best, Holland America Line would refund 90% cash.

Worth nothing, a traveler who gets laid off from work through no fault of their own may be covered under ‘covered cancellation’ with many travel insurance policies.

Trip Interruption Travel Protection Reasons

If you’re already on your trip and a family member back home dies or is unexpectedly ill or injured, you may interrupt your trip and return early. This is a covered cancellation reason on all trip insurance policies available through  Cruise Insurance 101 .

Although Holland America Line’s Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan is a “Cancel For Any Reason” policy, that does not mean it includes “Interruption For Any Reason.” On the contrary, it lists only a few reasons it will cover a trip interruption:

• Your Sickness, Accidental Injury or death, that results in medically imposed restrictions as certified by a Physician at the time of Loss preventing Your continued participation in the Trip
• Sickness, Accidental Injury or death of a Family Member or Traveling Companion booked to travel with You that results in medically imposed restrictions as certified by a Physician preventing that person’s continued participation in the Trip
• Sickness, Accidental Injury or death of a non-traveling Family Member
• You or a Traveling Companion being hijacked, Quarantined, required to serve on a jury, subpoenaed; having Your principal place of residence made Uninhabitable by fire, flood, volcano, earthquake, hurricane or other natural disaster
• You or a Traveling Companion being directly involved in a traffic accident, substantiated by a police report, while en route to departure
• A Terrorist Attack (or Attacks) occurs in Your departure city or in a city that is still a scheduled destination for Your Trip, provided: the Terrorist Attack (or Attacks) occurs within thirty (30) days of the Scheduled Departure Date for Your Trip or during Your Trip.

This is a very basic list that all travel insurance policies should cover for Trip Interruption.

Moreover, Holland America Line only refunds Trip Interruptions for travel arrangements booked through them. Anything you booked privately is not covered for cancellation or interruption.

What Alternatives Can I Find for Cruise Travel Insurance?

Each year, Americans spend over $3 billion on travel insurance. Since the United States is home to one of the largest travel insurance markets in the world, travelers can easily compare policies to find the best fit for their cruise.

To help you shop for the best value, Cruise Insurance 101 allows the traveler to quickly quote and compare travel insurance plans from some of the top travel insurers in the country.

Size Up Policies at a Glance with Cruise Insurance 101

First, we work with the most reputable travel insurance carriers in the US. Each of our carriers is rated ‘A’ or ‘A+’ by A.M. Best and offer highly respected customer service. For more information on AM Best, visit their website .  

Second, our carriers offer a range of travel insurance plans with different levels of benefits. A savvy consumer can compare a dozen different travel insurance plans at the same time.

Third, you are assured to find the best value on cruise insurance. We guarantee you will not find the same travel insurance policy at a lower price.

Holland America Line Cruise Insurance vs Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector Travel Insurance Plan

Earlier we noted that the Holland America Line Standard Cancellation Protection Plan was $238 for both travelers. Here we compare this to a more comprehensive travel insurance policy priced at $196 for both travelers.

For our senior cruise couple, the cruise fare with fees and taxes is $2,628 for both travelers.

The Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector standard cancellation plan would only cost our two travelers $196 versus the $238 they would pay for the Holland America Line Standard Cancellation Protection Plan.

For the $196, these two travelers would be covered for a 100% refund of their total trip cost of $2,628 under 33 covered cancellation scenarios. Additionally, they would have ample coverage for medical insurance and medical evacuation coverage, which is not included in the Holland America Line Standard Cancellation Protection Plan.

For our two travelers to have Cancel For Any Reason coverage included, it would cost $282.24, which is still about $15 less than the $298 cost of the Holland America Line Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan and has more complete coverage.

Features of Travel Insured International Worldwide Trip Protector (CFAR 75%)

Worldwide Trip Protector (CFAR 75%) is one of the most popular plans at Cruise Insurance 101 , due to its Cancel For Any Reason feature and high level of Medical Evacuation ($1,000,000).

The easiest way to compare and contrast different plans is to use a side-by-side comparison table. Here we can see the benefits and cost of the Cancellation Protection Plan offered by Holland America Line against other available plans:

Please note: Holland America Line states that the cost of their Cancellation Protection Plans start at $79, but is ultimately based on the total cruise cost. We used the cost of both Cancellation Protection Plans applicable to the 7-day Western Caribbean cruise package we quoted to determine the percentage shown above.

Here, our senior cruising couple can protect themselves with a top level, fully featured travel insurance plan that costs about $15 less than Holland America Line’s Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan. While $15 isn’t a huge cost saver, these travelers will still save some money and receive a far more generous amount of protection under the Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector (CFAR 75%) travel insurance plan.

Recap: Holland America Line Cancellation Protection Plan Standard and Platinum

• Holland America Line Cancel Protection Plan Standard - not travel insurance
• Partial refund for cancellation costs paid to Holland America Line (cruise fare, excursions, air, land tour, etc)
• High cost for the value of the plan
• Holland America Line Cancel Protection Plan Platinum - very limited benefits
• Low medical and evacuation coverage
• Narrow scope of insurance benefits
• Cruise Insurance 101 offers comprehensive travel insurance policies
• Robust medical coverage to give you peace of mind
• Covers all prepaid and non-refundable trip costs, regardless of vendor
• Comprehensive policy benefits
• One policy can cover everyone on the trip (if they reside in the same state), rather than just 1 person
• Best value for your money
• Platinum plan underwritten by Nationwide
• Standard plan available to everyone, regardless of country or state of residence
• Rates not based on age
• Plan is charged per person, instead of as a group
• Only covers the Holland America Line travel arrangements, no arrangements made by the traveler or outside travel provider
• Very weak medical
• Standard plan has virtually no benefits for the cost

Summary/Overview

Before you buy Holland America Line Travel Insurance, take a moment to familiarize yourself with what it covers and review all of your options.

Overall, both levels of Holland America Line Travel Insurance have a generous but expensive cancellation plan. However, Holland America Line’s coverage is completely inadequate in the event of a serious illness or accident. The Medical Evacuation limits are dubious in an emergency.

For Holland America Line guests, there are significantly better cruise travel insurance and cancellation plans available in the wider travel insurance market.

Lastly, we presented alternative travel insurance options available for US customers. These plans offer significantly higher benefits at a lower price.

Holland America Line’s Cancellation Protection Plan performs solely for cancellation benefits, rather than a travel insurance policy. In fact, Holland America Line seems to play down the insurance aspect of it.

While the Cancel For Any Reason offer is rather generous, most people cancel due to the sickness, injury or death of a covered traveler or a family member. As a result, Cancel For Any Reason is good marketing but expensive for the coverage it provides.

In fact, Holland America Line Travel Insurance - Cancel For Any Reason Cancellation Protection Plan distracts from the major flaws of both Cancellation Protection Plans: deficient medical benefits.

Cruise Insurance 101  believes travelers vacationing with Holland America Line are best served when they have ample medical insurance in case of emergency during their trip, not just cancellation protection. As such, we do not recommend either of the Cancellation Protection Plans for cruise travelers. We rate the Holland America Line coverage a 7 out of 10.

