Denali Experience

Holland America Line Launches “Alaska Up Close”

PHOTO CREDIT: Andy Newman/Holland America Line
Mt. McKinley, Denali

Alaska season is right around the corner and after two years of shortened seasons or no season at all, this one is going to be big. Holland America Line is preparing for cruises to Alaska with a new 360° experience they’re calling “Alaska Up Close”. 

What is Alaska Up Close? 

The program utilizes authentic experiences on board and ashore that bring guests closer to the cultures and customs of this incredible land and the people who inhabit it. Through immersion programming with guides from native tribe members and National Park Rangers, guests gain a deeper understanding of what life is like in the Great White North. 

“Alaska is so abundant that it needs to be explored and presented differently, and with ‘Alaska Up Close’ our guests will have access to activities and experiences that they won’t find anywhere else,” said Beth Bodensteiner, senior vice president and chief commercial officer, Holland America Line. “We want our guests to be immersed in Alaska from the moment they step on board, and as we celebrate 75 years of exploring Alaska in 2022, we tapped into our unparalleled expertise to craft memorable and exclusive programming.”

Holland America Line will operate six ships in Alaska for the upcoming May through September 2022 cruise season. The line offers more visits to Glacier Bay than any other cruise line.

It also includes local experts and personalities leading workshops and lectures, Explorations Central (EXC) Talks revealing the stories of real Alaskans, tours highlighting the best of each destination, Port to Table culinary immersion and local cuisine served in dining venues throughout the ship.

Guests even have the opportunity to catch their own dinner through select fishing-focused shore excursions and have it prepared by  Holland America Line’s expert chefs. 

Shore Excursion Options 

When it comes to exploring Alaska, the shore excursions Holland America curates are second to none. Helicopter onto a glacier, watch on whales in their natural habitat, go whitewater rafting or kayaking for a fast-paces, scenic adventure, try your hand at panning for gold or even sail on a real crabbing boat featured on “Deadliest Catch.” 

Which shore excursion would you pick??