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Is a Holland America Alaska Cruise Worth It? An Honest Review

07/28/2023 by Kristin Addis 12 Comments

Imagine you’re sitting on a balcony, sipping on a freshly made latte while sailing past an electric blue glacier. Suddenly, you spot an eagle resting on a piece of floating ice. Later that day, you see dolphins, whales, and sea otters jumping through the waves as the mist breaks to reveal snowy mountains and tree-coated islets. There doesn’t appear to be anything around for miles, and it feels like it’s all unfolding in perfect harmony. That all happened within one day on my weeklong Alaska cruise while my son napped on the other side of the door, and I will never forget those magical moments.

Now I never thought of myself as a cruise person. Would a big ship really be my ideal way to travel?

When Holland America invited me, my mom and I weren’t sure it was for us. Would it be cheesy, crowded, and lame? We decided if we were to take a cruise, Alaska with its wild beauty would be the ideal place, so we went for it.

I had only been on a couple of cruises prior to this, wich were rather short and felt like a mixture between McDonald’s and a frat party, to be honest. The experience on the Koningsdam sailing the Inside Passage to Alaska via Vancouver was delightfully different. It was mostly families, retirees, and some multigenerational groups like ours.

The food was great, the service was excellent, but best of all, the experience of sailing along the coast of Alaska was breathtaking. Here’s everything to know before you book that cruise :

Table of Contents

Itinerary – 7 Day Alaskan Inside Passage

There are many Alaska itineraries to choose from, and they all offer scenic cruising with some variation in the stops they make.

What looked best to me was the departure in and out of Vancouver, which included the Inside Passage as well as Glacier Bay. It ended up being a great decision.

The first evening after departing Vancouver was already beautiful, passing by the islands outside of the city and all along the coast of British Columbia. It was just a taste of the beauty that was to come. 

The next day was mostly about getting up to Juneau and was spent at sea. Of all the days on board, this was the least scenic, but I still saw whales from my veranda! 

As would be a trend with the towns we visited in Alaska, Juneau had a charm to it, with historic, Wild West–style buildings and gorgeous surroundings. The downtown is mainly bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops, but there’s quite a bit to do in the area. I opted for the helicopter trek of the Mendenhall Glacier, which was a fantastic decision (more on that later). 

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The next morning, we arrived in Skagway, another small, charming coastal town, and took the scenic railway as our excursion. Felix squealed with delight at the helicopters taking off right outside of our room on the ship afterwards. 

That evening, leaving Skagway was particularly beautiful, as we watched the sunset over the dramatic mountains with waterfalls cascading down. Since we had a baby sleeping inside, most of our evenings were spent on the veranda, which could not have been a better spot from which to experience the beauty of Alaska all throughout the cruise.

Glacier Bay National Park

This was a highlight for us, as we spent the day cruising through Glacier Bay National Park. Though I’ve had the pleasure of hiking across part of a glacier in Wrangell St. Elias in Alaska and trekking on a few in Patagonia , this was still more glaciers than I had ever seen in a day.

As we made our way through, the weather kept changing, creating different lighting along the glaciers and providing incredible wildlife-spotting opportunities. I saw dolphins, whales, otters, and an eagle perched on an iceberg, all from our veranda.

Absolutely book an Alaska cruise that includes Glacier Bay!

As we made our way back south, we stopped in Ketchikan, which was a nice contrast to the glacial landscape that we had been seeing. This is a great opportunity to explore the fjords, which we did by seaplane as our excursion.

Our Room on the Koningsdam

One of my concerns was feeling cramped in a tiny room with our stuff everywhere and all of the free space taken up by our travel crib . 

The verandah room was spacious enough, though, with plenty of storage in the closets and drawers, as well as a space under the bed for suitcases . As long as we were good about putting things back in their place, the room was totally fine for the three of us. 

It also had a pull-out couch to sleep families, though I would imagine that squeezing four into one room would feel tight. 

The balcony was also great and a frequent hangout spot of ours. It was safe for my baby to crawl around and enjoy, and my favorite place from which to spot wildlife. I preferred it to all of the common spaces on the ship since it was so peaceful and felt like my own little retreat.

The room was also serviced twice per day by two incredibly attentive staff members who always left towel animals for Felix. 

Service 

Speaking of the staff, they were amazing. Those in the dining room made a particularly great impression, remembering my son and always saying hi to him and bringing his fruit right away. Considering how many people they were seeing on a daily basis, I was impressed. 

I also found each person we interacted with to be accommodating and patient, even when guests weren’t particularly warm with them. I know from working in hospitality in the past that it’s not an easy job, and they all did it especially well. 

I was worried the food might not be great or healthy onboard. I’d encountered a lot of chicken nuggets and subpar burgers in the past on my brief cruise experiences. However, there was plenty of variety, and I was able to eat healthy and find plenty of options for my one-year-old as well (veggies, grilled meats, and fruit were always abundant). 

