Travel advisors and cruise fans got some big news on Thursday when it was announced that the bill that would save the Alaskan cruise season was unanimously approved in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Shortly after news broke of the bill’s passing, cruise lines wasted no time announcing a slate of Alaska sailings, all of which will bypass Canada, that kick off in July.
Holland America was one of the first when it announced on Thursday afternoon that it will restart cruising to Alaska in July roundtrip from Seattle aboard Nieuw Amsterdam.
The ship will sail ten, seven-day Alaskan Explorer itineraries that will operate from July 24 through Oct. 2. The sailings include calls at Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, and Ketchikan. Bookings are now open.
All guests will have to have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least two weeks prior to the beginning of the cruise in order to sail. The line said that the onboard health program is still being finalized and will be updated on its website.
While the sailings are contingent on final approval from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Holland America said that it expects to be able to sail and has already begun preparations for returning to cruising.
“Holland America Line has been cruising to Alaska for nearly 75 years, and we feel deeply committed to trying to help our friends in ‘The Great Land’ get back on their feet in any way we can this summer,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. “Given the recent positive collaboration from the CDC, as well as optimism about a resolution with the PVSA, we feel like it’s now or never to give ourselves a chance to bring cruising back to Alaska this year.
“We would like to offer our sincerest appreciation to Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, Congressman Don Young and Governor Mike Dunleavy for their tireless efforts on behalf of the many small businesses that are the backbone of Alaska tourism.”
Onboard, Holland America said that dining will be available in all restaurants and specialty venues and room service will be open. All of the ship’s onboard entertainment venues will also be open– Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club and Billboard Onboard—along with the Port-to-Table culinary demonstrations.
Fares for the sailing including Holland America’s new “Have It All” promotion, a new fare that includes shore excursions, drinks, specialty dining, and WiFi all rolled into one.
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