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Victoria British Columbia Cruise Port: Complete Guide!

Posted on Last updated: February 12, 2024

Ahoy, cruise aficionados and casual voyagers alike! As you sail through the serene waters of the Pacific Northwest, one gem stands out like a beacon on the coastline – Victoria, British Columbia.

More than just a stopover during an Alaskan or west coast cruise , this charming city boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be explored.

Let’s set sail into the heart of the Victoria British Columbia cruise port and make your port-of-call experience truly unforgettable.

Arriving in Victoria

Stepping off the ship and onto the land of Victoria is akin to entering a storybook setting. Nestled between the Salish Sea and lush Pacific rainforests, this city offers a picturesque backdrop that seamlessly melds the urban with the natural.

But before you embark on your adventure, let’s get acquainted with the basics of the port and its surroundings.

Port Location and Layout

Victoria’s primary cruise ship terminal is Ogden Point , located just a short distance from the heart of downtown. With its deep-water berths, it’s equipped to handle even the grandest of ocean liners.

As you disembark, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the iconic Ogden Point Breakwater, a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to take a leisurely stroll.

First Impressions and What to Expect

The vibrant ambiance of Victoria is palpable from the moment you step ashore. Street performers, welcoming locals, and tantalizing aromas from nearby eateries set the stage.

For the convenience of visitors, you’ll find a Visitor Information Centre right at the pier, perfect for grabbing maps, brochures, or getting any last-minute questions answered. While English is the dominant language, you’ll find many locals and service staff also speak French, given Canada’s bilingual nature.

If you’re setting foot in Canada for the first time via Victoria, remember, despite its close proximity to the U.S., there are different customs and regulations. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with basic Canadian customs rules, especially if you’re thinking of picking up souvenirs to take back home.

Stay tuned, as our next sections will help you navigate the transportation options from the port and dive deeper into Victoria’s main attractions! Whether you have a few hours or a full day, there’s plenty in store for every traveler.

Transportation Options

While the essence of Victoria’s charm is best captured on foot, the city’s vastness means you’ll likely need some wheels to see it all, especially on a tight cruise schedule. Fear not, for Victoria boasts a myriad of transportation options tailored for every kind of explorer.

Available Transportation from the Port

• Shuttle Services: Numerous cruise lines offer shuttle services, dropping passengers directly at key tourist spots. It’s an efficient, hassle-free method, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. Always check with your cruise line in advance to book a seat.
• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal, offering a quick and direct way to your destination. Companies like Yellow Cab of Victoria have a reliable presence. In recent years, rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber have also started operating in the city, providing another option for those familiar with app-based transportation.
• Public Transport – Buses and Ferries: BC Transit operates the public bus system in Victoria, providing an affordable way to explore. If you’re looking to venture further, perhaps to nearby islands or waterfront towns, BC Ferries offers regular services from Victoria’s terminals.

Tips on Getting Around Efficiently

• Purchase a Day Pass: If you’re planning on using public transport multiple times during your stay, consider buying a day pass from BC Transit. It offers unlimited travel for the day and can be a cost-effective choice.
• Use Ride Apps: Both traditional taxis and rideshares can be summoned using smartphone apps, allowing you to plan pickups and routes ahead of time.
• Rent a Bike: For those seeking a more active mode of transportation, several bike rental shops are located near the port. Victoria’s bike-friendly roads and picturesque bike trails, like the Galloping Goose, make it a great city to explore on two wheels.
• Car Rentals: If you’re in Victoria for a longer duration and wish to explore beyond the city, consider renting a car. Several agencies are available downtown. Just remember, in Canada, we drive on the right!

As you map out your day, remember: Victoria’s size and layout make it a joy to navigate. Whether you’re hopping on a bus, renting a bike, or simply walking, every path leads to a new discovery. Up next, we’ll delve into the attractions that make Victoria a must-visit port of call. Safe travels!

Main Attractions Near the Port

Just a stone’s throw away from the cruise terminal, Victoria’s downtown is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to unfold.

It’s a blend of historic landmarks, scenic spots, and cultural hubs that truly capture the city’s soul. Let’s dive into the must-visit attractions you can explore near the port.

Empress Hotel and its Historic Significance

One of the oldest and most majestic buildings in Victoria, the Fairmont Empress Hotel has stood tall since 1908. Its chateau-like architecture is a feast for the eyes.

But it’s not just the exterior that enthralls; the hotel’s iconic afternoon tea service is a rite of passage for many visitors. Even if you don’t plan on staying or dining, the lobby and its surroundings are worth a quick peek.

Royal BC Museum: What to See and Expect

Dive deep into British Columbia’s rich tapestry of history, nature, and culture. Located a mere 10-minute walk from the port, the Royal BC Museum offers exhibits ranging from First Nations history to the modern era. Don’t miss the immersive dioramas or the IMAX theater!

Inner Harbour: Activities and Sights

Victoria’s Inner Harbour is not just a docking point for ships and boats; it’s a hive of activity. From the floating homes at Fisherman’s Wharf to the Parliament Buildings illuminating the skyline, there’s something for every traveler. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the street performers, or simply soak in the views.

Beacon Hill Park: Nature and Leisure

Just a short distance from the Inner Harbour, Beacon Hill Park offers a refreshing green oasis in the heart of the city. With its beautiful gardens, duck ponds, and the occasional peacock wandering about, it’s a serene spot to relax and reconnect with nature.

Fisherman’s Wharf: Dining and Attractions

A vibrant and bustling spot, Fisherman’s Wharf is more than just a dock. Here, you can indulge in freshly caught seafood, shop at local stalls, or even take a kayak tour. The colorful floating houses add a unique charm, making it a picture-perfect location.

With such an array of attractions so close to the cruise terminal, time will fly by in Victoria. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone seeking the perfect snapshot, there’s a corner of the city waiting to captivate you.

Up next, we’ll transport you to Victoria’s rich cultural hubs and historic landmarks that have stood the test of time. Stay tuned!

Cultural and Historic Spots

Victoria isn’t just a picturesque port city; it’s a living tapestry of cultural influences and historical narratives that have shaped its identity over centuries.

A visit here is like stepping into the pages of a history book, with tales of indigenous heritage, colonial legacies, and modern evolutions interwoven throughout its streets. Let’s venture into some of the city’s most notable cultural and historical landmarks.

Craigdarroch Castle: History and Architecture

Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, Craigdarroch Castle is a testament to Victorian-era opulence. Built in the late 19th century for coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, this mansion boasts intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and lavish furnishings. As you wander its rooms, you’ll get a glimpse into the life of Victoria’s elite during that time.

Chinatown and the Iconic Fan Tan Alley

Victoria’s Chinatown, the oldest in Canada, is a vibrant enclave of culture, color, and history. As you meander through its narrow streets, be sure to venture into Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada, brimming with quirky shops and rich stories from the past. This area offers a peek into the lives of Chinese immigrants who made Victoria their home in the 19th century.

Parliament Buildings: Architecture and Tours

Dominating the Inner Harbour’s skyline, the Parliament Buildings are not just functioning government structures but also architectural marvels. Constructed in the late 1800s, their Neo-baroque design is truly a sight to behold, especially when lit up at night. Guided tours are available for those keen to delve into British Columbia’s legislative history and witness the grandeur from the inside.

First Nations Heritage

While not a singular spot, the influence and legacy of First Nations peoples are felt throughout Victoria. Look out for totem poles, art installations, and museums dedicated to the indigenous cultures that have been a part of this land for thousands of years. The Thunderbird Park, adjacent to the Royal BC Museum, houses a collection of totem poles and traditional buildings, making it a must-visit.

St. Ann’s Academy

Once a Catholic school, this historic site has now been restored to showcase Victoria’s educational and religious history. With its stunning chapel, period classrooms, and serene gardens, St. Ann’s Academy offers a peaceful retreat and a journey back in time.

Exploring Victoria’s cultural and historic spots provides not just an educational experience but also a profound connection to the souls who’ve shaped this city.

As you tread its streets and corridors, you’re walking in the footsteps of countless others who’ve left their mark on this Pacific jewel. Up next, prepare to tantalize your taste buds as we explore Victoria’s vibrant culinary scene. Bon appétit!

Experiencing Local Cuisine

Victoria isn’t just a feast for the eyes, but for the palate as well. With its Pacific coast location, the city is a culinary hotspot, drawing inspiration from its rich marine life, fertile farmlands, and a tapestry of cultural influences. So, get your taste buds ready and let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through the heart of Victoria.

