Before you cruise with Holland America

To check in online for a Holland America cruise, go to the Holland America website and log in to your booking. You will need your booking number and passport. The online check-in process allows you to complete required documents, download or print your boarding pass, and print luggage tags. It's recommended to complete online check-in at least 30 days prior to departure, especially for locations requiring immigration information.

You can also access your digital boarding pass through the Holland America Line Navigator App.

Passports are required for all cruises. Please check that your passport has at least 6 months validity from the return date of your trip. If you or any member of your party is not a British citizen or holds a non-British passport, you must check passport and visa requirements with the Embassy or Consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel. Please always refer to the Foreign Travel Advice by Gov.uk here.

While it is not a a condition of booking that all guests hold fully comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers cruise holidays, it is strongly recommended that Guests hold adequate cover due to the potential for unexpected events before, during, and after a cruise. Cover must be valid for the entire duration of your chosen itinerary, provides full health coverage for all pre-existing conditions and the costs of medical repatriations, plus specific cover for covid-19 related issues. It should also include Personal Luggage insurance since there is limited liability for loss or damage. Please refer to our trusted partner Just Travel Cover who offer comprehensive cover options from multiple insurers, have no upper age limit, and cover for hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions.

All staterooms are equipped with standard U.S. 110 AC and European 220 AC electrical outlets. Some newer ships like the Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Nieuw Statendam also include USB charging ports.

Holland America Line has a relaxed dress code, primarily focusing on casual attire during the day and smart casual or dressy attire in the evening. While there are no strict formal dress requirements on most nights, some cruises may include "Dressy Nights" where more formal attire is recommended. Shorts, pool and beachwear, distressed jeans, and men's tank tops are not permitted in table-service restaurants. The dress for each evening is listed in the Daily Program and on the Navigator App.

Holland America Line generally allows two checked bags per person, with a weight limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) each. Carry-on bags are also permitted. There are no specific size restrictions for luggage on Holland America ships, but airlines, transfers, and Cruisetours may have their own limitations.

Unless you've booked the "Have It All" fare that includes prepaid gratuities, Holland America Line automatically adds a daily "Crew Appreciation" charge to your onboard account for gratuities, which is $17 per day for non-suite staterooms and $19 per day for suite guests. This charge is distributed among the staff who serve you, including those in bars, restaurants, and housekeeping. You can adjust this amount at guest services if you wish. Additionally, an 18% service charge is added to beverage purchases, bar retail items, specialty restaurant cover charges, and spa and salon services.

Holland America Line accommodates various dietary restrictions and allergies. Guests can request special meals, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and should inform the cruise line of any allergies or dietary needs in advance. The cruise line also offers options like gluten-free buns for burgers and dedicated vegan menus. Holland America need to be aware of guests with specific dietary needs, especially those with severe allergies, by submitting a Special Requirement Information (SRI) form. It is recommended to submit this form upon booking or a minimum 45 days prior to departure.