Although they had a kids’ menu, my son tends to just eat the healthier food that we eat, and we could get other food for him in the restaurant and Lido Market, and share what we ordered in the specialty restaurants.

Rudi’s Sel de Mer

This is the highest-end restaurant onboard, with the smallest capacity — and also, of course, my favorite. 

It’s a tranquil seafood restaurant, and the halibut and steak special were both excellent. They also had lobster, crab, and other seafood delicacies available. I loved the apple crumble as well!

Tamarind 

This Asian-flavors-inspired restaurant was my second favorite, with satay, curries, a nice tom kha gai , and orange duck. They were also very understanding and accommodating of our nut and soy allergies. Definitely get the yuzu cheesecake for dessert!

The Italian restaurant with seating near the windows offers sharing-style Italian dishes. It’s a must-do if you’re looking for higher-end pasta, meatballs, seafood dishes, and desserts.

Pinnacle Grill

This appeared to be the most popular restaurant. It offered surf and turf. If they have the lemongrass soup appetizer when you sail, definitely get it! 

It is also open for lunch, unlike the other paid restaurant upgrades. I thought this was a steal, considering we got a nice steak and appetizers and dessert for only $15 each!

Lido Market

In market hall fashion, this was the place to go for variety, and it became our daily lunch stop. It had everything from a salad bar and roasted meats to sandwiches, sweets, and noodles. It could get a bit busy and overwhelming at times to be honest, probably because it had so much variety in one spot. 

There were other options in the vicinity, including burgers and pizza near the indoor pool, but we didn’t end up having those during our cruise. 

Main Dining 

Even if you don’t upgrade to any of the paid dining options, the main dining room is honestly awesome. It had a different menu each day with plenty to choose from, like roasted chicken, New York steak, a vegan chickpea patty (which was my favorite thing), and plenty of roasted veggies, grilled fish, and chopped fruit for my son. (It also had a kid’s menu with the typical options).

The staff were so great with my little guy, I was always happy to eat there, which we did for most breakfasts and dinners. 

In-room dining

There’s always room service too! I thought we would take more advantage than we did, but we loved the dining room so much, we went there more often. 

This is the part I was most looking forward to, and my excursions didn’t disappoint. 

Juneau Helicopter and Glacier Trekking

Do yourself a favor and book at least one scenic flight during your cruise, whether it’s in Juneau or elsewhere. 

The flight was beautiful, and the ice was wonderful to trek as well. I’ve been fortunate to trek on five glaciers now and take several scenic flights all around the world, but I had never combined the two. It was truly an adventure, which included scenes all around Juneau, crampons, and hiking on the ice for a few glorious hours. The guides were also happy to take pictures, which was helpful, since I did this excursion solo. 

Skagway White Pass Railway

There are several options for the historic train, since it’s the most popular thing to do in town. I found it a bit confusing and only ended up booking the excursion that just barely crossed the border into British Columbia before turning around, rather than going all the way into the Yukon Territory. Although my intention had been to go all the way, the trip was still beautiful, and probably long enough, considering we had my one-year-old in tow. 

Many of the other excursions will take you all the way one way on the train and then use a coach for the way back. If you do this, be sure to ride on the left side of the train on your way up as it is the most scenic. We ended up being among the last to board the train, which I worried would mean we’d miss out on good seating, but we actually got to be in the front, and it wasn’t too crowded up there!

The trip is narrated the whole way, and there are also platforms in the front and back of each car that passengers can stand on. I logged most of the trip out there.

Ketchikan Historic Wilderness Sea Plane 

This is another splurge but so worth it! In contrast to the glacier flights, Ketchikan is more about the misty fjords and potential to see wildlife. We got lucky with a clear day and a nice, long flight with views of hidden mountain lakes, snowy peaks, and a bear and whale sighting that I wasn’t quick enough to catch on the camera but loved seeing nonetheless. 

Koningsdam : Ship & Amenities 

I have to be honest that the size of the ship (2,500 capacity, one of Holland America’s largest) made me hesitate. I know for sure I’m not the kind of person who would enjoy the huge ships that have 5,000+ passengers, those big slides, and bellyflop competitions. But the Koningsdam was classy, with some shared areas we loved, particularly the Crow’s Nest on the 12th floor, with a fantastic view all around the front of the ship, coffee, and couches for Felix to crawl on.

There were also two pools to choose from, including an indoor pool that showed movies on the giant screen in the evenings, and the outdoor pool at the back of the ship that was nicely heated and had two hot tubs as well. It wasn’t very crowded, which made it perfect for us!

There was also a gym that had regular classes and plenty of machines to choose from. It was never too crowded, even though the ship was fully booked. There’s also a spa, shopping, casino, a few live music venues, and a large theater.

