Does Holland America Cruise Line Have Coke 2019 Explained

Yes, Holland America Cruise Line served Coca-Cola products in 2019, including classic Coke, Diet Coke, and Coke Zero, available across most ships and dining venues. Beverage packages and individual purchases made it easy for guests to enjoy their favorite sodas throughout the cruise.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America served Coke in 2019, but availability varied by ship and region.
• Free soda packages were not standard; most drinks cost extra.
• Specialty dining venues offered complimentary Coke with meals.
• Bringing your own soda was prohibited under their alcohol and beverage policy.
• Contact guest services pre-cruise to confirm 2019 Coke availability on your ship.
• Check drink packages for cost-effective access to unlimited soda options.

Does Holland America Cruise Line Have Coke 2019 Explained

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most overlooked yet essential details is beverage availability. For many travelers, especially those who enjoy soft drinks, the question often arises: Does Holland America Cruise Line have Coke in 2019? This query isn’t just about quenching a soda craving—it’s about understanding the cruise line’s beverage policies, brand partnerships, and how these affect your onboard experience. Whether you’re a die-hard Coca-Cola fan, concerned about drink package options, or simply trying to budget for your cruise, knowing what’s available and how it works can make a big difference.

Holland America Line, a premium cruise operator with a rich history dating back to 1873, is known for its elegant ships, immersive itineraries, and high-quality service. But when it comes to soft drinks, the answer isn’t always straightforward. In 2019, Holland America made several updates to its beverage programs, including changes to soda offerings, drink packages, and even partnerships with major beverage brands. This blog post dives deep into the 2019 beverage landscape on Holland America, answering the burning question about Coca-Cola availability while also exploring drink packages, pricing, alternatives, and insider tips to help you get the most out of your cruise without breaking the bank.

The 2019 Beverage Landscape on Holland America Line

Soft Drink Availability and Brand Partnerships

In 2019, Holland America Line confirmed that Coca-Cola products were available onboard all of its ships, including flagship vessels like the Eurodam, Koningsdam, and Nieuw Amsterdam. This was a continuation of a long-standing partnership between Holland America and The Coca-Cola Company, ensuring that passengers could enjoy classic favorites like Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Fanta, and Minute Maid juices. Unlike some cruise lines that use Pepsi or generic brands, Holland America stood out by offering a full Coca-Cola portfolio across its fleet.

The availability wasn’t limited to just one type of Coke. Passengers could find:

• Coca-Cola Classic – served in cans and at bars
• Diet Coke – available in cans and fountain machines
• Coke Zero Sugar – a newer addition in 2019, reflecting changing consumer preferences
• Sprite, Fanta Orange, and Barq’s Root Beer – also part of the Coca-Cola family
• Minute Maid juices – including orange and apple juice, often served at breakfast buffets

One important note: while Coca-Cola was the primary soft drink brand, some ships in 2019 began experimenting with regional beverage offerings on select itineraries. For example, ships sailing in the Mediterranean might offer local sodas or craft beverages, but Coca-Cola remained the dominant brand in bars, dining rooms, and self-serve stations.

Where You Can Find Coke Onboard

Coca-Cola products were accessible in multiple locations across Holland America ships in 2019:

• Dining Rooms: Soft drinks were served complimentary during lunch and dinner, with waitstaff offering refills.
• Buffet Areas: Self-serve soda fountains in the Lido Market (main buffet) featured Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, and Sprite.
• Bars and Lounges: Every bar carried Coca-Cola in cans and on tap, often used in cocktails (e.g., rum and Coke).
• Room Service: Soft drinks could be ordered via room service for a fee, unless covered by a drink package.
• Specialty Restaurants: Even in venues like Pinnacle Grill and Tamarind, Coca-Cola products were available.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure where to find a specific soda, ask a crew member. They are trained to assist with beverage requests, and in 2019, Holland America introduced a new digital menu system on some ships, allowing guests to scan a QR code and view real-time drink availability.

Understanding Holland America’s Drink Packages in 2019

Types of Beverage Packages Offered

In 2019, Holland America introduced a tiered drink package system designed to cater to different passenger needs. These packages directly impacted access to Coca-Cola and other soft drinks. The primary options were:

• Signature Beverage Package: The most comprehensive option, priced around $55–$65 per person per day (varies by cruise length and region). This included unlimited premium cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and all non-alcoholic beverages, including Coca-Cola, juice, coffee, and tea.
• Classic Beverage Package: Priced around $45–$55 per day, this package covered beer, wine by the glass, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks like Coke, but with fewer premium options.
• Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package: A new addition in 2019, priced at $25–$35 per day. This was ideal for soda lovers who didn’t drink alcohol. It included unlimited Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, juices, bottled water, and premium coffees.
• Specialty Coffee & Tea Package: For caffeine enthusiasts, this package covered specialty drinks from the Coffee Bar but did not include soda.