Overview of Victoria’s Culinary Scene

From elegant waterfront dining spots to quaint cafes tucked in alleyways, Victoria’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delectable. Its location ensures an abundance of fresh seafood, while the influence of British, Indigenous, and Asian cuisines add layers of flavor and innovation to the local dishes.

Best Places to Have Afternoon Tea

Victoria’s British roots shine brightly in its time-honored tradition of afternoon tea. The Fairmont Empress Hotel is perhaps the most iconic spot, offering a classic tea experience complete with fine china, tiered platters, and a selection of the finest brews. Other notable mentions include Venussoph Tea House and The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden , each offering their unique twist to this cherished ritual.

Seafood Spots: From High-End to Local Favorites

You can’t visit Victoria British Columbia cruise port without indulging in its seafood offerings. For a lavish experience, places like Aura Waterfront Restaurant + Patio promise a combination of exquisite dishes and mesmerizing views. On the other hand, for a more laid-back, authentic feel, head over to Red Fish Blue Fish , a dockside eatery serving up mouthwatering fish tacos, chowders, and more.

Local Delicacies and Where to Find Them

• Bannock: An indigenous flatbread, bannock can be found at local markets or specialized eateries like Kekuli Cafe .
• Nanaimo Bars: This no-bake dessert, originating from nearby Nanaimo, is a sweet treat you shouldn’t miss. Many cafes and bakeries offer this three-layered delight.
• Poutine: Though not exclusive to Victoria, this Canadian classic of fries doused in gravy and cheese curds is a must-try. La Belle Patate is a local favorite for this dish.
• West Coast Oysters: Relish the taste of the Pacific with freshly shucked oysters, best enjoyed at places like The Courtney Room or Ferris’ Oyster Bar .

Victoria’s food scene is a testament to its rich history and cultural influences. Whether you’re savoring a cup of tea, diving into a seafood platter, or nibbling on local sweets, each bite tells a story of the city’s evolution and the hands that have shaped its culinary heritage.

Ready for some retail therapy? Stay with us as we guide you through shopping in Victoria next!

Shopping in Victoria

For many travelers, the joy of exploring a new place is incomplete without a spot of shopping. Victoria, with its blend of historic charm and modern sensibilities, offers a shopping experience that’s as diverse as it is delightful. From quirky boutiques to bustling markets, here’s where to indulge your retail cravings in the city.

Downtown Victoria: A Shopper’s Paradise

The heart of Victoria’s shopping scene is undoubtedly its downtown district. With its picturesque streets lined with Victorian architecture, the area is home to a multitude of stores catering to every taste and budget.

• Johnson Street: Known for its trendy boutiques and fashion-forward shops, Johnson Street is where style enthusiasts should head. From local designs to international brands, it’s a treasure trove for fashion finds.
• LoJo (Lower Johnson Street): A vibrant and colorful part of downtown, LoJo is brimming with unique boutiques, from chic homeware stores to artisanal jewelry designers.

Markets: Fresh Produce and Handmade Treasures

Victoria’s markets are not just about shopping; they’re a cultural experience.

• Victoria Public Market: Housed in the historic Hudson building, this market is a hub for local produce, gourmet foods, and artisanal crafts. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs, local cheeses, and handcrafted goods.
• Moss Street Market: Operational on Saturdays, it’s a blend of organic produce, local crafts, and even live music. A perfect way to spend a leisurely morning.

Antiques and Vintage Finds

Reflecting its rich history, Victoria has several antique stores worth exploring. Antique Row on Fort Street is particularly notable, with shops offering everything from Victorian-era furnishings to vintage jewelry.

First Nations Art and Crafts

For those seeking something truly special, consider investing in First Nations art. Galleries like Alcheringa Gallery and West End Gallery showcase stunning pieces, from intricate totem poles to handcrafted jewelry, representing the deep-rooted indigenous culture of the region.

Souvenirs and Keepsakes

Looking for mementos to remember your Victoria visit? Head over to The Peddler or Oscar & Libby’s for quirky, fun souvenirs. For more upscale options, Touch of Saltspring offers handcrafted goods that echo the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

Shopping in Victoria is an experience that seamlessly melds the old with the new, the traditional with the modern. As you stroll its streets, every store and stall tells a story, waiting to be discovered and taken home. Up next, some handy tips and tricks to ensure your visit to Victoria is smooth sailing. Stay tuned!

Excursions and Adventures

Beyond its historic streets and harbors, the Victoria British Columbia cruise port serves as a gateway to a realm of natural beauty and thrilling adventures.

Whether you’re craving the rush of adrenaline or seeking serenity in nature, Victoria offers a plethora of excursions to make your visit unforgettable. Here’s a look at some of the top adventures waiting for you.

Marine Adventures: Whales and Beyond

The waters surrounding Victoria are teeming with marine life, making it one of the best places for whale watching.

• Whale Watching Tours: Operated by seasoned experts like Eagle Wing Tours and Prince of Whales , these tours provide a chance to witness orcas, gray whales, humpbacks, and minke whales in their natural habitat. Remember to bring your camera!
• Kayaking: Navigate the serene coastal waters in a kayak, exploring hidden coves and maybe even paddling alongside seals. Companies like Ocean River Adventures offer guided tours for all skill levels.

Hiking the Great Outdoors

Victoria and its surroundings are a hiker’s dream, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.

• Mount Douglas Park: For a moderate hike and panoramic views of the city and the sea, this is a top choice.
• Goldstream Provincial Park: Home to mesmerizing waterfalls and lush forests, it offers multiple trails and an annual salmon run event that nature lovers shouldn’t miss.

Adventure Sports: From Skies to Bikes

• Ziplining: Get a bird’s-eye view of the island’s forests with companies like Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours . It’s exhilarating and offers a unique perspective of the region’s beauty.
• Mountain Biking: The terrain around Victoria is perfect for mountain biking. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, trails in areas like Bear Mountain promise a thrilling ride.

Botanical Explorations

• Butchart Gardens: Not an adventure in the conventional sense, but a visit to these famous gardens is an enchanting journey. Spread across 55 acres, the gardens are a symphony of colors and fragrances, showcasing flora from around the world.

Day Trips: Exploring Vancouver Island

While Victoria has plenty to offer, it’s worth venturing further afield if time permits.

• Cathedral Grove: Located in MacMillan Provincial Park, it’s a forest of ancient trees, some more than 800 years old.
• Cowichan Valley: Often referred to as the “Napa of the North,” this region offers wine tours and tastings in picturesque vineyards.

With such a diverse range of excursions, Victoria guarantees adventures that cater to every taste and pace. Whether you’re out on the open sea or amidst ancient trees, the experiences here promise memories that’ll last a lifetime. Up next, practical tips and information to make the most of your Victoria visit!

Practical Information for Cruise Passengers

Ensuring a smooth journey goes beyond planning the fun activities whether you are a new cruiser or more seasoned. For cruise passengers, having a handle on the nitty-gritty details can make all the difference. Let’s delve into the practicalities to ensure your time in Victoria, British Columbia, is hassle-free and memorable.

Arrival and Departure: What to Expect

• Customs and Immigration: As an international cruise port, passengers might be required to pass through customs. Keep your travel documents handy and be prepared for a brief inspection.
• Port Facilities: The Victoria Cruise Terminal is equipped with restrooms, information kiosks, currency exchange booths, and some light refreshment options.

Money Matters

• Currency: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Many establishments accept major credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or tips.
• ATMs: While the cruise terminal might have ATMs, they can also be easily found throughout the city, especially in the downtown area.

Staying Connected

• Wi-Fi: Some cruise ships might offer onboard Wi-Fi, but if you’re looking to connect while in the city, many cafes, restaurants, and public spots offer free Wi-Fi. The downtown area is especially well-covered.
• SIM Cards: For those planning a longer stay or requiring constant connectivity, prepaid SIM cards can be bought from local telecom providers.

Transport Tips

• Walking: Downtown Victoria is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance from the port.
• Public Transport: Buses run frequently and cover most tourist spots. Make sure to have exact change or purchase a day-pass for unlimited rides.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Readily available at the port and throughout the city. Remember, it’s customary to tip your driver!

Safety and Health

• Safety: Victoria is generally a safe city for tourists. However, always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places or during late hours.
• Health: Tap water is safe to drink. If you have specific medical needs, pharmacies and clinics are easily accessible.

Local Etiquette and Tips

• Tipping: It’s customary to tip 15-20% for services such as dining, taxis, or guided tours.
• Language: English is the primary language, but many locals are bilingual, with French being the second most common language.
• Local Time: Victoria operates on Pacific Daylight Time (PDT). Ensure you’re synchronized with the ship’s time to avoid any departure mishaps!

