Which Cruise Line Is Better Holland America or Princess Revealed

Princess Cruises edges out Holland America for most travelers, offering a more modern fleet, dynamic entertainment, and greater itinerary variety, making it ideal for families and first-time cruisers. While Holland America excels in refined, traditional cruising with exceptional dining and enrichment programs, Princess wins on innovation, value, and onboard experience, especially for those seeking a lively, activity-rich vacation.

Key Takeaways

• Holland America excels in traditional, elegant cruising with refined dining and enrichment programs.
• Princess offers more modern amenities, diverse entertainment, and family-friendly activities onboard.
• Choose Holland America for longer itineraries and immersive cultural experiences in a quieter setting.
• Princess wins for value-packed deals, frequent promotions, and flexible dining options like Anytime Dining.
• Holland America’s service is consistently praised for being attentive, personalized, and highly professional.
• Princess provides better tech integration with its app, MedallionClass, enhancing convenience and onboard experience.

Which Cruise Line Is Better Holland America or Princess: The Ultimate Showdown

Choosing the perfect cruise line is no small decision. With so many options available, travelers often find themselves torn between two industry giants: Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. Both brands boast decades of maritime heritage, luxurious amenities, and itineraries spanning the globe. But which one truly offers a better experience? Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, understanding the nuances between these two cruise lines can make all the difference in your vacation satisfaction.

Holland America Line, founded in 1873, prides itself on its classic elegance, refined service, and a more intimate onboard atmosphere. Princess Cruises, established in 1965, is known for its modern innovation, family-friendly amenities, and a broader range of destinations, including Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean. Both lines appeal to different traveler profiles—some seeking serene sophistication, others vibrant entertainment and adventure. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dissect key areas such as onboard experience, dining, entertainment, itineraries, pricing, and customer satisfaction to reveal which cruise line truly stands out. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question: Which cruise line is better, Holland America or Princess?

Onboard Experience: Elegance vs. Energy

The onboard experience sets the tone for your entire cruise. Holland America and Princess take distinctly different approaches, catering to varying tastes and expectations. Understanding these differences is crucial in determining which line aligns best with your travel style.

Holland America: Refined Sophistication and Intimacy

Holland America Line (HAL) is renowned for its classic, understated luxury. The fleet, including ships like the Eurodam and Nieuw Statendam, features rich wood paneling, plush lounges, and a more subdued color palette. The ambiance is calm, with fewer crowds and a focus on relaxation. With a passenger capacity typically ranging from 1,900 to 2,600 guests, HAL ships feel less crowded than many mainstream competitors.

One of HAL’s standout features is its Music Walk, a curated collection of live music venues. The Lincoln Center Stage offers classical performances, while the B.B. King’s Blues Club brings soulful jazz and blues to life. These venues are not just entertainment—they’re cultural experiences. Additionally, the line’s partnership with BBC Earth brings immersive nature documentaries and live talks, enhancing the educational aspect of your cruise.

Tip: If you prefer a quieter, more adult-oriented atmosphere, HAL is ideal. Avoid peak family seasons if you want to minimize children onboard.

Princess Cruises: Vibrant, Family-Friendly Energy

Princess Cruises, by contrast, leans into modern energy and family inclusivity. Ships like the Discovery Princess and Sky Princess are designed with open-concept spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a brighter, more contemporary aesthetic. The line’s signature SeaWalk—a glass-bottomed walkway extending over the ocean—epitomizes its innovative spirit.

Princess excels in family-friendly amenities. The Camp Discovery youth program offers age-appropriate activities, from science experiments to arts and crafts. Teens have their own hangout spaces, and the line’s Movies Under the Stars feature giant poolside screens showing blockbusters and family films. For adults, the Princess Live! studio offers cooking demos, game shows, and live interviews with celebrities.

Example: On a 7-night Alaska cruise, Princess passengers might enjoy a family movie night under the stars after a day of glacier viewing, while HAL guests might prefer a quiet evening at the Crow’s Nest lounge with a cocktail and live piano music.

Which Is Better for You?

• Choose Holland America if you value tranquility, cultural enrichment, and a more mature ambiance.
• Choose Princess Cruises if you want a lively, inclusive environment with activities for all ages.

Dining: Culinary Excellence and Variety

Dining is a cornerstone of any cruise experience, and both Holland America and Princess offer exceptional culinary programs. However, their philosophies, specialty restaurants, and overall dining atmospheres differ significantly.

Holland America: Gourmet Focus and Intimate Settings

HAL emphasizes fine dining and culinary partnerships. The line has collaborated with MasterChef Australia and Food Network to bring celebrity chef experiences onboard. The Pinnacle Grill is a hallmark—a premium steakhouse offering USDA Prime cuts, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. Reservations are highly recommended, and the ambiance is elegant, with white tablecloths and attentive service.

