Is Holland America Cruise Line All Inclusive A Complete Guide

Holland America Cruise Line is not fully all-inclusive, but it offers a premium experience with many amenities included, such as meals, entertainment, and select beverages. For a truly all-inclusive feel, consider upgrading to the “Have It All” package, which adds drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions—making your cruise more convenient and cost-effective.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America is not fully all-inclusive: Base fare covers essentials, extras cost extra.
• Drinks require packages: Buy a beverage package for unlimited alcohol and premium coffee.
• Specialty dining costs extra: Reserve gourmet restaurants for a fee beyond main dining.
• Shore excursions are add-ons: Book tours separately for cultural and adventure experiences.
• Wi-Fi and gratuities not included: Purchase internet plans and tip staff onboard.
• Promotions may offer inclusions: Check deals for limited-time perks like free drinks.

Is Holland America Cruise Line All Inclusive? A Complete Guide

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers ask is whether their chosen cruise line is all inclusive. The term “all inclusive” often conjures images of luxury resorts where meals, drinks, entertainment, and even tips are covered in one upfront price. But when it comes to Holland America Cruise Line, the answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. As a premium cruise brand with over 150 years of maritime history, Holland America offers a unique blend of traditional elegance, immersive cultural experiences, and value-packed amenities — but the extent to which it qualifies as “all inclusive” depends on what you prioritize in your vacation.

Holland America Line, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, operates a fleet of mid-sized ships designed for comfort, personalized service, and destination-focused itineraries. Known for its refined ambiance, enrichment programs, and culinary excellence, Holland America appeals to travelers seeking a more sophisticated, less crowded cruising experience. However, unlike some ultra-luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas or Silversea, Holland America does not offer a fully all-inclusive model by default. Instead, it provides a base-inclusive experience with optional add-ons that allow guests to tailor their cruise to their preferences. This guide will explore what is included by default, what costs extra, and how you can create a near-all-inclusive experience with the right packages and strategies. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Holland America fan, understanding the inclusions and exclusions will help you maximize value and minimize surprise charges.

What Is Included in a Standard Holland America Cruise?

The foundation of a Holland America cruise is built on a solid set of inclusions that cover the essentials of your vacation. While not all-inclusive in the strictest sense, the base fare delivers a high standard of comfort, dining, and entertainment that rivals many premium cruise lines.

Accommodations and Staterooms

All Holland America cruises include a private stateroom or suite with daily housekeeping, premium bedding, and modern amenities. Guests receive complimentary bottled water in their room upon arrival, and most staterooms feature a private balcony (on newer ships) or ocean view. Suite guests enjoy additional perks such as priority embarkation, exclusive lounge access, and enhanced concierge services. For example, the Neptune Suite on the ms Koningsdam includes a private verandah, walk-in closet, and access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge with complimentary snacks and beverages throughout the day.

Main Dining and Complimentary Meals

One of Holland America’s strongest selling points is its dining program. All guests have access to the main dining room, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. The menu changes daily and features a mix of classic American and international cuisine, with rotating themes such as “Tuscan Table” and “Southeast Asian Night.” Breakfast and lunch are also available at the Lido Market (buffet-style), and afternoon tea is offered daily in the Crow’s Nest Lounge. Room service is available 24/7 at no extra cost (except for premium items like steak or wine, which carry a surcharge).

Entertainment and Onboard Activities

Holland America emphasizes enrichment and entertainment as part of its brand identity. Included in your fare are:

• Live music performances in venues like the B.B. King’s Blues Club and the World Stage theater
• Daily enrichment lectures, cooking demonstrations, and art auctions
• Fitness classes (yoga, Pilates, and basic gym access)
• Use of pools, hot tubs, and recreational facilities
• Kids’ and teens’ programs (Club HAL) for families

The line also partners with institutions like the Lincoln Center Stage and Billboard Onboard to offer high-caliber cultural performances, which are free to attend.

