Want multigenerational travel ideas? Here are 5 reasons to choose the Holland America Alaska Cruise + Holiday Sale

This multigenerational travel article on Alaskan cruises is written by Eileen Ogintz, nationally syndicated columnist and creator of “Taking the Kids,” on behalf of sponsor, Holland America Lines.

In my family, a vacation has to please EVERY member of the family, all at the same time. Alaska is a destination that tops our list as one of the best family vacations. To do this type of vacation right, Alaska cruises are the best option! That’s why when it comes to large family vacation ideas, I suggest cruising aboard Holland America Line, a cruise line especially popular with families (both large and small).

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Why Take the Holland America Alaska Cruise?

Alaska is that once in a lifetime trip the family will never forget. It’s the one vacation where you can see glaciers, the Inside Passage where mountains that rise out of the sea, breathtaking scenery, local wildlife, and activities to fit every interest and experience. It truly is the type of vacation where EVERY family member will find something to love. 

Many grandparents and parents enjoy being on a luxurious mid-size ship, not too big so the kids (or Granny!) will get lost and not so small that there’s nothing to do onboard. That’s what you get with the Holland America Alaska Cruise. We also love it because of its really good food – a must in our family — and the immersive activities designed to help guests better connect with places they sail. 

CYBER SALE – Alaska Cruise Deals

Plan soon and take advantage of Holland America Line’s Cyber Sale (Nov. 27- Dec. 3, 2019) when, with just a $25 deposit, you can hold staterooms for the entire family. And if you book a Verandah cabin with balcony or a suite they will take care of all the gratuities for the wonderful crew, an extra savings!

Affordable vacations for large families

Price and value are a huge factor for families of any size. In general, Holland America cruises can be had starting at just $90 per person per day, with plenty of extras and upgrades if you book during WAVE season starting December 5, 2019. WAVE discounts include onboard credits, free and reduced prices for kids, discounts on shore excursions and half off deposits. Book eight staterooms or more and you can get the Family Reunion Package including a free cabin, upgrades and other values.   

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AWARD WINNING CRUISE LINE

Did you know that Cruise Critic’s Cruisers’ Destination Awards just named Holland America the number one line in Alaska? Eight of their ships will sail there from Seattle and Vancouver in 2020, including the Koningsdam, whose Family Staterooms sleep five comfortably and have extra closet space and two bathrooms. 

CRUISE FOOD OPTIONS

Great food comes from menus crafted by Holland America’s Culinary Council—eight famous chefs including Top Chef winner Kristen Kish. Of course, unlimited dining at buffets and other restaurants is included in cruise rates. Picky young eaters can always get pizza, mac n’ cheese and fresh fruit from the kids’ menu. For a celebratory meal at specialty restaurants that charge a premium, kids can sample gourmet fare because it’s half price for half portions. And, of course, everyone will appreciate the all-you-can-eat (or that your relatives will allow) ice cream onboard!

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

The kids are bound to learn something from Holland America’s Explorations Central activities and really immersive shore excursions which helps guests better understand each port. Since Holland America has been taking guests to Alaska for the past 70 years, they also offer a chance to visit the Yukon as well as Denali National Park.

ONBOARD FAMILY FRIENDLY AMENITIES 

Their ships may be smaller than many megaships but have plenty to entertain everyone on board from music and dance performances (chamber music to classic rock!) to cooking demonstrations, BBC Earth concerts and films, yoga and spa, casinos, wine tasting and more.  

Even toddlers will stay busy at the new Kids Club, with designated programming for those as young as three up through teens, with specially trained staff to work with youngsters with special challenges. 

OTHER HOLLAND AMERICA  CRUISE DESTINATIONS

Keep in mind that Holland America has other itineraries available too, such as sailing from Ft. Lauderdale or Tampa to the Caribbean (nearly all Caribbean itineraries include a stop at the gorgeous private island Half Moon Cay), from San Diego to Mexico and around the Mediterranean. Young fans of “Frozen” will want to sail to Norway and around northern Europe.

If not Alaska this year, why not try any one of more than 500 cruises to more than 400 ports in 98 countries?