Two heavyweights in the cruise industry Holland America and Princess offering routes through this stunning wilderness, I found myself wondering which line would deliver the ultimate Alaskan adventure. Both boast rich histories and exceptional service, but how do they truly stack up against one another?
I will dive deep into Holland America vs Princess, examining everything from onboard amenities to excursion options that capture the heart of Alaska’s breathtaking beauty. I explore what sets these two cruise lines apart and discover which experience might just be your perfect gateway to exploring The Last Frontier.
I’ve noticed that both cruise lines have been making their way to Alaska for quite a while now. Holland America is celebrating an impressive 75 years of voyages to the Last Frontier in 2024, while Princess Cruises will be honoring its 55th anniversary in 2025.
Princess Vs Holland America Overview
As I’ve explored the high seas, I’ve come to appreciate the unique offerings of Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, both of which are under the reputable Carnival Corporation umbrella. It feels less like a typical cruise and more like an enriching journey through culinary arts and history.
History And Background of Princess vs Holland America
Holland America Line, with its storied history dating back to 1873, has consistently epitomized the essence of luxury cruising. The charm of this line lies in its curated itineraries and intimate onboard experiences, which focus on immersive cultural engagements.
Ships like the Koningsdam, Holland America’s newest vessel launched in 2016, blend modern elegance with timeless pleasures offering everything from live music to exquisite dining options that highlight local cuisines.
In contrast, Princess Cruises revolutionized perceptions of cruise vacations starting in 1965 with the iconic TV show *Love Boat*. Their fleet’s scale stands out; boasting 17 ships that promise diverse adventures from tropical escapes aboard the Ruby and Grand Princess to breathtaking journeys through Alaskan landscapes on newer vessels like Discovery Princess.
As both lines expand their offerings into 2024 and beyond with Holland America embracing classic favorites alongside upscale touches there’s an exciting opportunity for travelers to choose between sophisticated luxury or vibrant family-friendly environments while exploring some of the world’s most alluring destinations.
Accommodation And Amenities
As I explored the accommodation options offered by Holland America Line (HAL) and Princess Cruises, I couldn’t help but appreciate their unique approaches to catering to diverse traveler needs. HAL’s Koningsdam stands out with its studio cabins designed specifically for solo travelers, allowing them to enjoy a cruise experience without the notorious single supplement fee.
This thoughtful feature ensures that those traveling alone can indulge in an upscale atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Princess Cruises embraces a more family-oriented vibe with their mini suites, ideal for parents traveling with young kids. The inclusion of bathtubs makes bathing little ones a breeze an invaluable perk for families at sea. For larger clans, booking a Sky Suite on newer Princess ships is essential, HAL’s Family Ocean-view Staterooms provide an appealing budget-friendly alternative.
While they may not offer grandiose space, having two bathrooms is a game-changer for families of five navigating their routines on board. Plus, with Princess’ Ocean Medallion technology keeping everyone connected effortlessly throughout the journey, it’s easy to see why both cruise lines are committed to enhancing satisfaction across all facets of cruising experiences.
Princess Cruises vs Holland America: Dining And Cuisine
Princess Cruises undeniably shines with its heavenly desserts and the revered Chocolate Journeys. Each bite feels like a mini celebration, making it hard not to indulge after every meal.
Yet, Holland America knows how to impress with its exceptional appetizers and main courses that are meticulously crafted both in quality and presentation. Their culinary offerings truly elevate the cruising experience but when dessert time rolls around, I find myself yearning for that sweet touch Princess does so well.
Now, let’s talk about those specialty restaurants by Master Chef Rudi Sodamin both cruise lines feature his creations, but they do bring different flavors to the table. While Holland America’s Rudi’s Sel De Mer has been around longer and boasts an upscale atmosphere, I appreciate the accessibility of The Catch by Rudi on Princess Cruises perfect for a night out without breaking the bank.