Basic Beverages and Snacks

While alcoholic drinks are not included, Holland America provides complimentary:

• Water, coffee, tea, and select juices at all dining venues
• Ice cream and pastries at the Lido Market
• Snacks during afternoon tea and evening entertainment

This means you can enjoy a cup of coffee with breakfast or a glass of water during dinner without additional charges.

What Costs Extra? Understanding the Add-Ons and Exclusions

While Holland America includes many essentials, several key areas require additional spending. Understanding these exclusions is critical to avoiding budget overruns and managing expectations.

Alcoholic and Specialty Beverages

One of the most significant extra costs on Holland America is alcohol. Cocktails, wine, beer, and premium coffee drinks (e.g., espresso, cappuccino) are not included in the base fare. A single cocktail can cost $12–$18, while a glass of wine ranges from $10–$25. Specialty coffee drinks at the Explorations Café cost $4–$7. To mitigate this, Holland America offers several beverage packages:

• Quench Beverage Package: $19.95/day – includes unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, premium coffees, and select juices
• Elite Beverage Package: $69.95/day – includes all drinks up to $15, premium spirits, wine by the glass, and cocktails
• Wine Packages: Pre-purchased wine packages (e.g., 3, 5, or 7 bottles) at discounted rates

Tip: The Elite package pays for itself after just four $17 cocktails. If you plan to drink more than two alcoholic beverages per day, it’s likely worth the investment.

Specialty Dining and Chef’s Table

While the main dining room and Lido Market are included, Holland America offers several specialty restaurants that require reservations and an additional fee:

• Pinnacle Grill: $49–$55 per person – premium steaks and seafood
• Tamarind: $49 per person – Pan-Asian cuisine with ocean views
• Canaletto: $29 per person – Italian trattoria-style dining
• Chef’s Table: $125–$150 per person – a multi-course, behind-the-scenes culinary experience

These venues are ideal for celebrating special occasions or trying gourmet dishes not available in the main dining room. However, they can add $200+ per person on a 7-day cruise.

Spa, Fitness, and Wellness Services

The onboard Greenhouse Spa & Salon offers a range of services at additional cost, including:

• Massages and facials ($130–$200)
• Fitness classes like TRX and spin ($20–$30 per class)
• Personal training sessions ($85/hour)
• Medi-spa treatments (Botox, fillers)

The basic gym and pool areas are free, but advanced wellness experiences require payment.

Shore Excursions and Port Activities

While port visits are included, guided excursions (e.g., snorkeling, city tours, cultural visits) are not. Holland America partners with local operators to offer curated excursions, but these range from $50 for a walking tour to $300+ for helicopter rides or private yacht charters. Third-party excursions are available, but booking through the cruise line ensures seamless logistics and priority reboarding.

How to Make Your Holland America Cruise All Inclusive: Smart Add-Ons

While Holland America doesn’t offer a single “all-inclusive” fare, you can create a near-all-inclusive experience by strategically purchasing packages and add-ons. This approach allows you to lock in costs upfront and enjoy your vacation without constant spending anxiety.

Beverage Packages: When to Buy and How to Save

The Elite Beverage Package is the closest thing Holland America has to an all-inclusive drink plan. It includes:

• Unlimited drinks up to $15 (including cocktails, wine, beer, and premium coffee)
• 15% discount on bottles of wine
• Complimentary bottled water in staterooms

Key tip: Purchase the package before your cruise (during online check-in) to save $10–$15 per day. The package is not available onboard at the same rate. If you’re a wine lover, consider pairing it with a pre-purchased wine package for even greater savings. For non-drinkers, the Quench package is ideal for families or those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Dining Packages: Gourmet Experiences Without the Surprise

Holland America offers dining packages that bundle specialty restaurant visits:

• Signature Dining Package: $99 – includes one dinner at Pinnacle Grill and Tamarind
• Premium Dining Package: $149 – includes all three specialty restaurants (Pinnacle, Tamarind, Canaletto)

These packages offer a 20–30% discount compared to paying per visit. For example, the Premium package saves you $30–$40 if you dine at all three venues. Pro tip: Book early — specialty restaurants fill up quickly, especially on sea days.