Armed with this practical information, you’re all set to make the most of your time in Victoria British Columbia cruise port. From the moment you disembark to your final wave goodbye, this guide ensures you’re well-prepared for every aspect of your journey.

Next up, a quick recap and our concluding thoughts on Victoria, British Columbia as a cruise port destination!

Tips and Tricks for Cruise Port Victoria BC

While every traveler’s journey is unique, there are some universal cruise tips and tricks that can elevate your experience. Here’s a curated list of insights to ensure your Victoria cruise stopover is not just memorable, but also smooth and enjoyable.

1. Beat the Crowd

• Morning Explorations: Some of the top attractions, like the Butchart Gardens or the Royal BC Museum, can get crowded as the day progresses. Consider visiting popular spots early in the morning for a more peaceful experience.

2. Dress Smart

• Layer Up: Victoria’s weather can be unpredictable, especially near the coast. Pack layers and a lightweight rain jacket, even if the forecast seems clear.

3. Stay Informed

• Local Events: Before arriving, check out Victoria’s local event calendar. You might stumble upon a festival, market, or concert that could become a highlight of your visit.

4. Go Beyond the Usual

• Hidden Gems: While top attractions are a must-visit, sometimes the best experiences lie off the beaten path. Consider exploring neighborhoods like Fernwood or Cook Street Village for a local vibe.

5. Budget Wisely

• Discount Cards: Look for tourist discount cards or passes that can offer reduced rates to multiple attractions or even free public transport.

6. Savor the Local Flavor

• Ask Locals: Want the best seafood shack or the coziest coffee shop? Sometimes, locals have the best recommendations. Don’t hesitate to ask!

7. Respect the Environment

• Leave No Trace: Victoria’s beauty lies in its pristine landscapes and clean streets. Ensure you dispose of waste properly and respect public spaces.

8. Prioritize Health

• Stay Hydrated: Whether you’re exploring the city or embarking on a nature hike, keep a water bottle handy.
• Know Your Limits: While adventures are thrilling, always assess your comfort and fitness level before signing up.

9. Stay Flexible

• Adaptable Itinerary: Sometimes, the best moments are unplanned. While it’s great to have an itinerary, be open to spontaneous detours or changes.

10. Capture Memories, Not Just Photos

• Live in the Moment: While photos are a great way to relive memories, ensure you’re also soaking in the experience, the sounds, the aromas, and the ambiance.

Victoria, with its blend of history, culture, nature, and modernity, promises experiences that linger long after you’ve set sail. With these tips in hand, you’re not just visiting Victoria; you’re truly experiencing it.

As we wrap up this guide, let’s reflect on why Victoria, British Columbia, remains one of the crown jewels of the Pacific Northwest cruise circuit. Stay with us!

Victoria, The Gem of the Pacific Northwest

As our journey through this guide reaches its culmination, it’s evident that Victoria isn’t just a cruise port stopover; it’s a destination that weaves history, nature, and culture into a rich tapestry of experiences. A city where the whispers of the past meld with the vibrant buzz of the present, where every street, garden, and shoreline tells a story.

From the majestic sight of orcas slicing through the waters to the fragrant blossoms of Butchart Gardens, from the historic tales echoing in the alleys of Old Town to the modern beats of its bustling markets and eateries, Victoria is a symphony of contrasts.

For cruise passengers, the city offers a snapshot of Canada’s Pacific Northwest in its purest form. The blend of British charm and Canadian warmth is palpable, not just in its architecture and traditions but in the smiles and hospitality of its people.

While this guide has endeavored to encompass the myriad wonders of Victoria, the true essence of the city lies in experiencing it firsthand. Each alleyway, each bite of local cuisine, each sunset over the harbor has its own tale to tell.

As you embark on your journey, may the memories you craft in Victoria be as timeless as the city itself. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, let the city’s charm envelop you, and may you depart with a piece of Victoria forever etched in your heart.

Thank you for joining us on this guided journey. Fair winds and following seas as you continue your adventures on the high seas and beyond!

FAQ on Victoria British Columbia Cruise Port

Navigating a new destination can come with a myriad of questions. To assist travelers in getting the most out of their Victoria experience, we’ve compiled a handy FAQ section based on the most common queries related to the cruise port and the city.

How far is the Victoria cruise port from the city center?

The Victoria cruise port is conveniently located. Most cruise ships dock at Ogden Point, which is about a 20-30 minute walk to the downtown area. Shuttle services and taxis are also readily available.

What currency is used in Victoria?

Victoria uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s recommended to have some local currency for smaller transactions.

Is English spoken in Victoria?

Yes, English is the primary language spoken in Victoria, though you might also hear French and other languages due to the city’s diverse population.

What’s the best way to get around the city?

Victoria is pedestrian-friendly, especially the downtown area. Public buses, taxis, and bike rentals are popular options for exploring further.

Are there luggage storage options at the cruise port?

Most cruise lines offer onboard luggage storage. However, for those looking to store luggage ashore, some nearby hotels and businesses may offer storage services for a fee.

Is Victoria safe for tourists?

Victoria is generally considered safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or less-frequented areas.

Can I drink tap water in Victoria?

Yes, the tap water in Victoria is clean, safe, and meets international standards.

Are there any dress code or cultural sensitivities I should be aware of?

While Victoria is quite liberal, it’s always recommended to dress modestly when visiting religious or historic sites. Also, always ask for permission before photographing people.

What’s the time zone in Victoria?

Victoria operates on Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).

Are there any local delicacies I should try?

Absolutely! Don’t miss out on trying local seafood, especially salmon. Also, enjoy a classic afternoon tea experience, which is a nod to the city’s British heritage.

Can I use my mobile phone in Victoria?

Yes, but ensure you check roaming charges with your service provider. Alternatively, prepaid SIM cards are available for purchase.

What kind of power outlets are used in Victoria?

Victoria uses Type A and Type B outlets, the standard voltage being 120V. It’s advisable to carry a universal adapter if your devices have different plug types.

Are pets allowed on public transport?

Small pets in carriers are usually allowed on buses. Larger dogs might be permitted during off-peak hours but always check with the local transport guidelines.

Is smoking allowed in public areas?

Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited in many public spaces, including parks, beaches, and patios. Always look for designated smoking areas.

Can I rent a car in Victoria?

Yes, several car rental agencies operate in Victoria. However, remember that Canadians drive on the right side of the road.

This FAQ aims to provide clarity on the most commonly asked questions. If there’s anything more specific or unique to your needs, it’s always a good idea to reach out to local tourist offices or your cruise line for further information. Safe travels!

Victoria, BC, Canada

Victoria revels in its English essence at the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island. Afternoon teas, double-decker buses and English inns, gardens and pubs are common in this capital city. The most popular attraction is the world-famous Butchart Gardens, flaunting 55 acres of floral magnificence. Other must-sees include the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel, overlooking the Inner Harbour, the Victorian-era Craigdarroch Castle and the Royal BC Museum, where tourists will find artifacts, documents and specimens that tell the tale of the province's natural and human history.

An old Holland America cruise ship is turning residential, letting travelers live at sea for $8,000 a month while it circumnavigates the globe

• In May, Victoria Cruises Line's Victoria Majestic will begin sailing around the world indefinitely.
• It's chartering a vessel previously owned by Holland America Line for use as its residential cruise ship.
• See what it'll be like living on this 27-year-old ship starting at $8,000 per month for two people.

If you're ready to sell your home and live a life at sea, be prepared to move as soon as this spring.

Victoria Cruises Line is chartering a nearly 30-year-old cruise vessel formerly owned by Holland America for use as an adults-only residential cruise ship.

And in May, the Victoria Majestic and its seafaring passengers will begin circumnavigating the globe every 27 months.

Victoria Cruises' goal is to fill the ship with travelers who want to live on the vessel indefinitely.

As a result, it's targeting an older demographic of travelers: "Imagine this boat as if we were putting a retirement home on the water," Gábor Nagy-Ferenc, a sales manager with Victoria Cruises Line, told Insider in an email.

The oldest tenant is over 90 years old.

But this lifestyle could also work for younger people working remotely.

Unlike other residential cruise ships, travelers can't purchase a suite or stateroom.

Instead, Victoria Cruises Line offers a minimum 6-month lease, although most of its tenants have signed longer leases.

The longer the lease, the greater the discount. For a 37-month lease, for example, customers can get a 40% discount on the monthly rent.

The least-expensive standard interior stateroom is $8,000 a month for two people, not including the discount, on top of the $30,000 deposit.

Source: Victoria Cruises Line 

This 226-square-foot stateroom has two small beds that can combine into a queen bed, a couch across from a desk, and a bathroom.

Interior staterooms won't have ocean-view windows.

