Is Holland America Line a Good Cruise Line for You?

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Is Holland America a Good Cruise Line?

When it comes to choosing a cruise line, there are many factors to consider. Some of the most important include the itinerary, the ship’s amenities, and the overall value of the cruise. Holland America is a well-known cruise line that offers a variety of cruises to destinations all over the world. But is Holland America a good cruise line? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Holland America to see what it has to offer and whether or not it’s a good choice for your next cruise vacation.

Pros Cons Overall
  • Excellent service
  • Beautiful ships
  • Varied itineraries
  • Pricey
  • Some ships are older
  • Not as many activities as some other cruise lines
  • Overall, Holland America is a good cruise line for those who are looking for a luxurious and relaxing experience.

History of Holland America

Holland America Line is a cruise line founded in 1873 by two brothers, Henry and Frederick Booth. The company began as a shipping line that transported passengers and cargo between the Netherlands and the United States. In 1898, the company launched its first cruise ship, the Statendam. The Statendam was a popular ship and helped to establish Holland America Line as a major cruise line.

In the early 20th century, Holland America Line expanded its fleet and began to offer cruises to destinations around the world. The company also began to build its own ships. In 1938, Holland America Line launched the Nieuw Amsterdam, which was the largest ship in the world at the time.

During World War II, Holland America Line’s ships were used to transport troops and supplies. After the war, the company resumed its cruise operations and continued to grow. In 1989, Holland America Line was acquired by Carnival Corporation.

Today, Holland America Line is a major cruise line with a fleet of 15 ships. The company offers cruises to destinations around the world, including Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. Holland America Line is known for its classic cruises, which offer a traditional cruise experience with a focus on comfort and service.

Fleet and Ships

Holland America Line’s fleet consists of 15 ships, which range in size from 82,000 to 145,000 gross tons. The company’s ships are all named after cities in the Netherlands.

The newest ship in Holland America Line’s fleet is the Nieuw Statendam, which was launched in 2018. The Nieuw Statendam is a 99,500-gross-ton ship that can accommodate 2,650 passengers. The ship features a variety of amenities, including a casino, a spa, a fitness center, and a variety of restaurants.

Other ships in Holland America Line’s fleet include the Eurodam, the Maasdam, the Koningsdam, and the Zaandam. These ships offer a variety of cruises to destinations around the world.

Holland America Line’s ships are known for their comfortable accommodations, their excellent service, and their variety of amenities. The company’s ships are a great option for travelers who are looking for a classic cruise experience.

3. Itineraries and Destinations

Holland America offers a wide variety of itineraries and destinations to choose from, including cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, South America, and the Far East. The company also offers a variety of themed cruises, such as its popular “Explorer” cruises, which visit off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Caribbean Cruises

Holland America’s Caribbean cruises are some of the most popular in the industry. The company offers a variety of itineraries, including week-long cruises to the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Virgin Islands, as well as longer cruises that visit multiple islands in the Caribbean. Holland America’s Caribbean cruises are known for their relaxed atmosphere and their emphasis on onboard activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and shopping.

Alaska Cruises

Holland America’s Alaska cruises are another popular choice for travelers. The company offers a variety of itineraries, including cruises that visit the Inside Passage, the Gulf of Alaska, and the Aleutian Islands. Holland America’s Alaska cruises are known for their stunning scenery, including glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.

Europe Cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Europe cruises, including cruises to the Mediterranean, the Baltic Sea, and the Norwegian fjords. The company’s Europe cruises are known for their rich history and culture, as well as their beautiful scenery.

South America Cruises

Holland America offers a variety of South America cruises, including cruises to Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. The company’s South America cruises are known for their vibrant culture and their stunning scenery.

Far East Cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Far East cruises, including cruises to Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. The company’s Far East cruises are known for their rich history and culture, as well as their beautiful scenery.

4. Amenities and Activities

Holland America’s ships offer a wide variety of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy. These include swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, spas, casinos, restaurants, bars, and shops. The company also offers a variety of onboard activities, such as live music, dancing, lectures, and movies.

Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs

Holland America’s ships have multiple swimming pools and hot tubs for guests to enjoy. The pools are typically heated, and some have slides, waterfalls, and other features. The hot tubs are a great way to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Fitness Centers and Spas

Holland America’s ships have state-of-the-art fitness centers and spas for guests to use. The fitness centers have treadmills, ellipticals, weights, and other equipment. The spas offer a variety of massages, facials, and other treatments.

