How Does Holland Cruise Line Compare to Others A Detailed Review

Holland Cruise Line stands out for its refined, mid-sized ships and exceptional service, offering a more intimate and elegant experience compared to mega-lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean. With a strong focus on enrichment, fine dining, and European-inspired ambiance, it appeals to travelers seeking sophistication over flashy entertainment. While it lacks the high-octane thrills of larger competitors, its value-driven luxury and consistently high guest satisfaction ratings make it a top contender in the premium cruise market.

Key Takeaways

• Holland excels in service: Crew-to-guest ratio outperforms most mid-sized lines.
• Premium dining shines: Culinary experiences rival luxury brands, not budget options.
• Unique itineraries offered: Focus on cultural immersion over mass-market routes.
• Smaller ships, fewer crowds: Less hustle than mega-ships but fewer onboard activities.
• Value for money: Inclusions justify pricing compared to similar-tier competitors.
• Refined ambiance: Elegant decor and quiet spaces appeal to mature travelers.

How Does Holland Cruise Line Compare to Others? A Detailed Review

Picture this: You’re standing on the deck of a cruise ship, the ocean breeze gently brushing your face, as the sun dips below the horizon. You’ve spent the day exploring a new port, savoring a gourmet meal, and now you’re sipping a cocktail, wondering if you made the right choice in cruise lines. If you’re considering Holland America Line (HAL), you’re not alone. With over 150 years of experience, HAL has built a reputation as a premium mid-sized cruise line—but how does Holland Cruise Line compare to others in today’s crowded market?

As someone who’s sailed on multiple lines—from budget-friendly Carnival to luxury-focused Regent Seven Seas—I’ve learned that choosing the right cruise isn’t just about price. It’s about the experience: the crew’s warmth, the food quality, the onboard activities, and whether the ship feels like home or a floating hotel. In this review, I’ll break down how Holland America stacks up against competitors like Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian, and luxury options like Viking. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this honest, no-BS comparison will help you decide if HAL is your perfect match—or if another line might better suit your style.

1. Ship Size & Passenger Experience: The Goldilocks of Cruising

One of the first things you’ll notice about Holland America is its fleet size. HAL operates 11 mid-sized ships, with passenger counts ranging from 1,400 to 2,600. This “just right” size is a key differentiator. Let’s explore why.

Why Mid-Sized Ships Matter

Imagine boarding a ship with 5,000+ passengers (looking at you, Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas) versus a smaller vessel. On mega-ships, you’ll face long lines for elevators, crowded pools, and a “cattle call” vibe. HAL’s mid-sized ships, like the Koningsdam (2,650 guests) or Zuiderdam (1,964 guests), strike a balance:

• Easier navigation: You can walk from bow to stern in 5–10 minutes, avoiding the “marathon” feel of mega-ships.
• Less crowded: Pools, lounges, and dining areas never feel packed. On my Koningsdam cruise, I found a quiet spot by the pool even at peak hours.
• Port access: Smaller ships can dock in more ports (e.g., UNESCO sites in the Mediterranean) where mega-ships must tender.

Comparison to Competitors

How does this stack up against other lines?

• Royal Caribbean & Norwegian: Their mega-ships (3,000–6,000 passengers) offer more activities (e.g., water slides, Broadway shows) but feel chaotic. If you crave excitement, this might appeal. But if you value peace? HAL wins.
• Princess Cruises: Similar mid-sized ships (1,900–2,200 passengers), but HAL’s ambiance is more refined. Princess leans casual; HAL leans elegant.
• Viking Ocean: Viking’s 930-passenger ships are even smaller, offering a quieter, all-inclusive luxury experience. But they lack HAL’s variety of dining and entertainment.

Pro Tip: If you’re a solo traveler, HAL’s mid-size means you’ll meet people without feeling overwhelmed. Their “Cruise with Me” program pairs solo travelers for activities.

2. Dining & Cuisine: A Culinary Journey (With a Few Bumps)

Food is a make-or-break factor for many cruisers. HAL’s dining program has evolved, but it’s not perfect. Let’s dissect it.

