Holland America Line is the Best

Written By Matt Wolfe

Why Holland America Line is the Best for Alaska Cruises

Alaska is one of the most breathtaking cruise destinations in the world, and choosing the right cruise line makes all the difference. Holland America Line (HAL) stands out as the premier choice for exploring the Last Frontier, thanks to its deep-rooted experience, exclusive access, and immersive onboard and shore experiences. Here’s why HAL is the best for Alaska cruises.

1. Experience & Legacy: The Alaska Experts

  • Over 75 Years in Alaska – HAL has been cruising to Alaska longer than any other cruise line, ensuring deep local connections and unparalleled expertise.

  • Preferred by Travel Experts – Regularly ranked as the best Alaska cruise line by top travel authorities like Travel + Leisure and AFAR.

  • Insider Access – Strong partnerships with Alaska Native communities, the National Park Service, and expert naturalists provide guests with unique and enriching experiences.

2. Exclusive Glacier Bay Access

  • Limited Permits – Glacier Bay National Park restricts the number of ships allowed per day, and HAL is one of the few cruise lines with consistent access.

  • National Park Rangers Onboard – Passengers enjoy expert-led live commentary on glaciers, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

  • Longer Time in the Park – HAL ships spend more time in Glacier Bay compared to competitors, allowing for extended sightseeing and photography opportunities.

3. Smaller, Premium Ships = Better Views & Access

  • Mid-Sized Ships – Unlike mega-ships, HAL’s vessels are designed for optimal Alaska cruising with:

    • Easier navigation into scenic areas, ensuring better access to fjords and narrow passageways.

    • A more relaxed, less crowded onboard experience.

  • Best Balcony & Open Deck Space – More outdoor viewing areas and spacious balconies provide unobstructed glacier and wildlife vistas.

  • Comfortable Elegance – HAL offers a refined yet relaxed onboard atmosphere—neither a party cruise nor overly formal.

4. Holland America's Exclusive Land + Sea Journeys

HAL extends the Alaska experience beyond the coastline with its comprehensive land + sea programs:

  • Denali & Yukon Explorer Packages – HAL is the only cruise line offering both Denali National Park and the Yukon Territory in one journey.

  • Luxury Rail Travel – Guests enjoy panoramic views aboard the McKinley Explorer, featuring the largest glass-domed windows in the industry.

  • Exclusive Denali Accommodations – HAL owns McKinley Chalet Resort, located closer to Denali than most competitors.

  • Yukon Adventure – HAL is the only cruise line to venture into Canada’s Yukon Territory, following the historic Gold Rush route to Dawson City.

5. Best Alaska Wildlife & Adventure Programming

"Alaska Up Close" Onboard Program:

  • Talks from expert naturalists and park rangers about glaciers, ecosystems, and wildlife.

  • Live cultural performances featuring Native Alaskan artists, drummers, and storytellers.

Onboard Seafood & Alaska-Themed Dining:

  • Fresh Alaska seafood (salmon, crab, halibut) sourced directly from local fisheries.

  • Specially curated menus featuring regional dishes like cedar-plank salmon.

  • Cooking demonstrations showcasing authentic Alaskan cuisine.

6. Unmatched Shore Excursions

HAL offers an impressive variety of excursions tailored to all types of travelers:

  • Wildlife Viewing – Exclusive whale-watching in Juneau, guided bear-spotting in Ketchikan.

  • Adventure Activities – Kayaking in remote fjords, glacier hikes, helicopter tours to dog-sledding camps.

  • Cultural Experiences – Private totem-carving workshops with Native Alaskan artists, historic gold-panning excursions.

7. Superior Itinerary Options

  • Roundtrip or One-Way? HAL provides both options:

    • Roundtrip from Seattle/Vancouver for convenient U.S.-based travel.

    • One-way Northbound/Southbound to/from Anchorage for deeper exploration into Alaska.

  • More Time in Port – HAL consistently offers longer port stays, allowing for richer excursions and deeper cultural immersion.

The Best Choice for Your Alaska Adventure

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Holland America Line offers an unmatched Alaska cruise experience. With exclusive access to Glacier Bay, expertly curated land + sea journeys, and world-class onboard programming, HAL ensures an unforgettable journey through America’s Last Frontier.

Book your Alaska cruise with Holland America Line today and embark on an adventure like no other! 🚢❄️

Matt Wolfe
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Alaska Cruise Seasons