General recommendations

When traveling outside of the United States, we recommend having at least $100,000 in Travel Medical Insurance, enough to protect a traveler for an unexpected medical event.

We also recommend an Emergency Medical Evacuation limit of at least $250,000 to get you to treatment quickly, and then back home, after a devastating medical event.

Furthermore, if you purchase your trip insurance policy within 10-21 days of your initial trip payment, a pre-existing condition waiver can be included to save you headache down the road.

Have questions? Chat with us online, send us an email at  [email protected]  or alternatively call us at  +1(786) 751-2984 . We would love to hear from you.

Safe Travels

This article has been written for review purposes only and does not suggest sponsorship or endorsement of AARDY by the trademark owner.

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The ultimate guide to Holland America cruise ships and itineraries

Of the "Big Eight" cruise lines, Holland America Line is the one that prides itself most heavily on legacy. Among the other industry players, which are relatively new in comparison, Holland America stands out because of its longevity, having begun passenger operations in 1873 to ferry passengers across the Atlantic between The Netherlands and New York City.

Ships in the Holland America fleet — formerly the Nederlandsche-Amerikaansche Stoomvaart Maatschappij (Dutch-American Steamship Company) — carried immigrants from Europe to North America at regular intervals. As such, the line often attracts older cruisers and genealogy buffs looking to experience sea travel much like their grandparents, great-grandparents and even great-great grandparents did (albeit with more modern comforts). And veterans who found themselves on Holland America ships used as military transport during World War II often sail on the line's modern vessels as a way to reminisce.

But that doesn't mean the ships are stuffy , boring or limited to an older demographic. In fact, HAL ships are more modern than ever, with some of the newest hardware featuring high-tech theater shows, extensive art collections and contemporary music that even members of Generation Z are likely to appreciate. It's common to see multigenerational family groups on Holland America voyages.

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Tied to the cruise line's rich backstory is a focus on quality and upholding high standards of service. The line's ships generally offer excellent food, tastefully designed decor and an impressive variety of music as entertainment.

Holland America cruises are considered mainstream and mass market, but they're not bargain-basement sailings. They fall in line with brands like Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises, meaning you'll pay slightly more for them than a Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line cruise. But Holland America sailings aren't luxury. (The slightly higher price point also means you won't feel like you're in the middle of a never-ending frat party or a resort geared to families.)

Here's what you need to know to determine if Holland America Line is right for your next cruise.

3 things TPG loves about Holland America Line

• Delicious food that's carefully prepared with a focus on sustainability
• Abundant live music options to suit many tastes
• Extensive itineraries, from Alaska sailings that include land stays to lengthy world voyages

What we could do without

• The stereotype that Holland America is only for passengers of a certain age

The Holland America fleet

With only 11 ships, the HAL fleet is on the small side when compared to the industry's biggest players, some of which have more than two dozen vessels. Holland America's ships are divided into four classes : R Class, Vista Class, Signature Class and Pinnacle Class.

From oldest to newest , the ships have gradually increased in size . However, the largest ones still accommodate fewer than half of the number of passengers carried by the world's largest ships — a nod to the fact that many of the line's most loyal customers prefer a more intimate experience.

There are only two R Class ships on the roster — Volendam and Zaandam, which are the line's two oldest and smallest vessels, each with room for about 1,400 passengers. Because R Class vessels are nearly 40% smaller than the line's largest ships, they offer fewer amenities, making them perfect for anyone whose focus is the destinations the ships visit rather than the onboard diversions. As such, these two vessels tend to sail to more far-flung locales, including world cruises.

Introduced between 2002 and 2006, the four ships — Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam and Noordam — in Holland America's Vista Class are large enough for slightly more than 1,900 passengers at double occupancy. Like their smaller R Class fleetmates, they offer only two alternative restaurants (a steakhouse and an Italian eatery) in addition to complimentary buffet and main dining room venues.

Holland America's Signature Class, comprising Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam, represents the line's midsize offerings, with each vessel accommodating about 2,100 people. Like Pinnacle Class ships, those in this class are home to Pan-Asian restaurant Tamarind, in addition to the free options and for-fee Italian restaurant and steakhouse found on the line's smaller vessels.

But it was with Pinnacle Class ships that Holland America truly began to overhaul its offerings in terms of both dining and entertainment. Koningsdam, which debuted in 2016, brought with it the Grand Dutch Cafe (where you'll find the best grilled cheese at sea, along with delicious split pea soup) and Rudi's Sel de Mer, a seafood restaurant developed by chef and food artist Rudi Sodamin. It also boasts the Music Walk concept, a central thoroughfare that houses several performance spaces focusing on different genres of music.

While Rudi's and the Grand Dutch Cafe are only found on the line's Pinnacle Class ships (which hold 2,650 people and also include Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam ), Music Walk has been rolled out on Signature Class and Vista Class ships also, with R Class vessels featuring one or two of the individual Music Walk venues.

Destinations and itineraries

The sheer breadth of destinations Holland America covers is impressive for such a small fleet. Currently, the line has ships scheduled to call on six continents (plus a sail past the seventh, Antarctica) with stops in more than 50 countries.

Itineraries run the gamut from standard Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Canada/New England and Pacific Coastal voyages to more bucket-list regions like Alaska, the Mediterranean and the Panama Canal. More far-flung destinations include places like South Africa, Oman, Egypt, China, Australia and New Zealand, Japan, Turkey, Morocco, Malaysia, Fiji and other areas of the world that are often cumbersome to reach if you're not on a ship.

Many of the more off-the-beaten-path locations are reached via Holland America's two most impressive sailing types: world cruises, which last more than 100 days, and Grand Voyages that might include circumnavigations of places like Africa, Australia and New Zealand or South America and Antarctica. Both of these types of cruises tend to sell out a year or two in advance.

Plus, with the line's recent focus on longer cruises that travel round-trip from U.S. ports, Holland America makes it easy for Americans to set sail without having to fly.

The line's most popular and frequented destinations are the Caribbean and Europe, with other locales in proximity to North America — such as Canada/New England and the Mexican Riviera — proving to be the second-most popular with Holland America travelers.

Holland America has also had a commanding presence in Alaska for decades, offering some of the most robust opportunities to visit the 49th State. In fact, the brand is so established in the region that it owns and operates its own lodges near places like Denali National Park, making for the perfect pre- or post-cruise add-on.

Who sails Holland America cruises?

Passengers on Holland America's ships tend to be well-traveled retirees (largely couples but with some singles in the mix) and multigenerational family groups usually consisting of grandparents, parents and children traveling together.

Because the brand's vessels lack flashy top-deck attractions like waterslides and roller coasters, the experience is best enjoyed by people who don't need constant entertainment. The ideal match for one of these sailings is someone who likes destination immersion and relaxation time, as well as superb dining and eclectic music.

Although every Holland America ship has a kids club on board, the youth spaces aren't as expansive and thrilling as the facilities on the larger and more family-friendly cruise lines. Well-behaved kids who enjoy learning and visiting new places will still have a great time.

