Holland America Cruise SECRETS & Tips All Cruisers Need to Know...
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Күн бұрынAre you planning a Holland America cruise & wondering what to expect? There are so many things about Holland America cruise line that I never knew before my cruise! These Holland America cruise tips, tricks and secrets will help you to have a better cruise, save money & more!
In this video I go over what's included on a Holland America cruise, including the dining onboard HAL cruise ships. I also share what the demographic on Holland America cruise ships is like right now, information about the entertainment, cruise ship activities & more!
First time cruisers & avid cruisers will enjoy these Holland America cruise tips & hacks that are not often talked about.
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ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
Some of the video footage used in this video is courtesy of HAL, Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises.
Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusicMusic
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
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@deboraheaster7385 11 ай бұрын
😊
@peterkiviat9969 11 ай бұрын
A couple of things you left out. Holland America offers included breakfast in the main dining room that is white glove plus. On sea days they also include lunch in the main dining room with occasional gourmet dishes. Most importantly, even when the ship is sold out it never seems overly crowded. They offer the most public spaces, widest and most spacious hallways and largest amount of quiet space I have seen on modern boats. Also, the Lido buffet usually has a few Asian offerings at dinner that are native to crew members. WARNING. This is not the boat for hyper-active teens and pre-teens.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing this!
@Lisa-je5bb 11 ай бұрын
I agree. I absolutely love hal
@Commonsenseisnotcommon8 11 ай бұрын
After watching this video, and and reading your post, I definitely want to go on one of these cruises Do they normally have painting classes on there? Because I keep seeing that B roll,And I love to paint.
@lennybuttz2162 11 ай бұрын
I did not see this in the video, the pool area looked really crowded, deck chairs were very close together people looked like they could barely move without bumping into someone and the pool is completely surrounded by 2 story walls. It's hardly like being outside at all.
@peterkiviat9969 11 ай бұрын
@@Commonsenseisnotcommon8Beats me. They seem to be more food and music oriented. The only painting I've ever seen are the guys hanging on lines doing the outside of the ship.
@davidandrew1078 11 ай бұрын
Went on our 20th Wedding Anniversary/Wife's 50th Birthday with HAL on the Nieuw Amsterdam to Alaska. A lot of the Hotel Staff are Indonesian and I introduced myself to our Cabin Attendant in Indonesian. He was beaming as a lot of people don't know is that staff are not to speak their native language on the ships, especially around passengers unless the passengers spoke to them in Indonesian first. My wife is fluent and they had an interesting conversation. We went to the Pinnacle Grill which was pre booked for dinner. The Crew Grapevine was working overtime and, BOOM, we were escorted to a table by a window to watch the sunset by the Maitre'd who spoke to us in Bahasa, (Indonesian). We ended up with a personal waiter, what seemed to be larger portions, little delicacies and all the conversations were in Bahasa. This reoccurred in the MDR, Lido Buffet etc. Amazing time. The crew were happy they could speak their native language.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Wow!! That’s amazing. Happy anniversary 🥂
@AK-kz6wc 8 ай бұрын
Most human beings like when you treat them with respect. In the service industry it tends to come back to you five fold. Glad you had an amazing time.
@Hawkeye2001 11 ай бұрын
Holland America is a more civilized way to travel. The journey is the adventure, with ports and places other lines don't go. Cultural enrichment left us feeling like we understood our stops better. The smaller ships are more intimate with fewer total passengers it does have a more familiar setting. The longer itereraries didn't have many families with small children, which I do appreciate. I've been on those lines that cater to families and have seen too many over caffinated, unsupervised kids running amuck. The Music Walk in the evening offers great entertainment.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
That’s a good point about the enrichment
@jdb316 11 ай бұрын
I would agree with this description. If you and your travelling party appreciate a more laid back experience focused on the journey and don't need to be constantly on the move, Holland America can be great. I loved the Music Walk venues on Koningsdam, especially the band at Rolling Stone Rock Room.
@donbarron5349 11 ай бұрын
More civilized??
@lennybuttz2162 11 ай бұрын
Civilized or boring? Lets go on the 2 floor wall surrounded deck and play a game of cornhole. Where's the shuffleboard?