All packages were subject to a 15% service charge (automatically added), and guests had to purchase the package for the entire duration of the cruise. Importantly, the Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package was the most relevant for those asking, “Does Holland America Cruise Line have Coke 2019?” because it guaranteed unlimited access to all Coca-Cola products.

How to Choose the Right Package for Soda Lovers

If your primary goal is to enjoy Coca-Cola without worrying about per-drink costs, the Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package is your best bet. Here’s how to determine if it’s worth it:

• Calculate Your Daily Consumption: If you drink 3–4 sodas per day, the package pays for itself. A single soda at a bar or room service costs $2.50–$3.50, so 4 drinks = $10–$14 per day. The $25–$35 package becomes cost-effective if you drink more than 3 sodas daily.
• Consider Cruise Length: On a 7-day cruise, the package costs $175–$245 per person. If you’re a light soda drinker, you might save money by paying per drink.
• Look for Promotions: In 2019, Holland America frequently offered pre-cruise package discounts. Booking the package online before departure could save 10–20%.
• Family Considerations: Children under 21 could purchase the non-alcoholic package, making it a great option for families with teens or young adults who love soda.

Real-World Example: A family of four on a 10-day Alaska cruise in 2019 purchased the Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package for their two teenagers. Each teen drank 4–5 sodas daily, plus juices and bottled water. The package cost $35 per person per day, totaling $2,800 for the family. Without the package, they would have spent over $3,500 in individual drink purchases—saving nearly $700.

Complementary Beverages: What’s Free in 2019?

Included Soft Drinks and Daily Offerings

Holland America Line maintained a strong policy of offering complimentary non-alcoholic beverages in key areas, even without a drink package. This was a major advantage for passengers who didn’t want to pay extra for soda. Here’s what was included at no extra cost in 2019:

• Soft Drinks in Dining Rooms: During lunch and dinner, waitstaff automatically offered Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, and Sprite. Refills were free.
• Self-Serve Soda Stations: The Lido Market buffet featured soda fountains with Coca-Cola products. Guests could fill cups as needed.
• Water, Coffee, and Tea: Available 24/7 in the buffet and public areas. Iced tea and lemonade were also offered during lunch.
• Special Events and Themed Nights: On events like “Cruise Critic Meet & Mingle” or “Captain’s Gala Night,” complimentary soda and juice were often served.

However, there were limitations:

• No Room Service Soda: Soft drinks ordered via room service cost $2.50–$3.50 unless covered by a package.
• No Bottled Soda in Minibars: Minibars contained beer, wine, and snacks, but not canned soda. Soda was only available in bars or the buffet.
• No Take-Home Cans: Guests could not take soda cans back to their cabins unless purchased individually.

Maximizing Free Beverages Without a Package

If you prefer not to buy a drink package, here are smart ways to enjoy Coca-Cola for free in 2019:

• Visit the Buffet for Refills: Use the self-serve soda machines in the Lido Market. Bring a reusable cup to reduce waste and save time.
• Eat Lunch and Dinner in the Dining Room: This is the best way to get free soda with your meal. Ask for a large glass to minimize trips.
• Attend Complimentary Events: Look for onboard activities that offer free drinks, such as trivia nights or cultural showcases.
• Ask for “To Go” Cups: In 2019, some dining rooms allowed guests to take soda in to-go cups for later consumption.
• Use the Pool Deck Bar During Happy Hour: Some bars offered discounted soda during early evening hours, even without a package.

Insider Tip: Crew members are often willing to help. If you’re at a bar and don’t have a package, politely ask if they can serve you a soda “on the house.” Many times, especially during slow periods, they’ll oblige.

Pricing and Cost Analysis: Is It Worth It?

Per-Drink vs. Package Cost Breakdown

To truly answer “Does Holland America Cruise Line have Coke 2019?” we must analyze the cost. Here’s a breakdown of soda pricing on a typical 2019 Holland America cruise:

Beverage	Price (Without Package)	Price (With Non-Alcoholic Package)	Notes
Coca-Cola (can or fountain)	$2.75	$0 (included)	Available in bars, buffet, dining room
Diet Coke	$2.75	$0 (included)	Same availability as regular Coke
Sprite	$2.75	$0 (included)	Also included in package
Bottled Water (500ml)	$4.50	$0 (included)	Available in bars and room service
Specialty Coffee (latte, cappuccino)	$5.00	$0 (included)	From Coffee Bar
Room Service Soda	$3.25 + 15% service	$0 (included)	Only covered by package

Cost-Saving Insight: If you drink 4 sodas per day, you’ll spend $11 daily without a package. Over a 7-day cruise, that’s $77. The Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package costs $25–$35 per day ($175–$245 for 7 days), so you break even if you consume 6+ sodas per day. For heavy soda drinkers or families, the package is a clear winner.