Casinos

Holland America’s ships have casinos for guests to enjoy. The casinos have a variety of slot machines, table games, and poker tables.

Restaurants

Holland America’s ships have a variety of restaurants for guests to choose from. The restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including American, Italian, French, and Asian.

Bars

Holland America’s ships have a variety of bars for guests to enjoy. The bars offer a variety of drinks, including cocktails, wine, and beer.

Shops

Holland America’s ships have a variety of shops for guests to browse. The shops sell a variety of items, including souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry.

Is Holland America a good cruise line?

Holland America is a well-respected cruise line that offers a variety of cruises to destinations around the world. The line is known for its elegant ships, attentive service, and varied dining options. However, it is not the best choice for everyone. Here are some of the pros and cons of cruising with Holland America to help you decide if it is the right line for you:

Pros:

  • Elegant ships: Holland America’s ships are known for their classic, elegant design. The interiors are spacious and luxurious, and the ships offer a variety of amenities and activities for guests of all ages.
  • Attentive service: Holland America is known for its attentive and friendly service. The crew goes out of their way to make sure that guests have a memorable experience.
  • Varied dining options: Holland America offers a variety of dining options, including casual buffets, fine dining restaurants, and specialty restaurants. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

Cons:

  • Pricey: Holland America cruises can be more expensive than those of some other cruise lines.
  • Older ships: Some of Holland America’s ships are older than those of some other cruise lines. This can mean that the amenities and activities are not as modern or up-to-date.
  • Lack of variety: Holland America’s itineraries tend to be more focused on popular destinations, such as the Caribbean and Alaska. If you are looking for a cruise to a more off-the-beaten-path destination, Holland America may not be the best option.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not Holland America is a good cruise line for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a luxurious, elegant cruise experience with attentive service, Holland America is a great option. However, if you are looking for a more affordable cruise with a variety of destinations to choose from, you may want to consider another line.

What are some of the best Holland America cruises?

Some of the best Holland America cruises include:

  • Alaska cruises: Holland America offers a variety of cruises to Alaska, including both Inside Passage cruises and cruises that circumnavigate the state. These cruises offer stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  • Caribbean cruises: Holland America offers a variety of cruises to the Caribbean, including both Western Caribbean cruises and Eastern Caribbean cruises. These cruises offer plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and explore the vibrant culture of the Caribbean islands.
  • European cruises: Holland America offers a variety of cruises to Europe, including both Mediterranean cruises and Northern Europe cruises. These cruises offer the chance to explore some of the world’s most iconic cities, such as Rome, Paris, and London.
  • World cruises: Holland America offers a variety of world cruises, which typically last for around 100 days. These cruises offer the chance to visit a wide variety of destinations around the world, including Asia, Africa, South America, and Australia.

What are the different types of cabins on Holland America ships?

Holland America offers a variety of cabins to choose from, including inside cabins, oceanview cabins, balcony cabins, and suites. Inside cabins are located within the ship and do not have a view of the ocean. Oceanview cabins have a window that looks out onto the ocean. Balcony cabins have a private balcony that overlooks the ocean. Suites are the most luxurious cabins on the ship and typically include a private balcony, a living area, and a separate bedroom.

What are the dining options on Holland America ships?

Holland America offers a variety of dining options, including casual buffets, fine dining restaurants, and specialty restaurants. The main dining room offers a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. There are also several casual buffets on the ship, where guests can enjoy a variety of food items, including pizza, pasta, and salads. Holland America also offers a number of specialty restaurants, where guests can enjoy cuisine from around the world. These restaurants typically require a reservation and have a higher price point than the main dining room and buffets.

What are the activities on Holland America ships?

Holland America ships offer a variety of activities for guests of all ages, including swimming pools, spas, casinos, and fitness centers. There are also a variety of entertainment options on the ship, including live music, shows, and movies. Holland America also offers a variety of educational programs and enrichment activities, such as lectures on history and culture.

What is the dress code on Holland America ships?

The dress code on Holland America ships is relatively casual. In the

Holland America is a good cruise line for those who are looking for a traditional cruise experience. The line offers a wide variety of cruises to destinations all over the world, and its ships are known for their comfortable and well-appointed cabins, excellent service, and delicious food. However, Holland America is not the best choice for those who are looking for a more modern or adventurous cruise experience. If you are looking for a cruise line that offers a variety of activities and destinations, you may want to consider another option.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.