We also enjoyed the jogging track on the 11th floor for panoramic views. It was a great spot to get some exercise and take Felix for his beloved stroller walks with the ever-changing scenery.

As I understand is common on cruise ships, there are some extras, like internet and drinks, that you can opt to pay for as a package. The Quench package included espresso drinks, smoothies, and water cans. Tea, tap water, and regular coffee are free.

To upgrade to the package that includes alcohol runs $55/day, or $60 for top shelf. I don’t drink, so that didn’t tempt me, though it could be a meaningful expense to add onto the trip, as is Wi-Fi, which was $229 for four devices and high speed for the week.

One could just use one’s cell signal in port and disconnect elsewhere, and it’s possible to get an eSIM especially for cruises!

Cleanliness 

With so many people on board, this was another factor that I was a little worried about. Would it really be super clean? However, the guest-to-staff ratio seems to be about 2:1, which is pretty incredible. Everything always looked pretty well taken care of, and things were obviously being cleaned constantly. I regularly saw people servicing the bathrooms, our room got cleaned twice a day, and the pool was regularly serviced. It seemed like there was quite a lot of effort being put into everything feeling spotless.

How to Book

Holland America is offering various routes and variations on this particular itinerary all the time. It’s easy to add on and make it a longer journey, or to explore land and sea packages that include Denali National Park. Booking with a Virtuoso agent can help you find the best room for you on the ship most suited to your desires, with onboard credits.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

There was definitely a time in my life when I was all about taking small ships , cargo ferries, and local buses, and avoiding experiences like cruises. However, now with a young child, it ended up being such an easy, beautiful way to take a vacation. We didn’t have to worry about logistics, food, cleaning up after meals (which can be messy with a one-year-old), or having things to do while he napped. Each time my son went down for his nap, sneaking out to the veranda with the baby monitor ended up being so lovely, with plenty of wildlife and scenery to take in.

The care that the staff put into making sure our boy was well looked after at our meals was above and beyond. People were always trying to make him smile, and the guests were nice to be around, as well. It wasn’t a party atmosphere (although there may have been some of that in the evenings, which I missed since that was bedtime for my son), but rather a mix of people who were there to enjoy the scenery of Alaska.

The only times things felt a bit busy to me were at the Lido Market at lunchtime and in the Crow’s Nest when we were cruising Glacier Bay. I ended up really feeling that our veranda was the best place to view it all from, and I can’t imagine taking a scenic cruise without one.

Maximizing your time by booking excursions in the ports is also important. That does make things cost a bit more, but it really does make this a bucket-list trip. I think with a veranda, excursions, and some of the higher-end dining, as well as making use of the ship amenities that appeal most to you, will make for a wonderful experience. Although I might never be the type to cruise-hop in the Caribbean, I have a feeling this won’t be my last scenic cruise in some of the more mountainous, glacier-topped destinations.

You can book your experience with Holland America here!

*Thanks to Holland America for inviting me to experience this cruise. All thoughts on the amazing staff, beautiful Alaska, and delicious food are my own. We loved it so much that we did another trip with them to Iceland ! Some links in this post are affiliate links that support us at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. We only recommend products we love and use ourselves. Your trust always comes first!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Tillie says

08/30/2023 at 3:47 pm

AMEN!!! I’ve been blessed to shaparone elders on this cruise. They loved it. The medical staff is also attending to chronic conditions that would prevent an elder to vacation with emotional security in a different setting. Their bed goes with then, so that when they feel well, they are back to wonder.

Lisa Cochran says

09/01/2023 at 5:08 pm

My sister and I just went on a cruise on the Valdomara to Alaska. It was just as perfect as you described. I will go again! We had an excellent time!

Kathleen Curell says

09/06/2023 at 9:01 am

What month did you do this Alaskan cruise?

Kristin says

09/08/2023 at 5:58 am

end of July

Shelly Palczewski says

04/24/2024 at 6:49 am

Wonderful article. Very helpful and honest. Thanks. What side of the ship were you on?

Kristin Addis says

05/10/2024 at 9:09 am

Starboard, but when you’re in glacier bay the ship will rotate so both sides see everything 🙂

Janine Palludan says

06/11/2024 at 8:41 am

Can you give anymore specific tips for bringing a toddler? We’re going on this trip in the beginning of July with our 17 month old. I would love tips on what to bring for him, things to do on board, excursions we can do with him, etc. Thank you!

06/14/2024 at 7:27 pm

here you go! https://parenthoodadventures.com/cruise-with-baby-tips-guide/

elizabeth says

07/04/2024 at 10:44 am

How was the weather and would you go in April? thanks for this article, I am just starting the R&D for this trip for next year.

