Alaska's Glacial Majesty: My Luxurious Holland America Cruise Review (Worth Every Penny!)

The sound is what I remember first. Not a crash, but a deep, resonant crack that echoes across the water, a sound that feels ancient and powerful. Then, a skyscraper-sized shard of ice, impossibly blue, separates from the face of the glacier and collapses into the turquoise sea. The wave it creates is a gentle reminder of nature’s raw, untamed power. This is Alaska. And there is simply no better way to witness its grandeur than from the deck of a Holland America Line ship.

For years, I’ve heard fellow travelers speak of Alaska in hushed, reverent tones. It’s a bucket-list destination, a pilgrimage for those who seek landscapes that dwarf human scale and wildlife that roams free. When I finally decided to answer the call of the wild, I knew the vessel for my journey was as important as the destination itself. I needed comfort, elegance, and a deep connection to the region. I found all of that, and so much more, with Holland America Line. This isn't just a review; it's a story of how a perfectly executed cruise can transform a great trip into the journey of a lifetime. And yes, it was worth every single penny.

Why Holland America Line is the Quintessential Choice for Alaska

Choosing a cruise line for Alaska can feel daunting. The options are plentiful, but they are not all created equal. Holland America Line stands apart, not because of waterslides or rock-climbing walls, but because of its profound and storied relationship with the Last Frontier. They’ve been sailing these waters for over 75 years, longer than Alaska has been a state. This isn’t just a route for them; it’s their backyard.

This deep-rooted expertise manifests in several key ways:

• Perfectly Sized Ships: Holland America’s fleet consists of mid-sized ships. This is a critical advantage in Alaska. They are large enough to offer a wealth of amenities, multiple dining venues, and spacious staterooms, yet nimble enough to navigate narrower passages and provide a more intimate, less crowded experience at the glaciers. You feel like a privileged observer, not part of a floating city.
• Unrivaled Itineraries: With their long history comes coveted permits. Holland America offers more sailings into the pristine, protected waters of Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line. This is a non-negotiable for any serious Alaska cruise, and they deliver it with unparalleled access.
• Destination Immersion: From the moment you step aboard, the focus is on Alaska. Onboard naturalists, part of the Alaska Up Close™ program, provide fascinating commentary, pointing out humpback whales breaching off the port side or a bald eagle perched high in a Sitka spruce. They host lectures and are readily available on deck to answer your questions, transforming your journey from a scenic tour into a rich educational experience.

This commitment to the destination is palpable. You can explore all of Holland America's stunning Alaska sailings and compare ships right now using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. It’s the perfect place to start visualizing your own adventure.

The Itinerary: A Voyage Through the Last Frontier

Our 7-day "Alaskan Explorer" itinerary was a masterfully curated progression into the wild heart of the state. Each day brought a new landscape, a new wonder, that built upon the last.

Sailing the Inside Passage: A Corridor of Wonders

The first full day at sea was spent gliding through the legendary Inside Passage. This wasn't an open-ocean crossing but a serene journey through a protected labyrinth of islands, fjords, and forests. I woke early, ordered coffee to my stateroom, and stepped onto my private verandah. The air was crisp, smelling of salt and pine. A low-lying mist clung to the water's surface, slowly burning off to reveal mountainsides carpeted in a thick blanket of impossibly green temperate rainforest. We passed small fishing villages and saw the tell-tale spouts of distant whales. It was a day of quiet contemplation, of simply watching one of the world's most beautiful coastlines drift by.

Glacier Bay National Park: The Icy Heart of Alaska

Nothing can truly prepare you for Glacier Bay. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. As our ship, the Koningsdam, sailed into the bay, all engines were cut to a near-silent hum. The sense of peace was profound. National Park Rangers boarded our vessel to provide expert narration over the ship's broadcast system, their passion for this protected wilderness evident in every word. We spent hours in the company of giants like the Margerie Glacier, a mile-wide river of ice that glows with an ethereal blue light. We listened to the "white thunder" of calving ice, watched seals resting on floating bergs, and felt utterly humbled by the scale and majesty of it all. This single day justifies the entire cost of the cruise.

Our Ports of Call: Culture, History, and Adventure

The ports in Southeast Alaska are as unique and captivating as the scenery between them. Each offers a different slice of Alaskan life.

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital

Our first stop was the vibrant, rustic town of Ketchikan. Famous for its salmon and its rich Native heritage, it’s a delight to explore. We wandered down historic Creek Street, a wooden boardwalk built on stilts over the rushing creek where salmon still run. Later, we took an excursion to see the magnificent totem poles at Saxman Native Village, each one telling a story generations old. Other popular choices here include the thrilling Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show or a breathtaking floatplane tour over the Misty Fjords National Monument.

Juneau: Glaciers and Government

As Alaska's capital, Juneau is a unique city accessible only by air or sea. The main attraction here is the mighty Mendenhall Glacier, a stunningly accessible, 13-mile-long river of ice just a short drive from downtown. We opted for a whale watching tour and were not disappointed. Within minutes, we were surrounded by a pod of humpback whales bubble-net feeding—a complex, cooperative hunting behavior that is awe-inspiring to witness. For the more adventurous, helicopter tours that land directly on the glacier offer a once-in-a-lifetime perspective.

Skagway: Echoes of the Gold Rush

Stepping off the ship in Skagway is like stepping back in time. The entire downtown is a perfectly preserved National Historic Park, with wooden boardwalks and false-front buildings straight out of the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. The absolute must-do excursion here is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This narrow-gauge railway, an engineering marvel, climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, carving through tunnels and over trestles while offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and gorges. It’s a journey through history with scenery that will leave you breathless.