Cabins and suites

Holland America cabins fall into four main categories: insides (no views), outsides (sealed windows), balconies (walk-out verandas) and suites (high-end cabins, usually with extra space and more amenities).

If you're looking for a specialty cabin, those also are available. Holland America offers a selection of accessible rooms on every vessel. They span all cabin types, including suites, with fully accessible, fully accessible single-side approach (with both left- and right-side approaches as options) and ambulatory accessible varieties available. (Specific room types vary by ship.)

Spa cabins come in all basic cabin categories, as well as Neptune Suites. They encompass the same square footage as standard cabins in each of those categories and share the same layout. What sets them apart is that they provide spa-centric extras, such as flavored water and cut fruit, a spa concierge to assist with booking treatments and in-room fitness equipment like exercise DVDs and yoga mats.

Certain ships also offer solo cabins for one person. Designed with lone travelers in mind, they feature full-size beds in lieu of queens, and they're available in the outside category only, ranging from 127 to 172 square feet of space.

The line's only rooms designed specifically with families in mind are outside family cabins, which offer from 222 to 231 square feet of living space and accommodate as many as five people with a queen bed, a two-person sofa bed and a single bunk that pulls down from the ceiling. These cabins are also outfitted with a split bathroom setup — one room with a bathtub/shower, sink and toilet and another with a shower and sink.

Standard features in all Holland America ship cabins include a queen bed that can split into two twins, a couple of nightstands, a vanity/desk area with a chair or stool and a phone. There's also a closet with shelves and room to hang clothes. Rounding out the offerings are a safe, a minifridge, a variety of outlets and USB ports and a private bathroom. An in-room TV provides a handful of channels, ship-sponsored content and complimentary movies.

Select cabins also include sofas, some of which have pull-out beds. Other rooms made to sleep more than two people might have bunks that pull down from the ceiling.

Daily housekeeping service is included in all room types.

Standard amenities on Holland America vessels are a step up from those on most other lines. Some that you might enjoy include Elemis toiletries, bathrobes, shoeshine service, fresh fruit, signature pillow-top mattresses and complimentary 24/7 room service.

Restaurants and dining

Holland America consistently cooks up some of the best food at sea . In fact, through its own Culinary Council, the line offers menu items — and even stand-alone restaurants — developed by renowned chefs like Ethan Stowell, Jacques Torres, Rudi Sodamin, Andy Matsuda, David Burke and Masaharu Morimoto. You can even find their items in the main dining rooms, meaning you don't have to pay anything extra to try them.

All of the line's ships offer at least four dining options: two complimentary (the buffet and main dining room) and two for a fee (Italian eatery Canaletto and the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse). As the ships increase in size, so too does the real estate dedicated to restaurants.

The line's Signature and Pinnacle classes both have added-fee Asian-fusion cuisine at joint venue Tamarind and Nami Sushi, and Pinnacle Class vessels also are home to quirky seafood restaurant Rudi's Sel de Mer and the Holland-themed Grand Dutch Cafe. The latter is a fantastic place to seek out complimentary between-meal snacks and extra-charge alcohol and specialty coffee beverages.

Given the brand's deep roots in Alaska and dedication to serving some of the best meals afloat, it uses sustainable Alaskan seafood sourced through a partnership with the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute and certified by Responsible Fisheries Management.

Foodies will enjoy celebrity chef-led dining experiences and cooking demonstrations on select sailings. Plus, Holland America's Vital Choice program provides passengers with at-home fish deliveries and recipes from the line's chefs so they can replicate the meals they've eaten on board when they return to dry land.

Passengers tend to frequent the main dining room on most nights. It provides an upscale sit-down experience with waiter-served meals. If you choose As You Wish dining, you can arrive at the dining room any time between set hours and eat at your own table (or a communal table if you wish). If you choose set seating, you will dine at one of two set dining times with assigned tablemates at the same table and with the same waiters each night.

Depending on each day's schedule, the main dining room might also be open for breakfast and lunch.

Additionally, each Holland America vessel has a buffet that serves a large number of cuisines from several stations for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night snacking. And, speaking of snacking, afternoon tea is offered on select afternoons on each voyage.

Other noteworthy options include free pool deck pizza, burgers and hot dogs, as well as 24-hour room service. Although select room service items come with a fee, most are free. (Holland America is the only mainstream cruise line that doesn't charge for standard, around-the-clock room service.)

Entertainment and activities

Because Holland America cruises focus on the destinations visited, rather than onboard attractions, the entertainment roster is lighter than what you'll find with other mainstream lines. However, just because there are fewer options doesn't mean the ones that exist aren't excellent.

For starters, the newest vessels feature an entire music-themed promenade, and each ship's main theater, dubbed the World Stage, hosts several fabulous shows each cruise.

Theaters and shows

The most notable of Holland America's entertainment spaces is the Music Walk, a live music-themed promenade that's home to several venues for everything from dueling pianos and blues performances to rock 'n' roll.

B.B. King's Blues Club is a popular venue on Signature Class and Pinnacle Class ships. Named for the famed blues artist, it houses live performances of the same genre. On Vista Class, Signature Class and Pinnacle Class vessels, Billboard Onboard is where you can catch dueling pianos with musicians playing popular tunes that top the Billboard charts.

On Pinnacle Class vessels, a live band jams out to rock tunes in the Rolling Stone Rock Room. On ships in the Vista Class, the similarly themed Rolling Stone Lounge hosts a seven-piece band that covers a range of music styles, including R&B, rock, pop and country.

But the live music doesn't stop there. A three-piece band plays pop arrangements from the '60s through today at the Ocean Bar on all Vista Class and Signature Class ships.

The main theater, World Stage, features a changing roster of shows, including the a capella group Cantare; Step One Dance Company performances that meld technologically advanced sets with beautiful choreography; and Island Magic, a modern take on steel drum music.

Performances vary by ship, and a separate rotating list of performers also travels from vessel to vessel as part of Holland America's partnership with Lincoln Center. (Note that Lincoln Center Stage, a venue previously dedicated to instrumental performances in the Music Walk area, is no longer found on the line's vessels .)

Finally, "Origin Story" is a high-tech, live-hosted documentary-style show that chronicles Holland America's history — from the original Rotterdam through the pandemic-related shutdown of 2020 — in a way that will leave you wanting to see it more than once. (Bring tissues.)

Other attractions and activities

Other activities you can expect to see on the daily schedule might include trivia, game shows (think Battle of the Sexes and the Newlywed/Not So Newlywed Game), scavenger hunts, pickleball, casino play, poolside movies, basketball shooting competitions, afternoon tea, board games, dance and mixology classes, spa seminars and wine tastings.

Top-deck attractions

In keeping with Holland America's less-flashy style, you won't find much in the way of top-deck pastimes. There are no waterslides, go-kart tracks, surf simulators or rock climbing walls. What you will find, however, are two pools — a main pool covered by a retractable glass roof and another adults-only pool that overlooks the wake — as well as hot tubs for relaxing on each ship.

All ships also have tracks for walking and jogging. Locations and distances vary by vessel.

Children's programs

Holland America offers the appropriately (albeit uninspiringly) named Kids Club on all of its ships. It accommodates children from ages 3-17 under the supervision of professionally trained youth staff.

