holland america cruise documents

The ultimate guide to Holland America cruise ships and itineraries

Of the "Big Eight" cruise lines, Holland America Line is the one that prides itself most heavily on legacy. Among the other industry players, which are relatively new in comparison, Holland America stands out because of its longevity, having begun passenger operations in 1873 to ferry passengers across the Atlantic between The Netherlands and New York City.

Ships in the Holland America fleet — formerly the Nederlandsche-Amerikaansche Stoomvaart Maatschappij (Dutch-American Steamship Company) — carried immigrants from Europe to North America at regular intervals. As such, the line often attracts older cruisers and genealogy buffs looking to experience sea travel much like their grandparents, great-grandparents and even great-great grandparents did (albeit with more modern comforts). And veterans who found themselves on Holland America ships used as military transport during World War II often sail on the line's modern vessels as a way to reminisce.

But that doesn't mean the ships are stuffy , boring or limited to an older demographic. In fact, HAL ships are more modern than ever, with some of the newest hardware featuring high-tech theater shows, extensive art collections and contemporary music that even members of Generation Z are likely to appreciate. It's common to see multigenerational family groups on Holland America voyages.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

Tied to the cruise line's rich backstory is a focus on quality and upholding high standards of service. The line's ships generally offer excellent food, tastefully designed decor and an impressive variety of music as entertainment.

Holland America cruises are considered mainstream and mass market, but they're not bargain-basement sailings. They fall in line with brands like Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises, meaning you'll pay slightly more for them than a Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line cruise. But Holland America sailings aren't luxury. (The slightly higher price point also means you won't feel like you're in the middle of a never-ending frat party or a resort geared to families.)

Here's what you need to know to determine if Holland America Line is right for your next cruise.

3 things TPG loves about Holland America Line

• Delicious food that's carefully prepared with a focus on sustainability
• Abundant live music options to suit many tastes
• Extensive itineraries, from Alaska sailings that include land stays to lengthy world voyages

What we could do without

• The stereotype that Holland America is only for passengers of a certain age

The Holland America fleet

With only 11 ships, the HAL fleet is on the small side when compared to the industry's biggest players, some of which have more than two dozen vessels. Holland America's ships are divided into four classes : R Class, Vista Class, Signature Class and Pinnacle Class.

From oldest to newest , the ships have gradually increased in size . However, the largest ones still accommodate fewer than half of the number of passengers carried by the world's largest ships — a nod to the fact that many of the line's most loyal customers prefer a more intimate experience.

There are only two R Class ships on the roster — Volendam and Zaandam, which are the line's two oldest and smallest vessels, each with room for about 1,400 passengers. Because R Class vessels are nearly 40% smaller than the line's largest ships, they offer fewer amenities, making them perfect for anyone whose focus is the destinations the ships visit rather than the onboard diversions. As such, these two vessels tend to sail to more far-flung locales, including world cruises.

Introduced between 2002 and 2006, the four ships — Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam and Noordam — in Holland America's Vista Class are large enough for slightly more than 1,900 passengers at double occupancy. Like their smaller R Class fleetmates, they offer only two alternative restaurants (a steakhouse and an Italian eatery) in addition to complimentary buffet and main dining room venues.

Holland America's Signature Class, comprising Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam, represents the line's midsize offerings, with each vessel accommodating about 2,100 people. Like Pinnacle Class ships, those in this class are home to Pan-Asian restaurant Tamarind, in addition to the free options and for-fee Italian restaurant and steakhouse found on the line's smaller vessels.

But it was with Pinnacle Class ships that Holland America truly began to overhaul its offerings in terms of both dining and entertainment. Koningsdam, which debuted in 2016, brought with it the Grand Dutch Cafe (where you'll find the best grilled cheese at sea, along with delicious split pea soup) and Rudi's Sel de Mer, a seafood restaurant developed by chef and food artist Rudi Sodamin. It also boasts the Music Walk concept, a central thoroughfare that houses several performance spaces focusing on different genres of music.

While Rudi's and the Grand Dutch Cafe are only found on the line's Pinnacle Class ships (which hold 2,650 people and also include Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam ), Music Walk has been rolled out on Signature Class and Vista Class ships also, with R Class vessels featuring one or two of the individual Music Walk venues.

Destinations and itineraries

The sheer breadth of destinations Holland America covers is impressive for such a small fleet. Currently, the line has ships scheduled to call on six continents (plus a sail past the seventh, Antarctica) with stops in more than 50 countries.

Itineraries run the gamut from standard Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Canada/New England and Pacific Coastal voyages to more bucket-list regions like Alaska, the Mediterranean and the Panama Canal. More far-flung destinations include places like South Africa, Oman, Egypt, China, Australia and New Zealand, Japan, Turkey, Morocco, Malaysia, Fiji and other areas of the world that are often cumbersome to reach if you're not on a ship.

Many of the more off-the-beaten-path locations are reached via Holland America's two most impressive sailing types: world cruises, which last more than 100 days, and Grand Voyages that might include circumnavigations of places like Africa, Australia and New Zealand or South America and Antarctica. Both of these types of cruises tend to sell out a year or two in advance.

Plus, with the line's recent focus on longer cruises that travel round-trip from U.S. ports, Holland America makes it easy for Americans to set sail without having to fly.

The line's most popular and frequented destinations are the Caribbean and Europe, with other locales in proximity to North America — such as Canada/New England and the Mexican Riviera — proving to be the second-most popular with Holland America travelers.

Holland America has also had a commanding presence in Alaska for decades, offering some of the most robust opportunities to visit the 49th State. In fact, the brand is so established in the region that it owns and operates its own lodges near places like Denali National Park, making for the perfect pre- or post-cruise add-on.

Who sails Holland America cruises?

Passengers on Holland America's ships tend to be well-traveled retirees (largely couples but with some singles in the mix) and multigenerational family groups usually consisting of grandparents, parents and children traveling together.

Because the brand's vessels lack flashy top-deck attractions like waterslides and roller coasters, the experience is best enjoyed by people who don't need constant entertainment. The ideal match for one of these sailings is someone who likes destination immersion and relaxation time, as well as superb dining and eclectic music.

Although every Holland America ship has a kids club on board, the youth spaces aren't as expansive and thrilling as the facilities on the larger and more family-friendly cruise lines. Well-behaved kids who enjoy learning and visiting new places will still have a great time.

Cabins and suites

Holland America cabins fall into four main categories: insides (no views), outsides (sealed windows), balconies (walk-out verandas) and suites (high-end cabins, usually with extra space and more amenities).

If you're looking for a specialty cabin, those also are available. Holland America offers a selection of accessible rooms on every vessel. They span all cabin types, including suites, with fully accessible, fully accessible single-side approach (with both left- and right-side approaches as options) and ambulatory accessible varieties available. (Specific room types vary by ship.)

Spa cabins come in all basic cabin categories, as well as Neptune Suites. They encompass the same square footage as standard cabins in each of those categories and share the same layout. What sets them apart is that they provide spa-centric extras, such as flavored water and cut fruit, a spa concierge to assist with booking treatments and in-room fitness equipment like exercise DVDs and yoga mats.