@ljacobs357 11 ай бұрын
Great summary of HAL.
@jennycurtis4447 2 күн бұрын
We really enjoyed our recent HAL Alaska cruise. We cruised with our two teen boys who are pretty laid-back and we really appreciated the quiet of the ship as well as the educational programs, entertainment and trivia. The in room service was amazing and the ship was spotless.
@_echobravo 11 ай бұрын
I appreciate that HAL's newest ships are built more like classic older ships where there are a ton of ocean views from pretty much every public space. On many of the other lines new mega ships you can go days without ever seeing water.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
This is true 👏
@lennybuttz2162 11 ай бұрын
The views are great but everything is inside. I guess if you're in a cold climate this is a good thing but if you're in the Caribbean wouldn't you like to be outside? I want to fee that salt air and smell the ocean not be stuck in a pretty viewing room.
@_echobravo 11 ай бұрын
@@lennybuttz2162 I did just say public spaces which I guess could imply just indoor. On Nieuw Statendam last month I was very impressed with all the outdoor space. There was a full promenade, the adult pool, most of deck 10, all of deck 11, half of deck 12 (although that was The Retreat) and the little known deck 14. And the roof opens on nice days for the Lido pool. And, not a Go-Kart occupying any of it. 😄 Also, they opened the bow up for especially scenic cruising out of Stockholm. Give it a look, you may be impressed!
@lennybuttz2162 11 ай бұрын
@@_echobravo From the video all I saw was indoor space so that's all I had to go by. I've also noticed on a lot of the new ships even on the open decks they have walls of glass going up quite a ways. It makes me if it's really windy or if they're just worried about jumpers?
@southwestjohnny7767 11 ай бұрын
Clearly Holland America is for people who have a more laid back personality but still like the option of having some party fun without having it be the primary vibe of the vacation. I would really enjoy doing paintings and crafts by day and some live music and dancing at night. I may book them for my next cruise.
@veliaamparorivas3399 Ай бұрын
I absolutely love Holland America! My husband and I went on 10 Cruises including an Inaugural Cruise in the Penthouse. But then my dear husband died so I haven’t cruised in about 15 years. Am looking forward to taking my cousin with me and start cruising again!
@ronaldarchuleta2496 11 ай бұрын
It's nice to see HAL getting some love. They are my favorite cruise line, but it seems like very few KZfaqrs talk about them.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
It probably depends what people are looking for, but we enjoy HaL
@LindaRUDYK 5 ай бұрын
We love Hal❤. It is definitely an older crowd which suits us perfectly.
@LindaRUDYK 5 ай бұрын
Thanks so much!🎉
@forstar3943 11 ай бұрын
We have over 250 cruise days with HAL over the last 12 years. As with anything, occasionally one experiences the odd problem however the service and cuisine are generally exceptional. The one thing to note, is that the staff really want to please you so if your service or food is not satisfactory, nicely mention it to the server or Asst. Maître D. They will quickly resolve it. I hate hearing people who complain after the fact instead of discussing it politely with someone who can help them at the time. We think the staff attitudes and training are the best of any cruise line. We don’t book Club Orange because the dining room on the Pinnacle class reminds us of a fish bowl as everyone walks by the windows on their way to the MDR and because of our Mariner status we get several of the other benefits included already.
@dorothywillis1 11 ай бұрын
I agree completely! Thanks for mentioning the Mariner program. I wondered if it was still in existence.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Glad to read your experience 👏
@kens805 11 ай бұрын
You'll never see a drunken brawl on Holland America. THX for the coverage of entertainment! I've mentioned it to you in the past and you've come through like a champ!! In my opinion it gives you a "leg up" over the rest of the KZfaq cruise channels.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Lol, i appreciate your comments 😊
@judywelday9387 11 ай бұрын
In two weeks, we are sailing with HAL for the second time and prefer their smaller ships. They never seem crowded, and we appreciate the demographic as we are seniors.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Awesome!! Enjoy
@DyanEsoap 3 ай бұрын
Just booked with Holland America, Alaska! It will be our first Cruise!