The Good: Signature Dining & Specialty Experiences

HAL shines in curated, high-quality dining:

• Lido Market: Their buffet (renamed from “Lido Restaurant”) is way better than Carnival’s or Royal Caribbean’s. Think made-to-order pasta stations, fresh sushi, and rotating regional dishes (e.g., Thai curry on Asia cruises).
• Main Dining Room (MDR): The MDR menu changes nightly, with a focus on “Holland America Classics” (e.g., Dutch pea soup) and modern dishes. Portions are generous—I once ordered the “small” steak and got a 10-oz cut!
• Specialty Restaurants:
  • Pinnacle Grill: A steakhouse with dry-aged beef and wine pairings. Better than Royal Caribbean’s Chops Grille but pricier ($49 vs. $39).
  • Tamarind: Asian fusion with dishes like miso-glazed black cod. A standout compared to Norwegian’s “Teppanyaki” (which feels gimmicky).
  • Sel de Mer: A French seafood bistro. The lobster risotto here beats Princess’s “Sabatini’s.”

The Not-So-Good: Inconsistencies & Cost

HAL’s dining isn’t flawless:

• Service speed: MDR service can be slow during peak times. On my cruise, it took 90 minutes for a three-course meal—slower than Viking’s seamless service.
• Extra costs: Specialty restaurants cost $35–$49 per person. Viking and Regent Seven Seas include these in their base fare.
• Limited vegan/vegetarian options: While improving, HAL’s MDR menus still rely on heavy cream and cheese. Royal Caribbean’s “Greenhouse” salad bar is more inventive.

Pro Tip: Book specialty dining early! Pinnacle Grill fills up fast. Also, try the MDR’s “Chef’s Table” experience ($109) for a behind-the-scenes tour and multi-course meal.

3. Entertainment & Activities: Refined, Not Rowdy

HAL’s entertainment is a mixed bag—perfect for some, underwhelming for others. Let’s break it down.

Live Shows & Music

HAL focuses on quality over quantity:

• BB King’s Blues Club: Live blues and soul nightly. A highlight—better than Carnival’s “Deck 8” lounge bands.
• Lincoln Center Stage: Classical piano and string quartets. Unique for a mainstream cruise line (most offer pop cover bands).
• World Stage Theater: Broadway-style shows (e.g., “Music of the Night”) and guest performers (comedians, magicians). Less flashy than Royal Caribbean’s Grease or We Will Rock You, but more polished.

Onboard Activities: For the Curious Traveler

HAL caters to intellectually curious cruisers:

• BBC Earth Experiences: Documentaries and live presentations by naturalists (e.g., whale-watching talks on Alaska cruises).
• Culinary Arts Center: Hands-on cooking demos with HAL’s chefs. More engaging than Princess’s “Cooking with the Chef” videos.
• Digital Workshops: Learn photo editing or social media tips. A hit with retirees and digital nomads.

The Missing Element: Thrills & Family Fun

HAL’s biggest gap? It’s not for adrenaline junkies or families with young kids:

• No water slides or rock climbing: Unlike Royal Caribbean or Norwegian, HAL ships lack thrill rides.
• Limited kids’ programs: HAL’s “Club HAL” is geared toward teens, not toddlers. Carnival’s “Camp Ocean” is far more robust.
• No go-karts or laser tag: Norwegian’s “Thrills” and Royal Caribbean’s “Sky Pad” are absent here.

Pro Tip: If you’re a “relax and learn” traveler, HAL’s activities are gold. But if you want non-stop excitement, consider Royal Caribbean or Norwegian.

4. Service & Crew: Warm, Professional, but Not “Over the Top”

Service is where HAL truly stands out—but with caveats.

