Choosing the right destination for your next cruise vacation is tough. For those who wish to stay closer to North America, shortening flights to and from their voyage, our travel advisors suggest two major destinations: Alaska or the Caribbean. Both offer unique experiences that you simply cannot enjoy anywhere else in the world. Keep reading to decide which cruise destination is right for you, and which cruise line takes you to both in unforgettable style.
Sail close to epic glaciers
Why You Should Cruise Alaska
Alaska is a premier bucket-list destination, but its sheer scale and rugged landscape make it one of the few places on Earth where a cruise isn’t just a vacation choice, but the most efficient way to experience the region. Your ship basically becomes a floating observation deck, taking you deep into narrow fjords like Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm Fjord. Here you can witness that thunderous moment ice breaks off into the sea called calving, all from the comfort of your balcony or lounge chair.
Of course, you cannot escape Alaska without being wowed by its wildlife. A cruise takes you along that intriguing intersection of sea and forest, where it’s common to catch humpback whales breaching near the ship, bald eagles eyeing you from the spruce trees or brown bears foraging along the coastline. Those are moments you will simply never forget, especially when you’re sailing with Holland America Line.
Top Reasons to Cruise to Alaska with Holland America:
- Thanks to Holland America’s Alaska Glacier Guarantee™, you’ll see a glacier or receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to 15% of your fare
- Holland America Line holds more Glacier Bay permits than any other cruise line
- Every cruisetour includes a stay at their private wilderness lodge, set in the foothills of Denali National Park
- They have exclusive access to Dawson City, Yukon, with an included Klondike Gold Tour
The view from RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™
Why You Should Cruise the Caribbean
While Alaska is about the wow factor, a Caribbean cruise is more about the greatest hits of travel: sun, sea and sand. A cruise here gives you the opportunity to island hop, serenely sailing from one country to another while only unpacking once. The countries you visit don’t even need to be islands, as Mexico and its historic culture is often on Western Caribbean itineraries.
Wherever you visit on a Caribbean cruise, you can easily expand your adventure beyond the beaches. In the above-mentioned Western Caribbean, you can hike around Maya ruins and snorkel the world’s second-largest reef system. In the Southern Caribbean, shopping and sailing are both easy to come by, while the Eastern Caribbean is home to historic forts and hidden waterfalls. Wherever you wish to go, Holland America has the ideal itinerary to get you there.
Top Reasons to Cruise to the Caribbean with Holland America:
- Holland America has flexible Itineraries, with more 9+ day sailings than any other cruise line
- Refreshingly free of coasters and waterslides, their perfectly sized ships inspire relaxation
- On board, you can savor fresh yellowtail snapper, Caribbean callaloo and other specialties made with locally sourced ingredients
- Nearly all their 2026-2027 Caribbean cruises include a day at their award-winning private island, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™
According to one past Holland America guest: “Holland America’s private island was my favorite part of the trip. After dipping into the ocean while on horseback, we hit the Lobster Shack for some of the best chowder we’ve ever tasted.”
Hopefully the choice is easier now that you have all the facts. If you need more guidance, or if you’re ready to book your Holland America cruise, contact our travel advisors. We know Holland America well and can help you choose the best itineraries for you and your crew.
