On April 9, 2022, after a more than a two-year absence, Holland America Line (HAL) became the first major cruise line to return to Canada with Koningsdam’s maiden call in Victoria, British Columbia.
Koningsdam’s arrival was celebrated with a traditional plaque exchange during events in Victoria and Vancouver, attended by Canadian tourism and port officials, local press and the ship’s officers.
Most cruise guests were just delighted to be onboard again, but the placement of one of HAL’s Pinnacle-class ships in British Columbia for the 2022 Alaska season (and, as of Aug. 3, Nieuw Statendam on Canada/New England routes) was a further cause for celebration. Koningsdam will homeport in Vancouver for the season, sailing cruises of seven days, along with two 14-day voyages in September.
At 2,650 to 2,668 passengers, HAL’s Pinnacle-class ships are the largest and newest in the fleet, with “all the bells and whistles of Holland America,” according to Erik Elvejord, director of public relations for HAL.
Special Features of Pinnacle-Class Ships
Not only do the ships have cruisers’ favorite signature venues, but many even have their own dedicated spaces. Specialty restaurant Rudi’s Sel de Mer, which is a one-night pop-up on smaller vessels, is a standalone venue, giving passengers multiple evenings to experience its delectable seafood. The Club Orange Dining Room, exclusive to guests in the Club Orange upgrade program, also occupies its own area. In terms of creature comforts, the newer ships offer more verandas for wildlife and glacier watching, plus HAL’s first family and single staterooms.
“The entertainment options are greater on these vessels,” added Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “There’s a lot to do onboard, yet you’re still on a smaller ship. It feels more personable.”
There’s a lot to do onboard, yet you’re still on a smaller ship. It feels more personable.
Alaska Up Close Programming
This year also marks HAL’s 75th year exploring Alaska, more than any other cruise line. HAL has the most Glacier Bay permits, as well as priority dock space closer to town.
“We have a deep, deep relationship in Alaska,” Antorcha said. “We wanted to bring one of our newest vessels to Alaska.”
Celebratory activities for HAL’s six Alaska-bound ships, dubbed “Alaska Up Close,” are immersive in nature.
Activities may include catching salmon onshore and having it prepared onboard, or live cooking demos showcasing local dishes. Speakers may be bush pilots or Iditarod race participants. While cruising Glacier Bay, a National Park Ranger and Huna native are on hand for conversations.
Shore excursions, too, focus on the local Alaska scene. Guests can indulge in a fresh crab feast, pan for gold or search for bears or whales, all the while listening to tall tales told as only Alaskans can.
COVID-19 Protocols
According to Antorcha, “cruising is one of the safest vacation alternatives.” HAL cruisers are already “in a largely protected group,” being both vaccinated and tested. HAL ships also have full medical teams, onboard testing facilities (free when required for flying home) and separated isolation areas.
Although Canada has eased COVID-19 protocols as of April 1, clients should be made aware that they must complete mandatory ArriveCAN paperwork.
“As people return to travel this summer, we know some will choose to stay a little closer to home,” Antorcha said. “Our Alaska land and sea packages and our Canada/New England sailings are great ways to resume exploring the world without traveling a great distance.”
The Details
Holland America Line