Certain ships also offer solo cabins for one person. Designed with lone travelers in mind, they feature full-size beds in lieu of queens, and they're available in the outside category only, ranging from 127 to 172 square feet of space.

The line's only rooms designed specifically with families in mind are outside family cabins, which offer from 222 to 231 square feet of living space and accommodate as many as five people with a queen bed, a two-person sofa bed and a single bunk that pulls down from the ceiling. These cabins are also outfitted with a split bathroom setup — one room with a bathtub/shower, sink and toilet and another with a shower and sink.

Standard features in all Holland America ship cabins include a queen bed that can split into two twins, a couple of nightstands, a vanity/desk area with a chair or stool and a phone. There's also a closet with shelves and room to hang clothes. Rounding out the offerings are a safe, a minifridge, a variety of outlets and USB ports and a private bathroom. An in-room TV provides a handful of channels, ship-sponsored content and complimentary movies.

Select cabins also include sofas, some of which have pull-out beds. Other rooms made to sleep more than two people might have bunks that pull down from the ceiling.

Daily housekeeping service is included in all room types.

Standard amenities on Holland America vessels are a step up from those on most other lines. Some that you might enjoy include Elemis toiletries, bathrobes, shoeshine service, fresh fruit, signature pillow-top mattresses and complimentary 24/7 room service.

Restaurants and dining

Holland America consistently cooks up some of the best food at sea . In fact, through its own Culinary Council, the line offers menu items — and even stand-alone restaurants — developed by renowned chefs like Ethan Stowell, Jacques Torres, Rudi Sodamin, Andy Matsuda, David Burke and Masaharu Morimoto. You can even find their items in the main dining rooms, meaning you don't have to pay anything extra to try them.

All of the line's ships offer at least four dining options: two complimentary (the buffet and main dining room) and two for a fee (Italian eatery Canaletto and the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse). As the ships increase in size, so too does the real estate dedicated to restaurants.

The line's Signature and Pinnacle classes both have added-fee Asian-fusion cuisine at joint venue Tamarind and Nami Sushi, and Pinnacle Class vessels also are home to quirky seafood restaurant Rudi's Sel de Mer and the Holland-themed Grand Dutch Cafe. The latter is a fantastic place to seek out complimentary between-meal snacks and extra-charge alcohol and specialty coffee beverages.

Given the brand's deep roots in Alaska and dedication to serving some of the best meals afloat, it uses sustainable Alaskan seafood sourced through a partnership with the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute and certified by Responsible Fisheries Management.

Foodies will enjoy celebrity chef-led dining experiences and cooking demonstrations on select sailings. Plus, Holland America's Vital Choice program provides passengers with at-home fish deliveries and recipes from the line's chefs so they can replicate the meals they've eaten on board when they return to dry land.

Passengers tend to frequent the main dining room on most nights. It provides an upscale sit-down experience with waiter-served meals. If you choose As You Wish dining, you can arrive at the dining room any time between set hours and eat at your own table (or a communal table if you wish). If you choose set seating, you will dine at one of two set dining times with assigned tablemates at the same table and with the same waiters each night.

Depending on each day's schedule, the main dining room might also be open for breakfast and lunch.

Additionally, each Holland America vessel has a buffet that serves a large number of cuisines from several stations for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night snacking. And, speaking of snacking, afternoon tea is offered on select afternoons on each voyage.

Other noteworthy options include free pool deck pizza, burgers and hot dogs, as well as 24-hour room service. Although select room service items come with a fee, most are free. (Holland America is the only mainstream cruise line that doesn't charge for standard, around-the-clock room service.)

Entertainment and activities

Because Holland America cruises focus on the destinations visited, rather than onboard attractions, the entertainment roster is lighter than what you'll find with other mainstream lines. However, just because there are fewer options doesn't mean the ones that exist aren't excellent.

For starters, the newest vessels feature an entire music-themed promenade, and each ship's main theater, dubbed the World Stage, hosts several fabulous shows each cruise.

Theaters and shows

The most notable of Holland America's entertainment spaces is the Music Walk, a live music-themed promenade that's home to several venues for everything from dueling pianos and blues performances to rock 'n' roll.

B.B. King's Blues Club is a popular venue on Signature Class and Pinnacle Class ships. Named for the famed blues artist, it houses live performances of the same genre. On Vista Class, Signature Class and Pinnacle Class vessels, Billboard Onboard is where you can catch dueling pianos with musicians playing popular tunes that top the Billboard charts.

On Pinnacle Class vessels, a live band jams out to rock tunes in the Rolling Stone Rock Room. On ships in the Vista Class, the similarly themed Rolling Stone Lounge hosts a seven-piece band that covers a range of music styles, including R&B, rock, pop and country.

But the live music doesn't stop there. A three-piece band plays pop arrangements from the '60s through today at the Ocean Bar on all Vista Class and Signature Class ships.

The main theater, World Stage, features a changing roster of shows, including the a capella group Cantare; Step One Dance Company performances that meld technologically advanced sets with beautiful choreography; and Island Magic, a modern take on steel drum music.

Performances vary by ship, and a separate rotating list of performers also travels from vessel to vessel as part of Holland America's partnership with Lincoln Center. (Note that Lincoln Center Stage, a venue previously dedicated to instrumental performances in the Music Walk area, is no longer found on the line's vessels .)

Finally, "Origin Story" is a high-tech, live-hosted documentary-style show that chronicles Holland America's history — from the original Rotterdam through the pandemic-related shutdown of 2020 — in a way that will leave you wanting to see it more than once. (Bring tissues.)

Other attractions and activities

Other activities you can expect to see on the daily schedule might include trivia, game shows (think Battle of the Sexes and the Newlywed/Not So Newlywed Game), scavenger hunts, pickleball, casino play, poolside movies, basketball shooting competitions, afternoon tea, board games, dance and mixology classes, spa seminars and wine tastings.

Top-deck attractions

In keeping with Holland America's less-flashy style, you won't find much in the way of top-deck pastimes. There are no waterslides, go-kart tracks, surf simulators or rock climbing walls. What you will find, however, are two pools — a main pool covered by a retractable glass roof and another adults-only pool that overlooks the wake — as well as hot tubs for relaxing on each ship.

All ships also have tracks for walking and jogging. Locations and distances vary by vessel.

Children's programs

Holland America offers the appropriately (albeit uninspiringly) named Kids Club on all of its ships. It accommodates children from ages 3-17 under the supervision of professionally trained youth staff.

Children are split into three groups — Kids (ages 3-6), Tweens (7-12) and Teens (13-17) — for age-appropriate activities that might include video game play, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, theme parties and poker tournaments.

Note that regular Kids Club programming isn't available on sailings of 25 nights or longer, including world cruises and Grand Voyages. Children's activities will be available from time to time as needed, depending on the number and ages of the children on board.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

Unless you're sailing a closed-loop cruise (one that leaves from and returns to the same U.S. port) to one of a handful of destinations , you'll need a passport in order to sail with Holland America. If you are taking a closed-loop voyage, you can sail with your original birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, instead of a passport.