Shore Excursion Credit and Pre-Paid Tours

Some promotions (e.g., “Have It All” package, discussed below) include a $200–$300 shore excursion credit per person. Even without a promotion, pre-booking excursions online can save 10–15% compared to booking onboard. Holland America also offers “Free at Sea” deals with select partners that include free excursions or onboard credit when you book a qualifying cruise.

Spa and Fitness Pre-Pay Options

The spa often runs pre-cruise specials, such as:

• Buy one massage, get one 50% off
• 10-class fitness package for $150 (vs. $20–$30 per class)

Check the Holland America website or contact customer service before departure to access these deals.

The “Have It All” Package: Holland America’s Closest All-Inclusive Option

In 2020, Holland America introduced the Have It All package, a bundled upgrade designed to deliver a more inclusive experience. This is the brand’s most comprehensive effort to compete with all-inclusive luxury lines while maintaining its premium positioning.

What’s Included in “Have It All”?

For an additional $69–$89 per person, per day (varies by sailing), the Have It All package includes:

• Elite Beverage Package (normally $69.95/day)
• Signature Dining Package (one dinner each at Pinnacle Grill and Tamarind)
• $200–$300 Shore Excursion Credit (per person, depending on cruise length)
• Premium Wi-Fi (unlimited high-speed internet for two devices)
• Pre-Paid Gratuities (covered for the entire cruise)

This package effectively bundles five major extras into one price, offering savings of up to $150 per person compared to purchasing each item separately.

Is “Have It All” Worth It?

The value depends on your spending habits:

• Yes, if you: Plan to drink alcohol daily, dine at specialty restaurants, take at least one excursion, use Wi-Fi heavily, and prefer not to worry about gratuities.
• Maybe, if you: Are a moderate drinker or only want one specialty dinner. In this case, consider buying the beverage and dining packages separately.
• No, if you: Don’t drink alcohol, skip specialty dining, use free Wi-Fi (limited to 500MB/day), and pay gratuities in cash.

Example: On a 10-day Alaska cruise, a couple using Have It All would save:

• $1,399 in beverage packages
• $198 in dining
• $400 in excursions
• $80 in Wi-Fi
• $140 in gratuities

Total savings: ~$2,217 — a significant return on the $1,780 package cost.

How to Book “Have It All”

The package can be added during online check-in (up to 72 hours before departure) or through a travel agent. It’s not available for purchase onboard. Note that it’s only offered on select sailings, so check your cruise details carefully.

Comparing Holland America to Other Cruise Lines: All-Inclusive vs. Base-Inclusive

To truly understand Holland America’s value proposition, it’s helpful to compare it to other cruise lines across different price points and inclusion models.

Holland America vs. Ultra-Luxury Lines (Regent, Silversea, Seabourn)

Ultra-luxury lines are truly all inclusive: drinks, specialty dining, gratuities, excursions, and even airfare are included. For example:

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, and gratuities included
• Silversea: All drinks, butler service, and one free excursion per port

However, these lines cost $2,500–$5,000 per person for a 7-day cruise — significantly more than Holland America’s $1,000–$2,000 base fare. Holland America offers a similar ambiance and destination focus but with more à la carte spending.

Holland America vs. Premium Competitors (Princess, Celebrity)

Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises operate on a similar base-inclusive model with optional packages:

• Princess: Offers the “Princess Plus” package ($60/day) with beverage, Wi-Fi, and crew appreciation (gratuities)
• Celebrity: “Always Included” package (free) adds Classic Beverage, Wi-Fi, and gratuities to all sailings

Celebrity’s model is closer to all inclusive by default, while Holland America requires more proactive add-ons. However, Holland America often edges out in culinary quality and enrichment programming.

