Latest news with #HollandAmericaLine
TTG
2 days ago
- Business
- TTG
First Class Cruise celebrates launch with exclusive onboard event
Welcoming 40 top-selling travel agents from across the UK, the event showcased First Class Cruise's commitment to delivering unforgettable cruise holidays with a premium edge. The day offered agents a full ship tour and the chance to experience lunch onboard - capturing a taste of the high-quality service and experiences First Class Cruise will offer their customers. Cruise experts and tourism boards were on hand to support the event, including representatives from Holland America Line, Air Canada, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Destination Vancouver, Tourism Whistler, and the iconic luxury rail company, Rocky Mountaineer. 'Our launch event brought together some of the most iconic travel brands to showcase how seamless and spectacular cruise holidays can be,' said Lorna Curry, Head of Product at the First Class Travel Group. 'We were thrilled to host so many engaged and enthusiastic agents who share our passion for delivering bucket-list holidays with a first-class experience from start to finish.' The event marked the official debut of First Class Cruise to the UK travel trade following the successful launch of First Class Cruise' brochure earlier this year. With a focus on tailor-made itineraries that combine premium cruising with pre and post stays in unforgettable destinations, the brand is already generating strong interest across the trade. 'We're so grateful to our partners and agents for making the day such a success and we're excited for what's to come,' added Lorna.
The Independent
09-06-2025
- Business
- The Independent
The unlikely way you can holiday on a private island
The appeal of cruise holidays has traditionally focussed on visiting a wide variety of places. But an increasing number of companies are opting to drop anchor at exclusive destinations in idyllic locations. Private island stops are becoming a highlight of seafaring itineraries, with major players investing heavily in castaway cays reserved solely for their guests. Holland America Line, part of the Carnival Group, recently revealed a revamp of their popular Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas. A new pier will allow more ships to dock at the destination – soon to be named RelaxAway island, hinting at the investment planned for more laidback leisure facilities. Other companies have equally big plans. Expanding beyond the Bahamas, where most island escapes have been based to date, Royal Caribbean is hoping to develop a new Perfect Day project in Mexico (due to open in 2027), while MSC has announced plans for an Abu Dhabi private island experience in the Middle East. Discovering a secret island is, after all, the stuff of childhood dreams. Here are some of the fantasy islands where it's already possible to set sail. Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas Back in 1977, Norwegian Cruise Line became the first cruise company to purchase a private island for their guests. Bars, restaurants and a resort have been developed over the years and there are still more developments to come in the 268-acre tropical oasis. Balance hours spent above water with sub-aquatic adventures on a guided snorkelling tour around a marine sanctuary, or rent equipment for parasailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and jet skiing. For families, there's an aqua park with inflatable water obstacles. Castaway Cay, Bahamas Less than 50km north of NCL's private paradise is Disney's answer to a magical far-flung tropical kingdom. Although there are currently no Pirates of the Caribbean – this is a cay in the Atlantic Ocean, after all – secluded coves were once used by the likes of Blackbeard in the 18th century. During the Prohibition era, the island served as a smuggling base and in the 1970s its airstrips were used by illegal drug runners. A USD$25 million investment transformed the island in the mid-1990s, including a dredged channel allowing ships to dock directly. Expect themed environments and areas dedicated to different age groups – including the adults-only Serenity Bay. Labadee, haiti"> Haiti Bucking the trend for Bahamian retreats, Royal Caribbean has invested in a private patch of a peninsula on the northern coast of Cuba's neighbour, Haiti. Set against plunging coastal cliffs, a choice of beaches ranges from the peaceful Columbus Cove to the livelier Adrenaline Beach. For thrill-seekers, there's a chance jump on a roller-coaster or try the world's longest overwater zip line. Unlike many private locations, interactions with local community are possible at an artisan market and a new cultural programming highlighting Haitian history and traditions is in the works. Despite its popularity, the edgy destination is marred by controversy. Recently, stops were temporarily suspended due to 'an abundance of caution' – although it's hoped they will resume in the future. Amber Cove, Dominican Republic Carnival Corporation invested a whopping USD$85 million to develop this site near Puerto Plata on the Dominican Republic's northern coast. Following in the footsteps of explorer Christopher Columbus, who landed here in 1492, guests onboard voyages operated by Princess Cruises and Holland America can visit. Extending from the hillside, zip lines traverse the port complex and there's a 25,000-square-foot pool area with a swim-up bar, waterslides, and private cabanas overlooking the bay. Although island part of the mainland, the private area has a major advantage over island escapes when it comes to exploring the wider area and interacting with communities.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Holland America leans into luxury travel trend with culinary cruises