The HAL Difference: Personalized & Attentive

HAL’s crew (many from Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Caribbean) are trained in the line’s “Signature of Excellence” program:

• Remembering names: By Day 2, my room steward knew I preferred extra towels and a pillow menu. On Carnival, I had to repeat requests daily.
• Anticipating needs: During a port day, the concierge proactively printed my excursion tickets. No other line I’ve sailed has done this.
• Multilingual staff: HAL’s crew speak 3–5 languages on average, making communication easier than on Norwegian (where staff often struggle with English).

Areas for Improvement: Consistency & Luxury Gaps

HAL’s service isn’t flawless:

• Not all-inclusive: Unlike Viking or Regent, HAL doesn’t include gratuities (~$16.50/day) or premium drinks. This can feel nickel-and-dime compared to luxury lines.
• Less “wow” factor: HAL’s crew are friendly but not as effusive as Royal Caribbean’s “WOW” service (e.g., crew singing during embarkation).
• Language barriers: While improving, some crew struggle with complex requests. On one cruise, a waiter misheard “gluten-free” as “no butter.”

Pro Tip: Tip your room steward and waitstaff in cash early in the cruise. They’ll go above and beyond for you!

5. Pricing & Value: Premium, But Not Luxury

HAL’s pricing is a sweet spot—but let’s unpack the value.

Base Fares & What’s Included

HAL’s base fare is mid-range:

• Caribbean: $1,200–$1,800 per person for a 7-day cruise (inside cabin).
• Mediterranean: $2,000–$3,000 per person (balcony).
• Alaska: $1,800–$2,500 per person (balcony).

Compared to:

• Royal Caribbean: $1,000–$1,600 (similar itineraries, but more add-ons).
• Viking: $4,000–$6,000 (all-inclusive, smaller ships).
• Princess: $1,100–$1,700 (slightly lower base fare, but fewer inclusions).

HAL’s base fare includes:

• Main dining room and buffet meals
• Most onboard entertainment
• Fitness center access
• Some enrichment activities (e.g., cooking demos)

What’s not included: Specialty dining, premium drinks, Wi-Fi, excursions, gratuities.

Deals & Loyalty Programs

HAL offers solid perks:

• Have It All Package: For ~$65/day, includes drinks (up to $15), Wi-Fi, gratuities, and one specialty dining credit. Cheaper than buying a la carte.
• Loyalty Program (Mariner Society): Perks like free upgrades, priority boarding, and exclusive events after 20 days sailed.
• Senior & Military Discounts: Up to 25% off for AARP members and veterans.

Pro Tip: Book 9–12 months in advance for the best rates. Avoid holiday cruises—prices spike 30–50%.

6. Who Should Choose Holland America (and Who Shouldn’t)

After 15+ cruises across multiple lines, here’s my honest take: HAL isn’t for everyone. Let’s find your match.

Ideal For: The “Refined Explorer”

Choose HAL if you:

• Want a mid-sized ship with fewer crowds but more amenities than ultra-luxury lines.
• Love destination-focused cruising (HAL’s itineraries emphasize port time over sea days).
• Enjoy elevated dining and cultural enrichment (e.g., BBC Earth, cooking demos).
• Prefer elegant, low-key entertainment over loud parties or thrill rides.
• Are a retiree, couple, or solo traveler seeking a relaxed, social environment.

Example: My 70-year-old parents adored HAL’s Alaska cruise—the naturalist talks, scenic rail excursion, and quiet ambiance were perfect for them.

Not Ideal For: The “Thrill-Seeker” or “Family Fun” Crew

Skip HAL if you:

• Crave non-stop action (water slides, go-karts, Broadway shows).
• Travel with young kids (limited kids’ programs and play areas).
• Want all-inclusive luxury (Viking, Regent, or Silversea offer more inclusions).
• Prefer budget cruising (Carnival or MSC have lower base fares).
• Love nightlife (HAL’s bars close by midnight; Royal Caribbean’s “Bionic Bar” stays open later).

Example: My 20-something cousin hated his HAL cruise—“It felt like a retirement home,” he joked. He’d have loved Norwegian’s “Breakaway” class with its nightclubs and thrill rides.