07/11/2024 at 3:41 pm

April would likely still be wintery but if you like that then go for it! Probably cheaper then.

08/12/2024 at 4:42 am

Nothing but a paid advertisement.

08/12/2024 at 6:55 am

We enjoyed it enough to book another one for the following year. I think that should sum up how we felt about it!

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What to Expect on a Holland America Alaskan Cruise

Eagles, moose and bears—oh my! If you’re looking for an unforgettable Alaskan cruise and land experience, look no further. Holland America Line has 149 years of experience (wowza, that’s a lot!), and offers some of the best things to do in Alaska by land and sea tours.

From Fairbanks to Vancouver, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery as you sail through iconic destinations such as the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay, and have plenty of time to explore Alaska’s stunning towns and villages onshore. Plus, with their award-winning service and extensive range of onboard activities, you’re sure to have a vacation you’ll never forget!

Holland America’s Alaskan Cruise Fairbanks to Vancouver: The Ship + Best Tours & Excursions

The Holland America 11-Day Double Denali cruise and land tour is the perfect way to see Alaska. The itinerary includes stops in Fairbanks, Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, as well as a three-day land tour of Denali National Park.

In Fairbanks, travelers can take the Riverboat Discovery Tour or visit the very chilly ice museum. Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Alaska and is home to glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Juneau is the capital of Alaska and offers more than just stunning views – visitors can go whale watching, visit the Alaska State Museum, or take a ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway. Skagway is a quaint town with a rich Gold Rush history. And finally, Ketchikan is known as the “ Salmon Capital of the World” and is home to Creek Street, a historic boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants.

Alaska Cruise Ports

Alaska is a popular destination for tours and cruises, and for good reason! You’ll find several national parks and landmarks which offer scenic views of mountains, glaciers, and forests, as well as the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Of course, it is not just the landscape that makes Alaska worth visiting. There’s also no shortage of things for visitors to explore and experience in one of its cities, such as their diverse cultures and rich history.

While Fairbanks may conjure images of ice and snow, this vibrant city is actually located in the heart of Alaska’s interior. Despite its secluded location, the city is home to a diverse population and offers a wide range of activities for residents and visitors alike.

The city is situated near numerous waterways, providing ample opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The city is also home to a number of parks and hiking trails, making it the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. In addition, there are several museums around the city where you can enrich yourself with its history, or if you’re more of an artsy person, ogle at some lovely ice art and sculptures (don’t miss the Fairbanks Ice Museum !).

With its unique mix of urban and rural attractions, there truly is something for everyone at Fairbanks.

Riverboat Discovery Tour

One of the most popular things to do in Alaska’s city of Fairbanks is taking the Riverboat Discovery Tour, and it is an excursion choice on your Holland America Alaskan cruise. The tour starts with a Bush Pilot Demonstration, where you can see how pilots fly in the rugged Alaskan terrain and land on the water. Next, you’ll get a peek at Trail Breaker Kennel, where you can see the dogs that help mushers travel through the wilderness. Finally, you’ll stop at Chena Indian Village Living Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the Alaskan Native people.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alaska. The park is home to Mount Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, and is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and much more. In recent years, the park has also become a popular destination for winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. No matter what time of year you visit, Denali National Park is sure to impress.

Denali Wilderness Tour

Looking to get up close and personal with some of Alaska’s amazing wildlife? Then the Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour is for you. This narrated excursion takes you on a “school” bus ride deep into the heart of Denali National Park, where you’ll have the chance to see grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and more.

You’ll also get to experience the stunning landscapes of the park, from its towering mountains to its sprawling tundra. Best of all, you’ll be guided by an experienced naturalist who will help you make the most of your experience. So whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, the Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

It’s also a good opportunity to check it off our US National Parks Bucket List: 61 Beauties to Visit in America !

Denali to Anchorage via McKinley Explorer

The Mckinley Explorer train is one of the best (and easiest!) ways to see Alaska. The train takes you from Denali to Anchorage, and the trip takes just under eight hours. The scenery is incredible, and you get to see some of the most beautiful parts of Alaska.

The train has two levels, and the dome-shaped upper level has big windows so you can really take in the views. The lower level has a dining car, where you can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, located in the south-central part of the state. And while the average winter temperatures are below freezing, the summers are warm and sunny, with many different outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.

Some of the best activities you can do here include hiking (or biking) the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, learning about history in Anchorage Museum (Alaska’s largest museum), and seeing glaciers on a day cruise or flightseeing tour to Portage Valley. If you’re looking to surprise yourself further, you can also walk around the city and discover tons of cool street art.

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Whittier

The Alaska Railroad is one of the most scenic railways in the world, and the Anchorage to Whittier route is one of its most popular.

The train travels through some of Alaska’s most stunning landscapes, including the Chugach Mountains and the Kenai Peninsula. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, and there are plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery along the way. 