Entertainment And Activities
One of the highlights of my cruise was the array of activities and entertainment options available onboard, especially with Princess Cruises. Game shows erupted into lively battles among guests eager to showcase their talents, while Broadway-style performances transported us into another world.
It felt like every night was a gala where laughter and applause filled the air, creating a sense of camaraderie as we all shared those exhilarating moments together. On port days, I found myself enchanted by Puppies in the Piazza, where adorable sled dog husky puppies melted hearts definitely a must-see for animal lovers.
But what truly set this trip apart was Princess’s North to Alaska program. Hearing stories from personalities like Libby Riddles sparked an interest in sled dog racing that I never knew I had. The thrill of listening to firsthand accounts from a member of the Deadliest Catch made me feel closer to nature’s raw beauty and challenges.
On Holland America’s Koningsdam, my evenings were spent swaying at B.B. King’s Blues Club, it became more than just a venue, it turned into a nostalgic journey through epic music eras with fellow travelers becoming dance partners amid classic blues tunes echoing across the room.
Alaska Cruise Itineraries
When it comes to Alaska cruise routes, both cruise lines provide a range of options departing from Seattle, Vancouver and Whittier, only Princess Cruises includes departures from California.
Let me share some key features of the itinerary options for each line:
Route Options
Holland America has cruises that last 7 to 14 days. Popular options include round-trip cruises from Seattle or Vancouver and one-way cruises that start or end in Anchorage (Whittier). In May and September, they offer a special 14-day cruise that visits Kodiak Island, Valdez, and Wrangell. This cruise spends a day in Anchorage, allowing guests to explore the area. Only Holland America takes guests to see Kodiak bears on these trips.
The Westerdam offers a 28-day summer solstice cruise from Seattle, featuring 11 ports, multiple fjords, Glacier Bay National Park, and a journey inside the Arctic Circle during the summer solstice.
Princess Cruises also has itineraries lasting 7 to 14 days. If you choose a back-to-back 14-day itinerary, the stops are usually the same: Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. They mainly offer Alaska cruises up to 14 days, with two longer options in 2025. For a shorter experience, you can take a four or five-day cruise in April or May, but these do not include glacier viewing.
Alaska Cruise And Land Tours
Exploring Alaska’s interior is like stepping into a different world, far removed from the bustling coastal towns and cities. Having ventured beyond the typical cruise destinations, I was astounded by the untouched landscapes and serene beauty that greeted me. Fewer travelers embark on land tours, which often means one thing: a greater chance of encountering wildlife in their natural habitats.
Opting for a combined cruise and land tour package transformed my understanding of Alaska. Each leg of the journey unveiled new dimensions of its rugged culture and stunning vistas. While cruising along breathtaking fjords is undeniably mesmerizing, nothing compares to standing atop Denali as it towers majestically above patchwork valleys below.
Tour Packages
Holland America offers Alaska cruise and land tours lasting from 9 to 18 days. These packages include a 7-day inside passage cruise and a land tour to Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Anchorage, and some to the Yukon. Some 14- and all 18-day packages start and end in Vancouver. Most tours begin in Vancouver and end in Anchorage or Fairbanks, or the other way around.
Princess Cruises also has Alaska cruise and land tours that last from 10 to 17 days. Like Holland America, these packages include a 7-day inside passage cruise, with the rest of the time spent on land. None of their tours are roundtrip from Vancouver, so travelers from Vancouver need to consider one-way airfare.
Unlike Holland America’s longer trips that visit Dawson City and Whitehorse in the Yukon, Princess’s extended trips stay in Alaska. Their 17-day tours include stops in Talkeetna, Denali National Park, Kenai and Copper River.
Alaska Lodges
Holland America and Princess Cruises offer their own lodges in Alaska alongside cruise and land tour packages. Holland America’s McKinley Chalet Resort is near Denali National Park and has great views of the Alaska Range. The resort covers 68 acres and features an artist-in-residence, an amphitheater and the Karstens Restaurant.
