Our family is going on a cruise.

Where to?

Alaska.

Who with?

Holland America Line.

Holland America do family cruises?

Booking our family cruise to Alaska was a dream come true. I’d wanted to see towering glaciers, breaching whales, and mountains that meet the sea for years, and a cruise seemed like the perfect way to experience it all.

When the opportunity came to sail aboard the Holland America MS Noordam on a Holland America family cruise, I knew it would be unforgettable. The timing fit perfectly with our other adventures, and we couldn’t wait to set sail. If you’re planning a family cruise to Alaska, check out my ultimate guide to traveling in Alaska with kids.

Alaska offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and a cruise allows you to see more in comfort. With scenic fjords, charming ports, and wildlife-rich waters, it’s an experience that combines adventure and relaxation for the whole family. Especially with family cruises.

Why Choose a Holland America Family Cruise

Holland America Line has been sailing Alaska for over 75 years, and their ships are designed for the region. They balance classic style with modern amenities, offering a more intimate and relaxed experience than mega-liners.

People often ask if Holland America is family-friendly. The answer is yes. While it attracts a mature crowd, our Holland America family cruise showed that kids are warmly welcomed, with programs, entertainment, and dining designed to make everyone feel at home.

Their 2025 itineraries include 7–14-night cruises from Vancouver or Seattle, with stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay. Glacier viewing is guaranteed with the Glacier Guarantee™, meaning if you miss a glacier, you receive a future cruise credit.

Club HAL: Kids’ Fun and Activities on Board

The first stop for my kids on any cruise is the kids’ club, and Holland America’s Club HAL did not disappoint. Designed for ages 3–17, the club offered arts, crafts, games, and computer activities. Since our cruise was late in the season, there were fewer kids on board, which meant my two had more space and attention. The staff were friendly, energetic, and made each day fun and memorable.

Club HAL Hours and Policies: Typically 9–11:30 am, 1–4 pm, and 7–10 pm. Food and drinks are not allowed inside, so bring a water bottle for port days or longer sessions. Despite these minor quirks, our kids had a blast, and it was easy for parents to balance kid-free time with family bonding. If you want more things to do on an Alaska cruise with kids, this program is a great starting point.

Dining on a Holland America Alaska Cruise

Food is a highlight of any family cruise to Alaska, and Holland America Line ships truly deliver. We enjoyed the Lido buffet and Vista Dining Room, both included in the fare. Canaletto Italian restaurant had a USD $10 per person cover charge, while the Pinnacle Grill offered premium dining for about USD $35 per person in 2025.

The staff remembered our names and food preferences and even surprised the kids with origami animals at dinner. Holland America family cruises also serve sustainably sourced wild Alaska seafood, so meals are both fresh and responsible. For families who love good food, this cruise exceeded expectations. If you would like more on cruise dining, please take a look at my cruise food review.

Onboard Entertainment and Family Activities

Even without waterslides, the Noordam offered plenty for families. Indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, and a thermal spa provided relaxation, while nightly shows included live music, variety acts, and trivia.

The kids loved games like BINGO and participated in cooking classes. There was always something fun to do without the overwhelming crowds of a mega-liner, making it an ideal Holland America family cruise.

You have never truly lived until you soak in a steamy hot tub watching majestic glaciers in Alaska. Or if you want the full effect, try the Polar Bear Plunge like my daughter did. Yup, she jumped into the pool and then stood in the arctic wind for one whole minute at the back of the ship. Crazy!

Watching glaciers pass by from the deck or balcony was magical, and the combination of adventure and comfort made the cruise perfect for families. Cruising with kids has never been this smooth or enjoyable.

Meet the Crew: Exceptional Service at Sea

The crew aboard the Noordam was incredible. Most staff members were from Indonesia and were warm, attentive, and genuinely cared about our family’s experience.

Towel animals on the beds, personal attention during meals, and cheerful greetings made us feel right at home. The smaller ship size meant that service was personalized, and the kids felt welcome and noticed. For anyone wondering if Holland America is family-friendly, the crew makes a huge difference.

Our Verandah Suite: Comfort and Glacier Views

We stayed in a verandah suite, which became our cozy retreat. Cruise rooms are compact, but the floor-to-ceiling windows, private balcony, and blackout curtains made it feel spacious. Watching glaciers drift by from our balcony while wrapped in a blanket was unforgettable.

For families, having a private space adds comfort and convenience, making this cabin type worth the extra cost. For tips on cabin selection and family staterooms, check my guide to the best Alaska cruise cabins for families.

Quick Facts for Planning Your Alaska Cruise

Kid-friendly cruises in Alaska run from April to October, with departures from Vancouver and Seattle. Seven to fourteen-night sailings are available, starting from around USD $749 per person in select cabins. May and September are ideal for families, offering fewer crowds and better deals.

Club HAL is available for ages 3–17, with structured daily sessions. A verandah suite is highly recommended for families who want space and glacier views. Don’t forget to book your Alaska shore excursions early so you don’t miss out.

Final Thoughts: Is Holland America the Best Family Cruise to Alaska?

Our Holland America family cruise to Alaska was family bucket list goals – adventure, comfort, and connection. The food was excellent, the kids’ programs were engaging, the crew was warm and attentive, and the glacier views were breathtaking.

If you’ve been dreaming about an Alaska cruise with kids, Holland America Line makes it easy, enriching, and unforgettable. When friends ask, “Why Holland America?” you’ll know exactly what to say – it’s the best way to experience Alaska together. For more inspiration, check Holland America Line’s official Alaska cruises.