Holland America Line, a leader in premium cruising, once again earned top honors with eight 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards from Porthole Cruise Magazine, one of the world’s leading consumer cruise travel publications.
The awards include the categories of Best Alaska, Canada/New England and Northern Europe Itineraries; Most Eco-Friendly Line; Best Shore Excursions; Best Medical Facilities; Best Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers; and Best Private Island for Half Moon Cay, the line’s exclusive Bahamian retreat.
“The readers of Porthole Cruise Magazine are among the most well traveled in the world, and to be recognized by them once again in eight categories is an honor,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “As we are continually seeking to enhance our cruise experience, these awards validate our efforts and guest satisfaction.”
Porthole Cruise Magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards are determined by thousands of the publication’s readers who vote both online and via paper ballot for their favorite cruise lines in a variety of categories.
“Half Moon Cay, which has received the Readers’ Choice Award year over year, is clearly a solid favorite,” said Bill Panoff, publisher and editor-in-chief of Porthole Cruise Magazine. “I encourage cruisers to visit the island — if they haven’t already — to find out why. The cruise line’s eco-friendly efforts and itinerary offerings have always impressed me, so it’s no wonder our readers have recognized Holland America Line in these categories as well. I congratulate them on their much-deserved wins this year.”
Half Moon Cay: Best Private Island
For the past 14 years, Porthole Cruise Magazine’s readers have named Half Moon Cay the industry’s Best Private Island. Half Moon Cay has evolved into an idyllic playground for cruise guests and features a natural 700-acre lagoon, a Captain Morgan on the Rocks Island Bar, stingray encounter and fun-filled excursions for nature lovers and adventurous travelers alike.
Most Eco-Friendly Cruise Line
Holland America Line understands its great responsibility in safeguarding the well being of the oceans and environment. As a part of the “Our Marvelous Oceans” program in partnership with Marine Conservation Institute, the line created videos that educate guests and crew about ocean conservation issues. Holland America Line also continues to work with Marine Conservation Institute to provide sustainable seafood options for its guests. Responsible energy, water and waste management also are important components of the company’s sustainability strategy.
Top Itineraries Earn Top Honors
In addition to winning the Best Shore Excursions award for its diverse and enriching selection of tours, Holland America Line maintained its leading position as the cruise line with the Best Alaska Itineraries. In 2015, the line will deploy seven ships on 124 unique itineraries highlighted by scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier and Alaska’s famed Inside Passage. Land+Sea Journeys combine a Holland America Line Alaska cruise with an overland tour to Denali National Park and the Yukon.
Holland America Line also received top honors from Porthole for its Canada/New England voyages, which explore the historic seaports and stunning fall foliage of the region. In 2015, Holland America Line will offer 39 cruises on three ships — ms Maasdam, ms Eurodam and ms Veendam — to ports along the eastern coast of North America.
Rounding out the honors garnered for top itineraries are the line’s Northern Europe cruises. While visiting some of the most charming, scenic and history ports, guests can marvel at the fjords of Norway, attend an evening ballet at St. Petersburg, Russia, or traverse the Arctic Circle to marvel at the splendor of the midnight sun. In 2015, Holland America Line will have four ships sailing throughout the region.
Medical Facilities and Facilities for Physically Challenged Passengers
Once again, Holland America Line received recognition for its accessibility and shipboard infirmary. Holland America ships accommodate guests with a variety of special needs and feature state-of-the-art medical facilities and equipment.
About Porthole Cruise Magazine
Porthole Cruise Magazine is published bimonthly in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Now in its 18th year, it is the nation’s leading consumer cruise publication, featuring cruise and destination articles for both first-time and experienced cruisers. Available on newsstands as well as by both print and digital subscriptions, each issue includes ship reviews, cruise destination features and other editorial about cruise trends, food and wine, spa and well-being, entertainment, kids’ activities, and other onboard amenities. To learn more, visit Porthole.com.
For more information about Holland America Line, contact a travel professional or call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.