http://www.cruiselinefans.com en Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:18:07 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.cruiselinefans.com/images/styles/cruiselinefans/misc/rss.jpg http://www.cruiselinefans.com http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44246-hal-line-wins-nine-porthole-readers-choice-awards-new-post.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:09:22 GMT Holland America Line Wins Nine Porthole Readers' Choice Awards





Premium Cruise Line Attracts Top Itineraries, Best Private Island & Most Eco-Friendly Honors


Seattle, Wash., November 19, 2009 – Among the nine 2009 Readers’ Choice Awards that Holland America Line has received from Porthole Cruise Magazine are five that recognize the line’s varied and port-intensive cruise itineraries. Readers of Porthole conferred awards for Best Central America/Panama Canal, Best Northern Europe, Best Alaska, and Best Australia/New Zealand Itineraries, and Best Private Island for Half Moon Cay, the line’s exclusive Bahamian port call that appears on most Caribbean cruise itineraries.
In the 11th annual awards, the line also took top honors as most Eco-Friendly Cruise Line and for having the Best Spa Facilities, as well as a pair for Best Overall Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers and Best Medical Facilities.
“Being recognized for five cruise itinerary regions is a true testament to our goal of delivering unique and in-depth cruise itineraries for our guests,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “We are also very proud to be recognized for our commitment to environmental stewardship and the three additional awards for access, medical facilities and our luxurious spas are a great acknowledgement of the services we provide to our guests. We are delighted.”
”Porthole Cruise Magazine is the top source of cruise and destination content for savvy travelers,” said Bill Panoff, publisher and editor-in-chief of the magazine. “Our readers appreciate the quality and overall cruise experience that a premium line such as Holland America Line delivers every day.”
Artful Itineraries Blend World Sights with New Discoveries
Known for its longer, port-heavy cruise itineraries, Holland America Line picked up its five cruise itinerary-themed awards for destinations spanning the globe. In Alaska, the line operates three major cruising itineraries — Glacier Bay Inside Passage, Glacier Discovery and Alaskan Explorer cruises — that showcase the highlights of Alaska with distinctive options to suit the various wishes of Alaskan-bound travelers. Northern Europe cruises combine the best of the Baltic with British Isles and Norwegian Fjord exploration. Departure ports now include Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Dover or Greenwich (London) and Copenhagen.
Australia/New Zealand sailings offer a mix of 14-day Sydney roundtrip and Sydney to Auckland adventures as well as the new 34-day circumnavigation of Australia with five days in the Great Barrier Reef. Among the line’s most popular itineraries, Panama Canal cruises sail the engineering marvel on five ships or guests can opt for a day visit to the canal on a 10-day roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale that includes several Caribbean ports.
In 2009, Half Moon Cay received its ninth Best Private Island acknowledgement from Porthole readers. Built as a sustainable port of call, the island’s offerings provide private beach cabanas, an exclusive over-water bungalow, a full beachside water park for children, and an array of shore excursions that include horseback riding by land and sea, personal watercraft adventures and an opportunity to swim with stingrays.
Top Awards for Environment and Spa, Too
Holland America Line won the Most Eco-Friendly Cruise Line award for their commitment to responsible environmental practices through comprehensive and innovative fleet-wide programs. The program emphasizes waste reduction and recycling, use of cleaner-burning propulsion technology and cutting-edge solutions. Holland America Line’s ships currently meet or exceed all provisions of the international regulations governing the environmental management of marine operations.
Holland America Line also has a history of embracing new environmental technologies such as shore power while ships are in port — one of two cruise lines to utilize this eco-friendly power — and being the first cruise line to install state-of-the-art, level-four water treatment systems and implement a whale strike avoidance program.
According to Meadows, the nod for Best Spa comes from the line’s focus on unique offerings in the Greenhouse Spa and Salon offered as a part of the $525 million Signature of Excellence enhancement program. The Greenhouse Spa and Salon with fitness center offers guests relaxation and rejuvenation as well as beauty and wellness rituals ranging from tai chi to hot stone couples massages.
Completing the awards, Holland America Line received recognition for its accessibility and medical facilities. Holland America Line ships accommodate guests with a variety of special needs including those requiring wheelchairs, scooters or service animals; those who have sight or hearing impairments; and those using oxygen.
And each Holland America Line ship has a medical center carrying much of the standard equipment found in North American hospital emergency departments. The onboard medical center accommodates most emergencies and routine medical procedures and is staffed by two to four registered nurses, a crew physician and the ship’s doctor — all certified in advanced cardiac life support. For additional information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44246-hal-line-wins-nine-porthole-readers-choice-awards.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44245-hal-line-adds-new-affordable-sales-tools-ta-headquarters-online-new-post.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:07:54 GMT *Holland America Line Adds New Affordable Sales Tools to Travel Agent Headquarters Online* *Seattle, Wash., November 12, 2009 — To assist travel sellers in boosting their sales, Holland America Line has enhanced its popular personalized direct mail and e-mail sales tools that are available at Travel Agent Headquarters via www.hollandamerica.com (http://www.hollandamerica.com/). Now, travel sellers have access to more cruise destinations and creative offerings under Holland America Line’s direct mail marketing program and customized e-mails for all destinations containing the latest cruise fares. * *“We have received great feedback from the travel seller community on how cost effective and user friendly our new marketing tools are,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “We also are very pleased about the impact these tools are having on converting bookings for travel sellers.”* *At TAHQ, travel sellers have easy access to create dynamic new marketing tools as well as to a vast array of other helpful features ranging from news and training to the popular booking tool POLAR Online. Several new sales tools feature personalized direct mailings, Build-Your-Own E-mail and daily pricing leads to make marketing materials more current. * *Free E-Mail Tool Maximizes Sales With new free e-mails, travel sellers can now select and create customized, free e-mails on all product destinations from Europe and South America to Bermuda and Alaska to Australia/New Zealand.* *“I have been thrilled with the Build-Your-Own E-mail tool on the website,” said Amy Ochoa, marketing manager with Morris Murdock Travel in Salt Lake City, Utah. “We are working hard to encourage our agents to engage in more personal marketing, especially by using tools like these.” * *To create the e-mail, travel sellers choose a destination topic for the e-mail, select a currency in either United States or Canadian dollars, and choose up to five sailing dates, promotional copy and the photo image header of their choice. After proofing the final e-mail, the travel seller will receive a pop-up window with the full HTML code to be inserted into the software used by the agency to blast e-mails.* *Customizable Direct Mail Schedule for 2010 Set on TAHQ A 2010 direct mail schedule with sign-up deadlines can now be found at TAHQ, too. Upcoming direct mail pieces cover Europe, Mexico and Caribbean, Southern Hemisphere and family cruising vacations. * *“In visiting with Holland America Line executives at the American Express National Convention, I saw first hand a demo of TAHQ. When I returned to the office, I walked our marketing team through TAHQ, which is user friendly and has a simple ordering system. The marketing team was excited about the 36-cent direct mail pieces,” said Debbie Myers, senior vice president, marketing, The Travel Authority, in Jeffersonville, Indiana. “The next direct mail piece available is in January and The Travel Authority will take advantage of it.” * *The new customizable direct mail program offers travel sellers the opportunity to put a personal touch on four-color promotional mailing projects at a reasonable cost. An agency registers under the Customizable Direct Mail tab under the Marketing Tools pages and follows instructions to add company information, logo, phone number, contacts and personalized sales messages. Full-color itineraries, pictures, maps, pricing and product copy are provided by Holland America Line in a mock-up to be approved by the travel seller. Payment is made by credit card and the travel seller submits a mailing list — typically from 100 to 1000 — to an independent party for completion of the project. Project costs start at 36 cents per piece for production, handling and postage.* *TAHQ is Leading Resource Center for Travel Professionals Reorganized into eight easily manageable sections for travel sellers, TAHQ provides quick navigation between sales tools, training, marketing tools, news, recent promotions, Group Advantage Program (GAP) details and access to new and existing reservations through the booking interface POLAR Online. The latest training can also be found with Holland America Line’s Signature Webinar Series and award-winning HAL Academy training program that features several on-line accredited courses. Agents can log in to TAHQ with a POLAR Online login. * *For more information and to use Holland America Line’s travel seller marketing tools, visit **www.travelagentheadquarters.com* (http://www.travelagentheadquarters.com/)* or call 1-800-544-0443.* Holland America Line Adds New Affordable Sales Tools to Travel Agent Headquarters Online