Whether you're required to have a passport or not, TPG always recommends traveling with one, just in case there's an emergency that requires you to disembark your sailing in a foreign country.

You will also need your boarding documents, either printed or on your mobile device via the Holland America Line Navigator app , to show at the pier during embarkation.

Additionally, depending on your sailing, you might have to apply for visas in order to enter certain countries. In many cases, the line will handle the application and procurement for you, but pay attention to special instructions in cases where you might be responsible for obtaining your own documentation .

Unless you prepay gratuities or purchase a cruise fare that has them included in the price, you will be charged $16 per person during each day of your cruise ($17.50 if you're booked in a suite). You can adjust the amount up or down or remove it completely (which we don't recommend doing) by visiting the guest services desk. You cannot adjust or remove gratuities after your sailing has ended.

An 18% service charge will be added to bar, drink package and spa purchases.

Holland America offers two Wi-Fi package tiers for a fee. The Surf package allows for checking email, accessing webpages, using select apps and utilizing message services, such as WhatsApp and iMessage. The Premium package offers access to select streaming apps (excluding streaming services like Hulu, Prime Video and Netflix) and audio and video call capabilities on apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.

If you purchase a cruise fare that includes Wi-Fi, you will receive the Surf package. To purchase the Surf package separately, the price starts at $18 per device, per day; Premium starts at $23 per device, per day. Passengers can upgrade from Surf to Premium or add additional devices at any time.

Carry-on drinks policy

Holland America's alcohol policy allows cruisers 21 years of age and older to bring bottles (750 milliliters or less) of wine or Champagne on board for a corkage fee of $20 per bottle, regardless of where the alcohol is consumed. No beer, liquor or boxed wine is allowed.

You can bring wine back on board if purchased in port, but liquor and other types of alcohol will be held for you until the end of the voyage. Most nonalcoholic drinks are not allowed to be brought on board. However, each passenger is allowed to bring cans or cartons of water, not to exceed six 1-liter cans or cartons or 12 500-milliliter cans or cartons. Plastic bottles are not allowed.

Smoking policy

Smoking generally is not allowed in indoor areas on Holland America ships, including cabins and cabin balconies. Designated smoking areas are available outdoors and in specific areas of the casinos on select ships. E-cigarettes are allowed to be used in passenger cabins but not on balconies.

Violations of these policies will result in a $250 fine; repeated offenses could cause a passenger to be disembarked from the sailing.

All of Holland America's vessels offer send-out laundry, dry-cleaning and pressing services for a fee. There are no self-service laundry facilities on any of the line's ships.

Electrical outlets

Ships have a mix of North American 110-volt and European 220-volt outlets in their cabins. All of the line's vessels also have USB ports in their rooms, including some near the beds for easy overnight charging.

The currency on Holland America ships is the U.S. dollar. The line's ships operate on a cashless system whereby passengers link a credit card or sum of cash to their room keycards, which can then be used to charge onboard purchases.

Drinking age

The drinking age on Holland America ships is 21. Passengers younger than 21 may not purchase or consume alcohol, nor may they bring it on board with them.

Holland America has two types of evening dress codes : smart casual and dressy. The former includes jeans without rips, holes or tears. Shorts, ripped jeans, beachwear and men's tank tops aren't allowed in restaurants at dinner.

On dressy nights, jeans aren't allowed in restaurants that aren't considered casual. For men, jackets and ties are preferred, but collared shirts with slacks are permitted. For women, dresses and skirts or slacks with blouses are appropriate.

Daywear is casual and influenced by the destination and current weather.

Holland America Line loyalty program

The Mariner Society, Holland America's loyalty program , allows frequent passengers to earn status over time if they sail with the line enough.

The program is straightforward, with five tiers. You reach each tier after accumulating a certain number of "cruise night credits." Simply, for each night you spend on a Holland America ship, you'll get credit for one night — or one point. Staying in a suite? You'll snag double points.

The five tiers are 1-Star Mariner (after your first cruise), 2-Star Mariner (30-74 cruise nights), 3-Star Mariner (75-199), 4-Star Mariner (200-499) and 5-Star Mariner (500 nights or more).

Cruisers have other ways to earn points, too, such as spending a certain amount of money on board when they sail.

But what's the incentive to join the program? After just one sailing, you're entitled to drink vouchers, a special welcome lunch, discounts on Holland America merchandise and half off third and fourth passengers in a cabin on select cruises. Plus, you'll be eligible for onboard credit when you book certain voyages.

When you reach each subsequent tier, you'll unlock further discounts — or even freebies — on things like specialty restaurant dining, specialty coffees, minibar purchases, spa treatments, laundry and pressing services. You'll also gain perks like priority check-in and tendering, as well as Wi-Fi credits.

How much does a Holland America cruise cost?

Holland America sailings aren't the least expensive you'll find, but they won't totally bust your budget, either, particularly if you opt for a more bare-bones cabin in the inside or ocean-view categories.

Although the line doesn't offer a truly all-inclusive cruise experience, it does allow you to purchase a Have It All premium package , rather than simply paying the base cruise fare. The package includes shore excursions, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and a beverage package. Gratuities are extra, but the line sometimes runs promotions that roll them into the cruise fare.

There are also special perks and priority benefits for passengers who pay for Club Orange access. When cruisers book with Holland America, they have the option to purchase a Club Orange add-on that provides priority check-in and disembarkation, priority tendering, dinner in a restaurant exclusive to Club Orange and a complimentary cabin upgrade, among other extras. Prices vary by sailing.

When it comes to fares, at the time of publication, the least expensive weeklong voyage I could find was $371 per person — $53 per person, per night — for a seven-night Alaska sailing through the Inside Passage, round-trip from Vancouver, British Columbia, on Sept. 22, 2024, aboard Nieuw Amsterdam in an inside cabin.

Prices range all the way up to $91,199 per person — $686 per person, per night — for a 133-night pole-to-pole Grand Voyage sailing round-trip from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades on Jan. 25, 2025, in a Neptune Suite aboard Zuiderdam.

How to book

Cruisers can book Holland America voyages directly by visiting the company's website, by calling a cruise line representative at 855-932-1711 or by using a third-party online booking engine. If you need further assistance, a travel agent can help you narrow down the destination and ship you're looking for, field any special cabin requests you might have and process your reservation without costing you anything extra for the personalized service.

To maximize the return on your investment, carefully consider the type of card you're using to make the purchase. If you're someone who plans to pledge loyalty to Holland America, you might consider the Holland America Line Rewards Visa® Card . It offers welcome bonuses (at the time of publication, 10,000 bonus points when you spend $500 within the first 90 days of card opening), 2 points per dollar spent on Holland America purchases (including onboard purchases) and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. Points can either be redeemed toward cruise purchases or as statement credits.

However, you might get more value out of one of TPG's favorite credit cards for booking cruises .

