Holland America Line Lifestyle:
Holland America Line (HAL) is filled with tradition. Founded in 1873, the cruise line got its start sailing across the Atlantic between the Netherlands and the U.S. Carnival Corp. purchased HAL in 1989, but the line still maintains its Seattle headquarters. The ships are considered by most to be "premium" class--not luxury, but of higher standards (and sometimes price) than some of the other members of the Carnival family.Holland America Line Cruise Ships:
HAL currently operates 14 ships, all with Dutch names, many of which have been used more than once. HAL's Vista class of ships were named for compass points--Zuiderdam, Westerdam, Oosterdam, and Noordam. HAL spent $225 million from 2003 through 2005 to enhance all of its ships.
- Prinsendam (1988)
- Maasdam (1993)
- Statendam (1993)
- Ryndam (1994)
- Veendam (1996)
- Rotterdam (1997)
- Volendam (1999)
- Amsterdam (2000)
- Zaandam (2000)
- Zuiderdam (2002)
- Oosterdam (2003)
- Westerdam (2004)
- Noordam (2006)
- Eurodam (2008)
Holland America Line Passenger Profile :
Many HAL passengers are experienced cruisers in their 50's or older who like a quality product and traditional cruising. The seven-day Alaska and Caribbean cruises cater to families, and HAL has many theme cruises for groups of all interests. HAL passengers like to have a good time, but are not late-night revelers or big party goers. HAL has many loyal, repeat cruisers who love the consistency and traditional nature of the ships.Holland America Line Accommodations and Cabins:
Since the ships range in age and size significantly, the cabins differ between HAL's ships. However, all cabins are contemporary and comfortable. Many of the newer ships have large numbers of veranda cabins, but some of the older ships do not. Holland America features both a bath tub and shower in many of its cabins.Holland America Line Cuisine and Dining :
The main restaurants on HAL ships have four fixed seatings for dinner, starting at times ranging from 5:45 to 8:30. The ships also have buffet restaurants for casual dining featuring salads, regional specialities and fast food. All the HAL ships now have premium, alternative restaurants (at a fee) for those seeking a gourmet dining experience. One quaint traditional feature is the use of a uniformed steward circulating the ship's common areas and using a chime to announce the dinner seatings.Holland America Line Onboard Activities and Entertainment :
Holland America has the standard production shows performed by its own troupe. The shows are not as lavish or spectacular as those found on larger ships in the Carnival Corp. family or on Royal Caribbean. Live music is featured in the lounges and dining rooms. Lectures and movies are shown in the theater.Club HAL is the children's program. The larger HAL ships such as the Vista class "compass ships" are probably better for children.
Holland America Line Common Areas:
The common areas of the older, smaller HAL ships are traditional in decor, with subdued colors and a quiet, classical ambience. The four newer, Vista-class ships are brighter, with a more contemporary and colorful decor. Some frequent HAL cruisers criticize the newer ships because they have a "Carnival" look, others love the updated look. All ships feature fresh flowers and an impressive art collection.Holland America Line Spa, Gym, and Fitness:
The gym facilities have modern equipment and a variety of fitness classes, some of which have a fee. The Greenhouse Spa, operated by Steiner Leisure, has all the standard treatments from head to toe.More on Holland America Line:
Contact Information --Holland America Line
300 Elliott Avenue West
Seattle, WA 98119
On the Web: http://www.hollandamerica.com