Seattle, Wash., November 12, 2009 — To assist travel sellers in boosting their sales, Holland America Line has enhanced its popular personalized direct mail and e-mail sales tools that are available at Travel Agent Headquarters via www.hollandamerica.com. Now, travel sellers have access to more cruise destinations and creative offerings under Holland America Line’s direct mail marketing program and customized e-mails for all destinations containing the latest cruise fares.
“We have received great feedback from the travel seller community on how cost effective and user friendly our new marketing tools are,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “We also are very pleased about the impact these tools are having on converting bookings for travel sellers.”
At TAHQ, travel sellers have easy access to create dynamic new marketing tools as well as to a vast array of other helpful features ranging from news and training to the popular booking tool POLAR Online. Several new sales tools feature personalized direct mailings, Build-Your-Own E-mail and daily pricing leads to make marketing materials more current.
Free E-Mail Tool Maximizes Sales
With new free e-mails, travel sellers can now select and create customized, free e-mails on all product destinations from Europe and South America to Bermuda and Alaska to Australia/New Zealand.
“I have been thrilled with the Build-Your-Own E-mail tool on the website,” said Amy Ochoa, marketing manager with Morris Murdock Travel in Salt Lake City, Utah. “We are working hard to encourage our agents to engage in more personal marketing, especially by using tools like these.”
To create the e-mail, travel sellers choose a destination topic for the e-mail, select a currency in either United States or Canadian dollars, and choose up to five sailing dates, promotional copy and the photo image header of their choice. After proofing the final e-mail, the travel seller will receive a pop-up window with the full HTML code to be inserted into the software used by the agency to blast e-mails.
Customizable Direct Mail Schedule for 2010 Set on TAHQ
A 2010 direct mail schedule with sign-up deadlines can now be found at TAHQ, too. Upcoming direct mail pieces cover Europe, Mexico and Caribbean, Southern Hemisphere and family cruising vacations.
“In visiting with Holland America Line executives at the American Express National Convention, I saw first hand a demo of TAHQ. When I returned to the office, I walked our marketing team through TAHQ, which is user friendly and has a simple ordering system. The marketing team was excited about the 36-cent direct mail pieces,” said Debbie Myers, senior vice president, marketing, The Travel Authority, in Jeffersonville, Indiana. “The next direct mail piece available is in January and The Travel Authority will take advantage of it.”
The new customizable direct mail program offers travel sellers the opportunity to put a personal touch on four-color promotional mailing projects at a reasonable cost. An agency registers under the Customizable Direct Mail tab under the Marketing Tools pages and follows instructions to add company information, logo, phone number, contacts and personalized sales messages. Full-color itineraries, pictures, maps, pricing and product copy are provided by Holland America Line in a mock-up to be approved by the travel seller. Payment is made by credit card and the travel seller submits a mailing list — typically from 100 to 1000 — to an independent party for completion of the project. Project costs start at 36 cents per piece for production, handling and postage.
TAHQ is Leading Resource Center for Travel Professionals
Reorganized into eight easily manageable sections for travel sellers, TAHQ provides quick navigation between sales tools, training, marketing tools, news, recent promotions, Group Advantage Program (GAP) details and access to new and existing reservations through the booking interface POLAR Online. The latest training can also be found with Holland America Line’s Signature Webinar Series and award-winning HAL Academy training program that features several on-line accredited courses. Agents can log in to TAHQ with a POLAR Online login.
For more information and to use Holland America Line’s travel seller marketing tools, visit www.travelagentheadquarters.com or call 1-800-544-0443. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44245-hal-line-adds-new-affordable-sales-tools-ta-headquarters-online.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44244-chicago-pastry-chef-meg-galus-prinsendam-feb-23-a-new-post.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:05:17 GMT Chicago Pastry Chef Meg Galus to Sail on Holland America Line's ms Prinsendam February 23