Children are split into three groups — Kids (ages 3-6), Tweens (7-12) and Teens (13-17) — for age-appropriate activities that might include video game play, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, theme parties and poker tournaments.

Note that regular Kids Club programming isn't available on sailings of 25 nights or longer, including world cruises and Grand Voyages. Children's activities will be available from time to time as needed, depending on the number and ages of the children on board.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

Unless you're sailing a closed-loop cruise (one that leaves from and returns to the same U.S. port) to one of a handful of destinations , you'll need a passport in order to sail with Holland America. If you are taking a closed-loop voyage, you can sail with your original birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, instead of a passport.

Whether you're required to have a passport or not, TPG always recommends traveling with one, just in case there's an emergency that requires you to disembark your sailing in a foreign country.

You will also need your boarding documents, either printed or on your mobile device via the Holland America Line Navigator app , to show at the pier during embarkation.

Additionally, depending on your sailing, you might have to apply for visas in order to enter certain countries. In many cases, the line will handle the application and procurement for you, but pay attention to special instructions in cases where you might be responsible for obtaining your own documentation .

Unless you prepay gratuities or purchase a cruise fare that has them included in the price, you will be charged $16 per person during each day of your cruise ($17.50 if you're booked in a suite). You can adjust the amount up or down or remove it completely (which we don't recommend doing) by visiting the guest services desk. You cannot adjust or remove gratuities after your sailing has ended.

An 18% service charge will be added to bar, drink package and spa purchases.

Holland America offers two Wi-Fi package tiers for a fee. The Surf package allows for checking email, accessing webpages, using select apps and utilizing message services, such as WhatsApp and iMessage. The Premium package offers access to select streaming apps (excluding streaming services like Hulu, Prime Video and Netflix) and audio and video call capabilities on apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.

If you purchase a cruise fare that includes Wi-Fi, you will receive the Surf package. To purchase the Surf package separately, the price starts at $18 per device, per day; Premium starts at $23 per device, per day. Passengers can upgrade from Surf to Premium or add additional devices at any time.

Carry-on drinks policy

Holland America's alcohol policy allows cruisers 21 years of age and older to bring bottles (750 milliliters or less) of wine or Champagne on board for a corkage fee of $20 per bottle, regardless of where the alcohol is consumed. No beer, liquor or boxed wine is allowed.

You can bring wine back on board if purchased in port, but liquor and other types of alcohol will be held for you until the end of the voyage. Most nonalcoholic drinks are not allowed to be brought on board. However, each passenger is allowed to bring cans or cartons of water, not to exceed six 1-liter cans or cartons or 12 500-milliliter cans or cartons. Plastic bottles are not allowed.

Smoking policy

Smoking generally is not allowed in indoor areas on Holland America ships, including cabins and cabin balconies. Designated smoking areas are available outdoors and in specific areas of the casinos on select ships. E-cigarettes are allowed to be used in passenger cabins but not on balconies.

Violations of these policies will result in a $250 fine; repeated offenses could cause a passenger to be disembarked from the sailing.

All of Holland America's vessels offer send-out laundry, dry-cleaning and pressing services for a fee. There are no self-service laundry facilities on any of the line's ships.

Electrical outlets

Ships have a mix of North American 110-volt and European 220-volt outlets in their cabins. All of the line's vessels also have USB ports in their rooms, including some near the beds for easy overnight charging.

The currency on Holland America ships is the U.S. dollar. The line's ships operate on a cashless system whereby passengers link a credit card or sum of cash to their room keycards, which can then be used to charge onboard purchases.

Drinking age

The drinking age on Holland America ships is 21. Passengers younger than 21 may not purchase or consume alcohol, nor may they bring it on board with them.

Holland America has two types of evening dress codes : smart casual and dressy. The former includes jeans without rips, holes or tears. Shorts, ripped jeans, beachwear and men's tank tops aren't allowed in restaurants at dinner.

On dressy nights, jeans aren't allowed in restaurants that aren't considered casual. For men, jackets and ties are preferred, but collared shirts with slacks are permitted. For women, dresses and skirts or slacks with blouses are appropriate.

Daywear is casual and influenced by the destination and current weather.

Holland America Line loyalty program

The Mariner Society, Holland America's loyalty program , allows frequent passengers to earn status over time if they sail with the line enough.

The program is straightforward, with five tiers. You reach each tier after accumulating a certain number of "cruise night credits." Simply, for each night you spend on a Holland America ship, you'll get credit for one night — or one point. Staying in a suite? You'll snag double points.

The five tiers are 1-Star Mariner (after your first cruise), 2-Star Mariner (30-74 cruise nights), 3-Star Mariner (75-199), 4-Star Mariner (200-499) and 5-Star Mariner (500 nights or more).

Cruisers have other ways to earn points, too, such as spending a certain amount of money on board when they sail.

But what's the incentive to join the program? After just one sailing, you're entitled to drink vouchers, a special welcome lunch, discounts on Holland America merchandise and half off third and fourth passengers in a cabin on select cruises. Plus, you'll be eligible for onboard credit when you book certain voyages.

When you reach each subsequent tier, you'll unlock further discounts — or even freebies — on things like specialty restaurant dining, specialty coffees, minibar purchases, spa treatments, laundry and pressing services. You'll also gain perks like priority check-in and tendering, as well as Wi-Fi credits.

How much does a Holland America cruise cost?

Holland America sailings aren't the least expensive you'll find, but they won't totally bust your budget, either, particularly if you opt for a more bare-bones cabin in the inside or ocean-view categories.

Although the line doesn't offer a truly all-inclusive cruise experience, it does allow you to purchase a Have It All premium package , rather than simply paying the base cruise fare. The package includes shore excursions, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and a beverage package. Gratuities are extra, but the line sometimes runs promotions that roll them into the cruise fare.

There are also special perks and priority benefits for passengers who pay for Club Orange access. When cruisers book with Holland America, they have the option to purchase a Club Orange add-on that provides priority check-in and disembarkation, priority tendering, dinner in a restaurant exclusive to Club Orange and a complimentary cabin upgrade, among other extras. Prices vary by sailing.

When it comes to fares, at the time of publication, the least expensive weeklong voyage I could find was $371 per person — $53 per person, per night — for a seven-night Alaska sailing through the Inside Passage, round-trip from Vancouver, British Columbia, on Sept. 22, 2024, aboard Nieuw Amsterdam in an inside cabin.

Prices range all the way up to $91,199 per person — $686 per person, per night — for a 133-night pole-to-pole Grand Voyage sailing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades on Jan. 25, 2025, in a Neptune Suite aboard Zuiderdam.

How to book

Cruisers can book Holland America voyages directly by visiting the company's website, by calling a cruise line representative at 855-932-1711 or by using a third-party online booking engine. If you need further assistance, a travel agent can help you narrow down the destination and ship you're looking for, field any special cabin requests you might have and process your reservation without costing you anything extra for the personalized service.

