Holland America Line Brings Holiday Magic to the Seas with Festive Menus and Experiences for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s

Published on September 25, 2024

Holland America Line is bringing extra holiday cheer to the high seas with exclusive themed food and beverage menus across its fleet. Passengers can enjoy festive celebrations for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s Eve, offering a taste of home and holiday spirit while cruising.

A wide range of culinary experiences await guests, including a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, a brand-new “Breakfast with Santa,” Christmas Eve and Day feasts, and special Hanukkah treats. The Christmas Eve menu in the Dining Room highlights international dishes, celebrating the diverse cultures from the many destinations visited by the ships.

“Sailing with Holland America for the holidays offers a fun and stress-free way to celebrate,” said Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division for Holland America Line. “Not only do our onboard dining experiences simplify holiday planning, but they provide a rich and diverse culinary journey with a touch of a tradition that fosters deeper connections with loved ones and makes it a special time on board.”

Thanksgiving at Sea

Celebrate Thanksgiving without the stress of cooking or cleaning. Holland America’s Dining Room offers a delightful Thanksgiving feast with fall flavors, including roasted turkey with cranberries, Beef Tenderloin with Apple Rösti, Honey-Baked Ham, and Mushroom Ravioli with Sage. Guests can also opt for two new fish dishes by Chef Masaharu Morimoto, available for an additional fee.

Christmas Dining Delights

Throughout December, passengers of all ages can indulge in seasonal treats during the Nutcracker Afternoon Tea Service, offered on select sea days. The menu includes sweet creations like a Grinch truffle, Santa Hat cupcake, Reindeer Chocolate tart, and savory sandwiches.

Families sailing in the Caribbean just before or during Christmas can join Santa for a special “Breakfast with Santa” in the Pinnacle Grill or Tamarind restaurant aboard Signature and Pinnacle Class ships. While waiting for Santa’s arrival, families can enjoy festive crafts and music. This breakfast experience is priced at $25 per adult and $15 per child aged 3-17.

On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, both the Dining Room and Italian-inspired Canaletto will feature holiday feasts. The Dining Room’s Christmas Eve menu showcases international holiday dishes from Norway, Thailand, Spain, and the Caribbean, while Canaletto presents festive Italian fare.

Hanukkah at Lido Market

Lido Market will celebrate Hanukkah with traditional treats like jelly-filled doughnuts, challah bread, and crispy potato latkes with apple sauce and sour cream, honoring the rich traditions of the holiday.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Ring in the New Year with exclusive celebrations across the fleet, beginning with a special dinner in the Dining Room or at Pinnacle Grill ($69 per person), featuring dishes like Colossal Crab Tower with Caviar and Sterling Beef Fillet with Butter-Basted Lobster. As midnight approaches, the festivities move to the Lido Deck with party favors and sparkling toasts.

Guests can also opt for the New Year’s Eve VIP Beverage Package, which includes a reserved booth at Lido Pool or B.B. King’s Blues Club, along with dedicated butler service and a selection of appetizers. After the festivities, passengers can enjoy a complimentary New Year’s Day brunch in the Dining Room or choose to dine at Pinnacle Grill for $25 per person.

Holiday-Themed Cocktails and Coffees

Holiday cocktails and festive non-alcoholic coffee drinks will be available onboard, including:

• Minty Elf Martini – Grey Goose vodka, Crème de Cacao, and peppermint schnapps.
• Rudolph the Red Margarita – 1800 Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, pomegranate juice, and lime.
• De Lijn Ginger Mojito – De Lijn Gin, mint, ginger beer, and candied ginger.
• Spiked Eggnog – Baileys, Kahlua, espresso, and eggnog.
• Christmas Cocoa Mint Coffee – Kahlua, peppermint schnapps, and coffee.
• Vanilla Gingerbread Latte – A classic latte with gingerbread and vanilla syrup.
• Eggnog Latte – Espresso, eggnog, milk, and almond syrup.

Unforgettable Holiday Itineraries

Guests looking to celebrate the holidays with Holland America Line can choose from a variety of itineraries, including:

• 7-Day Tropical Caribbean (Nov. 24 – Dec. 1, 2024): Sail aboard Nieuw Amsterdam from Fort Lauderdale to Amber Cove and Key West.
• 7-Day Western Caribbean (Dec. 21 – Dec. 28, 2024): Cruise aboard Nieuw Statendam from Fort Lauderdale, featuring adventures like horseback riding in Half Moon Cay and helicopter tours over the Cayman Islands.
• 12-Day Panama Canal Sunfarer (Dec. 29, 2024 – Jan. 10, 2025): Sail into the new year, exploring Cartagena, Colombia, and the Panama Canal.

Other exciting holiday sailings include:

• 7-Day Mexican Riviera Holiday (Dec. 21 – Dec. 28, 2024): Roundtrip from San Diego aboard Koningsdam, featuring whale watching in Cabo San Lucas and culinary adventures in Mazatlán.
• 16-Day Circle Hawaii Holiday (Dec. 18, 2024 – Jan. 3, 2025): Set sail from San Diego aboard Zaandam, reaching Hawaii by Christmas Eve and exploring the islands during the holiday season.

With festive menus, exciting events, and unforgettable itineraries, Holland America Line promises to make this holiday season at sea one to remember.