Seattle, Nov.12, 2009 — Meg Galus, pastry chef of TRU Restaurant in Chicago, Ill., is scheduled to sail as part of the guest-enrichment program on the Feb. 23, 2010, segment of the 70-day Grand South America Explorer and Antarctica Voyage aboard Holland America Line’s ms Prinsendam. Galus will join the vessel on Feb. 23 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and sail until March 12 when Prinsendam overnights in Manaus, Brazil. During Galus’ time onboard, the ship will call at a variety of ports including Montevideo, Uruguay; Rio de Janeiro, Salvador da Bahia, Recife (Olinda), Fortaleza, Belém, Santarém and Boca da Valeria, Brazil.
While cruising, the epicurean expert will perform cooking demonstrations and hands-on classes for guests in the ship’s state-of-the-art show kitchen.
Meg Galus opened her first “restaurant” at the age of 9, in her family’s DeKalb, Ill., home. Over time, her ingredients may have changed, not to mention her kitchen and her clientele, but she still displays the same creativity and innovation at TRU as she did in the kitchen of her rural Illinois home.
In 2005, Galus earned her certificate in L’Art de la Patisserie from the French Pastry School in Chicago. She quickly built up a reputation as a strong pastry student. Later, she interned at Patisserie Vanille creating elaborate wedding and specialty cakes. After graduation, Galus‘ reputation earned her an externship at TRU under world-renowned pastry chef Gale Gand. She quickly worked her way up through TRU’s various pastry stations and in 2007, Galus was named pastry chef at the highly acclaimed, four–star restaurant.
Galus’ baking style blends her Midwestern upbringing with her formal French training to craft pastries that are regionally-specific, highly progressive, and unique. She describes her approach to cooking as one of “constant evolution” with fresh ideas, interesting flavor profiles, and novel techniques.
Holland America Line’s Culinary Arts Center
Holland America Line’s Culinary Arts Center is featured on each of the line’s 14 ships. A first-class “show kitchen at sea,” the Culinary Arts Centers presented by Food & Wine magazine resemble the elaborate show kitchens used by celebrity chefs on television cooking programs. The facilities offer demonstrations, tastings and hands-on cooking classes aboard every Holland America Line sailing.
Each facility features a theater-style venue, with two large plasma video screens and a large cooking display counter where guests can learn from and interact with the masters. In partnership with Food & Wine magazine, Holland America Line will schedule approximately 60 celebrated chefs and wine experts to sail in 2010. On cruises that do not have a celebrity chef on board, hands-on classes and demonstrations in the show kitchen are scheduled with Holland America Line’s own expert chefs.
Holland America Line also offers a youth Culinary Arts Center activity program to teach kids and teens how to cook. The program incorporates dishes from breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in complimentary 45-minute-long classes. Kids under eight years old learn to make theme cookies, fruit roll-ups, ice cream sandwiches, salad people art and scones. Kids eight and over make soft pretzels, granola bars, pita chips and hummus, and saltwater taffy. Teens also can attend adult culinary demonstrations.
For a full schedule of Holland America Line’s culinary guest program, visit http://www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-vacation-onboard/Enrichment.action and click on the Culinary Arts Center tab.
For cruise brochures or for more information, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
Editor’s Note: Photography available at http://www.cleanpix.com/cleanpix/portal/WhTS:eKT:Pxp ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44244-chicago-pastry-chef-meg-galus-prinsendam-feb-23-a.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44220-life-jackets-new-post.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 07:07:13 GMT I was on the Westerdam last month, ( I can't believe its been a month already). At the life boat drill, We were told to leave our life Jackets in our stateroom. We went to our Mustard station without our Life jacket. We ask why no Jackets. Apparently people were complaining about having to wear the life Jackets to the drill. And also there was no attendance taken at the Mustard drill. If you were doing a BtoB cruise you did not have to attend the drill in the second week. Things have change since my last Hal cruise. Is this happening on all Hal cruises . ]]> Holland America Cruise Line earl_m http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44220-life-jackets.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44179-hal-host-windows-7-launch-parties-sea-onboard-digital-workshops-powered-wind-new-post.html Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:44:33 GMT Holland America Line to Host Windows 7 Launch Parties at Sea Onboard Digital Workshops Powered By Windows