@carolynpeters3337 29 күн бұрын
Us, too!
@sergeantmetalhead417 11 ай бұрын
I give HAL customer service 2 thumbs up. We had to delay our cruise due to illness. We were told we would lose about $900 in fees but our cruise coordinator callled us back she got the fees applied to our future cruise.
@LuluG 11 ай бұрын
I've traveled on HAL for over 20 years, and for me , it's the only way to go! Leaving in October for a 40-day cruise to Antarctica. 😅 I did learn a couple of new items. Especially the AARP benefit. Many thanks. 😊
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Awesome! Thanks for watching
@BTimmer 11 ай бұрын
We're on that cruise as well but we're doing the entire loop.
@martimiller9329 9 ай бұрын
We'll be on board too. See you soon!
@user-ig4yq3kt3z 5 ай бұрын
Ok@@BTimmer
@dawnbellerive4717 11 ай бұрын
We have been on 2 Holland American cruises and what I liked is that they have great itineraries on the longer cruises.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
That sounds great!!
@mountainsunsets 10 ай бұрын
I have travelled with HAL many times. I have a mobility issue and I find the staff are more courteous to me then other other cruise lines. I could stay and listen to the piano players all night. Their worth the price of admission. If your looking for night entertainment due check out what’s available first as I notice some of their older smaller ships don’t have a lot going for it. Good video Ilana.
@kevinjmoore2359 11 ай бұрын
We have been to Alaska twice and we are returning in '24. I would recommend it for anyone. It is very relaxing, you can do as little or as much as you want☘
@bsfmama 4 ай бұрын
What do you recommend doing in the various ports? We leave from Whittier on HAL on May 19.
@jamiechampion4016 3 ай бұрын
Going on a cruise with our family in late May. So looking forward to it!
@cruisingnurse5443 11 ай бұрын
As I have only cruised HAL (and perfectly happy with them with no desire to change), you did a great job describing HAL.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
I really appreciate your feedback! Thanks ☺️
@Tgram777 11 ай бұрын
Thank you Llana for the sweet reminder of why we love HAL. Heading on a Transatlantic cruise on our favorite Rotterdam in October, we are so excited. We loved it when it we sailed 2021 and can’t wait to do it again. We have been on several Carnival ships, and giving Celebrity Beyond a try April 2024. We love the simplicity, quietness, attentiveness of staff, and the “just chill” vibe on the Rotterdam. By the way, my husband and I are celebrating our 65th birthday in Paris… yeahhhh. Great job on the HAL recap!
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Happy anniversary!!!
@Tgram777 11 ай бұрын
@@LifeWellCruised Thank you, our 65th birthdays
@darcyashley3889 11 ай бұрын
Not sure about the other ships but Nieuw Amsterdam has a new lending library with a great variety of recently published hardcover books. Based on the stacks of books returned last day of cruise it was a well loved perk. I read two on my cruise.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Awesome 👏
@annriding 9 ай бұрын
We loved the library on our cruise, too. Some of the books I'd had on hold from our local library for months, so was excited to read them. As a former librarian I was especially impressed with their library on the Nieuw Amsterdam.
@IreneSchmidt Ай бұрын
@@annriding may I ask if there are also books in german on Oosterdam??? Thanks
@christalarmstrong300 11 ай бұрын
Thank you for this video. We are going on our first HAL cruise in February. Can't wait!!!
@seashelify362 6 ай бұрын
I loved the fresh flower arrangements throughout the ship. Stunning!!
@michelle7710 11 ай бұрын
Thank you for all your wonderful advise. You are awesome.
@betsy6046 10 ай бұрын
Club Orange! There was not a cabin upgrade on our cruise so it was only $15. It was worth it for only the special dining room as my husband doesn't like crowds. Also the fast lane for getting off at ports. There is also a Club Orange special line at guest services. There was an airline strike while we were in Europe and the Club Orange Guest Services line saved us HOURS trying to find a way home.