The information for the Holland America Line Rewards Visa Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Bottom line

Holland America is a cruise line that caters to passengers seeking a premium experience at a reasonable price. It takes pride in its heritage, and its ties to immigration and historical events make it a compelling draw for history buffs and travelers interested in genealogy.

Passengers also have an impressive number of choices when it comes to destinations. Holland America offers itineraries spanning all seven continents, so you only need to decide where you'd like to go.

The line's Pinnacle Class renaissance shows a marked effort by the brand to improve the onboard experience, particularly in the way of entertainment. Sailings offer passengers excellent music and shows and serve phenomenal food in an elegant atmosphere.

Whether you're sailing with your significant other, friends or extended family, you're sure to enjoy a voyage with Holland America.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your 1st cruise

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Already Booked?

Tap our phone number to call us for a FREE consultation

• Email Deals
• Personal Quote

• Advanced Search

• Featured Cruise Deals

• Deals by Destination

• Deals by Cruise Line

• Deals by Departure Port

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Holiday Cruise Deals

Military Cruise Deals

• Family Cruise Deals

Popular Destinations

Australia/New Zealand

• Canada / New England

Popular Int'l Departure Ports

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Barcelona, Spain

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Reykjavik, Iceland

Southampton, England

Stockholm, Sweden

Sydney, Australia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Venice, Italy

Popular U.S. Departure Ports

Baltimore, Maryland

Boston, Massachusetts

Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Los Angeles, California

Miami, Florida

New York, New York

Port Canaveral, Florida

San Francisco, California

Seattle, Washington

Popular Lines

Luxury Lines

River Lines

AmaWaterways

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Holland America Line

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Seabourn Cruise Line

Silversea Cruises

Uniworld River Cruises

Viking Expeditions

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Land Vacations

• Cosmos Tours
• Globus Journeys
• Kensington Tours
• Tauck Tours

All-Inclusive Resorts

Cruising 101

• Free Consultation

Why Cruise?

Shore Excursions

Cruising Tips

Future Cruise Credits

Photo Galleries

Specialty Cruises

Group Cruises

Business / Incentive Cruises

Events & Meetings at Sea

Private Charters

Theme Cruises

• River Cruises

Cruise Tours

Wedding Cruises

Hosted Cruises

Family Cruises

Senior Living at Sea

News & Media

Press & News

Testimonials

Social Media

Pre-registration

Passports / Visas

Travel Protection

Why Cruise Web?

Our Approach

Low Price Guarantee

Gift Certificates

Customer Service

Not sure where to start?

Talk to a travel consultant.

Free quotes. Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

Your Holland America Line Cruise Information

Congratulations on your upcoming Holland America Line cruise and thank you for selecting The Cruise Web! Here you will find important information to assist you in your preparations to your cruise vacations:

NOTICE : Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, vaccination requirements and regional travel restrictions are fast evolving, vary by cruise line, ship, destination and travel supplier, and are subject to change without notice. Due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, itineraries, protocols and/or restrictions. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.

Each traveler is responsible for ensuring their compliance with all passport, visa, vaccination and/or other entry/exit requirements and payment of any charges, fees, duties, taxes or assessments related to your travel.

To learn more about the latest travel requirements for Holland America Line, CLICK HERE .

Ready to Redeem Future Cruise Credits?

We are available  7 days a week  to help with all of your cruise vacation planning , including with Future Cruise Credits .  CLICK HERE  to learn more about redeeming Future Cruise Credits , or call  1-800-377-9383 .

10% OFF SHORE EXCURSIONS!

See if you're eligible for our exclusive  10% SAVINGS  on shore excursions by calling  1-800-377-9383 .

Your Tickets:

Your e-tickets will be available online prior to your sailing. Please pre-register online (please click the link below for online registration) and complete the Online Check-In process prior to your sail date. After you complete the Online Check-In, your Express Docs including your Boarding Pass will be issued. Please do not forget to print them out prior to leaving home.

Pre-registration:

Due to increased security in ports worldwide, your embarkation will be much faster and easier if all of your pertinent information is already in the cruise line's check-in system. Please CLICK HERE to pre-register online .

Please be advised that airfare prices offered by Holland America Line are subject to change, until 60 days before the sailing and final payment is made. Only bookings paid in full and within 60 days of departure carry a guaranteed airfare rate.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: By booking with The Cruise Web, Passenger explicitly agrees to the terms of the Cruise Contract ( https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/legal-privacy/cruise-contract.html ). Please read all sections carefully as they affect the passenger's legal rights.

Identification, Passport & Visa Information:

Proof of citizenship and photo identification will be required for your vacation. A valid US passport and visa (for certain destinations only) may also be required for your travel . The United States Department of State has recently changed documentation requirements for travel outside of the United States, and continues to review these requirements. For example, when traveling to certain countries, your passport must be valid for several months beyond the date in which you expect to complete your travel and return home. Please visit the State Department website at www.travel.state.gov , for the official and most up to date documentation requirements, and also for instructions on how to renew or obtain a passport. You may also contact the National Passport Information Center toll free at 1-877-487-2778.

NOTE : Effective May 3, 2023, travelers who elect to use a U.S. state-issued driver's license must ensure that it is   REAL ID-compliant , which should be indicated by the presence of a star located near the upper corner of the card.

Non-US citizens should check with their local consulate to determine the specific documents required for travel.

Shore Excursions:

Optional shore excursions are a great way to make the most of your cruise vacation, and we suggest booking yours with either The Cruise Web's third party excursion partner,  Shore Excursions Group , or directly with the cruise line.

Advantages of booking your excursions with Shore Excursions Group, our preferred partner, include up to 40% savings, a money-back guarantee, more tour options, guaranteed return to ship and 24/7 traveler support at 1-866-703-0606.

NOTE : Excursions booked through Shore Excursions Group are NOT operated by the cruise line, but rather are arranged by Shore Excursions Group.

Cruise Web Exclusive : SAVE 10% on Excursions. Call 1-800-377-9383 to see if you're eligible!

To browse shore excursions from Shore Excursions Group (The Cruise Web's 3rd party tour partner), please CLICK HERE .

To browse shore excursions directly with Holland America Line, please CLICK HERE .

Either way, we recommend you book early for the best selection, as shore excursions and tours have limited capacity and fill up quickly!

Preferred Flights:

If your vacation package includes airfare, your airfare is subject to the carriers, dates, times, and routing selected by the cruise line or provider. You may also contact your Cruise Web cruise specialist to request Preferred Flights through Cruise Web's cruise line partners. Preferred Flights are strongly encouraged to accommodate your flight dates, times, routing, or airline choices. The cost of Preferred Flights is from $75 to $200 per person, depending on the cruise line, plus any difference in airfare.

Travel Protection:

Travel insurance is available through our partner, Travel Guard Insurance. Please call your cruise consultant for pricing and full coverage details as soon as possible. Coverages may vary and not all coverage is available in all jurisdictions.  CLICK HERE for more information about travel protection offered through Travel Guard .