But all of these cabins will come with a monitor that'll display the exterior of the ship.

Source: Victoria Cruises Line

In comparison, the most-expensive Pinnacle Suite with a veranda costs $35,000 a month for two people, not including the discount, on top of the more-expensive $80,000 deposit.

Travelers can slumber on a king-size bed inside the roughly 1,270-square-foot suite that includes a sofa bed …

… bathtub; a living, dining, and dressing room; pantry; and guest bathroom.

Despite its higher price tag, this suite has already been booked.

About half of the suites and staterooms have already been reserved and Nagy-Ferenc is confident the cruise ships will depart in the spring with 80% occupancy.

Paying more than $8,000 a month for a 226-square-foot room with no windows might not appeal to all travelers.

But Nagy-Ferenc makes the case that by living on this vessel instead of a regular home, travelers will get to save on traditional living expenses like groceries, car payments, and utilities …

… while spending their afternoons at wine tastings, computer classes, and in the pool.

The 719-foot-long ship was built in 1996 and was last refurbished in 2015.

It's not a sparkly, state-of-the-art cruise vessel, but the Victoria Majestic has all the classic cruise amenities.

The 1,350-guest bank of staterooms are lined with 10 decks, four restaurants, two pools (including one with a movable roof), and amenities like a basketball court.

Like most cruise ships, food and beverages are included in the base price.

Laundry service, linens, towels, internet, daily room cleaning, and some entertainment are also included.

But unlike a typical week-long cruise vacation, travelers won't be rushed from destination to destination.

Instead, they'll get to vote on the number of days the ship will spend at each port, according to Nagy-Ferenc.

"[Cruise companies] are designed to entertain, not to keep passengers on board for the long term," he said.

"Our lifestyle is about something completely different. We offer a relaxed sailing experience where there is no rush, there is time for everything."

The first sailing will depart in May from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Guests will then spend an average of one to seven days at each of the 205 ports, exploring destinations like Bridgetown, Barbados; Pattaya, Thailand; and Agadir, Morocco.

To spice up the itinerary, the vessel will stop at different ports of call every time it circumnavigates the globe.

If this ship ends up becoming a success story, in the future, Victoria Cruises will convert smaller expedition vessels into these self-described "houseboats."

The company is one of a handful that operates residential cruise ships.

The World, a 165-residence vessel, will sail to six continents this year …

Source: The World

… while Storylines has plans to launch its first 547-residence ship in 2025 starting at about $1 million for a studio apartment.

Source: Insider

Correction: This story has been updated to clarify that Victoria Cruises offers a minimum 6-month lease for full-price cruises. It requires a 37-month minimum lease to use the cruise line's maximum discounts.

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ColonyGirl2

I have wondered why so few of Holland's excursions have reviews from past cruisers. Now I think I know.  

We usually prefer to take independent excursions for the lower price, smaller group, and the ability to research then.  But when we  took a 7 day Caribbean cruise over Christmas, we booked 3 of the HAL excursions.  The first one was suppose to be a catamaran with snorkeling from Amber Cove.  That was cancelled, so we took an all inclusive to a beach.  It was as expected with a nice beach and mediocre food and drink.  The second one was kayaking on a bioluminescent lake in Puerto Rico.  The kayak vendor was fine and we did see the lights, but the transport was terrible. An escort (not a guide) and a driver, who, when we stopped for a "comfort break," locked the bus and went to have dinner.  We waited in the rain for the bus to be unlocked. We took 2.5 hours to travel what should have taken 90 minutes.  When we arrived, the kayak vendor said we were "early" and he wasn't quite ready for us.  So the timing was really off on scheduling.  

Our transport in St Thomas was also poor.  The sound system was garbled and we couldn't understand anything he said, and the breaks were smoking the whole time.

So I did want to review these excursions, thinking I would receive an email...but no.  On the last day of the cruise, I was using the chat feature in Navigator and saw that I had 3 messages.  These were asking for reviews of the excursions and apparently were sent upon the return from each.  I tried to access them, but they must be time sensitive and all I could get was an error message for each.

So if you want to review an excursion, check Navigator messages right after you return from it.  

I did state my woes in my final review to HAL, but I don't expect them to follow up, and that doesn't help unsuspecting cruisers in the future.

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Share on other sites, cruise suzy.

We received e-mails to review our excursions three weeks after the cruise ended.

1 hour ago, Cruise Suzy said: We received e-mails to review our excursions three weeks after the cruise ended.

We had a drip of emails to review excursions starting a few days after our cruise. I filled one out for each one.

Accord to reports, HAL cleared out reviews after Covid.  This makes sense as they may need to use new tour operators. 

canadarocks

8 minutes ago, Mary229 said: Accord to reports, HAL cleared out reviews after Covid.  This makes sense as they may need to use new tour operators. 

Not accurate. The latest reviews from the Caribbean are here - 

https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/shore-excursions.html#{!tag=excursionDestinationTag}excursionDestinationIDs=C&{!tag=portTag}portId=&{!tag=regionTag}regions=&start=0  

27 minutes ago, canadarocks said: Not accurate. The latest reviews from the Caribbean are here -  https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/shore-excursions.html#{!tag=excursionDestinationTag}excursionDestinationIDs=C&{!tag=portTag}portId=&{!tag=regionTag}regions=&start=0  

All of my excursions have been reviewless or only have post Covid cruises.  perhaps it depends on tour operators.  Anyway I am simply reporting what other members have reported in previous conversations 

8 hours ago, ColonyGirl2 said: I have wondered why so few of Holland's excursions have reviews from past cruisers. Now I think I know.   We usually prefer to take independent excursions for the lower price, smaller group, and the ability to research then.  But when we  took a 7 day Caribbean cruise over Christmas, we booked 3 of the HAL excursions.  The first one was suppose to be a catamaran with snorkeling from Amber Cove.  That was cancelled, so we took an all inclusive to a beach.  It was as expected with a nice beach and mediocre food and drink.  The second one was kayaking on a bioluminescent lake in Puerto Rico.  The kayak vendor was fine and we did see the lights, but the transport was terrible. An escort (not a guide) and a driver, who, when we stopped for a "comfort break," locked the bus and went to have dinner.  We waited in the rain for the bus to be unlocked. We took 2.5 hours to travel what should have taken 90 minutes.  When we arrived, the kayak vendor said we were "early" and he wasn't quite ready for us.  So the timing was really off on scheduling.   Our transport in St Thomas was also poor.  The sound system was garbled and we couldn't understand anything he said, and the breaks were smoking the whole time.   So I did want to review these excursions, thinking I would receive an email...but no.  On the last day of the cruise, I was using the chat feature in Navigator and saw that I had 3 messages.  These were asking for reviews of the excursions and apparently were sent upon the return from each.  I tried to access them, but they must be time sensitive and all I could get was an error message for each.   So if you want to review an excursion, check Navigator messages right after you return from it.   I did state my woes in my final review to HAL, but I don't expect them to follow up, and that doesn't help unsuspecting cruisers in the future.

We had a bus develop transmission issues on the way back from the pyramids - we had traveled in a convoy of buses and couldn't keep up. They were ready to send a rescue bus but we were able to make it back - the last bus to arrive! I had forgotten all about it til I read your post.!

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What It's Like To Explore Southeast Asia With Holland America

There are few better ways to see these stunning destinations in one incredible trip than from the westerdam..

Flying from the U.S. to Southeast Asia is quite the trek (just over a 16-hour flight from NYC or LA to Hong Kong), so making time to experience a variety of destinations while exploring that corner of the world is well worth it. The best way to do this, while eliminating the hassle and stress of navigating directions, numerous flights, and train stations is to take a cruise. Specifically, Holland America offers an incredible option beginning in Hong Kong on the Westerdam.

In addition to Hong Kong, the ship docks in Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand, before ending in Singapore. All of which makes this an excellent option for travelers looking to get the most out of their Asian adventure.

On Board the Westerdam 

The Westerdam holds several Best Cruise Ship Awards and is a great vessel to keep you entertained and relaxed between experiencing the six Asian destinations on this itinerary. Book a calming massage to loosen up your muscles after the long flight to Hong Kong at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon . Get a workout in at the gym in the morning before exploring the cities, or soak up the sun while playing pickleball on the top deck. Soak in the hot tubs or take a dip in the Sea View Pool.

At night, while the ship is traveling to its next destination, watch one of the live performances at the World Stage. Instead of dealing with the logistics between each country, you can sit back and enjoy the journey while having a quality Italian meal at Canaletto or tender chops at the steakhouse on the ship, Pinnacle Grill .