Hubbard Glacier

An Alaskan cruise is not complete without a sailing through Hubbard Glacier. With a height of 600 feet (350 feet visible above water) and stretching over 76 miles long and 7 miles wide, it is one of the largest glaciers in North America. Because of its size, it’s also one of the most active (moving) glaciers in the world, advancing at a rate of 80 feet per year.

Cruise ships often stop at Hubbard Glacier so passengers can get a close-up view of the glacier (but not too close!) and its calving, where chunks of ice break off from the main glacier. While calving icebergs have become increasingly frequent in recent years due to climate change, it seems to have little to no effect on Hubbard Glacier, even growing more in size.

Glacier National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is home to a staggering 1045 glaciers (50 of which are named). Some of the most beautiful ones include the Lamplugh Glacier and Margerie Glacier.

Lamplugh Glacier is a small but easily accessible glacier located in John Hopkins Inlet (which is also home to several marine life worth seeing like harbor seals). 

Margerie Glacier is another popular destination for cruisers. This glacier is much larger than Lamplugh Glacier and offers breathtaking views of its crevasses and ice sculptures.

Both can be seen from the Holland America Alaskan Cruise.

Skagway is a historic town located in Alaska’s Inside Passage. The town is best known for being the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898, when prospectors flooded into the area in search of gold.

Today, Skagway is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to experience a taste of the old frontier. The town’s main street, Broadway, is lined with quaint shops and restaurants, and there are several historic buildings to explore, including the Red Onion Saloon and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway Depot.

Skagway is also surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with towering mountains, pristine forests, and glaciers all within easy reach.

Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float

If you’re looking for an adventure that will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Alaska, the Chilkoot Trail Hike & Rafting Float is definitely for you.

The Chilkoot Trail was once a vital access route used to get through the Coast Mountains into the Yukon goldfields back in the late 1890s. Today, travelers can experience and walk the same path the prospectors and packers used back in the day. You can arrange the full 33-mile hike, but the Holland America cruise excursion only covers a 2-mile portion. 

The hike itself is a bit challenging (lots of uphill in the beginning!) but incredibly rewarding, and the float down the river is the perfect way to relax after a long day on the trail. Plus, you might get to see some fascinating wildlife along the way.

Juneau, Alaska, is a beautiful place to visit. The city is located in the state’s southeastern corner, surrounded by glaciers, mountains, forests, and diverse wildlife such as bears, eagles, and whales. It is also a fantastic place for visitors looking for excursions to Mendenhall Glacier due to its close proximity (just 12 miles from downtown Juneau.)

Visitors to Juneau can enjoy many activities, including hiking, fishing, whale watching, and kayaking. Some of the things you should not miss out on include a tour through the Tracy Arm Fjord , where the stunning twin Sawyer Glaciers await at the end. You can also learn about Alaska’s culture and history in the Alaska State Museum, which houses over 32,000 historical artifacts, art, and specimens.

Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter & Guided Walk

You probably already knew that you can see A LOT of glaciers in Alaska, but did you know that you could actually walk on one? Yep, it’s true! Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alaska. With a length of 21.9 km and a width of about 2.4 km, plus reaching elevations of up to almost 5,200 feet, it is definitely a sight to behold for any traveler.

There are quite a few Holland America cruise excursions that will take you from downtown Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier by helicopter, which is located just outside of Juneau. We did the standard guided walk where our copter flew us around the glacier for a birds-eye view, then landed on the ice. We hopped out to WALK ON THE GLACIER!! There was even the option to drink glacier water, which I did!

Ketchikan is a beautiful city located in southeastern Alaska. The city is known for its stunning scenery, waterfront location, and mountainous backdrop. And with five different salmon species coming in droves every July to September, it is known as the Salmon Capital of the World.

Ketchikan is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with its hiking trails and kayaking opportunities. Some of the best excursions include the Totem Bight State Historical Park, home to over 14 totem poles and a chieftain house, and the Misty Fjords, a nature lover’s paradise accessible only by plane or boat, and comprising almost 2.3 million acres of wilderness and is part of the Tongass National Forest .

In addition, the city is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Totem Heritage Center and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And, of course, no visit to Ketchikan would be complete without taking a fishing charter or enjoying some of the fresh seafood.

Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Cruise

The Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Cruise is a great way to see some of Alaska’s most beautiful scenery. The Misty Fjords is part of the Tongass National Forest (the nation’s largest national forest) and is accessible mostly by boat or plane.

The cruise takes you through the Inside Passage, allowing you to see firsthand the stunning waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and pristine waterways that make this state so unique. On the way back, you’ll also have the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, including whales, bald eagles, and sea otters.