To maximize the return on your investment, carefully consider the type of card you're using to make the purchase. If you're someone who plans to pledge loyalty to Holland America, you might consider the Holland America Line Rewards Visa® Card . It offers welcome bonuses (at the time of publication, 10,000 bonus points when you spend $500 within the first 90 days of card opening), 2 points per dollar spent on Holland America purchases (including onboard purchases) and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. Points can either be redeemed toward cruise purchases or as statement credits.

However, you might get more value out of one of TPG's favorite credit cards for booking cruises .

The information for the Holland America Line Rewards Visa Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Bottom line

Holland America is a cruise line that caters to passengers seeking a premium experience at a reasonable price. It takes pride in its heritage, and its ties to immigration and historical events make it a compelling draw for history buffs and travelers interested in genealogy.

Passengers also have an impressive number of choices when it comes to destinations. Holland America offers itineraries spanning all seven continents, so you only need to decide where you'd like to go.

The line's Pinnacle Class renaissance shows a marked effort by the brand to improve the onboard experience, particularly in the way of entertainment. Sailings offer passengers excellent music and shows and serve phenomenal food in an elegant atmosphere.

Whether you're sailing with your significant other, friends or extended family, you're sure to enjoy a voyage with Holland America.

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I tried Holland America's 'Have It All' package. For just $55 a day, my cruise felt way more luxurious.

• I tried Holland America Line 's Have It All package on a recent cruise to Alaska.
• For $55 per person per day, we got complimentary drinks, special meals, and other perks.
• The price was so worth it we already booked this package for future cruises. 

Cruise bookings are predicted to reach record levels this year, and travelers are especially interested in luxurious sailings.

But as many of us know, luxury doesn't always equate to value, even when it comes to upgrades and special packages.

So, on our recent cruise to Alaska, my husband and I put one of many cruise packages to the test: Holland America Line's "Have It All" package, which costs $55 per person per day.

It includes perks like a beverage package, ship credit for shore excursions, onboard WiFi, and dinner at specialty restaurants.

Here's why we found it to be such a great value we're going to add it to future cruises.

The beverage package was great, and it included special drinks without alcohol

The biggest perk of the "Have It All" package was the ability to order drinks without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.

Our previous cruises had us drinking only tap water, drip coffee, tea, and an occasional glass of wine with dinner to avoid any sticker shock at the end of the trip. We felt restricted in enjoying our vacation.

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But this time, we had the freedom to enjoy ourselves. The "Have It All" package we booked came with 15 drinks a day under $11. If you want a drink over $11, you only pay the difference.

The beverage package also covers non-alcoholic drinks. It was perfect for when we wanted espresso drinks for cold Alaska days or a bottle of water for a shore excursion.

The shore-excursion credit helped push us to have more fun

We knew we had to do a whale-watching excursion in Alaska, but didn't consider booking other excursions due to price. Many of the ones we were interested in cost over $100 per person.

But with the package, we each got credits to use toward shore excursions during our cruise. The value of the credit varies depending on the duration of your cruise — ours was less than 10 days, so we each got a $100 credit.

The $200 worth of credits made us feel more comfortable booking an incredible excursion to kayak the wild waters of Sitka.

We probably would've hesitated to book an excursion and missed an incredible experience if we hadn't felt compelled to use the credits in the package.

Specialty dining helped us celebrate our anniversary

Our "Have it All" packages each included at least one dinner at one of the ship's specialty restaurants. If you're on a longer cruise, this package would get you access to more dinners.

We used our credits to eat at the Pinnacle Grill, known for its premium steaks and intimate dining experience. Our anniversary dinner was extra special because of the access to premium dishes unavailable in the main dining room, five-star service, and a luxurious setting.

WiFi kept us connected

The package included WiFi, which really came in handy as we shared photos with friends and family throughout our trip.

We were able to use the internet to search for whatever we needed and research the highlights to visit at the next port of call.

We've already booked the package for future cruises

For less than what a few drinks cost per day, the package helped us relax, have fun, and enjoy each port of call with a shore excursion. Plus, we got to indulge in the ship's specialty restaurants.

We loved it so much we've already purchased this same package for three future cruises.

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The 8 best alaska cruises for families.

Plan your next family vacation to explore the boundless beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

A cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime family or multigenerational vacation. With unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures that you won't find anywhere else in the world – not to mention scenic cruising days on the ship to spend time together – this special experience will stay with you forever.

For an extended vacation in the 49th state, consider booking a cruisetour. This combined cruise and pre- or post-cruise land tour option is offered by many of the larger cruise lines. The tours visit some of the top attractions in the state , such as Denali National Park and Preserve, and often include picturesque rides into Alaska's remote wilderness aboard the Alaska Railroad. Some tours also head north to Fairbanks and visit Kenai Fjords National Park or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (or both, in some cases). You can choose between fully escorted adventures or laid-back options to explore on your own, depending on what works best for your family.

Ready to book your Alaska adventure? These eight cruise lines offer excellent family-friendly excursions ashore , plus plenty of onboard activities to keep both kids and parents entertained during days at sea.

Find your perfect cruise

Princess Cruises: 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay

Departure city: Vancouver, British Columbia

The 2024 cruise season brings Princess' 55th-anniversary sailing to The Great Land, and the line is offering more than 150 Alaska voyages between April and September. The popular Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay itinerary northbound from Vancouver to Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska , is available on dozens of dates this season on Grand Princess , Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The sailing includes stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, as well as scenic cruising in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord in Alaska. If you prefer a smaller ship, choose Grand Princess or Sapphire Princess, which hold 2,610 and 2,680 passengers (double occupancy), respectively. Meanwhile, Royal Princess accommodates 3,560 guests at double occupancy.

The Princess Cruises North to Alaska program features immersive, family-friendly opportunities to learn about the history and traditions of the 49th state. Guests can sample fresh local seafood and meet famous Alaskans such as Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod dog race. In Skagway, families can meet some of the newest sled dogs and their handlers during Puppies in the Piazza on the ship. Younger cruisers and teens can participate in the Alaska Explorers Youth Program in partnership with Glacier Bay National Park and the Discovery Channel, which includes activities like the "Deadliest Catch" Crab Sort Challenge.

The North to Alaska program also partners with Discovery and Animal Planet to feature onboard exhibits about Alaska, as well as curated excursions like the White Pass Rail Bennett Lake & Yukon Adventure in Skagway, which was created by a train historian. Back on the ship, kids and teens can hang out with other young cruisers their age at Camp Discovery's Treehouse (ages 3 to 7), Lodge (8 to 12) or Beach House (13 to 17). In addition, be sure to keep an eye out for Princess Cruises' Alaska mascot: Stanley the Bear. You might even find him during story time at the kids clubs wearing a captain's uniform or destination-themed costumes, such as lumberjack gear in Ketchikan.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Alaska – Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Departure city: Seattle, Washington

This seven-day round-trip voyage from Seattle is available on Norwegian Bliss from April to September during the line's 2024 Alaska season. The sailing includes the ports of Sitka, Juneau , Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan (Ward Cove), plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an evening stop in Victoria, British Columbia , before disembarking in Seattle. Norwegian Bliss can carry 4,004 passengers at double occupancy and 4,266 passengers at maximum capacity.