@richardsmith4187 11 ай бұрын
We made Holland America our cruise line at least 10 years ago. We cruised on a few other lines and we just like the vibe of Holland America much better as it seems to be a more relaxed atmosphere. The food is outstanding on board and service is the same. Like you advised if you like to party late, Holland America may not be the best choice. We have done about 19 cruises total and have 2 more coming up in Nov and Dec and look forward to the adventures !
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing your experiences :)
@lennybuttz2162 11 ай бұрын
What do you think of the public furniture? The cabins look lovely and very comfortable but the seating in public areas does not look comfortable at all. It looks more like they want to discourage people from settling down with a good book. Some of the furniture look really uncomfortable and not well suited for a senior person who may have more difficulties. It also looks like they just cater to fit people, no big butt seating.
@richardsmith4187 11 ай бұрын
I've never had a problem with the public furniture and always find a nice place to sit@@lennybuttz2162
@linamendt9149 5 ай бұрын
Perfectly what I have always wanted...a quieter cruise w more educational events! We love HAL!
@Dead-Goldstar 6 ай бұрын
Loved the video and the hints on whats included during the cruise the club orange sounds interesting along with the in all inclusive packages.
@peggy2429 10 ай бұрын
We love HAL, it is our go to cruiseline. We have tried others but always seem to go back to HAL. Love the smaller ships, food is excellent and the staff is amazing. It’s a classy cruiseline and very relaxing. We always book the spa package and I think that is my favourite part of the cruise.
@claudiad9627 11 ай бұрын
The Laundry Pkg was a best kept secret for a long time. It is a bargain, especially on longer cruises. I love returning home with all my clothes clean and pressed! I love HAL and have been sailing them for more than 25 years.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
It is nice!!
@lisashaner2892 4 ай бұрын
I haven’t been able to find pricing on that. How much was it?
@johnsandweg6260 9 ай бұрын
My wife and I (mid 60's) took our first HAL cruise earlier this year (31 days) and absolutely fell is love with this cruise line. Formerly we mostly cruised on Princess. The nightly music was fantastic. The food as you stated was consistently good, and the ship size was very manageable. We are sailing on HAL in a few weeks and will book another HAL cruise around Australia and New Zealand while we are on board the ship to take advantage of the extra on board credit offered.
@benjaminsmith2287 7 ай бұрын
Your HAL scenes feature a lot of people dancing. That's what I like about HAL. Lots of dancing. And yes, the ship kind of turns in early but it is pretty active evenings until about 11 pm. And you offer such useful info. Great job by HAL to have an app to keep people connected to what's going on on the ship and with fellow passengers.
@wanted-33 5 ай бұрын
Thanks IIana, we are actually planning our first Holland cruise this year. Your video was very helpful.
@debvachon9497 10 ай бұрын
We’re leaving in late Jan. For our 3rd HAL cruise. We love the size of the ships. This time,we’re going to the Caribbean. We’ve been to Alaska and a Spain, Portugal France cruise. We preferred the dining room and walk in dining. We shared tables on many nights and enjoyed meeting new people. We found out about the Dutch Tea room on our last cruise(get the gigantic cream puff!) and can’t wait to visit it again! We were so happy with our stewards, waiters, and all the staff. We also found out if you buy a bottle of wine for dinner, they will label it and store any unfinished wine for the next day’s dinner. It’s great for someone who only drinks one or two glasses per night. You need to book shore excursions early! We love Holland America!
@karenhale4338 9 ай бұрын
We took our first HAL Alaska cruise out of Seattle on the Westerdam and we had an awesome time, both on the ship and on the excursions. The food was so delicious and we really enjoyed the main dining room the best. The Crow's Nest was our fave spot on sea days as were able to have a great time playing cards with our friends while watching the beautiful scenery. We also loved the Navigator app for checking in with those friends, looking at menus and checking activity/show schedules. We had more fun in the Rolling Stone Lounge nearly every night as the live band was the best. Your cruise videos really prepared us for our trip and send you a huge "thank you." Your information was invaluable. Now planning our next adventure with Holland America.