Split creamy Burrata at Canaletto with juicy, plum tomato salad, extra virgin olive oil, and pistachio-garlic gremolata followed by daily fresh, housemade pastas. For seafood lovers, try the Spaghetti with Shrimp and Clams with garlic and chili or the Broiled Lobster Tails with spaghetti coated in olive oil and fresh garlic with warm crab mayonnaise and asparagus, among other seafood options.

If you prefer beef or poultry, there are delicious options for that, as well, like Chianti Braised Beef Short Ribs with onion, shallots, vincotto, and roasted butternut squash and Herb & Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast with fresh mozzarella, crispy zucchini, and basil roasted potatoes. Pinnacle Grill delivers high end service and delicious seafood options, steaks, and wine pairings. Splurge on Ossetra Malossol Caviar with crème fraîche and fluffy buckwheat blini with a glass of Veuve Clicquot. Indulge in Candied Bacon soaked in maple with cracked black pepper and fresh, half sour pickles or Beef Tenderloin with Lobster Dumplings served with horseradish bordelaise sauce, lobster béarnaise, and celery root purée.

The Westerdam has a range of inside rooms, ocean view rooms, verandah rooms, signature suites, and the high end Neptune Suite if you're looking to really splurge. The verandah rooms are flooded with natural light from the huge windows leading out to a private balcony. Head out onto the terrace with a cup of coffee and room service in the morning or relax on the Euro-Top mattress after a soak in the tub to watch a movie in the privacy of your own room.

It's highly recommended that you arrive the day prior to your cruise start date. There's always a risk of flight delays, so planning accordingly can help avoid missing the embarkment day. If you choose to get to Hong Kong a bit early, check into the five-star property, The Cordis . Even if you arrive and decide you want to stay in for the first night, they have amazing dining experiences in house like the buffet at The Place filled with high quality seafood dishes like Fresh Oysters, Chilled Lobster, Snow Crab Legs, Argentina Red Prawn Sashimi, Seafood Paella, Scallops, and more like the Pan-fried Foie Gras and OX Tongue.

The concierge can help book tours of top destinations like the Mongkok Market, Dundas Street, Fa Yuen Street Market, and more, to make the most out of your time in the city. The pool on site has spectacular views of Kowloon and the rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, some with special touches like panoramic windows and a soaking tub. If you visit Hong Kong from November through January, visitors and locals can take advantage of wave season, when surfing conditions are best.

To explore Hong Kong, take the Food Tour through Walk to try traditional dishes. Walk has created a series of creatively designed tours to give you a taste of what Hong Kong has to offer. There are a wide range of tours surrounding history, local living, and, of course, food! The guides are passionate about giving visitors an authentic, curated experience.

The cruise starts with an overnight in Hong Kong on the ship, departing the following day at 5 PM. Once you check out of the hotel and board the boat, settle into your room and then explore the ship's amenities, before going out to see Hong Kong on your own or through a tour. Holland America offers a variety of group tours, but if it's your first time in the city, the Hong Kong Highlights Tour is a great place to start.

This excursion brings guests under Victoria Harbour via the tunnel to Victoria Peak by tram for beautiful views of the city. After, the group drives along Repulse Bay with stunning beaches before stopping at Aberdeen, a fishing village, to take a sampan ride and shop for artisan crafts. The Stanley Market has a variety of souvenirs, clothing, and furniture to browse as well.

Manila, Philippines

After a day at sea, the boat docks in Manila from 8 AM-11:59 PM. With big city vibes right on the bay, the capital city boasts character and culture, as the colonial Spanish architecture and 16th century churches blend with modern buildings to create a unique skyline.

Inquire about the Holland America tour, "A Day at Tagaytay.'" After an hour and a half drive along the coast, through local villages, coconut plantations, and rice fields, the group will arrive in Tagaytay where you can see Taal Volcano, also known as being the smallest volcano in the world. Sit down for lunch with beautiful views before heading back to the boat, seeing some of the churches in Manila like San Augustin and the Manila Cathedral along the way.

Puerto Princesa, Philippines

The next stop is in Puerto Princesa in the Philippines. Here, Holland America offered some great excursions like the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Guests will leave first thing in the morning to head to the St Paul Underground River, known as one of the world's longest underground rivers. On the way to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, about two hours from Puerto Princesa city, you'll explore the countryside, taking in the views before stopping in Sabang to board a small boat for a 20-minute journey to the park.

Upon arrival, you'll switch boats into a smaller canoe to make your way to the underground section where the boat will float for about two miles into the cave. You'll have an opportunity to take in views of the rock formations before having a quick lunch at a local restaurant. For this excursion, it's suggested that you wear your suit under your clothes and bring a towel, a cover-up, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen.

Kota Kinabalu, Sabahlaem, Malaysia

After the Philippines, the next stop is Kota Kinabalu, Sabahlaem in Malaysia. Among the Holland America excursions offered is the Borneo Traditional Living. Beginning with a 40-minute drive to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, guests will stop to experience the culture and diverse nature of Sabah, tucked between a river and tropical fruit orchard.

Learn about the history of the village, as well as the indigenous Borneo people, headhunters, and local traditions from fire starting techniques to tattooing. Guests can even taste some Sabah treats like rice wine, herbal remedies, and more before viewing traditional dances and performances. It's recommended for this excursion that guests wear long sleeves and long pants, in addition to bringing plenty of bug spray, water, and comfortable walking shoes.

Phú Mỹ, Vietnam

The next destination is Phú Mỹ, Vietnam. Among the variety of tours offered through Holland America is "A Taste of Vietnamese Cuisine," a wonderful option for foodies looking to experience local Vietnamese food. Once the group arrives in Ho Chi Minh City (90 minutes each way) in southern Vietnam, the tour begins at a local market with an executive sous chef there to offer guidance.

The market atmosphere is exciting, with plenty to take in. Here, you can explore various grains, fruits, veggies, seafood, spices, meats, and more before stopping at the culinary center for a cooking demo of Vietnamese dishes. The group will learn about the national cuisine, chopstick use, and etiquette before enjoying a meal together.

Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand

After Vietnam, the ship will arrive in Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand. Among the opportunities to explore on your own and other tours offered through Holland America, "Experience Local Life" is a wonderful option. The group will begin the tour with a ride out to Chachoengsao, a town full of history with stunning Buddhist temples, Chinese shrines, and traditional markets. During the drive, enjoy the countryside views of rice paddy fields and scenery before stopping at the Klong Suan Market, where you can experience Old Thailand.

Just a 15-minute ride from the market are Buddha images Phra Phuttha Sothon (or Luang Pho Sothon). The new Ubosoth holds a beautiful Buddha statue and guests might even get to witness Thai dances. After, the group will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to Laem Chabang. Remember to dress modestly for the temples. This means nothing fitted or collarless. All shirts must cover your shoulders, pants must cover your knees, and no skirts or shorts are allowed. Comfortable walking shoes are fine, and they can be removed when visiting the chapel.

Once you return, see if you have time for other activities nearby like the Pattaya Floating Market .

On the last day, the boat will arrive in Singapore around 7 AM. Guests can disembark and head immediately for the airport or enjoy another Holland America tour before the flight. If your schedule allows for it, I highly recommend taking advantage of your time in Singapore and spending a night or two in the area. Check into the Pan Pacific Orchard in Singapore's shopping area.

The city offers incredible sightseeing opportunities, shopping, food tours, street markets, and more. The beautiful hotel has its own restaurant called Mosella, where guests can indulge in a three-course meal right in the comfort of their own hotel before heading upstairs to relax for the evening. If you're a foodie, discovering Singapore's street food is a must, and there's no better way to do that than a tour through Makansutra with the street food expert himself, KF Seetoh.

Makansutra, founded in 1997, was created by KF Seetoh to boost knowledge about the food culture in Singapore. Makansutra has created a variety of food centric adventures like Food Safaris, Culinary Bazaars, Food Hunts, Food Festivals and more . The well-known Makansutra Food Safari was previously awarded "Top 10 Culinary Tours" by Sherman's Travel, USA, and brings guests on an exploration of some of the best cuisine and restaurants in Singapore. The perfect adventure before flying home.

The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Holland America ship

Of the seven big lines that account for the majority of cruises taken by North Americans, Holland America is the brand most known for far-flung, globe-circling itineraries.

You'll find Holland America ships in almost every corner of the world at some point during the year, operating itineraries that are unusual in their diversity of routes and specific port calls.

Still, the line's heaviest presence by far is in Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean. In a typical summer, the line will deploy around half of its vessels to Europe while sending the other half to Alaska. The two regions are often the line's entire focus for summers.

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

During the winter, the line will move at least half of these ships to the Caribbean, while also sending some on far-reaching voyages across the world to Asia, Australia and South America.

