7 Ways to make the most of sea days on Holland America Line

Your cruise with Holland America Line is booked, and you can’t wait to explore your destinations. While you’re looking at excursions and travel guides for the destinations on your upcoming cruise, there is so much more to cruising with Holland America Line than just your time spent on land. 

Throughout the journey, their ships offer ways to immerse yourself in the culture and customs of your destinations, including workshops, culinary demonstrations, and menus thoughtfully curated by renowned chefs.  

To make the most of your cruise, here are six ways to spend time at sea. 

Check out the live music and performances

Holland America Line continues to expand its onboard entertainment lineup, with live music and production shows offered throughout the sailing. Evenings often begin in a theatre-style venue, where you settle in as the lights dim and a full cast takes the stage, with early showtimes available for families. 

From Broadway-style productions to high-energy showcases, performances unfold across the ship in different spaces. After the main show, nearby lounges come alive with live bands and musicians, with sets you can drop in on or stay for. 

With programming that evolves by itinerary, the mix of performances shifts throughout your sailing, offering something different to experience each night. 

Immerse yourself in local culture

Get to know your destinations with local experts on board your cruise. From presentations by local cultural ambassadors and storytellers to cooking shows and mixology classes, make the most out of your sea days by learning more about each destination.  

Try your luck at the onboard casino

Whether you’re an experienced poker player or looking to learn, the onboard casino offers a range of games, including slot machines and table games like blackjack, roulette and poker.   

Looking to gain confidence at the card tables? The casino offers free lessons to build your skills and confidence with gaming experts. 

Relax at the spa

What better way to unwind on your cruise than spending a day at the spa? Whether you go for a massage or just lounge in the while taking in the horizon from a heated ceramic lounger, checking out the spa is a great way to relax and feel refreshed before your next port visit. The spa features hydrotherapy pools and soothing saunas, as well as a salon for maximal relaxation during your cruise.  

Get creative

Arts and crafts sessions provide a relaxed way to spend time at sea. With daily arts-and-crafts classes, you can create one-of-a-kind souvenirs to remember your trip. Try your hand at knitting or learn the art of brush lettering and calligraphy.  

Play a round of pickleball

Did you know that Holland America Line is the only cruise partner of the Professional Pickleball Association? Experienced players can play a round on the onboard pickleball court and participate in an organized tournament. For those looking to get into the popular racket sport, take a free lesson and discover the fun.  

If pickleball isn’t your thing, the sports court also offers shuffleboard, cornhole and more, all by the backdrop of stunning sea views.  

Take it easy

Spend a sea day soaking up the atmosphere of your cruise and enjoying life's quiet moments. Picture an early morning on deck, coffee in hand as the ocean stretches out in every direction, or a quiet afternoon spent poolside, moving between a shaded lounger and the water as the day unfolds. Curl up with a book from the ship’s library, which features a curated selection of reads, or linger over afternoon tea with delicate bites and ocean views.  

For families, sea days can feel just as relaxed, with dedicated kids’ and youth programs offering supervised activities, games and social spaces, giving younger travellers something to look forward to while parents enjoy a slower pace. 

Plan your cruise 

Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant to plan your cruise. Members get exclusive savings on Holland America Line itineraries and receive an onboard spending credit of up to $50, plus $50 in Denali Dollars.