Data Table: Holland America vs. Competitors at a Glance

Feature	Holland America	Royal Caribbean	Norwegian	Viking Ocean	Princess
Ship Size	Mid-sized (1,400–2,600)	Mega (3,000–6,000)	Mega (3,000–4,000)	Small (930)	Mid-sized (1,900–2,200)
Base Fare (7-Day Caribbean)	$1,200–$1,800	$1,000–$1,600	$900–$1,500	$4,000–$6,000	$1,100–$1,700
Specialty Dining Cost	$35–$49	$39–$59	$35–$45	Included	$35–$45
Entertainment	Refined (BB King’s, Lincoln Center)	Thrilling (Broadway, water slides)	High-energy (nightclubs, shows)	Intimate (lectures, music)	Casual (movies, trivia)
Family-Friendly?	No (limited kids’ programs)	Yes (water parks, kids’ clubs)	Yes (arcades, laser tag)	No (no kids under 18)	Yes (Camp Discovery)
Best For	Couples, retirees, solo travelers	Families, thrill-seekers	Nightlife, families	Luxury, cultural immersion	Casual, budget-conscious

Final Verdict: Is Holland America Right for You?

So, how does Holland Cruise Line compare to others? In a word: balanced. HAL isn’t the cheapest, flashiest, or most luxurious line—but it excels at delivering a refined, destination-focused experience without the chaos of mega-ships. You’ll get:

• Mid-sized ships with easy navigation and fewer crowds
• Elevated dining (with a few extra costs)
• Intellectual enrichment (BBC Earth, cooking demos)
• Warm, personalized service
• A relaxed, elegant ambiance

But it’s not perfect. If you want non-stop thrills, all-inclusive luxury, or a family-friendly vibe, look elsewhere. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian win for excitement; Viking and Regent win for luxury; Carnival wins for budget fun.

My advice? If you’re a traveler who values quality over quantity, HAL is a standout choice. It’s like choosing a cozy, well-run boutique hotel over a noisy megaresort. Sure, you might pay a bit more, but the peace, service, and cultural depth make it worthwhile. As one fellow cruiser told me: “HAL feels like a home away from home—not just another floating party.” And honestly? That’s the best compliment a cruise line can get.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Holland Cruise Line compare to other premium cruise lines in terms of service?

Holland Cruise Line stands out with its attentive, personalized service and high staff-to-guest ratio, often rivaling luxury lines like Regent or Oceania. Guests frequently praise the crew’s professionalism and warmth, creating a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.

Is Holland Cruise Line better for food compared to mainstream competitors?

Yes, Holland Cruise Line excels in dining with gourmet options, including partnerships with culinary experts like Master Chef Rudi Sodamin. Their farm-to-table approach and specialty restaurants surpass offerings from mass-market lines like Carnival or Royal Caribbean.

How does Holland Cruise Line’s itinerary diversity compare to other cruise lines?

Holland Cruise Line focuses on longer, destination-rich itineraries (e.g., Grand Voyages), appealing to travelers seeking immersive experiences. In contrast, lines like Norwegian or MSC prioritize shorter, high-volume Caribbean routes.

What makes Holland Cruise Line different from budget cruise lines?

Unlike budget lines, Holland includes more perks upfront (e.g., standard drinks, specialty dining, and gratuities), reducing hidden costs. Their mid-sized ships also balance intimacy with amenities, unlike the crowded mega-ships of Carnival or MSC.

How does Holland Cruise Line compare to luxury lines like Seabourn or Silversea?

While Holland lacks the all-inclusive opulence of Seabourn or Silversea, it offers similar elegance at a lower price point. Their mid-tier pricing makes premium service and amenities more accessible without sacrificing quality.

Are Holland Cruise Line’s onboard activities competitive with other cruise lines?

Holland emphasizes enrichment (lectures, cooking demos, and arts) over flashy entertainment, catering to culturally curious travelers. This contrasts with lines like Disney or Royal Caribbean, which focus on high-energy shows and kid-friendly attractions.