The lodges lack Wi-Fi for other areas in Alaska, Holland America uses Westmark hotels, which we found to be outdated and lacking air conditioning. Princess Cruises’ Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge is just a mile from Denali National Park.
It offers many amenities, including a spa, restaurants, and outdoor activities, along with excellent Wi-Fi throughout the property. Princess has five lodges in total, located near Denali, Kenai, Copper River, Fairbanks and Mt. McKinley.
Compare Princess Ruby to Holland America Eurodam
Both the Princess Ruby and Holland America Eurodam offer unique cruising experiences. The Ruby has a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with a fun pool deck that feels like a festive island. In contrast, the Eurodam exudes refined elegance, featuring art-filled hallways and classic decor that attract those looking for a sophisticated trip.
Dining on each ship also differs greatly. The Princess Ruby boasts a wide range of dining options, from casual spots to upscale restaurants, often hosting themed nights that celebrate global cuisines. The Eurodam focuses on culinary artistry, with carefully crafted menus in smaller venues for intimate meals, complemented by fine wines from their extensive collection.
Comparison of Princess Alaska Ships
I recently traveled on two different Princess Alaska ships and noticed their unique personalities. The Grand Princess felt like a floating resort with its large deck and fancy dining options.
It invited relaxation, whether lounging in a hot tub with ocean views or enjoying gourmet meals made by top chefs. The Ruby Princess had a more intimate feel. Its layout encouraged connections, making it easy to chat with fellow travelers over trivia games or share stories at cozy bars.
While both ships offered stunning views and exceptional service, my experience onboard highlighted how each vessel’s environment can shape your trip. The Grand’s larger entertainment venues were perfect for enjoying Broadway-style shows alongside hundreds of other guests, while I found myself savoring more personalized performances on the Ruby akin to being part of an exclusive club.
Best Holland Cruise Lines Alaska
I want to highlight some of the best Holland America cruise choices for discovering Alaska.
- Best Overall: Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.
- Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International.
- Best for Couples: Celebrity Cruises.
- Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.
- Best Small-Ship Expedition Line: UnCruise Adventures.
Holland America Alaska Ships vs Royal Caribbean Ships
I will put together a selection of the seven best Holland America vessels that travel to Alaska:
- MS Koningsdam
- MS Westerdam
- MS Eurodam
- MS Nieuw Amsterdam
- MS Noordam
- MS Volendam
- MS Zaandam
As I dove into my collection of Royal Caribbean ships, I was immediately struck by how each vessel tells its own unique story through size and design. Larger ships like the Symphony of the Seas possess not only jaw-dropping amenities but also an intricate layout that captivates both seasoned cruisers and first-timers alike.
- Oasis of the Seas
- Ovation of the Seas
- Odyssey of the Seas
- Allure of the Seas
- Freedom of the Seas
- Anthem of the Seas
- Mariner of the Seas
- Quantum of the Seas
- Symphony of the Seas
Conclusion
Holland America vs Princess offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences when cruising Alaska. Holland America excels with its immersive cultural offerings and extensive itinerary options, while Princess shines with its modern amenities and family-friendly atmosphere. Personally, I appreciate how each line captures the breathtaking beauty of Alaska in their own distinct way.
FAQs
Are Princess and Holland America the Same Company?
No, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are not the same company, but they are part of the same parent organization. Both cruise lines operate under Carnival Corporation, which is one of the largest cruise companies in the world.
Which is the Biggest Princess Cruise Ship?
The biggest Princess cruise ship currently is not the Sun Princess; it’s actually the Discovery Princess. Launched in March 2022, Discovery Princess is part of the Royal Class and boasts a gross tonnage of around 145,000 tons, accommodating over 3,600 passengers at full capacity.
Is Holland America High End?
When I think about Holland America, I wouldn’t necessarily categorize it as a luxury cruise line, but it definitely offers a higher-end experience compared to some of the more budget-friendly options out there. The atmosphere on board is generally more refined, with elegant dining options and a focus on cultural enrichment through activities like cooking demonstrations and guest lectures.