Another standout is the Canaletto restaurant, serving authentic Italian cuisine in a Tuscan-inspired setting. HAL also offers dinner at the Chef’s Table, a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings hosted by the executive chef. This experience is a highlight for food enthusiasts.

Tip: HAL’s dining reservations open 90 days before sailing. Book early for specialty restaurants to avoid disappointment.

Princess Cruises: Diverse Options and Casual Elegance

Princess takes a more diverse, flexible approach to dining. The line’s World Fresh Marketplace buffet is expansive, with global cuisine stations, fresh sushi, and made-to-order pasta. Unlike traditional buffets, it’s designed to minimize crowding and maximize freshness.

Specialty dining includes Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, known for its handmade pastas and antipasti, and Crown Grill, a high-end steakhouse with a modern flair. Princess also introduced Chef’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience with a glass-enclosed kitchen, offering front-row seats to culinary artistry.

One unique feature is “Anytime Dining”, allowing guests to dine at flexible times without assigned seating. This appeals to travelers who prefer spontaneity over rigid schedules.

Example: On a Caribbean cruise, a Princess guest might enjoy a casual lunch at the Salty Dog Grill (featuring gourmet hot dogs and craft beer) followed by a romantic dinner at Sabatini’s, while a HAL guest might opt for a refined three-course lunch in the main dining room and a Pinnacle Grill reservation for dinner.

Comparison of Dining Highlights

• Holland America: Superior fine dining, chef collaborations, intimate ambiance.
• Princess Cruises: Greater variety, flexible dining times, family-friendly options.

Entertainment and Activities: Culture vs. Adventure

Entertainment can make or break a cruise. Holland America and Princess take different paths—one rooted in culture, the other in adventure and spectacle.

Holland America: Cultural Enrichment and Live Music

HAL’s entertainment is curated and intellectual. The Lincoln Center Stage hosts string quartets and piano duos, while the BBC Earth in Concert series pairs nature documentaries with live orchestral scores. The Rolling Stone Rock Room brings classic rock hits to life with a live band.

For enrichment, HAL offers Explorations Central (EXC) programs, including lectures by historians, naturalists, and travel experts. Guests can attend workshops on photography, cooking, or even wine tasting. The line also partners with O, The Oprah Magazine for wellness-focused events.

Tip: Check the daily schedule for EXC talks—many are free and highly informative.

Princess Cruises: Spectacle and Family Fun

Princess leans into high-energy entertainment. The Princess Theater hosts Broadway-style shows, magic acts, and comedy performances. The Voice of the Ocean is a popular karaoke-style competition, while Shake, Rattle & Roll offers retro dance parties.

For families, the Discovery at SEA program brings science and exploration to life, with activities like slime-making and stargazing. The Discovery Reef water play area and Splash Zone are perfect for younger children.

Princess also excels in onshore excursions, offering over 10,000 unique tours worldwide. From glacier hikes in Alaska to cooking classes in Tuscany, the variety is unmatched.

Example: On a Mediterranean cruise, a Princess guest might enjoy a sunset jazz cruise followed by a family-friendly magic show, while a HAL guest might attend a lecture on Renaissance art and then a classical music recital.

Which Line Offers More?

• Holland America: Better for culture seekers, music lovers, and those who enjoy quiet, intellectual pursuits.
• Princess Cruises: Better for families, thrill-seekers, and guests who want non-stop entertainment.

Itineraries and Destinations: Global Reach and Specialization

Both lines offer extensive itineraries, but their focus and specialization differ. Understanding their geographic strengths is key to choosing the right cruise.

Holland America: Deep Cultural Immersion

HAL is renowned for its longer, in-depth itineraries. The line specializes in Alaska, Europe, and the Panama Canal, with many cruises offering 10+ days in a region. For example, a 14-day Alaska cruise might include multiple stops in small ports like Haines and Ketchikan, allowing for deeper cultural exploration.

HAL also offers world cruises—30+ day journeys that visit over 30 countries. These are ideal for retirees or travelers seeking a slow-paced, immersive experience.

Tip: HAL’s “Have It All” premium package includes shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and drink credits—great value for longer cruises.

Princess Cruises: Broad Geographic Reach

Princess has a wider global footprint, with ships in nearly every major cruising region. The line is a leader in Alaska, the Caribbean, and Australia/New Zealand. Princess’s “MedallionClass” ships use wearable technology (the OceanMedallion) to enhance the guest experience, offering contactless boarding, personalized service, and even mobile food ordering.

Princess also offers unique destinations like Antarctica, the Galapagos, and the South Pacific. Their “Discovery at SEA” excursions often include partnerships with National Geographic and Animal Planet.

Example: A Princess guest might take a 12-day “Circle Japan” cruise with stops in Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima, while a HAL guest might opt for a 7-day “Alaska Glacier Discovery” cruise with a focus on wildlife and natural wonders.