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Seattle, WA, October 29, 2009 — As Microsoft Corp. rolls out Windows 7 worldwide, Holland America Line joins in the fun with a month-long series of festive High Seas Launch Parties of its own across its entire fleet. Holland America Line’s parties - the only cruise industry events scheduled - celebrate Microsoft’s new operating system, Windows 7, which powers the line’s series of complimentary onboard Digital Workshops.
“Holland America Line is excited to be a part of this far-reaching global launch with on board parties in Europe, Asia, South America, Central America, North America and while crossing the Atlantic,” said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Our guests are already experiencing the benefits of Win7 which powers the Digital Workshops offered as part of our enrichment program.”
Classes and launch parties are led by the workshop “techsperts,” or instructors, who are Microsoft-trained and are officially approved Windows 7 launch hosts. All ships have Party Packs from Microsoft and will be giving away Windows 7 theme posters, luggage tags and special discounts and offers in addition to Holland America Line prizes.
Workshops are complimentary and limited to 15 participants per session so that instructors can provide personalized assistance. In addition, instructors maintain “techspert time,” where guests can get their individual questions answered and work on personal program-related projects. Each ship has a dedicated space for the classes, complete with computers, printers and other necessary equipment.
For more information on Digital Workshops powered by Windows or Holland America Line, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44179-hal-host-windows-7-launch-parties-sea-onboard-digital-workshops-powered-wind.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44178-nieuw-amsterdam-floats-out-italian-shipyard-new-post.html Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:41:21 GMT Nieuw Amsterdam Floats Out at Italian Shipyard


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Traditional shipbuilding ceremonies mark the milestone event


Seattle, WA, November 5, 2009 — Holland America Line’s ms Nieuw Amsterdam, currently under construction at Fincantieri shipyard, was floated out of its dry dock at Marghera, Italy, Friday, Oct. 30, 2009. The floating out — considered a significant milestone in the construction process — was prefaced by several traditional ceremonies.
Following the ancient practice of shipbuilders, two commemorative coins were sealed in a compartment in the traditional Coin-Under-the-Mast ceremony, believed to bring good fortune to a vessel.
“It is always a meaningful moment to bring a new ship along to this point in the building process,” said Stein Kruse, president and CEO of Holland America Line. “With the rich legacy of the name Nieuw Amsterdam, and this being the fourth ship in our 136-year history to carry this name, it is all the more significant for our company.”
The special coins used in the ceremony were minted to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's discovery of the river in New York that bears his name. In 1609, Hudson, an English explorer employed by the Dutch East India Company, sailed his ship Half Moon up that river. Hudson’s explorations eventually led to the first permanent Dutch settlement in North America — a tiny village on the southern tip of Manhattan Island, which was named Nieuw Amsterdam.
In recognition of that longstanding connection, several rooms on Nieuw Amsterdam will have New York City themes. The main restaurant is the Manhattan Dining Room, the atrium art is inspired by the city’s skyscrapers and the youth area will feature an authentic 1981 New York Checker cab.
After the blessing of the ship and the ceremonies, floodgates on the dry dock opened. As the dock began to fill, a bucket was lowered into the water and some of the first water to touch the ship's hull was captured and preserved in a crystal bottle that is presented to the captain during the ship’s official dedication.
Nieuw Amsterdam was towed to the fitting-out dock where she will be finished and delivered in early July 2010. Second in the Signature Class and sister ship to the ms Eurodam, she will carry 2,106 guests and 929 crew.
For more information visit the ms Nieuw Amsterdam microsite located on www.hollandamerica.com in the Quick Links area of the homepage, consult a travel agent, or call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425).
Editor’s note: Photos available here: http://www.cleanpix.com/cleanpix/portal/WYtE:DPX:nrx ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44178-nieuw-amsterdam-floats-out-italian-shipyard.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44177-hals-2011-grand-voyages-set-explore-seven-continents-65-countries-new-post.html Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:38:49 GMT Holland America Line's 2011 Grand Voyages Set to Explore Seven Continents, 65 Countries