Travel Advisories and Vaccination Requirements:

For health advisories and vaccination requirements, visit the Center for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov . For US State Department travel advisories, see www.travel.state.gov . To learn more about the latest travel requirements for Holland America Line, CLICK HERE .

Frequently Ask Questions:

Please CLICK HERE to read our F.A.Q. guide .

Information About Ports:

Please CLICK HERE for more information on different ports of call .

Terms and Conditions:

Please CLICK HERE to review Terms and Conditions .

Still Have Questions?

Please contact your personal Cruise Consultant or CLICK HERE to email your questions .

We Make Vacation Planning Easy

With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money.

Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Find a cruise.

• All Cruise Types
• Popular Cruises
• Luxury Cruises

Vacation Deals

Destinations & ports.

• All Destinations

Cruise Lines

• Popular Cruise Lines
• Luxury Cruise Lines
• River Cruise Lines
• All Cruise Lines
• All About Cruising
• Already Booked

Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.

• Monthly Newsletter

• My Cruise Documents
• Holland Amnerica Line Documents

https://book2.hollandamerica.com/olci-iu/#/findBooking

Benefits of Checking in Online

Don't worry if you begin the process and cannot finish for whatever reason; you may easily return to complete it later. Required fields are indicated in red and with an asterisk. When you check-in online, you'll be able to take advantage of the following benefits:

• Boarding Pass : for speedy embarkation, simply print your pass after completing online check-in. (Keep in a safe place along with your cruise documents).

What you'll need for Online Check-in:

• Your cruise line confirmation number, ship, sail date (this will be on your Cruise Brothers Confirmation)
• The full legal name, date of birth for each traveler in your party
• Passport or appropriate travel documentation information for each traveler Passport #, date of expiration, date of issue
• Emergency Contact name and phone # (this is someone not travelling with you)
• A credit card - this is used to set up your onboard account – Cruises operate on a cashless system and do not accept cash for onboard purchases and gratuities.
• Travel plans before and after your cruise. They want to know how you plan to get there and how you plan to leave.

Availability of Express Docs

Your  Express Docs  will be available:

• After all Required guests data is complete
• After payment is complete
• Within 50 days of your cruise departure

What to Bring to the Ship

For embarkation remember to bring the following items:

• Your Boarding Pass or Express Docs
• Appropriate identification and passport or government-issued ID
• Visa and immunization information (if required)

• Holland America Line

Express Docs and Where Do I Find Them

By Rocky365 , June 29, 2009 in Holland America Line

Recommended Posts

I have done the on-line check in and was able to print the 1 page boarding pass, however I keep reading about additional express docs? Where do I find these?

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

SeattleCruisePrincess

The express docs are for those who did not recieve paper docs. If you have your boarding pass, that is all you need.

Have a great cruise!

Maybe they want your credit card numbers upfront?

Following is from HAL's FAQ section on Express Docs:

Q – Can I change my choice of documents?

A – Yes, you may change your choice of documents from paper to Express Docs or from Express Docs to paper. There is no charge to change to Express Docs. There will be a $25 per booking processing fee for requests to change to paper documents after final payment has been received.

Q – How will I know when Express Docs are ready for my booking?

A – Holland America Line will send an email to each guest booked to notify you that Express Docs are ready, once the booking is paid in full and approximately 50 days prior to the departure date.

Q – What does the email notification from Holland America Line look like?

A – The email from Holland America Line has the Booking Number in the subject line. A separate email is sent for each booked guest.

If the booking is paid in full and within 50 days of travel, you may go to http://www.hollandamerica.com and select the links for Online Check-In.

As long as you entered your immigration status, your credit card info, emergency contact person, and printed your boarding pass, you are good to go!:)

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 08:11 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 07:43 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 01:14 AM

LauraS · Started April 26

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Passports are required for all travelers, including citizens of the U.S. and Canada, who enter or re-enter the U.S. by air, land or sea .

There are a few notable exceptions pertaining to land and sea border crossings:

• U.S. citizens on cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port and travel to destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Bermuda are able to re-enter the U.S. with proof of citizenship other than a passport or passport card. Acceptable proof of citizenship includes a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable) or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization and a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license). Passports are required for cruises that begin in one U.S. port and end in another.
• Holland America cruises that visit islands in the French West Indies (Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin and Saint Barts) require a valid passport regardless of departure port.  
• Children under the age of 16 who are citizens of the U.S. or Canada are exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings. In lieu of a passport, children are able to use a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable) or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization as proof of citizenship for entry into the U.S. by land or by sea. Children entering or re-entering the U.S. by air are required to have a valid passport.
• When minors are traveling with only one adult, Holland America requires that all passengers have a valid passport.  
• A new, lower-cost alternative to the passport, called a passport card, is acceptable for entries into the U.S. by land or sea. The passport card is not acceptable for air travel.

Photocopies of required documentation are not acceptable in any circumstance.

Even though passports are not required at this time for U.S. citizens who sail on cruises to the above destinations that begin and end in the same U.S. port, we strongly recommend that all cruise passengers travel with a valid passport anyway. This is because guests who need to fly to or from the U.S. unexpectedly during their cruise will likely experience significant delays and complications related to booking airline tickets and entering the U.S. if they do not have a valid passport with them. For example, a passenger missing a cruise departure due to a late inbound flight to Miami would need a passport to fly to meet the ship at the next port. Similarly, guests needing to fly to or through the U.S. before their cruise ends because of medical, family, personal or business emergencies, missing a ship's departure from a port of call, or a mechanical problem of some sort with the ship, would need a passport. Of course, situations like these are rare, but they can happen.

Passports are not required for U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from Hawaii or a U.S. territory, including Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Swains Island, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Passports are required for cruise travel to all International destinations not mentioned above, and for cruises that involve air travel that begins or ends outside of the U.S. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the last day of travel.

Vacations To Go has partnered with CIBT, the largest and most well-established travel visa and passport company in the world, to offer you a fast, easy and reliable way to obtain a passport or other document for travel anywhere in the world. For information about obtaining a passport or passport card for the first time, or about renewing a passport or passport card, click here to visit the CIBT Web site.

Legal U.S. Residents (Non-Citizens)

Legal permanent residents of the U.S. must have a valid passport from their country of citizenship and a valid Alien Registration Card (Green Card) to enter or re-enter the U.S.

Non-U.S., Non-Canada Citizens

The following countries participate in a visa waiver program with the U.S., and citizens of these countries must have a machine-readable passport for entry into the U.S.:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom

Citizens of the countries listed above who do not possess machine-readable passports, and citizens of countries not listed above must present a valid passport and a valid United States visa upon entry into the U.S. For those whose travel plans include multiple entries into the U.S., such as a cruise that begins and ends in a U.S. port, a multiple-entry visa is required.

All travelers, including U.S. and Canada citizens , are responsible for verifying visa requirements with consular officials, and obtaining visas where required, for every country visited during their trip, including countries visited via connecting flights.

Always check with your Vacations To Go cruise counselor at the time of booking to verify the documentation requirements for your vacation.