The entire family will enjoy excursions like the Whale Watching & Bear Search tour in Icy Strait Point, while thrill-seekers of all ages will want to book an adrenaline-pumping ride down the mountain on the massive ZipRider zip line. In Ketchikan, take a hike through Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S., where you might catch glimpses of wildlife like black bears or bald eagles. You can also head offshore from Ketchikan aboard the Aleutian Ballad, the famed ship from Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch," to pick up the day's bounty of king crab and search for marine wildlife along Alaska's Inside Passage.

Plenty of family activities and entertainment options are offered on this Norwegian Cruise Line ship, including the Bliss Speedway, a two-level racetrack at sea; laser tag; mini-golf; an interactive aqua park with waterslides that zip above the side of the ship; a video arcade; and live entertainment. You'll also find kids clubs designed for younger children and teens , as well as adults-only escapes like Vibe Beach Club and Spice H2O. When it comes to dining, there's no shortage of casual fare for hungry kids at venues like the Garden Café buffet, American Diner and The Local Bar & Grill.

Disney Cruise Line: 7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

This seven-night itinerary aboard Disney Wonder departs round-trip from Vancouver on several voyages throughout the 2024 Alaska season, which runs from May to September. The weeklong Disney Cruise Line sailing includes glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap and stops in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. Plus, you'll enjoy plenty of Disney fun on board, with character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, and entertaining activities and venues for kids and adults alike.

Many of the ship's nautical-themed staterooms are designed with families in mind and feature a "split bath" concept and extra under-bed storage for suitcases. Disney Wonder can hold 1,750 passengers at double occupancy and 2,700 passengers at maximum capacity. The ship's unique rotational dining venues include an "under the sea" adventure at Triton's, a dinner show with Disney characters at Animator's Palate and Southern specialties with jazz music at Tiana's Place. For a night out sans kids, adults can savor a quiet evening with northern Italian cuisine at Palo or nosh on casual pub fare at Crown & Fin Pub. Younger sailors will find age-appropriate spaces at Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab, tween venue Edge, and teen club Vibe.

Disney's excursions also offer family fun ashore – especially in Skagway. Try panning for gold with Disney characters like Donald Duck, then feast on baked Alaska salmon at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp. You can also take an extended six-hour tour by boat into Alaska's deepest fjord, Lynn Canal, then hike through the rainforest to reach your canoe for a wilderness safari at Glacier Point. For a bucket list splurge, reserve a spot on the helicopter flightseeing tour that includes dog mushing on the Denver Glacier with a team of Alaska sled dogs.

Holland America Line: 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America's Koningsdam will sail the line's seven-day Inside Passage itinerary more than 20 times between April and September in 2024. This round-trip voyage embarks in Vancouver and includes multiple days of scenic cruising. You'll sail through the Inside Passage for two days; through Tracy Arm Inlet, where you can disembark for a shore excursion; and through Glacier Bay, where the Junior Ranger Program is a highlight for kids. The ports of call on this itinerary are Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan in Alaska.

Koningsdam features dedicated family staterooms with beds for up to five guests, two bathrooms and extra closet space. The ship carries 2,650 guests at double occupancy and 3,194 passengers at maximum capacity. A wildlife expert on the ship helps guests spot Alaska's incredible marine and land animals through announcements and during daily programs. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, moose, brown bears and other wildlife. While in the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area, you'll want to take the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to explore glacier-covered mountains, jagged cliffs and the largest temperate rainforest in the U.S. surrounding the fjord. On a high-speed catamaran, you'll get up-close views of the Sawyer Glaciers and have potential sightings of harbor seals, bears, mountain goats and more.

Back on board, Holland America Line 's kids club offers supervised, age-appropriate activities for young cruisers ages 3 to 17 – including children who may need certain accommodations. You'll also find plenty of family-friendly options for dining on Koningsdam, including Lido Market, New York Pizza and the poolside Dive In grill. During the cruise, look for themed evenings in the Lido Market like salmon bakes or seafood boil pop-up dinners, which are in line with Holland America's commitment to serving certified sustainable and traceable Alaska seafood. An Alaska brunch is also offered once during the voyage in the main dining room; you'll enjoy dishes highlighting ingredients from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

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Royal Caribbean International: 7 Night Alaska Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Hop aboard Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas for the seven-night Alaska Adventure Cruise, sailing round-trip from Seattle . This itinerary is available on several dates between May and August 2024 and features stops in the towns of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an afternoon call in the Canadian city of Victoria. While there, book an off-roading excursion through the coastal rainforest that includes a zip line adventure. Or, take a self-guided tour through Victoria's famed Butchart Gardens and the tropical Butterfly Gardens filled with wildlife.

Quantum of the Seas – which holds 4,180 passengers at double occupancy and 4,905 passengers at maximum capacity – is one of the two larger Royal Caribbean ships sailing in Alaska in 2024 (Ovation of the Seas is the other). As such, it offers abundant activities and entertainment for families at sea. On board, guests can experience Ripcord by iFly (the only skydiving simulator at sea) and take in snow-capped mountain views from the FlowRider surf simulator or atop the ship's rock climbing wall. Other onboard activities include bumper cars, an escape room, an arcade, pickleball and The Silent Party (a dance party where everyone wears headphones).

At mealtime, kids will have plenty of choices for casual and quick bites, from carefully crafted hot dogs at the Dog House and specialty pies at Sorrento's Pizza to around-the-clock snacks at Café Promenade and grab-and-go fare at The Café@Two70. When the little ones want to play or chill out with kids their age, Adventure Ocean offers activities for children 3 to 12 years old. Meanwhile, teens can meet other 13- to 17-year-olds at the Hideout Hangout.

Carnival Cruise Line: 7-Day Alaska from Seattle, WA

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Departure city: Juneau, Alaska

Carnival's 2024 Alaska season runs from May to September, with the 7-Day Alaska from Seattle itinerary available every month during that time. The round-trip sailing aboard Carnival Luminosa stops in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. You'll enjoy scenic cruising in Victoria and through Tracy Arm Fjord. You'll also have one "fun day at sea" to check out the activities and entertainment on the ship, which offers a double occupancy capacity of 2,260 passengers and a maximum capacity of 2,826 passengers.

Younger sailors ages 2 to 11 can join in on ocean-themed games, songs and programming at Camp Ocean, while tweens and teens (ages 12 to 17) can participate in destination-focused activities at See the World. Club 02 is a designated space for guests ages 15 to 17 to watch movies, play sports and video games, and more. Families can enjoy Dive-In Movies together at Carnival Seaside Theater and watch live musical productions at Playlist Productions. When it comes to dining on Carnival , families will have a choice of several casual restaurants to satisfy finicky eaters, including Pizzeria del Capitano, The Carnival Deli, Lido Marketplace and Swirls for soft serve ice cream. For a special night out, make reservations at the Steakhouse, which costs extra but offers reduced prices for children 11 and younger.