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Seattle, (Nov. 04, 2009) — Holland America Line’s ms Amsterdam and the line’s Elegant Explorer, ms Prinsendam, will each sail two spectacular Grand Voyages in 2011. When combined, the four extensive itineraries feature a total of 308 cruising days, 121 ports of call and 65 countries.
Built for world cruising, Amsterdam will sail a 110-day Grand World Voyage in January and a 70-day Grand Asia & Australia Voyage in the fall. Simultaneously, ms Prinsendam will sail a 66-day Grand South America & Antarctica Voyage followed by a 62-day Grand Africa & Mediterranean Voyage.
“A Grand Voyage with Holland America Line is more than a vacation, it’s an experience of a lifetime,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, for Holland America Line. “These voyages offer guests a unique blend of inspired itineraries, lasting friendships and the pleasures of life at sea while exploring the world.”
Grand World Voyage
Departing Jan. 5 and sailing roundtrip Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Amsterdam rings in 2011 with its sixth Grand World Voyage. The 110-day journey is a port collector’s dream that includes 10 overnight calls, visits to an impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and three maiden ports of call — Alofi, Niue; Oban, Stewart Island, New Zealand; and Koror, Palau. Several exciting segments ranging from 16 to 48 days also are available.
Sailing westbound, Amsterdam will call on Puerto Limón, Costa Rica, before continuing on its way to a daylight transit of the Panama Canal, one of the most remarkable man-made wonders in the world. Also in store for guests are unforgettable calls at Callao, Peru — the gateway to Machu Picchu — and Easter Island, Chile, known for its famous giant stone statues. As Amsterdam continues its voyage, the ship will journey throughout Australia and Asia, transit the Suez Canal and cruise the Mediterranean before crossing the Atlantic and heading back to the States.
Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage
Also departing Jan. 5 on a Grand Voyage is Holland America Line’s most intimate ship, ms Prinsendam, which is designed to explore the most remote corners of the world in elegance and style. Prinsendam returns to South America, Antarctica and the Amazon on a 66-day Grand South America & Antarctica Voyage that sails roundtrip Fort Lauderdale. The itinerary emphasizes in-depth exploration by offering eight overnight calls, including an overnight at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and a maiden call at Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. Other memorable moments include eight full days of cruising the Amazon River, navigating around Cape Horn and through the Straits of Magellan, a daylight passage through the Panama Canal and scenic cruising in Antarctica. An option for those with less time is a 33-day segment to or from Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Grand Africa and Mediterranean Voyage
Following its Grand Voyage down south, Prinsendam returns to Ft. Lauderdale March 12 and embarks on a 62-day Grand Africa & Mediterranean Voyage. The roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale sailing takes guests on a journey to West Africa, the Mediterranean and the Holy Lands. Guests will enjoy a call at Haifa (Tel Aviv), Israel, where they may travel to Nazareth and visit the land of miracles: Galilee, the Jordan River, the Mount of the Beatitudes and Tabgha. This exceptional itinerary will especially appeal to guests who have traveled or cruised this region before, as the ship is set to call at many unique ports including Banjul, Gambia; Dakar, Senegal, and Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands. Four maiden ports of call are scheduled for the Grand Africa and Mediterranean Voyage as well: Havre de Robert, Martinique; Lipari, Italy; Syracusa, Sicily, Italy and Motril, Spain.
Grand Asia and Australia Voyage
Amsterdam will wrap up the year with a 70-day Grand Asia and Australia Voyage sailing from Seattle, Wash., to Los Angeles, Calif., departing Sept. 26. Following calls throughout Asia to Indonesia, the itinerary will continue to Western Australia and the South Pacific. This voyage offers extensive time in port to allow guests to take in the wide-ranging history and culture of the region and includes overnights at Beijing and Hong Kong, China, and Sydney, Australia. Guests on board also can enjoy some tropical sunshine with calls at the exotic islands of New Caledonia, Samoa, Fiji and Hawaii.
2011 Grand Voyages open for reservations
Reservations are now available for all four Holland America Line 2011 Grand Voyages, and early-booking bonus amenities for full-cruise guests may include prepaid hotel service charges, a shipboard credit, luggage delivery service and an exclusive shore event when booking select stateroom categories; amenities vary by cruise and category booked.
The four Grand Voyages are available to book for the full cruise or in segments as short as 16 days. Cruise fares are per person, double occupancy, and rates start at $16,999 for Amsterdam’s 110-day Grand World Voyage departing Jan. 5, 2011; $10,999 for Prinsendam’s 66-day Grand South America and Antarctica Voyage departing Jan. 5, 2011; $9,599 for Prinsendam’s 62-day Grand Africa and Mediterranean Voyage departing March 26, 2011; and $9,499 for Amsterdam’s 70-day Grand Asia and Australia Voyage departing Sept. 26, 2011.
Complete details regarding Holland America’s 2011 Grand Voyages are included in the line’s recently released brochure, “Exotic Voyages 2010-2011.” Along with important itinerary information for both 2010 and 2011, “Exotic Voyages 2010-2011” includes detailed maps, fare information, sample shore excursions, pre-and-post hotel and vacation packages, stateroom floor plans, an “at-a-glance” 2010 -2011 sailing schedule and ship deck plans. The brochure is also available on the Holland America Line website.
For more information on Holland America Line’s Grand Voyages—consult a professional travel agent, call 1-800-522-3399 or visit www.hollandamerica.com. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44177-hals-2011-grand-voyages-set-explore-seven-continents-65-countries.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44176-ms-rotterdams-2010-alaskan-explorer-cruises-highlight-hubbard-glacier-new-post.html Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:36:07 GMT ms Rotterdam's 2010 Alaskan Explorer Cruises Highlight Hubbard Glacier


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Ship sails roundtrip from Seattle and features the latest Signature of Excellence enhancements