You asked: Do I need a passport for my cruise?

By The Way Concierge digs into the (surprisingly) complicated rules for travel by sea.

Traveling has always come with complications. Our By The Way Concierge column will take your travel dilemmas to the experts to help you navigate the unexpected. Want to see your question answered? Submit it here .

We’re going on a very short cruise from California to Mexico this spring. Do we need passports for our kids, even if we don’t get off the ship? — Ben, Springfield, Va.

There’s a difference between what you need and what is a good idea to have.

Let’s begin with the first: On most cruise lines and for most itineraries, a voyage that starts and ends at the same U.S. port and stays in the Western Hemisphere will not require any American citizen — child or adult — to have a passport.

These are called closed-loop cruises, and they only need proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate plus a government-issued photo ID, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection . For people under 16, a birth certificate will suffice. Popular cruise lines including Carnival , Royal Caribbean and Norwegian detail their requirements and any exceptions online.

A sailing that leaves from one U.S. port and ends at another — or starts in the United States and ends at a foreign destination — would not be classified as a closed-loop cruise. Everyone, including kids, would need a passport in that case.

There are some caveats, warns Teresa Tennant, senior vice president of the travel planning company Cruise Specialists . Some cruise companies, including Holland America Line and Princess Cruises , say that all members of a party must have a passport if minors are traveling with only one adult.

Some other cruise lines, such as the luxury Regent Seven Seas Cruises, require a passport for all sailings.

“It’s important to always check with the cruise line, because they can set their own rules that are actually above and beyond,” Tennant said.

Customs and Border Protection also urges travelers to check with their cruise company, travel agent and destination to confirm what’s required to enter foreign countries on an itinerary.

Whether or not you are required to have a passport, cruise lines and experts say it’s smart to have one before setting sail. The task isn’t quite as onerous as it used to be, now that wait times have returned to pre-pandemic norms of six to eight weeks for routine service and two to three weeks for the expedited process.

Cruise lines say they strongly recommend that passengers opt for the passport over other forms of identification.

“A passport is the hassle-free, gold standard for traveling between countries,” Royal Caribbean says on its website. “Boarding and disembarking through customs with a passport is usually faster than other types of ID documents.”

The U.S. State Department says travelers might need their passport “in the event of an unexpected medical evacuation or if the ship docks at an alternate port.” Travelers would also need their passports if they showed up late in a foreign port and the ship left without them — which has happened to some U.S. passengers recently.

“You should bring your passport even if your cruise says you won’t need it,” the State Department says on its information page for cruise ship passengers.

Colleen McDaniel, editor in chief of the news and review site Cruise Critic , said in an email that it would be much more difficult to get home without a passport if someone had to leave the ship.

“In such a case, you might have to rely on help from a U.S. embassy or consulate to return, which can take time,” she said.

Have a travel dilemma for By The Way Concierge? Send it to us here .

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

• You asked: Do I need a passport for my cruise? 2 hours ago You asked: Do I need a passport for my cruise? 2 hours ago
• You asked: Do I have to pay an international parking ticket? March 21, 2024 You asked: Do I have to pay an international parking ticket? March 21, 2024
• You asked: Can I ditch my PreCheck-less partner at security? January 11, 2024 You asked: Can I ditch my PreCheck-less partner at security? January 11, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About the New $49 per day 'Standby' Cruise Fare

Holland America Line is revolutionizing how cruise lovers sail the seas with a new Standby List Program costing travelers a mere $49 per day.

Faith Katunga • May 2, 2024

Holland America Line is revolutionizing how cruise lovers sail the seas with a new Standby List Program. The US-owned cruise line is offering travelers the chance to cruise for a mere $49 per day. This industry-first initiative presents an incredible opportunity for spontaneous adventurers and budget-conscious explorers alike. Here’s the lowdown on how the program works and what you must consider before jumping on board.

The Standby Program Explained

At just $49 per day, excluding taxes, fees, and port expenses, Holland America’s concept is simple. With this offer, cruisers can place their names on a standby list for specific itineraries. If unsold rooms are available, those on the waitlist may be confirmed for a voyage. This program is ideal for those who can pack their bags and set off at a moment’s notice, as confirmation can come as little as two days before departure.

The logic behind these low rates is straightforward. Cruise lines like Holland America prefer to sail with every cabin filled to maximize revenue and efficiency. Since most of a ship’s expenses are fixed, the additional revenue from passengers who spend on board makes filling empty rooms at reduced rates a financially sound strategy.

What’s the Catch?

While this offer sounds like a dream, there are a few caveats to consider. First, you can’t use the standby fares if you’re under 21; that includes families with young children. Second, passengers are not guaranteed a particular room type or location. Plus, they may be assigned to any available stateroom category. Lastly, given the last-minute nature of standby confirmation, it’s recommended for those residing close to departure ports to avoid costly last-minute airfare.

Additionally, the third and fourth guests in a stateroom can travel nearly free, only paying taxes and fees. However, these fares are only available for some cruises. They also tend to be limited to specific ports and times of the year. To participate, you must pay the reduced fare upfront when adding yourself to the standby list.

How to Get on the Standby List

To join the elusive Standby List, you can select an eligible itinerary from Holland America’s list and call 877-724-5425 to sign up. You will receive a full refund if you are not chosen for the cruise. If you are one of the fortunate few, you should expect to hear about your status seven or two days before the cruise leaves.

It’s worth noting that standby fares may not always be the best deal out there. Savvy travelers, or those with the help of travel advisors, may find similar or even lower prices without the restrictions of standby booking. Other cruise lines, like Princess Cruises, offer last-minute deals without adopting a standby program.

Still, Holland America’s $49 per day standby fare can suit the most flexible travelers. However, before you decide to join the Standby List, consider your proximity to departure ports, the unpredictability of cabin assignments, and whether the thrill of spontaneity is worth the gamble.

Subscribe to travel noire

Get more travel content

Subscribe to Travel Noire, a free daily newsletter that features the best of travel, destinations, and guides to the cities you love from a new point of view — yours.

By subscribing to this newsletter, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Popular posts

Trending stories in world travel

Socializing is good for your health. You can earn AARP Rewards points while you learn how to get connected. Find out more.

AARP daily Crossword Puzzle

Hotels with AARP discounts

Life Insurance

AARP Dental Insurance Plans

AARP MEMBERSHIP — $12 FOR YOUR FIRST YEAR WHEN YOU SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC RENEWAL

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.