Deciding on the perfect shore excursions can be overwhelming. Our travel advisors are experts in matching your interests with the best tours, ensuring you get the most out of every port. Why not Plan Your Alaska Adventure with a specialist who can handle all the details for you?

Life Aboard the Ship: Refined Comfort and Impeccable Service

While Alaska is the star of the show, the ship is your luxurious home base, and Holland America excels at creating an atmosphere of relaxed elegance.

Stateroom Sanctuaries: Your Private Verandah to the Wild

I cannot recommend a Verandah Stateroom highly enough for an Alaska cruise. It is an absolute game-changer. Having that private outdoor space meant I never missed a moment. I could sip my morning tea while watching for sea otters, enjoy a glass of wine as the sun set behind a snow-capped peak, or rush outside in my robe when the captain announced a pod of orcas was approaching. The room itself was thoughtfully designed, with a supremely comfortable bed, ample storage, and a modern, spacious bathroom. It was a true sanctuary after a long day of exploring.

A Culinary Journey at Sea

The dining on Holland America is a highlight. The main Dining Room offers a sophisticated experience with a rotating menu of classic and contemporary dishes, all served by an attentive and friendly staff. For a more casual meal, the Lido Market provides a vast array of international stations with something for every palate. However, the specialty dining venues are where the culinary team truly shines. We indulged in a perfectly cooked steak at the Pinnacle Grill, a refined steakhouse at sea, and savored the exotic flavors of Pan-Asian cuisine at Tamarind. The quality, from the fresh Alaskan salmon served onboard to the delicate pastries, was consistently excellent.

Entertainment and Enrichment: Beyond the Scenery

Evenings aboard the Koningsdam were filled with world-class entertainment. The innovative Music Walk is a brilliant concept, featuring several distinct venues in one area. We could listen to soulful classics at B.B. King's Blues Club, sing along to chart-toppers at Billboard Onboard, or enjoy classical virtuosos at Lincoln Center Stage. The main World Stage featured spectacular productions with a state-of-the-art 270-degree LED screen. Beyond the music, there were enrichment opportunities like cooking demonstrations at America's Test Kitchen and, of course, the deeply informative lectures from the Alaska naturalists. For pure relaxation, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon was an oasis of tranquility.

Have questions about which stateroom is right for you or want to know about current dining packages? Our team is ready to help. Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for instant answers from a cruise expert.

The Holland America Vibe: Who Is This Cruise For?

Holland America Line cultivates a specific atmosphere. It is refined, comfortable, and destination-focused. This is a cruise for the discerning traveler who values exceptional service, fine dining, and enriching experiences over late-night discos and high-octane thrills. The demographic skews slightly older, but we saw plenty of multi-generational families, with grandparents, parents, and children all finding their own joys. It’s for people who want to truly connect with Alaska, to learn about its ecology and history, and to do so from a platform of absolute comfort.

If this sounds like your style of travel, let's make it a reality. For personalized advice and access to exclusive offers that you won't find online, give our dedicated cruise specialists a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460. They can walk you through the entire process, from choosing the perfect ship and itinerary to securing the best value for your vacation.

Final Verdict: Is a Holland America Alaska Cruise Worth It?

Without a moment's hesitation: yes. A thousand times, yes. This is more than just a vacation; it's an experience that seeps into your soul. Holland America Line doesn't just take you to Alaska; they present it to you with grace, expertise, and a reverence that enhances every single moment. The combination of their ideal itineraries, impeccable onboard service, comfortable and elegant ships, and unwavering focus on the destination itself creates a value proposition that is, in my professional opinion, unmatched for this type of immersive travel.

The raw, untamed beauty of Alaska is waiting. Don't just dream about the thunder of calving glaciers and the sight of soaring eagles. Experience it in unparalleled comfort and style. Get a Custom Quote today, and let our experts craft the Alaskan voyage of a lifetime for you. The best staterooms for the peak season book up fast, so we encourage you to inquire now.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time of year to cruise to Alaska?

The Alaska cruise season runs from late April to September. June, July, and August offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, making them the most popular months. May and September are considered "shoulder seasons" and often have lower prices, fewer crowds, and unique advantages like more snow on the mountains in May and the potential to see autumn colors in September.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Layers are key! The weather can change quickly. Pack a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, sweaters or fleece jackets, a waterproof and windproof outer layer, comfortable walking shoes, and at least one slightly dressier outfit for evening dinners. Don't forget binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera with extra batteries, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Is a balcony cabin worth it in Alaska?

Absolutely. As detailed in this review, a balcony (or "Verandah" as Holland America calls it) transforms your experience. It provides a private, front-row seat to the stunning scenery of the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay. It's the perfect spot for morning coffee, wildlife spotting, and quiet reflection. It is an investment you will not regret.

What kind of wildlife will I see?

Wildlife sightings are a highlight of any Alaska cruise. Common sightings include humpback whales, orcas (killer whales), sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, bald eagles, and porpoises. On land and near the shore, you may also spot bears (black and grizzly), moose, and mountain goats. While sightings are never guaranteed, your chances are very high.

Does Holland America Line cater to families?

Yes, Holland America is an excellent choice for multi-generational family travel. They offer the Club HAL program, which provides supervised activities for children and teens aged 3-17. This allows kids to have their own fun while adults enjoy the more sophisticated amenities of the ship, making it a perfect balance for everyone.