How to Enjoy a Holland America Cruise

Holland America Line, founded in 1873, boasts a fleet of thirteen mid-sized cruise ships. These ships sail all over the world, with regular cruises in the Caribbean, Europe, Mexico and Alaska. Holland America is known for its gracious Indonesian service, elegant ships and little extras, such as daily fresh flowers in all of the staterooms. Below are a few things unique to Holland America.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Book a cabin with a private balcony. Holland America ships offer an array of cabins with private balconies, an increasingly popular option. The line's balconies are much larger than the industry average.
2. Make reservations at the Pinnacle Grill. In addition to the main dining room and the more casual buffet on the Lido deck, all Holland America ships have a more intimate, reservations-only dining room that features the cuisine of the American Northwest. These restaurants charge a modest additional fee, but are well worth it, especially for a birthday or anniversary celebration.
3. Sign up for a culinary course. Many Holland America ships are equipped with a culinary center, where the line hosts lectures, cooking demonstrations and cooking classes.
4. Admire the art collection. Holland America Cruises are known for their extensive collection of Dutch and Indonesian paintings and art objects on each of their ships. Take a minute away from the pool or the casino to admire these pieces.
5. Consider an Alaska cruise. Holland America was one of the first ship lines to sail the waters of Alaska and remains one of the leaders in that region. The line also owns an Alaskan tour company, Westours, which offers a variety of pre- or post-cruise excursions to the interior of the 50th state.