@jlawrence0181 11 ай бұрын
I think that all of your information on Holland America was spot on accurate and we are booked on them in January 2024 on the Eurodam. I think that one thing that you did NOT emphasize was that the MDR breakfasts had the BEST and most varied selections of any cruise ships. As for the evening activities, I would say that while the main shows end around Midnight, there was always something going on until 1:30 am for the few looking for something to do. We were on the Konigsdam in December 2022 and did find some shortcomings which were as a result of short staffing, especially in the MDR. One other thing to mention is that most HAL cruises offer Catholic Masses and Interdenominational Sunday services, which is uncommon on most other lines.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Great to hear!
@jackieyarbrough4985 11 ай бұрын
Great video!!! Thanks for all the info😊
@CruisingwithChooChoo 11 ай бұрын
This video couldn’t have come at a better time. I’ll be sailing the koningsdam Aug 26 so this is perfect! Thank you so much for the valuable tips.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Yay!! Enjoy your cruise!
@lap8329 10 ай бұрын
Ilana, I really enjoy your videos, they are really informative and inspiring. I’m taking my first cruise in January (Princess) and planning on taking many more. This overview of HA really has me thinking about Cruise no 2. I will be seriously considering HA, and if there is a departure/destination I like at a time that works for me, I think HA may well be my first choice.
@joegalka1 11 ай бұрын
Fantastic Review! Thank you for sharing!!!
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching! 😊
@shaunakenyon9883 11 ай бұрын
Great information, especially Club Orange
@pattieduffy4992 11 ай бұрын
Great info. Always enjoy your informative videos. Thank you.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching! 😊
@FJMc-yx9bo 11 ай бұрын
Hi - we just did our first cruise on the HAL Koningsdam, 7 day Alaskan inside passage - loved it !!! - hydro bath & spa / sauna was well worth it & great after late nights !!! - all staff / food / room etc were great - ship was full but didnt seem crowded except the buffet at peak times but we still didnt wait long - only issues were with their billing system as we prepaid the gratutities but then they credited them back to us & took them off daily ??? - also one of our shore excursions was cancelled & our money refunded to us quickly but we lost $$ again on the exchange rate & then again when we chose another excursion - advised on the HAL survey that for me it would have been better to keep it as onboard credit until the end & then balance it out.- For us we prepaid the gratutities & also gave cash tips - really enjoyed the cruise & now we're already looking for another cruise with HAL !!!! 🇦🇺
@dianec9456 11 ай бұрын
Club Orange! Thank you so much - this was extremely informative and helpful! I am currently planning our next cruise for 2025 and was JUST starting my research on HAL. Thank you!
@danceunme 7 ай бұрын
We really enjoyed this video. We are now considering going on our first Holland America cruise. ty...
@shelleyrichards4487 11 ай бұрын
Yes, watch to the end of the video! Since I'm not a frequent cruiser, Club Orange sounds like a good deal. Also thanks for the tip on AARP members... Finally a good reason to join! I think my travel buddy and I would like HAL because we both like to see and do things in the ports. Sounds like a good one to book for an Alaskan cruise! I also love Delft China and fresh flowers!
@donnacarline663 10 ай бұрын
Heading on my first cruise around Japan next month on board the Westerdam, thank you for the informative video
@kathleenabell5933 11 ай бұрын
Wow after watching this video I’m thinking of booking with HAL! Great info and thanks
@kathyduncan4638 8 ай бұрын
Glad you spoke about Club Orange. 👍
@leighsweet6846 11 ай бұрын
CLUB ORANGE. This is *exactly* the video I was looking for. And our Alaskan cruise in 2024 will be with HAL. Thank you for tje video.❤
@amybradley5821 11 ай бұрын
Only cruise with HAL now. Love the service, free room service, small ships, relaxing, love it!
@johnruthnoel2289 9 ай бұрын
This is our preferred cruise line. We also like the talk about each port er are going into. Good lecturers
@scottbarger1825 9 күн бұрын
Thanks for the info. Going on our first HAL cruise in August to Norway and Scotland.