Cruising Inside Passage

Alaska’s Inside Passage is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world—and it’s no wonder why. The Passage boasts some of the most stunning scenery on earth, from towering mountains and glaciers to pristine forests and crystal-clear waterways. 

This renowned coastal route takes you through the waters between portions of Washington (Puget Sound), British Columbia, and Alaska (Lynn Canal).

Wildlife is abundant, and there are plenty of opportunities to see orca whales!

Vancouver is a unique city with a fascinating history. The city has always been known for its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and diversity. It also offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, biking, sailing, and kayaking.

Some of the things you should not miss out on include walking/biking around Stanley Park (be sure to check out the seawall), exploring the art and food scene at the historic Gastown (and its Steam Clock), and the breathtaking views of Vancouver at Queen Elizabeth Park.

Onboard Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam

Dining experience inside holland american’s nieuw amsterdam cruise ship.

There’s no shortage of great places to eat onboard the Nieuw Amsterdam. For a taste of the Orient, Tamarind offers a delicious menu of traditional Asian dishes. Or, for Italian cuisine lovers, Canaletto serves up mouth-watering pizzas and pasta dishes (I had a delicious lasagna!). 

And if you’re looking for something light and healthy, the Lido Market buffet is perfect for grabbing a quick bite. Of course, no visit to Nieuw Amsterdam would be complete without trying the famous New York Pizza! 

Suites & Staterooms Experience Inside Holland American’s Nieuw Amsterdam Cruise Ship

Guests have plenty of options when it comes to the rooms inside Nieuw Amsterdam that will surely fit their needs. There are six room types to choose from: Inside (no windows), Ocean View, Verandah, Vista, Signature, and Neptune/Pinnacle. For my trip, I opted for the Verandah room.

The Verandah Cabins on board the Nieuw Amsterdam are some of the largest and most popular staterooms on the ship. Located on decks 4 and 8, these cabins offer amazing views of the ship’s wake and also feature a large bathroom with a tub and shower.

Cruise Ship Entertainment

Looking for a place to let loose and have some fun? Then head on over to the Nieuw Amsterdam Mainstage or B.B. Kings Blues Club for some entertainment where each night features a different show. You might see the BBC Earth wildlife documentary paired with live music, a hilarious comedian or entertaining dancers.

Onboard Activities

Looking for something to do onboard the Nieuw Amsterdam? You won’t be disappointed! There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your cruise. One popular option is hitting up the casino to try your luck at the slot machines. Or opt for a game of bingo where there’s potential to win some good money!

If you’re looking to relax, take a dip in one of the pools or enjoy a game of ping pong. There’s also a variety of onboard shops where you can browse for a souvenir insulated mug or piece of artwork.

Holland America Alaskan Cruises offer travelers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of Alaska while enjoying the amenities of a luxurious cruise ship. While each cruise is slightly different, there are a few things that you can expect on all of their cruises. First and foremost, you can expect Holland America’s trademark attention to detail and outstanding customer service. Holland America takes care of all the details so that you can relax and enjoy your vacation. You can also expect to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Alaska is home to glaciers, mountains, fjords, and wildlife, and Holland America’s cruises give you the chance to see it all. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Alaska cruise, Holland America is the perfect choice.

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6 thoughts on “what to expect on a holland america alaskan cruise”.

Your post is very helpful and informative for all readers and for me also.

Did you pick a side room or back end of the ship? What would you recommend?

My room was towards the front of the ship, which was nice whenever they opened the doors to outside for viewing different nature and wildlife.

Holland America’s Alaskan Cruise from Fairbanks to Vancouver is the perfect way to see the stunning scenery of Alaska.

I could not agree more

awesome post very informative.

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Holland America Cruises

Explore alaska’s inside passage with a round trip cruise from vancouver or seattle, or a one-way cruise including seward..

Home » Tours » Alaska Cruises » Holland America Cruises

Alaska cruise tours with Holland America allow you to visit the spectacular coast of our state by large cruise ship in style. Aboard a Holland America Alaska cruise you’ll sail with the finest premium fleet in Alaska. Experience award-winning five-star service, spacious staterooms, sumptuous dining and first rate entertainment as you sail along the most beautiful coastline in the world.

Holland America Line offers classic Alaska cruise vacations aboard spectacular world class luxury liners. Relax and enjoy the scenery on a 7-night round-trip voyage through the Inside Passage from Seattle or Vancouver . One way cruises between Vancouver and Seward (or the reverse) are perfect for creating enjoyable Alaska cruise and land tour combinations. Let Holland America host you on a comfortable cruise to see Alaska’s incredible scenery, massive glaciers and wildlife. Experience more by combining your Alaska cruise with land tours featuring Denali National Park , the Kenai Peninsula , or the gold rush of the Yukon Territory .

Enjoy a Glacier Bay Inside Passage Cruise (round trip from Vancouver), an Alaska Explorer Cruise (round trip from Seattle), or a Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier Discovery Cruise (between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska).