Calling all foodies: Holland America Line just unveiled a series of 'Culinary Ambassador' sailings for 2025 and 2026, featuring exclusive onboard events hosted by celebrity chefs and beverage experts, including Masaharu Morimoto, David Burke, and Ivy Mix. As travelers demand more than buffets and banquet fare, cruise lines are doubling down on celebrity chef partnerships, regionally inspired menus, and culinary programming like cooking classes. From sushi counters designed by Iron Chef Morimoto to craft cocktail classes and sommelier-led tastings, food and beverage offerings have become a key differentiator — and a powerful lever to attract higher-spending, experience-driven travelers. The immersive food-and-drink experiences are part of a growing strategy among cruise lines to stand out in a crowded, experience-driven market. 'Dining has become an essential part of how people explore the world, and our Culinary Ambassador program allows us to offer something truly special — an experience that goes beyond the plate,' Holland America's Vice President of Food, Beverage and Rooms, Michael Stendebach said in a featuring a Culinary Ambassador will offer engaging activities where the experts share their knowledge, techniques and tips. For the chef ambassadors, guests can attend a live cooking demonstration led by the chef, join a coffee chat to learn more about them, and dine at an intimate, reservation-only dinner with a curated menu hosted by the chef. The beverage experts will offer tastings, special events and host a pairing dinner in a specialty restaurant.'Through the Culinary Ambassador cruises, we can bring some of the world's most celebrated experts on board to elevate the journey. It's not just about eating well for our guests — it's about learning, tasting something new, having fun and perhaps getting some tips to use in their own kitchens,' Stendeach said. In addition to Morimoto and Burke, Holland America Line Culinary Ambassador chefs include Ethan Stowell and Jacques Torres. Besides Mix, who created cocktails for cruises in Mexico, the Culinary Ambassador beverage experts who created regionally inspired cocktails for the cruise line's bars and menus, include Sam Ross (Alaska), Tess Posthumus (Northern Europe), and David Wondrich and Jeff Berry (Caribbean). Master Tea Blender Steve Schwartz also will join a Culinary Ambassador cruise in Asia. For the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, the options for a Culinary Ambassador Cruise include: Zuiderdam, Voyage of the Vikings, Chef Burke will be on board a segment of the cruise Aug. 7-12, 2025, from Dublin, Ireland, to Reykjavik, Iceland. Nieuw Amsterdam, 7-Day Baja Peninsula, Bartender Ivy Mix will be on board Nov. 15-22, 2025, sailing roundtrip from San Diego. Volendam, 2026 Grand World Voyage, Master Tea Blender Schwartz will be on board March 25-30, 2026, from Singapore to Halong Bay (Hanoi), Vietnam. Volendam, 2026 Grand World Voyage, Chef Morimoto will be on board while the ship is in Japan, dates to be announced. Volendam, 2026 Grand World Voyage, Chef Stowell will be on board April 29 – May 3, 2026, from Seattle, Washington, to San Diego, California. Chef David Burke enhances the menu at Pinnacle Grill, adding contemporary flavors and signature recipes. Currently, Burke and his David Burke Hospitality Management team operate or orchestrate the culinary component of 18 restaurants, a historic event venue and a bakery. They also oversee a growing roster of David Burke-branded products, including cookware, bakeware, steak sauce, cutlery and wine. He has been featured on 'Top Chef Masters,' 'Every Day with Rachael Ray,' and NBC's 'TODAY.' Chef Ethan Stowell incorporates the flavors of the Pacific Northwest on ships sailing in that region, using fresh, sustainably sourced Alaska seafood. His fare also is featured at New York Pizza and Lido Market across the fleet, using pasta and pizza crust made fresh on board. Stowell is founder and CEO of ESR with an impressive roster of highly acclaimed restaurants. He was named one of the Best New Chefs in America by Food & Wine magazine and one of the Best New Chef Masaharu Morimotois Holland America Line's Global Fresh Fish Ambassador, bringing his signature style to dishes in the Dining Room and at Morimoto By Sea. This exclusive restaurant is featured on Nieuw Amsterdam and as a pop-up across the rest of the fleet. Additionally, a Morimoto By Sea sushi counter is available within the Tamarind