@leemendoza4685 4 ай бұрын
Thanks a lot for sharing this very important and helpful information. I will go back sailing with Holland America again. God richly bless Holland America and its crew and staff.🙏🏻🥰💙💖❤️💓
@CarolynSmithMoorman 8 ай бұрын
Thank you! I’m going on a 7 day Alaskan cruise in August, 2023. I appreciate this content.
@janetmccall674 11 ай бұрын
We are sailing with HAL in late February, 2024, and after watching your excellent video, I am looking forward to it even more. Thanks Ilana, for sharing your experience with us!
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Hope you enjoy it!
@wfodavid 11 күн бұрын
Longterm Princess cruiser here and we decided to try HAL because you recommended. We are set for 14-DAY ANCIENT MYSTERIES & EGYPT in Sept and we cant wait. TY!
@linamendt9149 5 ай бұрын
Love the crows nest! I usually hang out there a lot. Sometimes it's soooo peaceful!
@maryfowler8808 5 ай бұрын
Club orange! Thanks for this tips!
@patriciadeas132 11 ай бұрын
Very informative...we have never sailed with Holland America but plan to in the near future as we are native Floridians and close to the port...thanks again😊
@user-md7lh1wh1h 5 ай бұрын
Watching your video makes us even more excited for our 2 week cruise to the Norway Fjords in September on the Rotterdam! This will be our 7th cruise - but our first on Holland America! We will be celebrating our 40th anniversary and cannot wait!
@susanscott8023 11 ай бұрын
CLUB ORANGE!!! We love it :) The $25 a day fee is for shorter cruises, with longer cruises having a $15 a day fee. Definitely worth it! You also get priority boarding for tenders. This really came in handy on our Med cruise. While others had to go pick up a ticket for a specific time, we were able to go directly to the tender when we were ready to go. Another option for cruise credit is for active military & veterans. Love HAL :)
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing! You’re right, longer cruises make CO & even better value
@tammaratiffany7425 11 ай бұрын
Thanks. Heading out thru Panama Canal for 17 days in Nov. Looking forward to it immensely.
@TheTfer 8 ай бұрын
HAL was my first cruise. My Mom and Dads 50th anniversary in 1996. I was Hooked. I love their ships.. Nieuw Amsterdam was my first ship, 1,200 passengers. Did a full circle HAL on the new Nieuw Amsterdam. She was a bit larger, 2,000 -3,000… but still a wonderful cruise. My favorite cruise line.
@hopeernst3459 10 ай бұрын
17 days 15 hours and 11 minutes until our first cruise ever! Thank you so much for all of your help. I feel like I may know what I'm doing.
@stcrombie 10 ай бұрын
We've done six Holland America cruises and have our seventh scheduled. You will love it!
@joannefletcher3051 Ай бұрын
26 days 6 hrs and 33 minutes til my first cruise I'm so excited
@thepianoappraiser 11 ай бұрын
Club Orange is super nice and worth the extra. We tried it and book it every time now!
@debratrani8583 9 ай бұрын
Thanks to your Holland savings tips, I am in the midst of booking and watched your video and will now get the AARP credit. Thanks for your valuable information.
@mariaaguila1274 11 ай бұрын
Last time I went was in the late 1990s as a teen and it was most definitely older age 40 and up so I thought they were ancient lol 😂but I’m 49 now and want to try as food is great there - that I remember well!!
@dorothyhorton7494 5 ай бұрын
Cruising on Holland America for the first time next month, February 2024. My husband and I are in our 70's active seniors and looking forward to it. You're tips are very helpful. Because we are flying to meet the cruise in Florida we are only packing carry on. Because of your video we know it's possible.
@Sally-yd3vl 11 ай бұрын
Cruising in November on the Nieuw Amsterdam. Having cruised with HAL since 2006, love those ship. Looking forward to sailing with them again.
@live2skide1 11 ай бұрын
CLUB ORANGE !! Great video. I haven't been on HA yet, but sounds lovely.
@bridgetemigh2700 5 ай бұрын
Thank you for the tips!