Unfortunately, we are not booking Holland America cruises for 2023. Please view our other Alaska Cruises .

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• Holland America Line

Are meals included in Alaska land tour portion?

By newtocruiseinblue , May 20, 2023 in Holland America Line

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newtocruiseinblue

Thinking of doing the package land tour before an Alaska cruise with HAL. Are meals included during the land tour portion? I like the idea of the train and seeing more of Alaska prior to the cruise. Thank you! ❤️

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No, but you can add them. The meals aren't cheap, but costs in Alaska are crazy expensive.

HAL has a pair of meal packages for your tour. You can buy a full package or a breakfast only package. These packages are for eating in the HAL hotel. The hotels in Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks all are near other restaurants, which give you a variety of cuisines and may be less expensive than the package meals. 

1 hour ago, POA1 said: No, but you can add them. The meals aren't cheap, but costs in Alaska are crazy expensive.

Not even breakfast? Boo 😂 😂

Just now, dfilpus said: HAL has a pair of meal packages for your tour. You can buy a full package or a breakfast only package. These packages are for eating in the HAL hotel. The hotels in Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks all are near other restaurants, which give you a variety of cuisines and may be less expensive than the package meals. 

Thank you! Good info!

The meal plan is expensive.  If you don’t choose the meal plan,  for breakfast at Denali you can choose the cheaper continental (including fruit and oatmeal)  or more expensive full breakfast.  Continental is plenty of food and both are served buffet style at Karstens on the McKinley Chalets campus.  There are other options nearby for lunch and dinner.

The food on the train is excellent and not terribly expensive.  A fun experience eating in the dining car.  

The Westmark hotel in Anchorage is located near many excellent places to eat.  The Fairbanks Westmark serves a nice breakfast buffet and pretty good food choices in the bar for lunch or dinner.  There are places to eat nearby but not as convenient as Anchorage.

We took the Y3L Yukon package several years ago, starting in Anchorage. The only meal included was lunch between Dawson City and Whitehorse. 

The HAL meal package (which we didn't get) was very expensive, but did include appetizer, entree, dessert, and non-alcoholic beverage. 

Oops, hit Submit too soon. 

We're from California, and food prices were about the samein Alaska as here: Definitely not cheap, but certainly more than many states. 

11 hours ago, newtocruiseinblue said: Not even breakfast? Boo 😂 😂

No, even breakfast is expensive. 

You can do a breakfast only or breakfast & dinner meal plan, but you're limited to ordering from a specific menu.

We almost got it last year thinking it would make things easier & better for budgeting, but ultimately did not purchase. We found plenty of options and didn't feel that we had missed out.

alwaysfrantic

We did not get the meal plan because eating in hotel restaurants isn’t our thing.   

Still to this day we talk about the crepe restaurant we found in Fairbanks.  We went to a place in Anchorage for dinner that we have returned to several times since finding it on that first cruise trip.    

I didn’t find food any more expensive than going out at home and you will pay less than than their meal plan and get out if they’re hotels.  With the exception of Denali, their hotels are just basic places to sleep.   Definitely nothing fancy.  If you were staying in these cities on your own, you would NEVER go to the hotel for a meal. 

19 hours ago, newtocruiseinblue said: Thinking of doing the package land tour before an Alaska cruise with HAL. Are meals included during the land tour portion? I like the idea of the train and seeing more of Alaska prior to the cruise. Thank you! ❤️

Depending on the type of land / cruise tour you are taking, some excursions have dinner included, so the dining package might by overspending. You might find our report on our Y1L from last year usefull;

I forgot to mention that a couple of the HAL Westmark hotels had something I'd never seen before: at breakfast, you could buy one all-you-want item for $3 or $4. My wife's an oatmeal fan, so we saved a lot by just getting that one. I don't recall that this option was available in Anchorage or Fairbanks, pretty sure it wasn't at McKinley Chalet in Denali, but was offered in Dawson City and Skagway.

We were gifted many of our meals.  We found many of the evening meals were so large at Karstens we could share.  We also had HIA so we used our free shore e credit to book excursions which included meals.  In both cases the meals were very good.  I don’t know how much breakfast was as we were gifted but it was very bountiful and good. 

On 5/21/2023 at 11:53 AM, kwb101 said: I forgot to mention that a couple of the HAL Westmark hotels had something I'd never seen before: at breakfast, you could buy one all-you-want item for $3 or $4. My wife's an oatmeal fan, so we saved a lot by just getting that one. I don't recall that this option was available in Anchorage or Fairbanks, pretty sure it wasn't at McKinley Chalet in Denali, but was offered in Dawson City and Skagway.

Good buy! Thank you!! 