Restaurant on Pinnacle- and Signature-class ships. Chef Morimoto — known to millions as the star of 'Iron Chef' and 'Iron Chef America' and executive producer and head judge for Roku's 'Sushi Master' — has garnered critical and popular acclaim for his seamless integration of Western and Japanese ingredients. He has restaurants around the world, is a cookbook author and the recipient of numerous awards. Bartender Ivy Mix's cocktails are featured on cruises to Mexico and South America, where her unique knowledge of the agave spirits field shines through. In 2015, she co-opened her bar, Leyenda, with Julie Reiner in Brooklyn, New York, as well as her bottle shop Fiasco! Wine + Spirits. She is the author of 'Spirits of Latin America' and the recipient of numerous awards. Mix is the co-founder of Speed Rack, a woman-only, high-speed bartending competition that has raised more than $1 million for breast cancer Tea Blender Steve Schwartz is founder of Art of Tea. He is known by many authoritative figures in the tea industry as a Master Tea Blender. He has blended award-winning teas under the Art of Tea brand, and his blends are offered under the company's private-label program for tea companies around the world. Schwartz will host a tea tasting experience, a 'Rituals of Tea' seminar and an exclusive High Tea with Art of Tea event on his Culinary Ambassador cruise. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) , or email Amy Post at or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Yahoo
Holland America Line boldly takes on Royal Caribbean
Holland America Line boldly takes on Royal Caribbean originally appeared on Come Cruise With Me. Holland America Line has never really tried to deliver a cruise experience anything like what Royal Caribbean offers. A beloved cruise line known for offering longer voyages to sought-after destinations all around the world since the early 1900s, Holland America Line is renowned for its refined and immersive cruise Holland America Line ships were cruising long before Royal Caribbean or other family cruise lines took to the seas, the cruise line is not so well known to the younger generation of travelers that Royal Caribbean woos with its flashy new megaships. But not every type of traveler, even Millennials and Gen Z travelers, wants to cruise on a passenger-packed megaship to visit busy cruise ports and crowded beaches. However, many younger travelers have been told that premium cruise lines that carry fewer passengers and offer more relaxed onboard experiences, like Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, are only for older cruisers. As a Millennial myself, I can attest to this. Older cruisers have warned me that I may feel out of place on these cruise lines' ships. But honestly, that doesn't concern me since cruising in a more relaxed, refined, and less-crowded way is something that particularly appeals to me. And with its newest marketing campaign, Holland America Line seems to be speaking directly to cruisers like Royal Caribbean takes on Orlando theme park vacations with its newest action-packed megaship, Star of the Seas, Holland America Line is positioning itself as a refreshing alternative to the megaship cruise experience in the Caribbean. With its new 'Refreshingly Free' campaign, the cruise line is focusing on the things its Caribbean cruise experience proudly doesn't feature like oversized ships, amusement parks at sea, overcrowded beaches, and bland campaign targets travelers of all ages who want a more relaxing, leisurely travel experience that allows them to connect to destinations and each other on board a mid-sized cruise ship. 'For more than 150 years, Holland America Line has elevated travel by sea, and now we're excited to spotlight what makes our brand so different in the Caribbean — the elements on board and ashore that truly set us apart for guests who seek an alternative to amusement parks and overcrowded spaces,' said Kacy Cole, chief marketing officer for Holland America research, Holland America Line's marketing team discovered that there are many travelers who don't want an amusement park-like cruise experience. Instead of a high-energy environment, these travelers are looking for relaxation, personalized service, and cultural enrichment. The new marketing campaign contrasts today's mainstream Caribbean cruise experiences with Holland America Line's offerings that are refreshingly different. These elements range from its ships' less-crowded pool decks and enriching activities to locally sourced cuisine and its relaxation-focused private island Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, features a water park and plenty of ways to amplify the beach day, Holland America Line's RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is grounded in tranquility and activities that help cruisers to soak up the natural beauty of the island. As the cruise line launches its 'Refreshingly Free' campaign, Holland America Line is also introducing a limited-time Travel By Sea promotion that features cruise fare discounts of up to 40% and a kids sail free deal designed to appeal to families and multigenerational vacationers. This story was originally reported by Come Cruise With Me on Jun 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Travel Daily News
