Holland America Line is gearing up to deck the halls—and the dining rooms—this holiday season with festive feasts and holiday-themed drinks across its fleet. Forget the stress of cooking, cleaning, and hosting; if you’re cruising on one of their ships, your holiday celebrations are all about relaxation, delicious food, and maybe even a visit from Santa himself!
Thanksgiving at Sea: Gobble, Gobble!
Why slave away in the kitchen when you can indulge in a stress-free, ship-side Thanksgiving feast? Holland America is serving up all the traditional favorites like turkey with cranberries, sweet potatoes, honey-baked ham, and even beef tenderloin with apple rösti. For something unique, there’s mushroom ravioli with sage and, for an extra charge, fresh fish dishes crafted by none other than Chef Masaharu Morimoto. It’s Thanksgiving, but with a seriously luxurious twist!
Christmas Magic on Board: Santa, Sweets, and Savory Delights
From the moment you step aboard in December, the holiday spirit is everywhere! You’ll want to dive into the Nutcracker Afternoon Tea Service, where you can nibble on a Grinch truffle, Santa Hat cupcake, and a Reindeer Chocolate Tart. It’s the perfect afternoon pick-me-up on a sea day.
But the real holiday magic happens at breakfast—Breakfast with Santa, to be exact! Families cruising in the Caribbean can enjoy a festive morning meal in Pinnacle Grill or Tamarind, complete with crafts, Christmas tunes, and a visit from Santa himself! Don’t forget to snap that perfect Christmas card photo. The only thing missing will be the snow (but who needs that when you’ve got sun and sea?).
On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the Dining Room is dishing out a global celebration, with festive dishes from countries like Norway, Spain, and Thailand. For a more Italian flair, head to Canaletto for a holiday meal with plenty of pasta and Italian favorites.
Hanukkah Feasts: Latkes and Jelly Doughnuts Galore
For those celebrating Hanukkah, head over to the Lido Market where you’ll find traditional favorites like potato latkes with applesauce and sour cream, freshly baked challah, and jelly-filled doughnuts—a perfect nod to the festival of lights.
A New Year to Remember
The fun doesn’t stop at Christmas! New Year’s Eve on a Holland America ship is all about glitz, glam, and an all-out party on the Lido Deck. Start with a fancy dinner—complete with colossal crab towers and lobster in the Pinnacle Grill (for a fee)—then dance the night away under the stars as the clock strikes midnight. Party favors, sparkling toasts, and great vibes guaranteed.
If you’re feeling extra fancy, treat yourself to the New Year’s Eve VIP Beverage Package. We’re talking your own reserved booth, butler service, and endless appetizers. Then, recover from the celebrations with a complimentary New Year’s Day brunch, or go for the full-on splurge with a special brunch at Pinnacle Grill.
Cheers to Festive Cocktails and Holiday Coffee!
No holiday celebration would be complete without some festive drinks! Whether you’re sipping on a Minty Elf Martini or toasting with a Rudolph the Red Margarita, there’s something for everyone. Feeling a little more cozy? Grab a Christmas Cocoa Mint Coffee or a Vanilla Gingerbread Latte to keep those holiday vibes going all day long.
Eggnog lovers, don’t worry—they’ve got you covered with spiked eggnog and even an Eggnog Latte. Who needs Santa when you’ve got drinks like these?
This holiday season, skip the hectic hosting and let Holland America Line handle the celebrations. Whether you’re cruising for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, or New Year’s, the holiday spirit is all wrapped up and waiting for you aboard these festive sailings. So, pack your holiday cheer, and maybe even an ugly Christmas sweater, because this is one holiday season you won’t want to miss!