@frankstith7800 6 ай бұрын
Even tho this video posted 4 mos ago, and the comments were by seasoned, as well as, first timers, there is something to add. If possible, book your next cruise while on a cruise with HAL. Your place on that next cruise can be held with a $100/person deposit, AND that deposit can be transferred. As I write this, it is early January, 2024. For example, you are on a HAL cruise in February in the Caribbean. There is always a desk set up close to Guest Services that will book future cruises. So you book a HAL cruise to Alaska for August 2024, and pay your deposit. 90 days before August when your cruise has to be paid for, you realize you can’t make that schedule. You can transfer your deposit to a different cruise in a future year, up to four years away (tho HAL only publishes cruises 2 years in advance.) The point is that your deposit is a fraction of what a first-timer has to pay, and it is transferable for up to 4 years. Also, if you are new or newish to cruising, try several different lines to find the one you like best and do so as quickly as possible. All cruise lines have reward points or programs, and the sooner you find your favorite, the sooner you will get more perks for cruising with your favorite,e.g., free laundry, free drinks, discounts, and upgrades, etc.
@santaclaus5131 11 ай бұрын
Thank you for the information. After watching this the wife and I will definitely look into a Holland America Cruise. This looks like the type of cruises we have been looking for.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
I’m so glad this was helpful:)
@Jackiebrook126 11 ай бұрын
Club Orange. We were on Koningsdam May 7-14, 2022. We had an aft Neptune suite (we we could only afford due to FCC from a 2021 cruise that was cancelled due to covid). That suite gave us access to Club Orange. We at breakfast there twice and enjoyed it and the mimosas. We really loved the crows nest. We spent a lot of time there on the first Sea day just sitting and watching the ocean go by. We also put a puzzle together. We did traditional dining early seating and loved it. Our waiters were exceptional. This was my first cruise ever and loved it. I would go back on a HAL ship again.
@veronicashine1812 11 ай бұрын
Loved the Rotterdam this past June. We had a Neptune Suite on the Rotterdam - laundry was free and as was Club Orange. The Club Orange dining venue was tops. The food was excellant and the chef even came out to meet with us to see if there was anything in particular we would like. All made to order in an open kitchen.
@lisadiver5253 Ай бұрын
Going on the HAL Rotterdam for the first time to Panama in March 2025 . This is a great intro and now I feel more prepared and excited!
@sophiebecker3000 3 ай бұрын
I'm going on my first cruise this september on the Nieuw Statendam. Your info is very valuable...
@dannypaquot8650 11 ай бұрын
Hi Ilana,my wife and I have more or less the same tastes as you, concerning cruise lines, princess and celebrity, your video will certainly convince us to test holland America, since we have confidence in your choices
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
I hope that you enjoy it. Let me know :)
@kathyduncan4638 7 ай бұрын
Another nice option. If you have club, orange is at guest services, there is a designated line for club orange guess that can save a lot of time standing in line if it’s crowded.
@milliebuchwald6054 11 ай бұрын
Hi !!!!! I am cruising on Royal Caribbean soon …. I’m so addicted to your videos , that I still was very eager to click onto this one about Holland America ….😊 many thanks !!!!
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Have an amazing cruise! So glad you enjoyed this one
@lauraerickson1434 9 ай бұрын
Thanks for all of the tips.
@karenglaicar5486 9 ай бұрын
Great info. Nice video. I am planning either Canada New England cruise or Pacific coast and was thinking Holland America. Thanks and take care.
@brendoni 11 ай бұрын
Your comments are right on. I've often said the main difference between HAL and other lines we've sailed (RCCL for example) is that while they are about the journey, with forced frivolity and lots of things to do or not to do, HAL is about the destinations. The itineraries are excellent and the journey to get there is very good but less frenetic. We've found that we enjoy the smaller ships. Even on the cruise lines that have the megaships, we prefer the smaller ships. We have also noticed the demographics seem to change with the length of the cruise and time of year. In March, on a 14-night Caribbean, there were 3 (yes, three!) children and an overall older demographic. On our 7-night Adriatic cruise in June, there were lots of families and a much younger crowd. The service on HAL is very good as well. While we are Diamond members with RCCL, we see ourselves moving over to HAL for future cruises. Our next cruise is already booked. Since it is 22 nights in January, we don't expect any children and should also be an older crowd since most younger people don't have the leave at work to take a 3-week cruise, nor can the children miss that much school. We love the orange party!
