Holland America Line’s “Alaska Up Close” program offers guests Alaskan cruises with creative programming – and now, local drinks, food, and Alaskan cultural inspiration.
“Alaska Up Close” Tourist Experiences Get Better Even
Travelers heading north will experience Alaska’s wild wilderness and rich cultural heritage with Holland America Line’s “Alaska Up Close” program, which has recently been expanded to include more inspiring experiences.
Yes, aOn Deck Because” 5k fundraiser rides to benefit Alaska’s national parks will continue.
Holland America Line currently operating six vessels in Alaska region, including Pinnacle-class MS Kingsdam86,700 tons MS EurodamVista class MS Noordam, MS Westerdam (also Vista-class), the MS Volendam Rotterdam-class, and Signature-class MS New Amsterdam.
Guests will be able to immerse themselves in educational programs and on-road activities, eat “sea food,” and go on the best beach tours. In addition, they can also enjoy regional and traditional cuisine – including classic cocktails made with ice.
“Since launching Alaska Up Close we have introduced incredible programs that bring authentic Alaskan experiences to our guests like no other cruise line,” Michael Smith, Executive Vice President, Guest Experience & Product Development, said in a press release.
“This season we’re expanding the program to include fresh Alaskan fish and wildlife on a larger scale, from fresh local cuisine and cocktails to exciting courses and wildlife viewing.” Smith said the same.
The new benefits being added to “Alaska Up Close” are designed to promote Alaska’s marine experience. Travelers will be able to experience regional gastronomy, an Alaskan-inspired brunch, a Huna Tlingit nature show, and more.
“Alaska Up Near” Highlights
With the ship’s “Alaska Up Close” program, vacationers will benefit from the wildlife knowledge of cruise experts, who can help them spot wildlife from the ship’s surface.
Talks, informative talks, and Explorations Central (EXC) Talks that share Alaskan stories are also included in the program, as are dining events that celebrate local heritage.
Here are more features and highlights included in the “Alaska Up Close” program:
People can enjoy local stories on these tours and join EXC Talks for engaging stories and expert insight on “Ancestral Memories,” “Breaking the Ice Ceiling,” “Pacific Giants,” “The Iditarod,” and “We are Alaska.” Visitors can also learn about the history of the Tlingit people with a Huna Interpreter during their stay in Juneau.
Travelers can indulge in local cuisine with Alaska Brunch. They will embark on a culinary journey with Alaska Blueberry Pancakes, Salmon & Potato Chowder, Wild Forest Mushroom and Tarragon Crepes, Alaskan Reindeer Sausage, Kodiak Steak and Egg Skillet, Hot Smoked Crab and Salmon Cakes, Biscuits with Gravy, and more.
Glacier Ice-Inspired libations, made with real Alaska glacier ice, will also be served. Enjoy the refreshing “Juneau Gin & Tonic,” made with Juneauper Gin, the intriguing “Black & Blue,” featuring Jack Daniels Black Label, and a few other cocktails, all prepared with pride over ice. ono.
Discover the fascinating wildlife under the guidance of a marine expert. People will be able to keep their eyes on humpback whales, sea otters, bald eagles, moose, orcas, caribou, black bears, grizzly bears, and more. Daily programs offer scheduled times for visitors to meet with a wildlife expert for exciting encounters with animals close to where they live.
Travelers will also be able to upgrade their dining experience at Lido Market (Lido Market Restaurant Buffet) on their Alaska cruise. They can enjoy special meals and theme nights that celebrate local heritage, including a Salmon Bake dinner, a Seafood Boil pop-up—and a Gold Rush dinner that’s only offered on 14-plus days.
Holland America Line’s unveiling of these new features in its “Alaska Up Close” plan in 2023 Alaska cruises should provide more experiences and a more enjoyable journey for all guests on board.
Holland America started with its 2023 season special announcement displays and a few other celebrations in the two port cities at the beginning of May this year, which is a good indication of how excited the company is about the 2023 Alaska season.