On 5/21/2023 at 6:51 AM, alwaysfrantic said: We did not get the meal plan because eating in hotel restaurants isn’t our thing.    Still to this day we talk about the crepe restaurant we found in Fairbanks.  We went to a place in Anchorage for dinner that we have returned to several times since finding it on that first cruise trip.     I didn’t find food any more expensive than going out at home and you will pay less than than their meal plan and get out if they’re hotels.  With the exception of Denali, their hotels are just basic places to sleep.   Definitely nothing fancy.  If you were staying in these cities on your own, you would NEVER go to the hotel for a meal. 

True and good points!!

On 5/21/2023 at 6:59 AM, Alphen said: Depending on the type of land / cruise tour you are taking, some excursions have dinner included, so the dining package might by overspending. You might find our report on our Y1L from last year usefull;    

Thank you for sharing! I will check out your review!!

We had no idea about meal plans on the land portion until we were there and heard other travelers talking about it. 

Easier to find restaurants in Anchorage than Fairbanks. 

Winters in NZ

The meal plan also includes gratuity.

• 1 year later...

Are there any grocery stores close by on the land tour? Are you allowed to bring wine?

Where are you going on your land tour? I believe there's a grocery store not far from where HAL stays in Fairbanks, but I didn't go to it. Dawson City had a nice little grocery store (though expensive) a few blocks from the HAL hotel that we shopped at.

You can bring wine over land. We took a bottle from Anchorage to Denali on the train and drank it in Denali. But if your tour involves a flight it would depend on the airline rules.

Petronillus

From an earlier thread on this topic, my take-away is that if you total up all of the most expensive items on all the menus for all the covered meals, the sum would approximate what you're charged for the meals package.

I have taken Alaska cruisetours with and without purchasing the meal plan.  It is important to note that the meal plan did not cover all meals on the land portion. 

It is my experience that to make the meal plan cost effective, it is necessary to choose the most expensive entrees and desserts on the menu from the most expensive restaurant (Canyon) in the McKinley Resort.  Without the meal plan, I ate for half the cost of the prepaid meal plan while ordering what I liked and enjoyed simple desserts.   YMMV

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Holland America Opens Bookings for 2026 Alaska Cruise Season

• August 31, 2024

Holland America Line has opened bookings for its 2026 Alaska cruise season.

From April through September, six ships will offer a variety of itineraries ranging from seven to 28 days, featuring glacier viewings, wildlife sightings, cultural programming and destination-focused dining.

“We continue to build an Alaska program that is unlike any other in the industry, that is deeply immersive, putting a spotlight on all the splendor that brings cruisers to Alaska,” said Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management for Holland America Line. “Whether it’s talking to a park ranger while observing a glacier calve in Glacier Bay, joining a whale-watching tour or enjoying the freshest local fish that was just brought on board, we want our guests to return home from vacation feeling inspired.”

Guests can sail roundtrip from Seattle, Washington; Vancouver, British Columbia; or between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage), Alaska. Highlights include the monthlong “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” cruise and a new 14-day roundtrip option from Seattle.

Alaska 2026 season highlights include:

• Six ships exploring Alaska: The Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam.
• The Westerdam will sail to Alaska from Vancouver and Noordam will cruise roundtrip from Seattle.
• New in 2026, the 14-day “Great Alaska Explorer” cruise will be offered roundtrip from Seattle, in addition to Vancouver.
• Noordam’s Aug. 23 departure from Seattle and Westerdam’s Sept. 13 cruise roundtrip from Vancouver visit Alaska’s Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Sitka and Valdez, along with Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada and Glacier Bay scenic cruising.
• Nieuw Amsterdam’s May 3 cruise roundtrip from Vancouver calls at Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Prince Rupert, Sitka, Wrangell and Valdez, with Glacier Bay scenic cruising.
• The return of the 28-day “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” cruise. Departing June 7 in time for the Summer Solstice, the voyage aboard the Noordam sails roundtrip from Seattle to the Bering Sea and into the Arctic Circle. The ship visits 11 Alaska ports plus Prince Rupert and Vancouver. 
• Seven-day “Alaska Inside Passage” cruises sail roundtrip from Vancouver on the Koningsdam, Zaandam and Nieuw Amsterdam. Ports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway.
• Seven-day “Alaskan Explorer” cruises sail roundtrip from Seattle aboard the Eurodam and Noordam, and include calls at Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (evening visit); and Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka. 
• Seven-day “Northbound Glacier Discovery” and “Southbound Glacier Discovery” itineraries cruise between Whittier (Anchorage) and Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam. Ports include Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway.
• The “Great Bear Rainforest” cruise aboard the Noordam, departs on April 19, 2026, and sails roundtrip from Seattle. Guests will enjoy an overnight at Prince Rupert and scenic cruising in the Grenville Channel, Bella Bella and Johnstone Strait.

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