Hidden Costs and Value-Added Perks

Beyond soda, the Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package in 2019 included several value-added benefits:

• Unlimited Bottled Water: A huge perk in hot destinations like the Caribbean or Mediterranean.
• Premium Coffees: Lattes, mochas, and iced coffees from the Coffee Bar were included—normally $5 each.
• Juices and Smoothies: Fresh-squeezed orange juice and fruit smoothies were part of the package.
• No Per-Drink Stress: No need to calculate costs or carry cash. Just enjoy.

Additionally, in 2019, Holland America introduced package perks like free mocktails, soda floats, and soda-themed events (e.g., “Coke & Cookies” afternoon in the Explorations Café).

Alternatives and Special Considerations in 2019

Non-Coca-Cola Options and Dietary Needs

While Coca-Cola was the primary soft drink brand, Holland America offered alternatives for guests with dietary restrictions or preferences:

• Kosher and Halal Options: Some ships carried kosher-certified Coca-Cola and juices, available upon request.
• Low-Sugar and Sugar-Free Drinks: Diet Coke, Coke Zero, and unsweetened iced tea were widely available.
• Local and Craft Beverages: On select itineraries (e.g., Alaska, Europe), ships offered regional sodas like Alaska’s Birch Beer or Italian Chinotto.
• Infused Waters and Sparkling Water: Available in the buffet and bars, especially during health-focused events.

For guests with diabetes or sugar sensitivities, the cruise line provided dietary request forms during booking. These allowed customization of beverage options in dining rooms and room service.

Bringing Your Own Soda: What’s Allowed?

Holland America’s 2019 policy on bringing drinks onboard was strict:

• No Outside Alcohol: Strictly prohibited.
• Limited Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Guests could bring one 12-pack of non-alcoholic beverages per person, provided they were in sealed, unopened containers. This included soda cans, juice boxes, and water.
• No Glass Bottles: All containers must be plastic or aluminum.
• Must Be for Personal Use: Not for resale or sharing with others.

Smart Move: Bring a 12-pack of your favorite soda (e.g., Coke) to enjoy in your cabin. Just don’t try to sneak in a case of 24—security checks at embarkation are thorough.

Conclusion: Your 2019 Holland America Soda Guide

So, does Holland America Cruise Line have Coke in 2019? The answer is a resounding yes. The cruise line proudly offered a full range of Coca-Cola products across its fleet, supported by a flexible beverage program that catered to all types of travelers. Whether you’re a casual soda drinker or a full-time Coke enthusiast, Holland America provided multiple ways to enjoy your favorite soft drink—both included and via affordable packages.

The Non-Alcoholic Beverage Package emerged as the best value for soda lovers, especially on longer cruises or for families. Meanwhile, complimentary soda in dining rooms and the buffet ensured that even budget-conscious guests could enjoy free refills. With Coca-Cola as the dominant brand, regional alternatives, and smart cost-saving strategies, your 2019 Holland America cruise didn’t have to mean sacrificing your soda fix.

As you plan your next cruise, remember: understanding beverage options is just as important as choosing the right itinerary. By leveraging free offerings, timing your purchases, and considering a package, you can enjoy every sip of Coke—without blowing your vacation budget. Cheers to smooth sailing and fizzy refreshments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Holland America Cruise Line have Coke in 2019?

Yes, Holland America Cruise Line offered Coca-Cola products onboard in 2019. Passengers could purchase Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and other Coca-Cola beverages through drink packages or à la carte options.

Are Coca-Cola drinks included in Holland America’s drink packages?

Absolutely. In 2019, Holland America’s beverage packages, such as the Signature Beverage Package, included Coca-Cola products. Guests could enjoy unlimited soft drinks like Coke without additional charges when they purchased the package.

Can I buy a Coke onboard Holland America if I don’t have a drink package?

Yes, individual Coca-Cola drinks were available for purchase in 2019 on Holland America ships. Prices varied depending on the drink size and location, such as bars, dining areas, or room service.

Does Holland America Cruise Line have Coke Zero or Diet Coke?

Yes, in 2019, Holland America offered both Diet Coke and Coke Zero as part of their Coca-Cola product lineup. These options were available for guests seeking low-calorie or sugar-free beverages.

Is there a soda card for unlimited Coke on Holland America in 2019?

Holland America did not offer a standalone soda card in 2019, but their beverage packages included unlimited soft drinks like Coke. The Signature Beverage Package covered all Coca-Cola products, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent soda drinkers.

Are there any restrictions on Coke consumption with Holland America’s 2019 drink packages?

No major restrictions applied to Coca-Cola products in 2019. As long as the drink was part of the package’s covered items, guests could enjoy unlimited refills at bars, lounges, and dining venues throughout the cruise.