When going ashore, Juneau offers many family-friendly excursions – some of which you may not have the chance to experience anywhere else in the world. The Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery takes guests airborne by bush plane over the five glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. After the ride, you'll land in the Taku River at the historic Taku Lodge, which sits across from Juneau's largest glacier, the Taku Glacier. At the lodge, you'll feast on a bountiful meal featuring homemade side dishes and one of the best-known local seafood specialties, Alaska king salmon.

Celebrity Cruises: 7 Nights Alaska Hubbard Glacier

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's seven-night Alaska Hubbard Glacier itinerary is available on nine voyages between May and September 2024. The Celebrity Solstice (which holds 2,852 guests at double occupancy) sails round-trip from Vancouver and stops in the ports of Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska. You'll have two days of scenic cruising in the Inside Passage and around Hubbard Glacier. While in Icy Strait Point, book a guided nature walk excursion along the "Trail of the Bears" in the bush country of the Spasski River Valley. During your search for Alaska's coastal brown bears, you'll also learn about the Tlingit culture and community in Hoonah, and perhaps even see Sitka black-tailed deer and bald eagles.

Back on the ship, Celebrity's Camp at Sea program entertains children, tweens and teens ages 3 to 17 with four different age-appropriate programs: Shipmates (ages 3 to 5), Cadets (ages 6 to 9), Captains (ages 10 to 12) and Teens (ages 13 to 17). The customizable activities change every cruise and are based on the interests of the participants. Celebrity also offers autism-friendly activities and services for families on board.

When it comes to dining options on the ship, families will find kid-friendly selections on the in-room dining menu and at the main restaurant. For quick casual fare, head to the buffet-style Oceanview Café or to the Mast Grill for burgers and other grab-and-go bites. If you want healthier dishes, the Spa Café offers homemade energy bars, acai bowls, turkey wraps and other light choices.

UnCruise Adventures: Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

If you prefer a small-ship cruise experience without the bells and whistles of some larger vessels, UnCruise offers adventure-style cruises to Alaska on its fleet of safari- and expedition-style ships. With these intimate cruises, you and the kids (ages 8 and older) can get up close to glaciers, wildlife and Alaska's vast wilderness directly from the ship via Zodiacs and kayaks. You may even see wildlife from a short distance away along the shoreline, as UnCruise vessels are able to sail into smaller waterways that are inaccessible to larger ships.

The line's Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise features two full days in pristine Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve aboard the Wilderness Discoverer, which holds a maximum of 76 passengers. Here, guests can hike along remote coastlines amid old-growth forests, view sea life up close and go birding at South Marble Island. You'll also have the opportunity to see several tidewater glaciers, go kayaking in the Keku Islands and explore Neka Bay on Chichagof Island. Another highlight is a visit to Glacier Bay Lodge at Bartlett Cove, the only hotel accommodations in the 3.3 million-acre national park. The seven-night itinerary departs round-trip from Juneau and is offered between April and September 2024.

The full itinerary includes stops in Icy Strait and Neka Bay; Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve; Chichagof Island (which boasts the world's largest population of brown bears per square mile); Frederick Sound; and Tracy Arm and the Sawyer Glaciers. During the weeklong cruise, you'll have narration by expert onboard guides and embark on some of the most memorable adventures your kids will ever have in Alaska's remote wilderness.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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What is the procedure for cancelling?

By Sunflower & The Scientist , December 27, 2021 in Holland America Line

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Sunflower & The Scientist

If we cancel...exactly how do we do that.  I've not had success in getting HAL on the phone recently, or on a chat.  How do we notify them? Any hints about things we should not forget to do besides cancel air?  This is new territory for us...

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2 minutes ago, Sunflower & The Scientist said: If we cancel...exactly how do we do that.  I've not had success in getting HAL on the phone recently, or on a chat.  How do we notify them? Any hints about things we should not forget to do besides cancel air?  This is new territory for us...

Who did you book with, a TA, PCC or just HAL?  If it was directly through HAL and you can't reach them by phone, I would send an email so there is written proof of when you're canceling. If through a TA or PCC, you have to cancel through them. Any shore excursions and dining reservations will be automatically cancelled and refunded. 

I ALWAYS cancel my shore excursions purchased through HAL BEFORE I cancel my cruise; then the refund to my credit card has always been quick.  Perhaps same would be true for specialty dinners, internet, whatever was purchased online before the trip.  Then, cancel the cruise.  It's easy to cancel things online.

7 minutes ago, 12cruise2 said: I ALWAYS cancel my shore excursions purchased through HAL BEFORE I cancel my cruise; then the refund to my credit card has always been quick.  Perhaps same would be true for specialty dinners, internet, whatever was purchased online before the trip.  Then, cancel the cruise.  It's easy to cancel things online.

Yes, definitely easy to do.  Very recently, though, when we rebooked a cruise (canceled to get new promotions and rebooked) our shore excursions were refunded within a couple days. Of course you can always do it yourself for the added security that it will be done quickly.

I have been on hold with the PCC number for going on 3 hours.  I know they have limited hours this week due to the holidays... this is a little redic.

Are they allowing no penalty cancelations for cruises coming up in the next few weeks?  

1 hour ago, VermeulT said: I have been on hold with the PCC number for going on 3 hours.  I know they have limited hours this week due to the holidays... this is a little redic.

Many have taken time off for the holidays, including our PCC, and will return after the New Year.

SJSULIBRARIAN

After going through the telephone tree today, I waited 10 minutes for a regular HAL agent to make my final payment. 

If cancelling a cruise on line, do you get the option of a FCC or does it automatically go back to the credit card? I purchased the HAL platinum insurance that reimburses 90% but under the current pandemic conditions, is HAL reimbursing 100% or giving 100% FCC?

My cruise is Jan 23 and I'm a Canadian. 

If I do a FCC can I transfer the HAL insurance to the new cruise?  Or is that 100% lost?  It covers medical and trip interruption.   

On 12/27/2021 at 1:50 PM, Sunflower & The Scientist said: If we cancel...exactly how do we do that.  I've not had success in getting HAL on the phone recently, or on a chat.  How do we notify them? Any hints about things we should not forget to do besides cancel air?  This is new territory for us...

ask to transfer for a later cruise.

If you booked directly with HAL try the online chat also. I have had good luck with them being a shorter wait than calling, and I always copy/paste or take  screenshot of the conversation so I have a record of it.

I 100% agree with canceling shorex and other items purchased before canceling the cruise. This way the refund for those will process automatically and quickly. 

If you cancel under the cruise with confidence more than 30 days out do you lose what was paid on CPP or does that get refunded or issued in an FCC? 

Florida_gal_50

53 minutes ago, zgscl said: If you cancel under the cruise with confidence more than 30 days out do you lose what was paid on CPP or does that get refunded or issued in an FCC? 

Personally I wouldn't do it because you would get a FCC. I'd personally rather have the cash even if it's less.  I would think you'd lose it.  It is an interesting question though.

Just cancelled our Jan 9th cruise, called when they first opened and was on hold for 10 minutes, very easy they sent me confirmation right away, so sad

1 hour ago, Florida_gal_50 said: Personally I wouldn't do it because you would get a FCC. I'd personally rather have the cash even if it's less.  I would think you'd lose it.  It is an interesting question though.