• right_container

Work & Jobs

Social Security

AARP en Español

• Membership & Benefits
• AARP Rewards
• AARP Rewards %{points}%

Conditions & Treatments

Drugs & Supplements

Health Care & Coverage

Health Benefits

Staying Fit

Your Personalized Guide to Fitness

AARP Hearing Center

Ways To Improve Your Hearing

Brain Health Resources

Tools and Explainers on Brain Health

A Retreat For Those Struggling

Scams & Fraud

Personal Finance

Money Benefits

View and Report Scams in Your Area

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Free Tax Preparation Assistance

AARP Money Map

Get Your Finances Back on Track

How to Protect What You Collect

Small Business

Age Discrimination

Flexible Work

Freelance Jobs You Can Do From Home

AARP Skills Builder

Online Courses to Boost Your Career

31 Great Ways to Boost Your Career

ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Tips to Enhance Your Job Search

Get More out of Your Benefits

When to Start Taking Social Security

10 Top Social Security FAQs

Social Security Benefits Calculator

Medicare Made Easy

Original vs. Medicare Advantage

Enrollment Guide

Step-by-Step Tool for First-Timers

Prescription Drugs

9 Biggest Changes Under New Rx Law

Medicare FAQs

Quick Answers to Your Top Questions

Care at Home

Financial & Legal

Life Balance

LONG-TERM CARE

​Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance​

State Guides

Assistance and Services in Your Area

Prepare to Care Guides

How to Develop a Caregiving Plan

End of Life

How to Cope With Grief, Loss

Recently Played

Word & Trivia

Atari® & Retro

Members Only

Staying Sharp

Mobile Apps

More About Games

Right Again! Trivia

Right Again! Trivia – Sports

Atari® Video Games

Throwback Thursday Crossword

Travel Tips

Vacation Ideas

Destinations

Travel Benefits

Beach vacation ideas

Vacations for Sun and Fun

Plan Ahead for Tourist Taxes

AARP City Guide

Discover Seattle

25 Ways to Save on Your Vacation

Entertainment & Style

Family & Relationships

Personal Tech

Home & Living

Celebrities

Beauty & Style

TV for Grownups

Best Reality TV Shows for Grownups

Robert De Niro Reflects on His Life

Looking Back

50 World Changers Turning 50

Sex & Dating

Spice Up Your Love Life

Navigate All Kinds of Connections

Life & Home

Couple Creates Their Forever Home

Store Medical Records on Your Phone?

Maximize the Life of Your Phone Battery

Virtual Community Center

Join Free Tech Help Events

Create a Hygge Haven

Soups to Comfort Your Soul

Your Ultimate Guide to Mulching

Driver Safety

Maintenance & Safety

Trends & Technology

AARP Smart Guide

How to Keep Your Car Running

We Need To Talk

Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills

AARP Smart Driver Course

Building Resilience in Difficult Times

Tips for Finding Your Calm

Weight Loss After 50 Challenge

Cautionary Tales of Today's Biggest Scams

7 Top Podcasts for Armchair Travelers

Jean Chatzky: ‘Closing the Savings Gap’

Quick Digest of Today's Top News

AARP Top Tips for Navigating Life

Get Moving With Our Workout Series

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Go to Series Main Page

What You Need to Know When You Leave a Cruise Ship

Cruising should be an adventure, but keep this in mind so you’re not left behind when you disembark at ports of call.

Erin Gifford,

The allure of the open seas is hard to ignore. More than 31 million people set off on cruise adventures in 2023, according to the Cruise Lines International Association. The association notes 48 percent of cruise travelers over the past two years are boomers or Generation X. Cruises are popular for the onboard amenities , such as spas, shows and specialty restaurants, and the stops at ports of call. Unpack once and see multiple destinations in one vacation, but be prepared when you disembark, if only to make sure you return before the ship sails away from the cruise port.

In March, eight passengers were stranded on the African island of São Tomé when they were late to return to the Norwegian Dawn after an excursion that wasn’t organized by the ship. They traveled through many countries to make it to the next port. For new-to-cruise travelers, and as a refresher for those who’ve cruised before, here’s what to know when you’re going ashore.

AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

When you’re ready to leave the ship

When your ship docks, venture out on your own or as part of an organized shore excursion. You can book the outing through the cruise line’s website, mobile app or excursions desk on the ship. You can book activities separate from the cruise line through a third-party operator.

Some ports of call may not be accessible for passengers with mobility challenges , so do your research before you book a cruise. Most cruise lines require guests who have special needs to provide details at booking, so the access teams are in the know about anything passengers may need, including wheelchairs, scooter rentals and recommendations for excursions. Crystal Cruises has an Onboard Guest Services department to talk about options at the time of booking. 

The cruise line will tell you the “all aboard” time, which is when you need to be back on the ship at the end of the day. Ships take this time very seriously. Expect to see the all aboard time posted on the ship’s mobile app, near the disembarkation gangway and on monitors across the vessel, says Doug Parker, host of Cruise Radio , a podcast for cruisers.

When you disembark, bring the essentials: cruise card (what you use to swipe off and swipe back on the ship), any prescription medications and a fully charged cellphone . Parker says it’s a good idea to have cash in the local currency.

AARP NEWSLETTERS

%{ newsLetterPromoText  }%

%{ description }%

Privacy Policy

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

You likely won’t need your passport , so leave it in a safe in your cabin, says Susan Harsell, a travel adviser who has been on more than 20 cruises . However, “you always want to have a [photo] of your passport on your phone, just in case,” she says.

Be vigilant about safety, especially in bustling port areas where it can be easy to become distracted or separated from a group. Do some research online to familiarize yourself with local scams , such as “free” bracelets, which are not free and can lead to aggressive demands for payment.

Holland America Line

Up to $200 onboard credit on select cruises

Stay aware of your surroundings in any cruise port. Harsell tucks her belongings into a cross-body bag, which she hides with a scarf to help deter pickpockets. This way, Harsell notes, “you have all of your belongings very close to your body.”

If you book a shore excursion

Cruise lines offer a variety of shore excursions, from snorkeling trips to guided bus tours . In some cases, booking activities through the cruise line may come at a higher cost, but the upside is that “110 percent, [the ship is] going to wait for you,” Parker says. “You can’t really put a value on the ship waiting for you.”

​Most lines spell out in their FAQs that if you book an excursion through them, and it’s delayed, the ship will wait. Some third-party operators offer a guaranteed return-to-ship policy. If you miss your ship, they will arrange and pay for your return to the vessel, even if it’s at the next port of call.

If you’re on a private tour booked outside the cruise line and think you may not return in time, Parker says to speak up for yourself — even if that means abruptly ending the tour and having to take a taxi to make it back to the ship on time. He underscores the importance of carrying local currency, because not everyone takes credit cards.

A misconception is that excursion companies are responsible for getting travelers back on time, but they are not, says Dan Skilken, president of the online resource TripInsurance.com. Skilken advises cruise passengers to set an alarm on their watch or phone as a reminder they will miss the ship unless they return by a certain time.

If you get left behind

If the all aboard time has come and gone, and you’re not back, you may be in for an unexpected adventure. As in, you will be left behind. It’s not personal , but the ship has a strict timetable to reach the next port.

Harsell says if your ship sails away without you, go directly to the port agent. The ship’s crew will enter your stateroom and remove essential items, including passports, and will leave your belongings with port staff when possible. Royal Caribbean suggests keeping such items in an easy-to-find place, such as the safe, which can make them easier for crew members to locate. Officials can help you reconnect with your ship and arrange a hotel for the night. You will be responsible for the cost of your food, accommodations and travel to meet the ship. 