04-06-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Holland America Line: Third ship exploring Northern Europe in 2027
Holland America Line adds third ship to Northern Europe in 2027, expanding cruises to Scandinavia, Greenland, Baltics, British Isles, and more. SEATTLE, WASH. – Holland America Line will expand its presence in Northern Europe with a third dedicated ship in 2027, providing guests with more chances to discover the region with a cruise line known for its deep-rooted expertise in the area. Guests embarking on one of the cruises can expect to discover the sparkling cities and otherworldly beauty of Scandinavia, Greenland, the Baltics and the British Isles – while also enjoying an authentic onboard experience. Starting in 2027, Zuiderdam will join Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam in taking guests throughout Northern Europe, while Oosterdam will continue as the cruise line's primary ship to sail Mediterranean cruises. Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam will continue to homeport in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, while Zuiderdam will cruise from Amsterdam. Both Zuiderdam and Rotterdam will also offer departures from Reykjavik, Iceland; and Nieuw Statendam will return to Dover, England, in 2027, with alternate itineraries for those wishing to sail roundtrip from the U.K. 'Northern Europe is extremely popular with our guests – for the ports of call and stunning scenery. As a cruise line rooted in European heritage, we're uniquely positioned to offer them one-of-a-kind explorations with an onboard experience that matches the region,' said Paul Grigsby, vice president of deployment and itinerary planning for Holland America Line. 'The destinations in the region are some of our highest-rated – from standout ports in Norway like Eidfjord and Bergen and scenic cruising in Eyjafjörður, Iceland, to the UK's Liverpool and Ireland's Killybegs – this season provides guests more chances to experience everything Northern Europe has to offer.' Holland America Line surveys of both current and prospective guests show that nearly half of respondents rank Northern Europe (including Iceland and Greenland) as one of the most appealing cruise destinations. Further, a majority of guests rank fjord cruising as something of particular interest. A 'fjord authority,' Holland America Line has crafted a 2027 season featuring copious opportunities for scenic cruising in Norwegian and Icelandic fjords – including through Europe's longest and deepest fjord, the Sognefjord. Northern Europe – Home of Holland America Line As one of the world's longest-sailing cruise lines, founded in Rotterdam in 1873, Holland America Line keeps its European heritage at the forefront of the experience on board. The 'Dutch Touch' can be found on board every ship and on every itinerary, from classic design to 'Dutch Day,' which integrates numerous Holland America Line traditions into a celebration of the culture, cuisine and country of the Netherlands. Throughout each cruise, the 'Northern European' experience continues on board and on shore through locally sourced regional delights. And – when sailing on European cruises, guests can taste some of Europe's best cocktails exclusively curated for Holland America guests by award-winning Dutch bartender Tess Posthumus. And guests can learn more about each destination through a series of onboard 'Up Close' presentations and port talks, as well as see live, local entertainment in locations like Warnemunde, where they can take in the sounds of a German oom-pah band. Exploring the Mediterranean with Holland America Line Also available for booking as part of the 2027 Europe season is a series of Mediterranean cruises. Guests can choose from 14 itineraries ranging from seven to 11 days aboard Oosterdam, or from one of three itineraries aboard Nieuw Statendam, either 14 or 15 days. Each cruise will sail from one of four homeports – Barcelona, Spain; Piraeus (Athens), Greece; Trieste (Venice), Italy; or Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – and will explore a total of 54 ports throughout the season. Travelers can also combine itineraries for an even more in-depth exploration of the Mediterranean, sailing up to 21 days with no repeat ports. Guests seeking to sail aboard Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam can book today; bookings for Zuiderdam and Volendam's Voyage of the Vikings will go on sale later in June. Solar Eclipse and Northern Lights at Sea Guests seeking to sail in the shadow of the sun during a total solar eclipse or catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights can now book a number of cruises departing in the 2027 season. Travelers sailing on one of two eclipse cruises can expect lectures from and the opportunity to connect with scientific experts, themed activities and more. Proper equipment — like eclipse glasses — will be provided for the safety of guests. And