Holland America vs. Budget Lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean)

Budget lines have lower base fares ($500–$800) but fewer inclusions and more upselling. Holland America’s higher base price reflects better food, quieter ships, and more cultural programming. While budget lines offer drink packages and dining credits, the overall experience is less refined.

Value Comparison Table

Cruise Line	Base Inclusions	All-Inclusive Add-Ons	7-Day Price (per person)	Best For
Holland America	Main dining, basic drinks, entertainment, fitness	Have It All package ($69–$89/day)	$1,200–$2,000	Culture, cuisine, comfort
Regent Seven Seas	All drinks, dining, excursions, gratuities	None (fully inclusive)	$3,500–$5,000	Ultra-luxury, no-hassle
Celebrity	Main dining, Classic Beverage, Wi-Fi, gratuities (Always Included)	Premium packages ($40–$80/day)	$1,500–$2,500	Modern luxury, convenience
Royal Caribbean	Main dining, basic drinks, entertainment	Deluxe Beverage ($60–$80/day), dining packages	$800–$1,500	Action, families, variety

Final Verdict: Is Holland America All Inclusive?

So, is Holland America Cruise Line all inclusive? The short answer is no — not in the traditional sense. Unlike ultra-luxury lines, it does not include alcohol, specialty dining, excursions, or gratuities by default. However, the long answer is more nuanced: Holland America offers a highly customizable, value-rich experience that can be made nearly all inclusive with the right add-ons, especially the Have It All package.

For travelers who value:

• Refined onboard ambiance
• Exceptional culinary programs
• Enrichment and cultural immersion
• Mid-sized ships with personalized service

Holland America is an excellent choice. By investing in the Have It All package, pre-paying for excursions, and using dining packages, you can eliminate most surprise costs and enjoy a stress-free vacation. The key is planning ahead and understanding what you’ll use — there’s no need to pay for Wi-Fi if you’re offline, or for a beverage package if you’re a teetotaler.

Ultimately, Holland America strikes a balance between affordability and luxury. It’s not all inclusive out of the box, but with smart choices, you can create an all-inclusive-like experience at a fraction of the cost of true luxury lines. Whether you’re sailing to Alaska, the Mediterranean, or Southeast Asia, knowing what’s included — and what isn’t — empowers you to make the most of your Holland America adventure. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Holland America Cruise Line all inclusive?

Holland America Cruise Line is not fully all-inclusive, but it offers a semi-inclusive model. Base fares cover accommodations, meals at main dining venues, and select onboard entertainment, but extras like premium dining, alcohol, and excursions cost extra.

What does the Holland America cruise fare include?

The standard fare includes staterooms, meals at the main dining room and buffet, basic beverages (water, coffee, tea), and most daytime activities. Specialty restaurants, spa services, and gratuities are not included unless you book an upgraded package.

Are drinks included in Holland America’s all-inclusive packages?

Drinks are not included in the base fare, but Holland America offers beverage packages for an additional cost. These packages cover cocktails, wine, beer, and premium coffees, making them a good option for frequent drinkers.

Does Holland America Cruise Line include gratuities?

Gratuities are not included in the base fare and are automatically charged daily to your account. However, you can adjust the amount or prepay them before your cruise to simplify your trip.

Are excursions and Wi-Fi included in a Holland America cruise?

Excursions and Wi-Fi are not included in the base fare. Shore excursions must be booked separately, while Wi-Fi is available via paid plans, though some promotions may include limited free access.

What makes Holland America different from all-inclusive cruise lines?

Unlike fully all-inclusive lines, Holland America focuses on premium experiences with fewer inclusions, appealing to travelers who prefer à la carte options. Its value lies in mid-tier luxury, with add-ons available for those wanting a more inclusive experience.