For the coming winter, seven of the line's 11 ships are scheduled to sail in the Caribbean, and there will be at least one ship each in Asia, Australia and South America. There also will be one ship operating an epic, around-the-world voyage — a long tradition at the line.

In all, Holland America ships sail to 98 countries, hitting all seven continents. They visit more than 470 different ports and cruise destinations. These are much larger numbers than found with such rival lines as Celebrity Cruises . The latter boasts voyages to around 300 ports in 79 countries .

Among Holland America's itineraries, you'll find everything from one-night sampler cruises between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., to 128-night around-the-world voyages that feature stops at dozens of countries. That's a much broader range than most other big lines, including Celebrity, Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line .

Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or an epic voyage, you can't go wrong with these five top Holland America cruise destinations.

Related: The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained

Some of Holland America's most popular itineraries are in Europe, where the line has traditionally been a significant player. In a typical year, Holland America will deploy around half of its vessels to the region from spring until fall, making Europe one of its biggest focuses for more than half the year.

The itineraries that Holland America offers in Europe are wide-ranging, with a diverse set of routings in both the Mediterranean as well as across Northern Europe.

In the Mediterranean, sailings include everything from seven- to 28-night voyages that offer the chance to see such iconic destinations as Barcelona, Spain, and Rome, Florence and Naples, Italy, on a single cruise.

Some Holland America cruises in the Mediterranean also include visits to Istanbul and Kusadasi in Turkey (the latter a gateway to the famed ruins of Ephesus), and Haifa and Ashdod in Israel (for visits to Jerusalem and other iconic destinations in the country).

In Northern Europe, Holland America will take you to such well-known Baltic cities as Stockholm, Sweden; Tallinn, Estonia; Helsinki, Finland; and St. Petersburg, Russia, in a single sailing (note that Holland America's calls in St. Petersburg are on hold for now due to the war in Ukraine). There also are itineraries that will bring you to Iceland, Greenland and the Norwegian fjords.

Related: The ultimate guide to Holland America cabins and suites

Among the longest sailings Holland America offers in Europe is a 35-night "British Isles, Spitsbergen & Iceland Fjords Explore" trip that brings a complete circumnavigation of England and Scotland, several stops along the coast of Norway, and calls in both Iceland and the Norwegian-controlled Arctic island of Spitsbergen.

In Northern Europe, Holland America ships mostly sail out of Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands (a nod to the company's Dutch heritage) and Copenhagen, Denmark.

In the Mediterranean, the line's hubs are Barcelona; Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) and Venice in Italy; and Piraeus (the port for Athens).

2. Caribbean and The Bahamas

You usually won't find a single Holland America ship in the Caribbean and the Bahamas over the summer, when the line turns its focus to sailings in Europe and Alaska. However, come winter, Holland America will reposition quite a few of its vessels to the Caribbean and Bahamas sailings.

For the coming winter, for instance, Holland America currently has seven of its 11 vessels scheduled to sail in the regions — including its two newest and biggest ships, the 2,660-passenger Rotterdam and the 2,650-passenger Nieuw Statendam.

Holland America offers a broad range of Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries from a single home port in the regions — Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades .

If you're looking for something short, the line has you covered in the form of quick, three-night cruises out of Port Everglades to its private island in the Bahamas, Half Moon Cay. The line also offers four- and five-night voyages out of Port Everglades to the Bahamas and Key West, Florida. However, Holland America is best known for longer sailings in the Caribbean. These include lots of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean and Southern Caribbean, but also a large number of even longer, 10- to 21-nights Caribbean voyages.

The latter trips offer the chance to see a broader mix of Caribbean islands than is typical on Caribbean sailings.

Related: The ultimate guide to Holland America's Mariner Society loyalty program

Among the most elaborate of the itineraries that Holland America offers out of Port Everglades, for instance, is a 21-day "Southern Caribbean Wayfarer/Seafarer" voyage that brings calls at the islands of St. Martin (specifically, to the Dutch side of the island known as St. Maarten), St. Lucia, Barbados, Martinique, St. Kitts, St. Thomas, Grand Turk, Hispaniola (for a visit to the Dominican Republic), Bonaire, Curacao, Aruba and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas.

The voyage is actually a combination of two shorter, back-to-back sailings that are designed without repeating ports.

Holland America is particularly known for voyages to Alaska, where it dominates the market for cruises along with sister line Princess Cruises.

In recent years, Holland America has deployed as many as eight ships to Alaska in the summer — far more than most other lines. In the wake of a significant downsizing over the past two years , the line is cutting that number back a bit. However, it's still planning on deploying at least six vessels to Alaska in the coming summers — a huge number.

Holland America also operates its own wilderness lodges in Alaska, as well as tourist trains and buses. It uses the lodges, trains and buses to offer an extensive range of nine- to 14-night Alaska "cruisetours" that combine a cruise with land-based touring.

The Alaska cruise season is a short one, lasting roughly from May to September. For 2022, Holland America plans to deploy six ships to the Alaska market:

• Eurodam : The 2,104-passenger vessel will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Sitka, Juneau and Ketchikan; Icy Strait Point, Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia. It'll also visit Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Koningsdam : The 2,650-passenger ship will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Vancouver, B.C. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Tracy Arm and Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Oosterdam. Like Eurodam, the 2,388-passenger ship will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Seattle. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Sitka, Juneau and Ketchikan; and Victoria, British Columbia. It'll also visit Alaska's Hubbard Glacier for glacier viewing.
• Zuiderdam . Like Koningsdam, the 1,916-passenger ship will operate seven-night voyages to Alaska round trip out of Vancouver, B.C. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing.
• Nieuw Amsterdam: The 2,106-passenger ship will primarily operate one-way voyages to Alaska between Vancouver, B.C., and Whittier, Alaska. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing, as well as either Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.
• Noordam : Like Nieuw Amsterdam, the 1,924-passenger vessel will primarily operate one-way voyages to Alaska between Vancouver, B.C., and Whittier, Alaska. It'll call at the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. It'll also visit Glacier Bay National Park for glacier viewing as well as either Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.

The appeal of the one-way sailings on Nieuw Amsterdam and Noordam is that they can be combined with stays at the Holland America lodges mentioned above to create the longer "cruisetours" of Alaska that combine a one-way cruise with a land tour.

The land tour portion of such trips brings visits to such well-known interior Alaska locations as Denali National Park and the town of Fairbanks. Holland America is also unique among cruise lines in offering cruisetours that include a land tour into the Yukon Territory of Canada.

4. Panama Canal

Have you always wanted to experience a transit through the Panama Canal? Among major cruise lines, Holland America has one of the biggest array of sailings through the waterway.

In a typical year, the line will operate more than two dozen voyages to the canal, some of which are round-trip sailings from Florida's Port Everglades while others are one-way trips between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, California.

In the case of the former sailings, Holland America ships only transit part-way through the canal after entering it through the Gatun Locks on its Caribbean side. Such trips typically include a transit into the canal through the locks, cruising in the canal to Gatun Lake and a transit out of the canal through the locks before a stop at nearby Colon, Panama.

Among the shore excursions available from the port of Colon is a bus tour to see the locks in action from observation areas on land.

Other port calls during such Panama Canal cruises typically include the Caribbean islands of Aruba and Curacao; Cartagena, Colombia; and Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.

In the case of the one-way voyages between Florida and California, Holland America's ships will make the full journey through the canal's three sets of locks from the Caribbean to the Pacific or vice versa.

Other port calls during such cruises typically include Puerto Vallarta and Hautulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica; and Cartagena, Colombia.

5. The World

In addition to focused voyages in a wide range of cruise destinations from Europe to Alaska, Holland America has long been known for epic around-the-world voyages that include stops at dozens of destinations in four, five or even six continents.

These trips typically take place on the line's smaller vessels and can last four months or longer, allowing Americans to travel across the globe without ever getting on an airplane.

Normally, Holland America's around-the-world voyages begin and end at Florida's Port Everglades.

The line plans one such trip for 2023 — a 128-day voyage from Port Everglades starting on Jan. 3, 2023, that includes stops in North America, Australia, Africa and Europe.

Taking place on the 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam, the trip includes a transit of the Panama Canal, multiple stops in French Polynesia including Bora Bora and Moorea; visits to multiple destinations in New Zealand; and calls at Madagascar, Mozambique, South Africa, Namibia, Angola, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Gambia and Senegal.

In addition to its around-the-world cruises, Holland America is also known for full circumnavigations of South America that begin and end in Port Everglades.

For 2023, the line plans one such journey — a 74-day cruise on the 1,432-passenger Volendam that starts on Jan. 3, 2023.