@benjaminsmith2287 7 ай бұрын
Everything is relative because the famous Statendam class ships were 55,000 tons and were considered midsized while ships the size of the newest HAL ships were considered "mega"ships. Now they're "smaller" ships. But even at the larger size, the new ships design some intimacy in them.
@Maqar06 10 ай бұрын
We're going on our first Holland America cruise over our 30th wedding anniversary. We're very excited!
@ruthhoward5380 11 ай бұрын
We have sailed on HAL for 9 years. We love it. We are in our 60s and enjoy the demographics on HAL!!! Thank you for mentioning the AARP on board credit. We are 4 star mariners and have never heard that before! You didn’t mention the outdoor movies in the evening. I believe that is only on the largest ships, but we really enjoy that.
@jgheart3018 10 ай бұрын
We just got back yesterday on the Koningsdam and they showed movies in the pool area every night.
@frankcarr7029 10 ай бұрын
never been, but you are helpful, and we plan to go.
@vegaslady3732 11 ай бұрын
Club Orange! Have not yet cruised with HAL, but am very enticed by them after watching this vlog. Thanks!
@mikeklar9031 11 ай бұрын
This will be our 3rd go around with Holland and we love it . Heading to Hawaii this October.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
Awesome 👏
@mtruelock3584 11 ай бұрын
I did not know about Club Orange! Thanks for the tip
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
👏👏
@janetsmith2809 6 ай бұрын
Cruised Norway and Denmark in July 2023 on HA Nieuw Statendam in a Neptune Suite. Beautiful marble bathroom larger than mine at home! Loved the access to Orange Club and the private lounge. One thing not well known is the men’s and women’s saunas near the spa area. The doors are pocket doors and appear as if they are part of the spa where you pay extra but they are not! I learned this from another cruise video I watched before we took our cruise. And there was no mention anywhere on the tv or signage indicating this feature. I only found it due to watching the video. Probably why it wasn’t busy with people! Very quiet area to relax.
@laurenschenck5355 11 ай бұрын
Such a gorgeous crusie ship incredible design inside and out! The all the food looks delicious and incredible 🩵💛💛💛🩵🏝️🏝️🏝️🩵💛💛🩵🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🏝️🩵💛💛🏝️🛳️🌞🌞🛳️💛🩵🏝️🛳️🛳️🩵💛💛🩵🏝️🛳️🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🏝️🏝️🩵💛💛💛🩵🩵🏝️🛳️🌞🛳️🏝️🩵💛💛💛🛳️🌞🌞🌞🌞🛳️🏝️🏝️🩵🛳️
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
We agree! 😊
@laurenschenck5355 11 ай бұрын
@@LifeWellCruisedThanks 😊
@lindamccrystle4875 11 ай бұрын
Hi Just saw your video and now subscribed. Thanks for helping us make a decisions on what cruise ship to go on.
@LifeWellCruised 11 ай бұрын
So glad this was helpful & welcome!
@TheChelseyTyler 11 ай бұрын
I spotted Kainoa!!! He was our wildlife expert on board the Koningsdam in June! Love him!
@ErikaEmody 4 ай бұрын
Thank you for explaining Club Orange! 🍊
@kma9292 11 ай бұрын
Thanks for the information.
@melissasteed9471 11 ай бұрын
My husband and I are leaving this Sunday for Alaska on Holland America. We are really looking forward to it.
@MontaneroAndariego 5 ай бұрын
Ilana, hello from Colombia. I totally loved you vid, thanks! Im planning to travel with my mom for her very first time (she´s 70) I think this would be the best option for her. I already had the experience with Holland America and it was great for me. Once again, thank you very much for all the details! Hugs, Camilo
@UniqueGoat3 3 ай бұрын
This is my first Holland America Cruise coming up. Really my first cruise, looking forward to the experience.
@Kamp1023 9 ай бұрын
Thank you for the tips! Leaving for the Holland Eurodma to Alaska on Sept 30 - Oct 7th 2023!
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