Christina2067

I was asked why I posted my dissatisfaction from someone who likes Holland America in post above. The simple fact is because Holland America does not make it clear. I only got concerned when I saw other peoples posts and knew before I booked I needed clarity. I have corporate purchasing background and always research before I buy. If you are a fan of Holland America that is your choice but it is not my preference, that is my choice.

The only reason was that wanted the Glacier Bay passage if possible in Alaska and only Princess and Holland America have the permission for that port. I also have cruised Princess as well. Holland and Princess were neither my favorite lines of the many that I have been on.

I know some people have commented on location is worth the price but “spa” category without spa access is not for me. I did not put in my original post that I have been on Holland America years ago and it was ok but it was not my favorite line. That is my opinion.

On Holland America it is only location and you pay $800 more per couple. NCL Spa was around $500 more per couple but that included not only location but also daily access to spa pool, spa lounges, steam rooms and sauna. Celebrity Aqua class gives you access like NCL and the special dining.

I have been on many cruise lines. Because it was so hard to get the answer from Holland America I do not plan on cruising on Holland America, they do not have a true spa class/category. I prefer a true spa category like NCL spa rooms and Celebrity Aqua Class. Holland America is not for me.

Interest Spa Verandah Alaska North Bound on Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam for July until I found out that did not actually include access to the Spa access. Done NCL Spa level which included daily pass to spa, Celebrity Aqua Class does same. But Holland wants to $400 more person ($800 couple) for yoga mat, fancy lotions (worked in the manufacturing industry know manufacturing costs), earth tones, linens but we would have to pay additional for spa pass. NCL spa level $250 more per person and built in spa daily pass which was fantastic. The spa is our zen area. Lucky I did the research on Cruise Critic and other sites where people say Spa Verandah not worth it and not include the spa pass. I called the reservation line and it took about 10 minutes for the person on other end to confirm my suspicions because they did not even know. Holland America for trying to imitate NCL/Celebrity without including spa pass but charging higher price.