Many travelers wonder whether cruise insurance will cover costs incurred from missing the ship because of a late return from a shore excursion. The short answer is no, though you’ll want to discuss this with your insurance provider, Skilken says. Cruise insurance typically covers travel delays and trip interruption coverage due to bad weather, airline delays , theft of travel documents and ship breakdowns, he says.

Insurance can be purchased through the cruise line or a third-party vendor. It’s a prudent purchase if only for the medical care benefits, since Medicare will not cover travelers outside the United States, whether they’re in a port or on a ship. A Medicare Advantage  plan may pay for some medical care overseas, but cruise insurance will fully cover emergency care.

“Typically, [Medicare] Advantage plans will cover you for emergency medical services, [but not] for a hospital stay. They will not cover you for a medical evac[uation],” Skilken says.

Erin Gifford is a travel and outdoor writer based in northern Virginia. She has written for The Washington Post , Parents , Thrillist and The Wall Street Journal.

                                   More Members Only Access

Discover AARP Members Only Access

Already a Member? Login

You Might Also Like

AARP Smart Guide to Cruises

Everything you need to know before booking your next trip

How to Pick the Right Cruise for You

Answer these questions to help you choose a ship

How to Find a Great Vacation Rental

28 tips on planning — and enjoying — time away from home

AARP Members Only Access

Recommended for You

AARP Value & Member Benefits

Hurtigruten Expeditions

5% off cruise fares and a €100 per person onboard credit

AARP Vacation Ideas

Ideas for every type of trip – from cruises to road trips

AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia: Car Rentals

Up to 30% off select car rentals

AARP® Staying Sharp®

Activities, recipes, challenges and more with full access to AARP Staying Sharp®

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS

Holland America Line Begins Pilot Test of Renewable Fuels

• May 2, 2024

Holland America Line has announced the start of a long-term biofuel test on the Rotterdam, leveraging 100 percent low carbon intensity biofuel while sailing within the Norwegian World Heritage Fjords.

According to a company statement, tship bunkered the biofuel before leaving the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, April 27, 2024, and will operate one of its four engines using low carbon intensity oil derived from organic waste or residues and certified according to the EU Renewable Energy Directive while in the Fjords.

The GoodFuels MR1-100 sustainable biofuel supplied by FincoEnergies will yield an estimated 86% reduction in life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions.

“Holland America Line is committed to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and we are excited to demonstrate a next-generation fuel source that can help us toward our pursuit of net zero emissions,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “Converting items such as food waste into fuel is an innovative way to meet environmental challenges and we thank the Dutch government for its support.”

The initial tests will occur on one of the ship’s four engines during cruises this month, with the potential to expand to multiple engines during the summer while operating in the Norwegian World Heritage Fjords, specifically Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

54 Ships | 122,002 Berths | $36 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Pre-Order Offer
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

My 12-day cruise cost me about $109 a day. See inside my 160-square-foot cabin, the most economical option on the ship.

• I went on a 12-day Holland America Line cruise and paid a little over $1,300 for my interior cabin.
• The cabin was an incredible value and I especially liked the storage and spacious shower.
• I'd book this room again — my cruise was so fun and busy that I barely spent time in it anyway. 

In a time of high inflation and stretched budgets, cruises reign supreme . Since most packages are pretty all-inclusive, you can pay for a week or more on a ship and then not spend another dime until you return.

I definitely had value in mind when I booked my recent 12-day cruise on the Holland America Line Rotterdam from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to the Panama Canal. I selected an interior cabin , the most economical option on the ship.

I booked directly with Holland America Line and paid $849 plus $460 for taxes, fees, and port charges — about $109 a day. The rate came with a $25 onboard credit and didn't include gratuities or add-ons like drink packages , specialty dining, WiFi, or excursions.

Overall, my room was one of the best values of the trip. Here's what it was like.

I booked an interior room on deck seven.

On this ship, interior rooms can range from 143 to 225 square feet. I chose a cabin on deck seven that was 160 square feet.

The location of my stateroom was convenient and quiet. My cabin was a quick two decks up to the areas I frequented most, the spa and its thermal suite, and the fitness center.

My cabin was generously sized.

The stateroom featured a small hallway with a bathroom on the right, and two wardrobes and a cabinet on the left.

The main area of my room contained the bed.

The hallway opened to a small rectangular space with a queen bed on the right flanked by two small nightstands, each with two drawers and a tall bottom shelf.

I had a vanity that could also be used as a desk.

To the right of the bed was a large desk/vanity with an ottoman that doubled as a seat and storage space for the bed's decorative throw pillows.

This area had even more storage: The desk had three spacious drawers.

My bed was across from a mounted TV and bar area.

At the foot of the bed was a wall-mounted interactive television with on-demand movies, programming, and multi-channel music.

Next to it, I had a fully stocked minibar area, including a cabinet with things like red wine, white wine, rocks glasses, a stainless steel ice bucket, and tongs.

There was so much storage space in the room.

The full-height wardrobe had 26 hangers, including 13 pant and 13 skirt hangers, two bottom shelves, and a full-length mirror on one door.

The second half-height wardrobe closet had 12 hangers, including four pant and eight skirt hangers, four bottom shelves, and a tie rack.

One closet contained a mini fridge.

The cabinet featured three compartments: the top where robes, beach towels, and a safe were stowed, the middle with the mini fridge, and the bottom with three deep drawers.

The safe was roomy, accommodating my 13.6-inch MacBook Air plus all of my other valuables and important travel documents.

The bathroom felt spacious and well-designed.

The bathroom layout was thoughtfully designed with three glass shelves for toiletries and a large-size vanity with an underneath storage ledge.

A roomy shower was the highlight of the bathroom.

The walk-in shower was complete with a shaving foot bar, a retractable clothesline, Elemis bath products, and an adjustable handheld shower.

There were also two grab bars for stepping into and out of the shower.

There were plenty of electrical outlets in the room, too.

The room had an abundance of power outlets where I could charge my gear.

On both sides of the bed were a type-B plug, mainly used in the US, Mexico, and Canada, and a USB port. The desk had a USB port, three type-B plugs, and two type-C plugs, mainly used in Europe, South America, and Asia.

The bathroom had one electrical outlet that could accommodate a US or European two-pronged plug.

The room service was impeccable, too.

There were two cabin stewards assigned to my room. They worked together to fully service my stateroom twice daily.

On embarkation day, I was able to request extra pillows and towels plus other preferences like turn-down service, which included a towel animal and Astor Chocolates on most nights.

Overall, I had such a fun experience on my cruise I didn't even spend much time in my stateroom.

There was so much to do on the Rotterdam that I barely spent time in my stateroom.

I spent many of my days relaxing in the expansive multiroom thermal suite, singing along at B.B. King's Blues Club, or sunbathing by the Lido Pool with a retractable roof.

The room was an excellent value, and I was glad I hadn't splurged on a balcony room or one with a window.

• Main content

• 1-877-932-4259
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Recently Viewed