Bottom line

Holland America offers an incredibly wide range of itineraries in cruise destinations around the world, from South America to Asia. However, you'll find the most choices among Holland America itineraries in Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean. The line is also well-known for voyages through the Panama Canal and for its epic around-the-world cruises. Its annual around-the-world sailings, in particular, are something that sets it apart from other big lines.

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2 crew members die on Holland America ship; fire breaks out on Carnival cruise

MIAMI — Two crew members died on board a Holland America cruise ship, and a fire broke out on a Carnival ship while both of the ships were in the Bahamas this weekend, officials said.

The two crew on the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam died Friday during an "accidental steam release" while it was calling at the private resort island Half Moon Cay, Holland America said in a statement on Sunday.

"There was an accidental steam release in an engineering space on board Nieuw Amsterdam, which sadly resulted in the death of two crew members," the cruise line said.

The Bahamas Maritime Authority and the Dutch Safety Board were investigating the exact cause of the release, Holland America said.

A representative of the Bahama’s Coroner’s Court did not immediately respond to a request for information, such as the crew members’ identities and the cause and manner of death.

The cruise line said the conclusions of any investigation would be taken seriously. "Safety is always our top priority, and we are working to understand what, if anything, can be learned from this tragic accident," it said.

Passenger Laine Doss said she was on board when the captain announced the deaths on the vessel's P.A. system.

"We were celebrating the last day of the cruise," she said, when the mood changed "to something extremely somber."

The captain's voice broke, she said.

"He broke down crying," Doss said. "There was a moment of silence that the captain requested. And that entire scenario did affect the entire cruise. Things were canceled, joyous events were canceled, and we really just thought about mortality — the people who perished on the ship."

Crew members were being offered counseling, Holland America said.

Dutch government inspectors determined the vessel to be "fully operable," and this was "confirmed" by the U.S. Coast Guard, the cruise line said.

A U.S. Coast Guard spokesperson said she was looking into the statement and was unable to immediately confirm it.

The Nieuw Amsterdam returned Saturday to its home port of Fort Lauderdale, guests disembarked, and the vessel has embarked on a cruise with a stop in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, on Monday, Holland America said.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this event," the cruise line said. "We’ve been in contact with the families of both team members and are offering our support to them and to all of our crew at this difficult time."  

The ship set sail out of Fort Lauderdale on March 16 for a seven-night trip.

Fire on the port-side exhaust funnel of another Florida-based cruise ship in the Bahamas, the Carnival Freedom, rocked some passengers Saturday and took the ship out of commission for repairs, the cruise line said.

No injuries were reported.

In a statement Sunday, Carnival Cruises acknowledged witness reports of a lightning strike or the sound of thunder before the fire erupted.

Passenger Heath Barnes said the ship was on a detoured path, destined for an unscheduled stop in Freeport, as a result of stormy weather and high winds when fire started.

"I was shocked," he said. "I mean, I looked out there and you're not supposed to see black smoke and fire shooting out of the tail end of the cruise."

The blaze was preceded by "the loudest thunder-lightning clap that I've ever heard in my life," Barnes said.

Ship personnel extinguished the fire, Carnival Cruises said.

The cruise line said a technical team determined the ship sustained enough damage that it will need repairs before it can be returned to scheduled cruises. The funnel was stabilized, passengers were expected to be returned to Port Canaveral, and the ship will set off to Freeport for repairs, it said.

"The damage is more than we first thought and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," Carnival Cruises said.

Passengers scheduled for those late-March cruises are being offered full refunds and credit that can be used for a future cruise, it said.

It was the second funnel fire on the Carnival Freedom since 2022.

Marissa Parra is a national correspondent for NBC News based in Miami, Florida.

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

Protect Your Trip »

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.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Watch CBS News

2 Holland America crew members die during "incident" on cruise ship

March 23, 2024 / 1:20 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an "incident" in the ship's engineering space, the cruise line said.

The unidentified crew members died Friday while the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.

Authorities were notified and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the cruise line said. 

"The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company's absolute priority," the cruise line said. The company also noted reports that these crew members perished in a shipboard fire are not accurate.

The cruise line did not offer any further details about the crew members, nor which agency was handling the investigation. The ship set sail out of Fort Lauderdale on March 16 for a seven-night trip. 

Crew members were being offered counseling.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members' families at this difficult time," the statement said. 

Crew member deaths are relatively rare. Researchers at Bowling Green State University found between 2000 and 2019, there were 623 reported deaths on cruise ships, and 89% of those deaths were passengers while 11% of those were crew members.

During the pandemic, four crew members were killed by non-coronavirus causes on  cruise ships with workers stranded onboard . 

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How Cruise Deals Are Making Solo Travel More Affordable

A Caribbean cruise is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when planning solo travel. Thanks to shipboard activities and shore excursions traditionally tailored to couples and families, along with the industry practice of tacking on a supplement fee for solo travelers taking cabins designed for two, solo cruising can be lonely and expensive. But that’s changing fast, said Matt Hochberg, inveterate cruiser and editor-in-chief of Cruise Blog, which offers reviews and information on cruises.

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Can You Pay for One Person on a Cruise?

In short, yes. Hochberg said that in recent years, cruise lines have added a growing number of staterooms built for solo travelers, from small, affordable cabins to luxurious ocean-view staterooms. He said that the solo cruise market is not only getting more affordable , but filled with more offerings tailored to single travelers. 

Are There Cruise Lines That Don’t Charge a Supplement Fee?

It’s true that supplement fees have long dissuaded solo cruisers and were rarely avoidable. Why? “Historically, solo cruising has been an overlooked segment for cruise companies,” said John Maguire, founder of CruiseDirect, a cruise booking website. But Maguire said that cruise lines have adapted not only with more cabins for singles, but also by reconsidering the supplement fees. They saw that “catering to solo cruisers presents an opportunity for cruise lines to fill unsold cabins efficiently,” he said.

So today, cruise deals for singles are not relegated to studio cabins or cramped staterooms. Savvy travelers can often find last-minute deals on staterooms meant for two, said William Lee, a travel expert with Chima Travel. “It’s more beneficial [for the cruise line] to have two people in the cabin so they can make more on drinks, food, etc. However, having someone in the cabin is better than not, hence the special offers for no or low supplement fares for single travelers,” Lee said.

Which Cruise Lines Are Best for Solo Travelers?

Here are five cruise lines recommended by experts for solo adult cruisers. Prices vary, but these lines are all making an effort to cater to the solo cruising crowd.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages not only has staterooms for singles, but it also has adults-only cruises, with dining and other experiences solely tailored toward adult clients. As far as solo cabins, it offers two choices: Sea View and Insider. As the names imply, the Sea View cabins feature a porthole while the Insider is an interior room without an ocean view. The rooms range from 105 to 190 square feet.

Virgin Voyages does require you to pay more if you book a cabin meant for double occupancy, so you will want to make sure you search for solo traveler offers. These offers include the same amenities as double occupancy cruises, however, like Wi-Fi, entertainment, dining, soft drinks and water, and more. So, you can avoid wasting money on cruise extras .

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian was the first cruise line to introduce cabins and common areas specifically tailored to solo travelers and has gained a reputation for doing it best — most experts interviewed for this article listed Norwegian as a top pick. And apparently, it’s working out for Norwegian, too, because this year, the cruise line expanded its solo staterooms from nine of its ships to its entire 19-ship fleet.

The line has studio cabins for solo travelers, but it also offers special solo rates on other room choices, such as Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms. All of Norwegian’s solo cabins give solo cruisers access to the Studio Lounge, allowing singles a chance to meet other solo travelers. 

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean was another line singled out by experts as particularly accommodating to solo travelers. And while it doesn’t offer specific pricing for single travelers on dual occupancy cabins, it does offer studio staterooms for solo travelers on certain ships. These do not include the usual supplement fee.

There is also a range of studio stateroom choices, from 101 square feet to 199 square feet in three classes: Studio, Virtual Balcony and Super Studio, the latter of which features a balcony. Search for solo options aboard these Royal Caribbean ships: Brilliance of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is another line that has taken advantage of the growing solo cruising market. It offers single inside staterooms on its Celebrity Silhouette ship that feature a double bed and measure 103 square feet. With only four of these rooms available, however, don’t expect a singles cruise.

If you prefer a slightly elevated experience, Celebrity offers the Edge Single Infinite Veranda stateroom for singles aboard its Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond and Ascent ships. These rooms measure 184 square feet and feature a view and a 42-square-foot veranda, giving you access to the open air “with the touch of a button,” according to Celebrity’s website.