That is a good point. 90% refund might be a lot better than 100% FCC which could expire or have other issues. Might have my travel agent check. My sailing isn’t until March so I am hoping (not optimistically)  things stabilize by then. I switched to platinum CPP right at final payment given all the unknowns. 

5 minutes ago, zgscl said: That is a good point. 90% refund might be a lot better than 100% FCC which could expire or have other issues. Might have my travel agent check. My sailing isn’t until March so I am hoping (not optimistically)  things stabilize by then. I switched to platinum CPP right at final payment given all the unknowns. 

I hear you.  I’m not too optimistic either.  That said, if my cruise was in January or February I would have thrown in the towel.  I’d originally booked a Panama cruise for February.  The price was extremely good when I booked it.  It pained me to cancel it but it was a good decision I think.

39 minutes ago, Florida_gal_50 said: I hear you.  I’m not too optimistic either.  That said, if my cruise was in January or February I would have thrown in the towel.  I’d originally booked a Panama cruise for February.  The price was extremely good when I booked it.  It pained me to cancel it but it was a good decision I think.

Totally agree. I would cancel a Jan sailing but it would be really painful to cancel a late feb or March sailing yet. Just have to wait and see how it all develops. I still feel safer on a ship with the precautions than I do on land, but if governments & ports really restrict things…we will just have to wait and see. At least I have another one booked for July if this falls through. 

• This is the first time I'm cancelling a cruise.  We were to leave on Rotterdam on Sunday.  We have the Platinum CCP, but I'm nervous about the cancellation instructions.  We are to either mail (yes, snail mail), email, or fax our cancellation.  The 800 number is closed today, so I emailed.  Just seems so odd to me.  Just looking for confirmation that the email is really all I need to do 🙂   Thanks!

1 minute ago, DCDew said: This is the first time I'm cancelling a cruise.  We were to leave on Rotterdam on Sunday.  We have the Platinum CCP, but I'm nervous about the cancellation instructions.  We are to either mail (yes, snail mail), email, or fax our cancellation.  The 800 number is closed today, so I emailed.  Just seems so odd to me.  Just looking for confirmation that the email is really all I need to do 🙂   Thanks!

When I canceled my cruise in March 2020 I emailed my pcc.  Mind you I did it about a month before the cruise.  I don't see what else you can do since the 1 800 number is closed. Its totally stupid that it would be.  It's not new years day.

23 minutes ago, Florida_gal_50 said: When I canceled my cruise in March 2020 I emailed my pcc.  Mind you I did it about a month before the cruise.  I don't see what else you can do since the 1 800 number is closed. Its totally stupid that it would be.  It's not new years day.

Thank you!  I sent another copy to my PCC now as well.

We were to sail to Hawaii mid-Jan.  Yesterday I contacted our TA to move the cruise to October.  She got through to HAL quickly. 

Transfer "cost" us $50 in OBC from the TA & $232 upcharge from HAL.  Even got the same room on the Konigsdam, an aft balcony.  I think the upcharge was petty by HAL, but wasn't going to argue with that.  Had we canceled [we have the Platinum Protection], we'd have lost the cost of that + 10%, a total of over $1000.  We very much want to do this cruise, so didn't argue.  Now, hoping that by Oct. we can cruise more safely....

We have a free casino cruise on the West coast in March...........crossing my fingers for that one, but if it doesn't go, so be it.

25 minutes ago, OHCruiser said: We were to sail to Hawaii mid-Jan.  Yesterday I contacted our TA to move the cruise to October.  She got through to HAL quickly.  Transfer "cost" us $50 in OBC from the TA & $232 upcharge from HAL.  Even got the same room on the Konigsdam, an aft balcony.  I think the upcharge was petty by HAL, but wasn't going to argue with that.  Had we canceled [we have the Platinum Protection], we'd have lost the cost of that + 10%, a total of over $1000.  We very much want to do this cruise, so didn't argue.  Now, hoping that by Oct. we can cruise more safely....   We have a free casino cruise on the West coast in March...........crossing my fingers for that one, but if it doesn't go, so be it.

Well hal isn’t really required to do anything.  You are past the 30 days before the cruise.  Like you say you could cancel and lose $1000.  I have a cruise this spring and if hal offers to move it to the fall for $232 I’ll be over the moon.  I know that many believe that hal should bend over backwards for them, like offering fcc a couple days before a cruise when they haven’t purchased cancellation (not you clearly).  They are a for profit business.  

On 12/31/2021 at 7:23 PM, Florida_gal_50 said: Well hal isn’t really required to do anything.  You are past the 30 days before the cruise.  Like you say you could cancel and lose $1000.  I have a cruise this spring and if hal offers to move it to the fall for $232 I’ll be over the moon.  I know that many believe that hal should bend over backwards for them, like offering fcc a couple days before a cruise when they haven’t purchased cancellation (not you clearly).  They are a for profit business.  

I never even implied that HAL ""had to do anything. I actually expected them to refuse my request--and then I'd have waited until the night before the cruise to cancel had Hawaii or HAL not done so first.

I know where I am on the timeline.  I took a chance in asking to move the cruise and I'm obviously VERY GRATEFUL that I was able to do it. 

I'll be "over the moon" when I'm actually able to get back on a ship. 

I didn't ask for anyone to bend over backwards and I know that they're a for profit business---hell, I'M A STOCKHOLDER OF MORE THAN THE PALTRY 100 SHARES TO GET OBC.  What I did was good for both of us.  They get to sit on my $ FOR 10 MONTHS, so I do think the upcharge was a bit petty, but, in the end, it should be well worth it FOR BOTH OF US.

6 minutes ago, OHCruiser said: I never even implied that HAL ""had to do anything. I actually expected them to refuse my request--and then I'd have waited until the night before the cruise to cancel had Hawaii or HAL not done so first. I know where I am on the timeline.  I took a chance in asking to move the cruise and I'm obviously VERY GRATEFUL that I was able to do it.  I'll be "over the moon" when I'm actually able to get back on a ship.  I didn't ask for anyone to bend over backwards and I know that they're a for profit business---hell, I'M A STOCKHOLDER OF MORE THAN THE PALTRY 100 SHARES TO GET OBC.  What I did was good for both of us.  They get to sit on my $ FOR 10 MONTHS, so I do think the upcharge was a bit petty, but, in the end, it should be well worth it FOR BOTH OF US.

You said you didn’t expect anything yet you’ve called them petty twice.  I don’t see them being petty.  I don’t see how that equates to being grateful. They look pretty accommodating.  Like another poster pointed out we can all read.  You don’t need to capitalize.

1 hour ago, Florida_gal_50 said: You said you didn’t expect anything yet you’ve called them petty twice.  I don’t see them being petty.  I insdon’t see how that equates to being grateful. They look pretty accommodating.  Like another poster pointed out we can all read.  You don’t need to capitalize.

There is enormous angst, of course. People need to calm down.  This is a CDC reg and not the end of the story.  My feelings are that this will run its course, other strains will follow, and we will go from there.  Have faith; be careful and carry on.

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