Seattle, WA, October 27, 2009 – For the first time, Holland America Line’s flagship ms Rotterdam will sail from Seattle to Alaska in 2010, featuring convenient, seven-day, roundtrip cruises. The Rotterdam will offer a total of 18 Alaskan Explorer sailings departing Saturdays from May 15 through September 11.
The Alaskan Explorer itinerary highlights the scenic Inside Passage and immense Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay, North America's largest tidewater glacier. Hubbard Glacier is one of only eight glaciers in Alaska that is currently advancing instead of retreating. First mapped in 1895, the Hubbard’s huge open face is more than five miles wide and actively calves icebergs as large as 10-story buildings.
“Next May the Rotterdam will have Holland America’s latest Signature of Excellence enhancements, including a new category of lanai staterooms,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales, and guest programs. “These and the ship’s verandah suites increase guests’ opportunities for viewing Hubbard Glacier and Inside Passage as they cruise.”
Under Holland America’s $525-million Signature of Excellence program, the Rotterdam gains 39 new lanai staterooms, created by replacing existing stateroom windows (on Lower Promenade Deck 6) with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade. The ship also adds 23 new spa staterooms, featuring a variety of enhanced spa amenities, on its Verandah Deck. All staterooms and bathrooms will receive complete new décor and furnishings.
Public areas will add The Retreat, a resort pool feature; the Showroom at Sea, a glamorous nightclub; and Mix, a new concept with three separate bars: Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Canaletto, Holland America Line’s popular and complimentary casual Italian restaurant, will also be added to the ship.
The Rotterdam’s Alaskan Explorer cruises call at the historic ports of Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan, plus Victoria, BC, and feature scenic cruising of the Inside Passage and Vancouver Island. In Alaska’s capital of Juneau, guests can visit the Alaska State Museum or opt for an active adventure such as kayaking, rafting, whale-watching or flight-seeing over the Mendenhall Glacier.
In Sitka guests can learn about Alaska’s Russian heritage at onion-domed St. Michael’s Cathedral, visit the renowned Raptor Center, or see otters, whales and seabird rookeries up close by day boat or kayak. In Ketchikan they can enjoy its colorful Creek Street, Totem Bight State Park and Saxman Native Village or opt for a floatplane flightseeing trip to Misty Fjords National Monument. Cruise-only fares start at US $649, per person, double occupancy, for a seven-day Alaskan Explorer cruise on the Rotterdam.
The Leader in Alaska Cruises and CruiseTours
Holland America Line has been Alaska’s leading tour operator for more than 60 years. The line has eight premium ships, offering 148 Alaska cruises and more than 30 different CruiseTour programs in 2010.
For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44176-ms-rotterdams-2010-alaskan-explorer-cruises-highlight-hubbard-glacier.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44175-hals-volendam-returns-asia-down-under-2011-a-new-post.html Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:32:14 GMT *Seattle, Oct. 12, 2009 — Holland America Line’s ms Volendam is set to cruise to Australia and New Zealand in early 2011 with 14- and 18-day voyages to the lands of kangaroos, kiwis, the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and exotic Asian ports. The ship also will sail a 14-day exploration of the South Pacific to island jewels known for their powdery beaches and turquoise waters. * *In the spring, Volendam will uncover the mysteries of the Far East with 17- and 18-day voyages throughout the Orient, and then take a trans-Pacific journey that will cross the International Date Line on the way back to North America.* *“Exotic cruises to destinations such as Australia and the Far East remain high on the wish-list of many travelers, and we’ve developed our itineraries to showcase the best of each region,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, for Holland America Line. “We pride ourselves in offering comprehensive experiences around the world, and these itineraries are sure to impress any cruise enthusiast.”* *14-Day New Zealand Discovery Both the North and South islands of New Zealand with their beautiful natural landscapes will be explored on the 14-day round-trip Sydney, Australia, sailings departing Jan. 2 and 30, 2011. The ship will make a total of eight calls at ports in New Zealand, including Wellington, Napier, Christchurch, Tauranga and a full day at Auckland.* *The itinerary also features extensive scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — as well as Milford Sound. Guests can take in the breathtaking views of the region’s extreme scenery, ranging from glaciers to mountain ranges and sandy beaches to volcanic plateaus.* *14-Day Pacific Treasures Volendam departs Jan. 16 on a 14-day round-trip Sydney cruise to the islands of the South Pacific and through some of the most pristine waters in the world. Three ports of call in New Caledonia allow guests to dive and snorkel along the region’s coral reef and in the largest lagoon in the world. The ship also calls at the island of Vanuatu with its potpourri of cultures and magnificent natural harbor, as well as two calls at the island of Fiji, known for its sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear seas.* *14-Day Australia and New Zealand Departing Feb. 13 from Sydney and Feb. 27 from Auckland, these spectacular cruises between Auckland and Sydney were created for travelers wishing to discover the diverse scenery and rich culture Down Under. * *This itinerary also features extensive scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park, as well as Milford, Dusky and Queen Charlotte sounds. Holland America Line is one of the few premium cruise lines calling at Picton, the gateway to the South Island and the hub of Marlborough Sound’s thriving wine country, a certain highlight for wine connoisseurs. Guests can experience the Maori culture when the ship calls at Tauranga and experience the novelty of less-visited ports such as Burnie, Australia. For those looking for a more in-depth experience, pre- or post-cruise land tours take guests to the Great Barrier Reef or Alice Springs. * *18-Day Great Barrier Reef Explorer Volendam’s 18-day itinerary departing March 13 from Sydney to Singapore enables guests to enjoy four days of cruising the Great Barrier Reef, including two days of daylight cruising through the world’s largest coral reef system. Scenic highlights include an overnight anchorage in the reef near Sherrard Island and calls within the Whitsunday Island group. Several interesting ports also will be visited in Indonesia, including Komodo Island, part of the Komodo National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — as well the beautiful islands of Bali and Java. An overnight call at Singapore at the end of the cruise enables guests to explore the bustling city and return to the comfort of the ship before disembarking the next morning.* *18-Day Asia Explorer Sailing from Singapore to Kobe (Osaka), Japan, Volendam is set to explore all corners of the Orient including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China and Japan on its April 14 departure. The 18-day itinerary is filled with plenty of time to explore the palaces and tombs that dot the ancient lands, take in the tranquility of the temples and gardens, and sample the unique flavors of Asian cuisine. Three overnight stays ensure that guests are able to explore Bangkok with it’s abundance of palaces and Buddhist wats; the cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong with its tea shops and street markets, and Shanghai with its soaring skyscrapers and unforgettable Yuyuan Gardens. * *17-Day Japan and Alaska In the spring, Volendam repositions back to the waters of Alaska with a 17-day trans-Pacific journey from Kobe to Vancouver, British Columbia. Departing May 2, the ship visits the ports of Yokohama, Hakodate and Kushiro, Japan, before crossing the International Date Line over to Alaska and kicking off the season with calls at Kodiak and Sitka, and scenic cruising of the Inside Passage.