Is Holland America a good cruise line (food, service, ships, comparable to royal Caribbean)?

Question

I've been an Carnival and Royal Caribbean and liked the later a little better. I thought the food was better and ship was nicer. I was thinking about trying Holland America and have not heard anything about them-good or bad. I'd like some opinions. Thanks

Answer 1

Holland America attracts an older crowd. It depends on what are you looking for on a cruise. Royal Caribbean is definitely the best, Carnival is good and cheaper, Norwegian not that great, and Holland America is good, but attracts older people.

Answer 2

royal caribbean is definately better but holland america isn't bad - then again what cruise is bad

Answer 3

Holland is consider to be the best for food and service. I have been on 4 cruise with them. There are people of all ages. Some areas draw an older crowd no matter what line your on. NCL is also a great line for food and service. Good Luck.

Answer 4

My travel agent said that holland america was good, but that it was mostly older people.  I am in the 30-35 range and I found that Princess was a little older too.  I didn't mind, but things were definitely more mellow, and nothing going on in the disco at all!  I looked at the Westerdaam, it looked nice and a little smaller too, which would be fun.

Answer 5

Holland America Line was awarded the five star diamond award for hospitality, food and service in 2005.  The food is very good depending on your taste.  The Buffet is more relaxed food, casual.  The main dining is more elegant and formal foods.  There are two restaurants that have the more elegant dining.

Follow this link to the interactive menu.  You can look up food, entertainment and destinations.

http://www.experience-hollandamerica.com...

Answer 6

I've been on HAL to Alaska and it was WONDERFUL!  The service was fantastic.  Your waiter and cabin steward will remember your name after the first day.  The evening shows were very good.  We also loved the food.  The passengers were slightly an older crowd, but we also found many families on board......this was in August when school is out for the summer.  You will enjoy being pampered on HAL.  They do a great job!

Answer 7

I used to work for Holland America. Traditionally the clientelle tend to be a bit older. So while a Carnival fun ship might have rock climbing and water slides, Holland America is more deck shuffleboard and fine dining and shows.

Other than that, the ports are the same and everything else is pretty much the same. If you're looking to get away and have a bundle to spend, take Holland America's World Cruise. You will go places you'd never normally get to in a million years.

Fair Winds and Following Seas!

Answer 8

I have not personally been on HAL, but those I have spoken with truly loved it. The best way to get specific opinions about the specific ship and itinerary you are interested in is to go to www.cruisecritic.com and check out what other travellers are saying. You will get a good feel for the strengths and weaknesses of any ship you are interested in, as well as the type of clientele that actually cruises the line.

Happy Sails!

Answer 9

It is not a matter which is best, they both appeal to different types of passengers.