If you’re planning a cruise vacation, you might be wondering which cruise line is better: Princess or Holland America. Both are well-known and respected names in the industry, but they do have some differences that might make one more appealing to you than the other. Let’s take a closer look.
Itinerary
Perhaps the most important factor in choosing a cruise line is the itinerary. Both Princess and Holland America offer a wide range of destinations, from Alaska to the Caribbean to Europe and beyond. However, Princess tends to focus more on exotic destinations like Asia and Australia/New Zealand, while Holland America has a strong presence in Alaska and Northern Europe.
Ship Size
Another significant difference between these two cruise lines is ship size. Princess has larger ships with more amenities like multiple pools, larger spas, more dining options, and bigger entertainment venues. Holland America’s ships are smaller and more intimate, with a focus on personalized service and attention to detail.
Onboard Experience
When it comes to onboard experience, both Princess and Holland America offer high-quality service and amenities. However, there are some differences worth noting.
Princess tends to have a livelier atmosphere with more activities like dance classes, trivia contests, and theme nights. Holland America’s ships are quieter with fewer organized activities but more opportunities for relaxation.
Dining Options
Food is an essential aspect of any cruise vacation, so it’s worth considering the dining options on both Princess and Holland America. Both lines offer main dining rooms as well as specialty restaurants (some of which come at an additional cost). However, Princess has a partnership with celebrity chef Curtis Stone that brings his cuisine to select restaurants on their ships.
Entertainment
Entertainment is another crucial aspect of any cruise vacation. Both Princess and Holland America offer a range of shows and performances, but Princess tends to have more variety and larger production values. Holland America’s entertainment is more subdued but still high-quality.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between Princess and Holland America comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere with more amenities and activities, Princess might be the way to go.
If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience with a focus on personalized service, Holland America might be the better choice. Either way, both cruise lines offer high-quality vacations that are sure to leave you with lasting memories.