* *Cruise fares are per person, double occupancy, and start at $1,599 for the New Zealand Discovery voyage departing Jan. 2 and $1,699 for the Jan. 30 departure; $1,599 for the Pacific Treasures cruise departing Jan.16; $1,699 for the Australia and New Zealand voyage departing Feb 13 and $1,599 for the Feb. 27 departure; $2,099 for the Great Barrier Reef Explorer cruise departing March 13; $2,099 for the Asia Explorer voyage departing April 11, and $1,599 for the Japan and Alaska trans-Pacific cruise departing May 2. * *For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s Australia, New Zealand, Asia and South Pacific voyages, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-800-522-3399 or visit **www.hollandamerica.com* (http://www.hollandamerica.com/)*.* Seattle, Oct. 12, 2009 — Holland America Line’s ms Volendam is set to cruise to Australia and New Zealand in early 2011 with 14- and 18-day voyages to the lands of kangaroos, kiwis, the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and exotic Asian ports. The ship also will sail a 14-day exploration of the South Pacific to island jewels known for their powdery beaches and turquoise waters.
In the spring, Volendam will uncover the mysteries of the Far East with 17- and 18-day voyages throughout the Orient, and then take a trans-Pacific journey that will cross the International Date Line on the way back to North America.
“Exotic cruises to destinations such as Australia and the Far East remain high on the wish-list of many travelers, and we’ve developed our itineraries to showcase the best of each region,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, for Holland America Line. “We pride ourselves in offering comprehensive experiences around the world, and these itineraries are sure to impress any cruise enthusiast.”
14-Day New Zealand Discovery
Both the North and South islands of New Zealand with their beautiful natural landscapes will be explored on the 14-day round-trip Sydney, Australia, sailings departing Jan. 2 and 30, 2011. The ship will make a total of eight calls at ports in New Zealand, including Wellington, Napier, Christchurch, Tauranga and a full day at Auckland.
The itinerary also features extensive scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — as well as Milford Sound. Guests can take in the breathtaking views of the region’s extreme scenery, ranging from glaciers to mountain ranges and sandy beaches to volcanic plateaus.
14-Day Pacific Treasures
Volendam departs Jan. 16 on a 14-day round-trip Sydney cruise to the islands of the South Pacific and through some of the most pristine waters in the world. Three ports of call in New Caledonia allow guests to dive and snorkel along the region’s coral reef and in the largest lagoon in the world. The ship also calls at the island of Vanuatu with its potpourri of cultures and magnificent natural harbor, as well as two calls at the island of Fiji, known for its sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear seas.
14-Day Australia and New Zealand
Departing Feb. 13 from Sydney and Feb. 27 from Auckland, these spectacular cruises between Auckland and Sydney were created for travelers wishing to discover the diverse scenery and rich culture Down Under.
This itinerary also features extensive scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park, as well as Milford, Dusky and Queen Charlotte sounds. Holland America Line is one of the few premium cruise lines calling at Picton, the gateway to the South Island and the hub of Marlborough Sound’s thriving wine country, a certain highlight for wine connoisseurs. Guests can experience the Maori culture when the ship calls at Tauranga and experience the novelty of less-visited ports such as Burnie, Australia. For those looking for a more in-depth experience, pre- or post-cruise land tours take guests to the Great Barrier Reef or Alice Springs.
18-Day Great Barrier Reef Explorer
Volendam’s 18-day itinerary departing March 13 from Sydney to Singapore enables guests to enjoy four days of cruising the Great Barrier Reef, including two days of daylight cruising through the world’s largest coral reef system. Scenic highlights include an overnight anchorage in the reef near Sherrard Island and calls within the Whitsunday Island group. Several interesting ports also will be visited in Indonesia, including Komodo Island, part of the Komodo National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — as well the beautiful islands of Bali and Java. An overnight call at Singapore at the end of the cruise enables guests to explore the bustling city and return to the comfort of the ship before disembarking the next morning.
18-Day Asia Explorer
Sailing from Singapore to Kobe (Osaka), Japan, Volendam is set to explore all corners of the Orient including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China and Japan on its April 14 departure. The 18-day itinerary is filled with plenty of time to explore the palaces and tombs that dot the ancient lands, take in the tranquility of the temples and gardens, and sample the unique flavors of Asian cuisine. Three overnight stays ensure that guests are able to explore Bangkok with it’s abundance of palaces and Buddhist wats; the cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong with its tea shops and street markets, and Shanghai with its soaring skyscrapers and unforgettable Yuyuan Gardens.
17-Day Japan and Alaska
In the spring, Volendam repositions back to the waters of Alaska with a 17-day trans-Pacific journey from Kobe to Vancouver, British Columbia. Departing May 2, the ship visits the ports of Yokohama, Hakodate and Kushiro, Japan, before crossing the International Date Line over to Alaska and kicking off the season with calls at Kodiak and Sitka, and scenic cruising of the Inside Passage.
Cruise fares are per person, double occupancy, and start at $1,599 for the New Zealand Discovery voyage departing Jan. 2 and $1,699 for the Jan. 30 departure; $1,599 for the Pacific Treasures cruise departing Jan.16; $1,699 for the Australia and New Zealand voyage departing Feb 13 and $1,599 for the Feb. 27 departure; $2,099 for the Great Barrier Reef Explorer cruise departing March 13; $2,099 for the Asia Explorer voyage departing April 11, and $1,599 for the Japan and Alaska trans-Pacific cruise departing May 2.
For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s Australia, New Zealand, Asia and South Pacific voyages, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-800-522-3399 or visit www.hollandamerica.com. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line Krazy Kruizers http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44175-hals-volendam-returns-asia-down-under-2011-a.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44004-revamp-oosterdam-new-post.html Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:06:45 GMT Does anyone know if Hal's Ms "O" will be getting a revamp, I read somewhere that it would be in 2010? Going on a Pacific NW cruise in 2010 and wondering if the ship will be the same.
]]> Holland America Cruise Line starfish girl http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/44004-revamp-oosterdam.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/43977-nieuw-amsterdam-float-out-new-post.html Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:12:06 GMT