Cunard has made a gallant effort at courting the solo cruiser market of late, including cabins for singles on all three of its luxury liners: Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria. They offer two levels, the Britannia Inside and Britannia Oceanview.

The solo accommodations don’t end at your stateroom door, either. The line offers morning coffee and other receptions specifically for solo travelers, as well as the ability to dine alone or with other passengers. The same options hold for when going ashore.

Other Solo-Friendly Cruise Lines

In addition to the above cruise lines, MSC Cruises, Holland America Line and Oceania Cruises are other top picks for solo cruisers, said Cruise Blog’s Hochberg. For instance, Holland America’s solo cabins are relatively large and all feature an ocean view, said Hochberg. Similarly, he said that Oceania’s fleet offers many ocean-view solo staterooms, as well as many Concierge Level single cabins, which include free laundry, room service, a private lounge and a free bottle of champagne.

Is It Worth Going on a Cruise by Yourself?

This is, of course, a very personal and subjective question to answer. Here are some pros and cons of cruising solo:

• Freedom to design your own agenda
• Opportunity to meet other singles with a similar love of travel
• Prices are now reasonable with a growing number of solo offerings
• Possible safety concerns when exploring cities alone
• Dining and excursion options are often designed for groups
• Feelings of loneliness or awkwardness on couple- or family-heavy cruises

The consensus among experts is that successful, cost-effective solo travel on cruise ships requires a bit more research than the average family might need to do, especially if your goal is to avoid cruises designed for families or couples. But the good news is that you have more affordable choices than ever before. 

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : How Cruise Deals Are Making Solo Travel More Affordable

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Alaska Cruises

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Find the Best Alaska Cruise for You

Explore the dynamic glaciers, soaring peaks and captivating history of the 49th state on our award-winning itineraries. Sail Alaska’s serene seas to Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier for a chance to witness ice calving, known as “white thunder.” Extend your Alaska vacation with a cruisetour, a combination of ocean cruise and land tour deep into Alaska’s rugged interior.

Cross Alaska’s massive ice shelves, crystal fjords, and fascinating marine wildlife off your bucket list with itineraries that conveniently depart from Seattle and Vancouver. Enjoy perks such as privileged access to Glacier Bay National Park and prime docking locations that give you a head start on sightseeing.

Our cruisetours combine an ocean cruise with a land tour into Alaska’s interior. Watch northern wilderness views unfold from aboard our glass-domed train, the McKinley Explorer®. Stay up to 3 nights at the McKinley Chalet Resort near Denali National Park. Go into the Yukon with a guide.

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On this page, why cruise alaska with holland america.

With us, Alaska travel is personal. We’ve been sharing the wonders of Alaska longer than any other cruise line. See the best of the Great Land’s glaciers, coastal towns and wildlife on board perfectly sized ships offering superior service and exclusive programming.

Alaska Wildlife

Few places can compete with Alaska’s wildlife diversity. With more than 20 animal sanctuaries and sightseeing excursions, we bring you closer to creatures great and small. Learn about the Big Five and other amazing animals you might spot.

White Pass & Yukon Railroad

Hop a train back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush. Built during peak gold fever, this 120-year-old iron trail traverses tunnels, trestles and misty valleys to the White Pass Summit at 2,865 feet.

Alaska National Parks

Like everything else in Alaska, the Great Land’s national parks far exceed expectations. Read about Glacier Bay’s seven tidewater glaciers, Denali’s 6-million acres of undisturbed wilderness, Kenai Fjords' astonishing Exit Glacier and other national parks.

Alaska's Glaciers

Glaciers are more than breathtaking rivers of ice. They are living laboratories that show what the Earth was like thousands of years ago and how it is changing today. Get ready for the ultimate glacier experience.

Northern Lights

Many flock to Alaska every year for a chance to witness the aurora borealis. Did you know they are more likely to display during high solar activity cycles? Find out how to pick the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska.

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Meet Alaska's Giants, Face-To-Face

With 75 years in Alaska, we know every nook, cranny and crevasse. We have more Alaska cruise port departures featuring Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. All Alaska cruises include one or more glacier-viewing days, and you’ll get closer to ‘the giants’ on ships perfectly sized for the Great Land.

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Alaska cruise itineraries, weekly alaska cruises may to september.

Stretch out your Alaska cruise vacation with convenient weekend departures. Enjoy a roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle on Alaskan Explorer itineraries or from Vancouver on Alaskan Inside Passage itineraries.

Alaskan Explorer

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Roundtrip Alaska Cruise from Seattle

A 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Seattle.

Roundtrip Alaska Cruise from Vancouver

A 7-day roundtrip Alaska cruise from Vancouver.

Alaska Cruisetours

Cruise to Alaska, explore Denali or Denali and the Yukon.

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Experts on board your cruise to alaska, an unrivaled culinary journey, alaska immersion with explorations central™.

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Why cruise our mid-sized ships.

Choose from seven refreshingly uncrowded ships for a front-row seat to Alaska's splendor.

Fluid lines, light-filled spaces and a blend of modern elegance and nautical tradition make Koningsdam a sublime ship for Alaska cruises.

Eurodam was named “Best for Great Dining & Diverse Destinations” and features a vast selection of entertainment venues and restaurants.

Nieuw Amsterdam

Cruise to Alaska in high style. Nieuw Amsterdam's exceptional onboard experience earned "Best Cruise Ship Overall" at the Travvy Awards.

Named for the Northern compass point, Noordam is fitting for a cruise to Alaska. Museum-quality art outfits this ship, from oils to photographs of music legends. 

An elegant and spacious Alaska cruise ship with fresh floral arrangements and garden-inspired décor. Master frontier flavor with regional cooking demonstrations on board.

Sink into refreshed suites and a new lounge, plus dining and entertainment venues. Take in Alaska’s evergreen fjords and thunderous glaciers on this Vista-class Alaska cruise ship.

Classic nautical finishes and a spectacular art collection make the Zuiderdam the ideal sanctuary for your cruise to Alaska.

Best Shore Excursions On An Alaska Cruise

Top 10 alaska shore excursions, great for families, ideal for adventurers, iconic alaska cruise ports & destinations.

Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan, Alaska is one of the best spots along Alaska's Inside Passage to explore the rich cultural sights of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. Amble historic Creek Street, a boardwalk over a wide creek that fills with salmon during certain times of year.

Skagway, Alaska

Go back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush on cruises to Skagway, Alaska , once the primary gateway to the goldfields. Take a trip on the scenic railroad and still have time to dine and shop.

Convenient Alaska Cruise Departure Ports

Our Alaska cruise departure ports have big personalities and loads of attractions.

Best Alaska Cruises from Seattle

Set out on your Alaska cruise from Seattle’s serene waterfront. Visit its most popular attractions, such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Do as locals do and fuel up at one of the numerous cafes.

Alaska Cruises from Vancouver

Sightsee in this bustling metropolis before gliding the Inside Passage en route to Alaska. Historic neighborhoods and a thriving food scene await.

Alaska Cruises from Whittier

Conveniently located an hour and a half from Anchorage, Whittier is a small town on the shore of the glacier-filled Prince William Sound.

Cruise To Alaska Travel Tips & Articles

• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise
• Planning an Alaska Cruise Itinerary with Kids

• How to Pick the Best Month For Your Alaska Cruise
• The Complete Guide to Alaska Glacier Viewing
• Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Best Places to Visit in Alaska
• Whale Watching on Alaska Cruises

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Two Holland America Line crew members die in onboard 'steam release' in Bahamas

Two Holland America Line crew members died on the line’s Nieuw Amsterdam ship on Friday.

The deaths occurred following "an accidental steam release in an engineering space" around 9:20 a.m. while the ship was calling at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, according to a spokesperson for the line.

The crew members were third engineer Joseph Terrado and wiper Wawan Gusnawan. Terrado was from the Philippines and Gusnawan was from Indonesia.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this event," the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "We’ve been in contact with the families of both team members and are offering our support to them and to all of our crew at this difficult time."

Nieuw Amsterdam was sailing a week-long Eastern Caribbean cruise that departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 16, according to CruiseMapper . The ship returned to Fort Lauderdale around two hours late on Saturday, and left for its next cruise about three hours late.

The vessel will visit Ocho Rios in Jamaica on Tuesday.

"The Bahamas Maritime Authority and the Dutch Safety Board are currently investigating. Safety is always our top priority, and we are working to understand what, if anything, can be learned from this tragic accident," the spokesperson said, noting that earlier reports that the crew members died in a fire on board were incorrect.

Two investigators from the Dutch Safety Board traveled to the Caribbean as part of the inquiry, the independent administrative body said in an emailed statement. The BMA did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].