Introduction
When it comes to cruise lines, Holland America has consistently maintained a prestigious reputation for over 145 years. Known for its delightful service, spacious accommodations, and an extensive array of onshore and offshore activities, this cruise line is an exceptional choice for those seeking to explore the unspoiled beauty of Alaska. With the mighty humpback whales dominating the azure seas, bald eagles soaring over snowy peaks, and glaciers that dwarf any skyscraper, a Holland America Alaska cruise promises to deliver the epitome of travel experiences. Let’s dive deep into the incredible journey that awaits aboard the two famed Holland America cruise ships - the New Amsterdam and the Nieuw Statendam.
A First Cruise To Remember
An Alaskan cruise can be a transformative journey, especially if it's your first cruise. Imagine waking up to a surreal view of the Mendenhall Glacier from your room, sipping a steaming cup of coffee as you bask in the glorious sunrise reflecting off icy blue surfaces. Each day on the Holland America Alaska cruise is meticulously planned to ensure a seamless blend of excitement and relaxation.
Every dining experience aboard is designed to tantalize your taste buds. The main dining room serves a wide range of culinary delights - from fresh local seafood to classic American dishes. For a fine dining experience, the Pinnacle Grill offers guests a choice of premium steaks and seafood delicacies, paired with world-class wines.
During sea days, you can enjoy a multitude of entertainment options. Live music is integral to the Holland America experience, with performances ranging from chamber music to rock and roll. Whether you're seeking solitude or companionship, there's always something to do onboard.
Onshore Wonders - Alaska Shore Excursions
But it's the Alaska shore excursions that truly take the cake. Partnering with local tour operators who know the region inside out, Holland America ensures that every excursion is a great experience in itself. Here’s a sneak peek into some of these unforgettable adventures.
Glacier Bay National Park
One of the highlights of the Holland America Alaska cruise is the visit to the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park. The ship sails slowly into the bay, offering spectacular views of the tidewater glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and abundant wildlife. You might even spot a few humpback whales or sea lions frolicking in the icy waters. This unforgettable journey through the heart of Alaskan wilderness is definitely a bucket-list experience.
Denali National Park
As part of the Land+Sea Journeys, Holland America provides an opportunity to explore the majestic Denali National Park. This excursion offers a chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of Mount Denali, North America's highest peak. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and Dall sheep, ensuring a thrilling adventure for wildlife enthusiasts.
Whale Watching
Holland America also arranges whale watching excursions for guests. Imagine watching these magnificent creatures leap from the water in a breathtaking display of power and grace. Whether you're a dedicated whale watcher or someone who just loves wildlife, this excursion is a must-do.
Mendenhall Glacier
An excursion to Mendenhall Glacier offers a unique opportunity to stand in awe of the serene beauty of this natural wonder. This journey includes a visit to the visitor center where you can learn about the formation of glaciers and their role in shaping the Alaskan landscape.
Native Alaskan Culture
For history and culture enthusiasts, Holland America offers excursions to several sites with ancient totem poles. This is an opportunity to delve into the rich cultural heritage of the native Tlingit people and to understand their intricate art and historical traditions.
A Stellar Team Awaits
Every detail of your journey is meticulously planned and executed by an efficient team, from the travel agent who helps with bookings to the cheerful wait staff in the main dining room and the knowledgeable tour operator. They all strive to ensure that you have a great time, making your trip truly memorable.
More Shore Excursions
As part of your Holland America Alaska cruise, you can explore the picturesque coastal town of Ketchikan. Famous for its salmon fisheries, Ketchikan is home to the world's largest collection of totem poles. A guided tour will take you through the town's rich history and culture, capped off by a visit to the Saxman Native Village and Totem Bight State Park.
The journey also takes you to the Gold Rush town of Skagway, where the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park gives a glimpse into the exciting times of the gold rush. Don't miss the thrilling White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad excursion, which promises breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain scenery.
Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, offers a mix of urban charm and natural beauty. It's also a great place to learn about Alaska’s indigenous cultures at the Alaska Native Heritage Center.
The Holland America Difference
Holland America stands apart from other cruise lines for its dedication to enriching the travel experience through insights into local culture, history, and nature. The Alaska shore excursions are carefully curated to showcase the very best of what this incredible state has to offer.
The professional and friendly staff on the cruise ship, along with local tour operators, go the extra mile to ensure that your Alaskan journey is a great experience. From helping you book your dream cruise, to ensuring you have a great time throughout the journey, the Holland America team is always at your service.
Club HAL – Fun for Kids and Teens
While Holland America cruises offer plenty of excitement for adults, they haven’t forgotten the young travelers. Club HAL is a dedicated program designed to provide kids and teens with their own kind of fun. From art projects and game competitions to storytelling and special recreational activities, there's no shortage of fun for the younger generation. Club HAL ensures that while parents are off exploring or taking a break, their kids can enjoy a great time in a safe, supervised environment.
Enhanced Health And Safety Measures
In the wake of global health concerns, Holland America has instituted rigorous health and safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of guests and crew members. Enhanced cleaning procedures, social distancing policies, and on-board health services are among the measures in place, providing peace of mind for travelers.
The Wildlife Of Alaska
Alaska's wildlife is diverse and plentiful, and Holland America's cruises offer multiple opportunities for up-close encounters. Spot humpback whales majestically breaking the water surface or observe bald eagles soaring above the treetops. You might see sea otters floating lazily on their backs in the bay, seals sunning on rocks, or brown bears ambling along the shore.
Nightlife And Entertainment
The fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down on your Holland America Alaska cruise. The cruise ships are home to an array of entertainment options to keep you captivated. Take in a show at the Mainstage, where you can witness everything from comedy acts to magic shows and live music performances. Try your luck at the Casino, dance the night away at BB King’s Blues Club, or simply enjoy a cocktail with live piano music at the Ocean Bar.
Holland America’s Award-Winning Service
One of the most notable things about Holland America is its award-winning service. With one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry, you can always count on personalized attention. From the moment you step aboard, you're treated like a cherished guest, with every crew member committed to ensuring you have the best possible cruise experience.
A Grand Finale: The Sea Day
A sea day on Holland America is the perfect chance to relax and reflect on your incredible Alaskan journey. Maybe take a dip in the heated pool, unwind with a soothing massage at the spa, or catch a cooking demonstration by a master chef. The ship’s knowledgeable naturalists and park rangers are on board to provide insightful lectures on the Alaskan wildlife and environment. You might even spot some humpback whales or bald eagles from the deck!
The Perfect Blend Of Adventure and Relaxation
In summary, a Holland America Alaska cruise offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're exploring the awe-inspiring Denali National Park, watching humpback whales breach in the bay, or soaking in the cruise ship’s hot tub under the midnight sun, you're guaranteed to have a memorable experience.
Holland America understands the magic of Alaska - the breathtaking beauty of its landscapes, the wonder of its wildlife, and the richness of its native cultures. By choosing a Holland America Alaska cruise, you are choosing an incredible journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So why wait? Your Alaskan adventure is just a cruise away!
Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.
Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.
Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.
Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.
Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.