Nieuw Amsterdam Floats Out at Italian Shipyard

Traditional shipbuilding ceremonies mark the milestone event

Seattle, WA, November 5, 2009 —
Holland America Line’s ms Nieuw Amsterdam, currently under construction at Fincantieri shipyard, was floated out of its dry dock at Marghera, Italy, Friday, Oct. 30, 2009. The floating out — considered a significant milestone in the construction process — was prefaced by several traditional ceremonies.

Following the ancient practice of shipbuilders, two commemorative coins were sealed in a compartment in the traditional Coin-Under-the-Mast ceremony, believed to bring good fortune to a vessel.

“It is always a meaningful moment to bring a new ship along to this point in the building process,” said Stein Kruse, president and CEO of Holland America Line. “With the rich legacy of the name Nieuw Amsterdam, and this being the fourth ship in our 136-year history to carry this name, it is all the more significant for our company.”

The special coins used in the ceremony were minted to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's discovery of the river in New York that bears his name. In 1609, Hudson, an English explorer employed by the Dutch East India Company, sailed his ship Half Moon up that river. Hudson’s explorations eventually led to the first permanent Dutch settlement in North America — a tiny village on the southern tip of Manhattan Island, which was named Nieuw Amsterdam.

In recognition of that longstanding connection, several rooms on Nieuw Amsterdam will have New York City themes. The main restaurant is the Manhattan Dining Room, the atrium art is inspired by the city’s skyscrapers and the youth area will feature an authentic 1981 New York Checker cab.

After the blessing of the ship and the ceremonies, floodgates on the dry dock opened. As the dock began to fill, a bucket was lowered into the water and some of the first water to touch the ship's hull was captured and preserved in a crystal bottle that is presented to the captain during the ship’s official dedication.

Nieuw Amsterdam was towed to the fitting-out dock where she will be finished and delivered in early July 2010. Second in the Signature Class and sister ship to the ms Eurodam, she will carry 2,106 guests and 929 crew.

. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line canarymoon http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/43977-nieuw-amsterdam-float-out.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/43805-changes-holland-america-new-post.html Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:18:17 GMT This is only my 2nd cruise on HAL, but I have seen some changes and thought this would be a good topic for CLF.

When I first started cruising, HAL had the reputation for being for being for much older people. They also had specific dinners each cruise, and they gave loyalty awards based on days at sea. There are other things I am sure, but I am starting with these.

Now Holland America is reaching out to younger passengers by building larger and larger ships. This is at a time that my husband and I have discovered that we really enjoy the smaller ships :( All ships now have a childrens' area and program, Club HAL.

Our current cruise does not have a Dutch night dinner, no Black and White Formal night and no Indonesian dinner. Some of the Dutch and Indonesian dishes have been on the menu, but they are not spotlighted.

And the new Mariner program has already been discussed elsewhere. Pins are given at different points, and the type of cabin you have can affect your status as well as the number of days you have cruised with HAL. However, the extra status for larger cabins is NOT retroactive.

Things that have NOT changed:
-The Indonesian Crew Show and Filipino Crew Show are still done.
- Afternoon tea is still available
- There is still a wine/sommelier dinner once per cruise.

More changes coming!
The older ships are having more cabins added where the current aft pools are located, and the aft pools are being moved up tot he Lido deck.
The casino slot machines will change to "pay" out with vouchers instead of coins. ]]> Holland America Cruise Line MCcruiser http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/43805-changes-holland-america.html http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/43778-new-hal-new-post.html Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:19:49 GMT Hi guys, We are Celebrity cruisers new to Holland America. Although booked on the Equinox TA next month, we had to cancel and have taken advantage of some really attractive pricing on the Oosterdam out of San Diego in January. Questions: Are formal nights observed on HAL, or should Ed leave his tux at home? For the first time we booked a guarantee, an SC cabin which is a deluxe verandah suite. I noticed that there were no available SC cabins on the website. So what are the chances of an upgrade to an SB or SA? The cruise, leaving on 1/16/10 does not appear to be heavily booked outside of this category. Though we have cruised in suites on Celebrity, this will be our first on HAL. Any special perks we should know about? Thanks, Susan Hi guys,

We are Celebrity cruisers new to Holland America. Although booked on the Equinox TA next month, we had to cancel and have taken advantage of some really attractive pricing on the Oosterdam out of San Diego in January.

Questions: Are formal nights observed on HAL, or should Ed leave his tux at home?

For the first time we booked a guarantee, an SC cabin which is a deluxe verandah suite. I noticed that there were no available SC cabins on the website. So what are the chances of an upgrade to an SB or SA? The cruise, leaving on 1/16/10 does not appear to be heavily booked outside of this category.

Though we have cruised in suites on Celebrity, this will be our first on HAL. Any special perks we should know about?

Thanks,
Susan ]]> Holland America Cruise Line nu2sea http://www.cruiselinefans.com/holland-america-cruise-line/43778-new-hal.html