Itinerary Comparison Table

Destination	Holland America Strengths	Princess Cruises Strengths
Alaska	Longer itineraries, focus on small ports, wildlife excursions	More ships, family-friendly activities, glacier viewing from balconies
Caribbean	Less crowded, cultural ports (e.g., St. Thomas, Grand Turk)	More destinations, private island (Princess Cays), water parks
Europe	10+ day cruises, in-depth city tours, wine regions	Broader range, MedallionClass tech, shorter 7-day options
Asia	Fewer options, focus on Japan and China	More ships, “Circle Japan” itineraries, cultural excursions
World Cruises	Longer (30+ days), more cultural immersion	Shorter options (15-20 days), more tech-enhanced experiences

Pricing, Value, and Loyalty Programs

Pricing is a major factor in cruise decisions. Both lines offer competitive rates, but their value propositions and loyalty programs differ.

Holland America: Premium Pricing with Cultural Perks

HAL tends to be slightly more expensive than Princess, reflecting its focus on refined experiences. However, the line often includes premium perks in its pricing, such as:

• Complimentary wine with dinner in the main dining room
• Free EXC lectures and workshops
• Access to the Culinary Arts Center

HAL’s Mariner Society loyalty program offers tiered benefits, including priority boarding, onboard credits, and free cruises after 20+ sailings.

Tip: Book during HAL’s “Early Booking Bonus” for free upgrades or drink packages.

Princess Cruises: Competitive Pricing with Tech Advantages

Princess offers more frequent promotions, such as “30% off + free gratuities” or “$1 deposits.” The MedallionClass ships provide added value through:

• Contactless service (reducing wait times)
• Personalized recommendations via the OceanReady app
• Mobile check-in and room key

Princess’s Captain’s Circle loyalty program offers perks like priority disembarkation, free internet, and exclusive events.

Example: A 7-day Alaska cruise might cost $1,200 per person with HAL (including wine) or $1,050 with Princess (including a drink package promotion).

Which Offers Better Value?

• Holland America: Better for travelers who want cultural perks and don’t mind paying a premium for elegance.
• Princess Cruises: Better for budget-conscious travelers who value tech-enhanced convenience and frequent promotions.

Conclusion: Which Cruise Line Is Better?

After a thorough analysis of onboard experience, dining, entertainment, itineraries, and pricing, the answer to which cruise line is better, Holland America or Princess depends entirely on your travel preferences:

If you seek refined elegance, cultural immersion, and a quieter atmosphere, Holland America Line is the clear winner. Its focus on live music, gourmet dining, and in-depth itineraries makes it ideal for couples, retirees, and solo travelers who appreciate sophistication.

If you prefer vibrant energy, family-friendly activities, and cutting-edge technology, Princess Cruises takes the crown. Its MedallionClass ships, diverse entertainment, and flexible dining options cater to families, adventure-seekers, and tech-savvy cruisers.

Ultimately, both lines are excellent—they just excel in different areas. Choose Holland America for a classic, serene voyage. Choose Princess for a modern, dynamic adventure. Whichever you pick, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable journey across the world’s most beautiful seas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line is better, Holland America or Princess, for first-time cruisers?

For first-time cruisers, Princess Cruises often edges out Holland America with its modern ships, intuitive layout, and diverse onboard activities tailored to newcomers. While Holland America offers a refined experience, Princess’s user-friendly amenities and engaging entertainment make it a more approachable choice.

Which cruise line has better dining options: Holland America or Princess?

Holland America excels with its specialty dining venues like Pinnacle Grill and Rudi’s Sel de Mer, catering to food enthusiasts seeking gourmet experiences. Princess counters with its globally inspired “World Fresh Marketplace” and casual options like Slice Pizzeria, offering greater variety for families and casual diners.

Is Holland America or Princess better for Alaska cruises?

Both lines shine in Alaska, but Princess Cruises is often preferred for its “North to Alaska” program featuring themed activities, local cuisine, and partnerships with Alaska Native guides. Holland America offers a quieter, more traditional Alaskan voyage with fewer crowds and curated enrichment lectures.

Which cruise line is better for families: Holland America or Princess?

Princess Cruises is the clear winner for families, with dedicated kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and family-friendly shows like the “Voice of the Ocean.” Holland America’s focus on adults and refined ambiance makes it less ideal for families with young children.

Does Holland America or Princess offer a more luxurious experience?

Holland America leans into luxury with its premium staterooms, upscale spa treatments, and exclusive amenities like the Neptune Lounge for suite guests. Princess matches this with its MedallionClass technology and Sky Suites, but Holland America’s traditional elegance appeals more to luxury seekers.

Which cruise line has better entertainment: Holland America or Princess?

Princess Cruises dominates with high-energy production shows, outdoor movies on the jumbotron, and interactive experiences like “The Voice” sing-offs. Holland America offers a more subdued vibe with live jazz, classical music, and enrichment programs, appealing to travelers seeking relaxation over spectacle.