those sailing on one of three Northern Lights cruises can sign up to get a wake-up call from the ship any time the aurora borealis is spotted. Highlights of the Northern Europe Season Sails from April to December aboard Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam and Zuiderdam. Itineraries range from seven to 21 days. Guests can choose from a broad range of 'Viking Homelands' itineraries, curated with The HISTORY Channels ports like Bergen, Stavanger, Odda and more — while providing scenic cruising opportunities in iconic fjords. Guests can sail roundtrip from Those looking for longer explorations of the region can choose from a number of sailings, including a 14-Day Wild British Isles: Ireland + Cliffs of Moher with The HISTORY Channel — taking guests up close to the scenic cliffs of Moher, and to ports in both Northern Ireland and Ireland – as well as Scotland. Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam will sail a series of 14-Day Baltic and Scandinavian Capitals sailings throughout the summer and into the fall. Each cruise includes overnight or late-night calls, in destinations like Copenhagen, Denmark; Tallinn, Estonia; and Kiel, Germany. A special 'Oktoberfest' rendition of the sailing gives guests a late night call in Warnemünde (Berlin) to take in Berlin's Oktoberfest celebrations. Guests sailing onboard Nieuw Statendam — including on the Oktoberfest cruise — can choose to sail roundtrip from Rotterdam or Dover. The popular 'Voyage of the Vikings' returns in 2027. The 35-day roundtrip from Boston will sail aboard Volendam and take guests to 20 ports across eight countries, with late night calls in Dublin, Halifax and an overnight in Reykjavik. Highlights of the Mediterranean Season Sails from April to November aboard Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam. Itineraries range from seven to 15 days. Guests can choose from a number of seven-day itineraries curated with The HISTORY Channel providing guests an immersive historic experience as well as a sample of the Mediterranean. Sample ports of call include culture-rich Ajaccio, France, and Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey – and some itineraries feature overnight calls in destinations like Naples, Italy, or Alexandria, Egypt. Oosterdam will also sail longer itineraries, either 10 or 11 days, each providing a more specialized look at the region. All itineraries offer late and/or overnight calls in destinations including Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Istanbul, Turkey; and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. Nieuw Statendam will sail three itineraries that will take guests to explore the Canary Islands and Morocco or the Western Mediterranean. Each itinerary offers roundtrip departures from either Rotterdam or Dover. Transatlantic Voyages In March, Rotterdam crosses the Atlantic Ocean from Fort Lauderdale to Rotterdam on a 15-day cruise; Nieuw Statendam follows in April on a 13-day itinerary. Shortly after, Oosterdam crosses from Miami to Barcelona, and Zuiderdam crosses from Fort Lauderdale to Amsterdam. Rotterdam, Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam will sail to Fort Lauderdale via Rotterdam in October, Barcelona in November and Rotterdam in December, respectively. Further Highlights of 2027 Europe Season 11 Departure Cities: Rotterdam and Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome) and Trieste (Venice), Italy; Dover, England; Piraeus (Athens), Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Florida. 12 Overnight Ports: Alexandria, Egypt; Alta and Oslo, Norway; Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome), Naples and Trieste (Venice), Italy; Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland; Haifa, Israel; Istanbul, Turkey; South Queensferry (Edinburgh), Scotland; and Valletta, Malta. 19 Late-Evening Departure Cities (between 10 p.m. and midnight): Ålesund and Trondheim, Norway; Alexandria, Egypt; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Civitavecchia (Rome); Greenock (Glasgow); Dubrovnik, Croatia; Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Istanbul; Kiel (Hamburg) and Warnemünde (Berlin), Germany; Liverpool, England; Mykonos and Rhodes, Greece; Reykjavik; Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands; South Queensferry (Edinburgh); St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada; and Tallinn, Estonia. Have It All Early Booking Bonus For a limited time, when guests book 2027 Europe Cruises with the Have It All premium package, the standard package amenities of shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi are included – plus the added perk of free prepaid crew appreciation, along with free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi. Guests can also take advantage of Holland America Line's Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. Mariner Society loyalty members can enjoy up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom when these cruises open for sale. Guests must book these cruises by Aug. 27, 2025, to receive the Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus.
