The Ultimate Guide to Cruising Holland America With Kids

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Amazon
• Pinterest

If you’ve been wondering whether Holland America is a good fit for your family vacation, the answer is a big yes. While they’re often thought of as a cruise line for adults, Holland America actually offers a lot for kids, teens, and multi-generational travelers. It’s a great option for families who want to relax without the party vibe that some other cruise lines give off.

From family-friendly itineraries to kids’ clubs and shore excursions that wow, here’s your go-to guide for planning an unforgettable Holland America cruise with your crew.

Why Choose Holland America for Families?

Holland America has a more relaxed vibe than the party-focused lines, which can be a major plus for families who want to balance fun with a little peace and quiet. You’ll find quality food, spacious staterooms, engaging kids’ programming, and destinations that are bucket-list worthy—whether you’re chasing glaciers in Alaska or soaking up the Caribbean sun.

Best Family-Friendly Ships

Some ships are better suited for families than others, especially when it comes to kids’ club space, pools, and cabin options. Holland America’s Pinnacle-class ships (like Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Rotterdam) have the newest kids’ clubs, larger pool decks, and more family staterooms.

Check out my other post to see which Holland America ships are best for families.

Family Amenities Onboard

• Kids’ Clubs – Club HAL offers supervised programs for kids 3–17, split into age-appropriate groups.
• Pools & Sports – Family pools, basketball courts, and ping-pong tables keep everyone active.
• Entertainment – Family-friendly shows, live music, and interactive games like trivia or scavenger hunts.

Best Itineraries for Families

• Alaska – Perfect for wildlife lovers, with opportunities for whale watching, glacier spotting, and dog sledding.
• Caribbean – Easy beach days, snorkeling adventures, and warm weather all year.
• Europe – Great for older kids and teens who can appreciate history, culture, and iconic cities.
• Holiday Cruises – Halloween parades, Christmas decorations, and New Year’s Eve celebrations at sea. Or check out the 4th of July New England cruise itinerary.

Holland America also runs promotions on select sailing where kids get to sail FOR FREE. Check out the best deals available now.

Shore Excursions Kids Will Love

When booking excursions, look for ones labeled “Family” or “Easy Activity.” Some hits include:

• Alaska – Dog sledding on a glacier, gold panning, or visiting a wildlife sanctuary.
• Caribbean – Catamaran rides, snorkeling with sea turtles, or exploring forts and pirate history.
• Europe – Chocolate-making workshops in Belgium or bike tours in Amsterdam.

Dining With Kids on Holland America

• Kids’ Menus – Available in the main dining room and at specialty restaurants.
• Flexible Options – Lido Market buffet is great for quick, no-fuss meals.
• Sweet Treats – Don’t miss the free ice cream station at the buffet!
  Pro tip: Holland America allows you to bring limited snacks onboard, which can be a lifesaver with picky eaters.

For more information, check out my blog post that goes into more detail about the various Holland America family dining options available.

Family Cabins & Sleeping Arrangements

• Family Oceanview Staterooms – Sleep up to five with extra space.
• Connecting Rooms – Great for teens or multi-generational groups.
• Suites – Extra perks like priority boarding and more storage space.

Holland America is a great option for cruising with a family of 5. Unlike other cruise lines, there are plenty of room options that can accommodate 5 people.

Sea Day Fun for All Ages

• Pool Time – Relax and cool off at the pool.
• Games & Crafts – Many activities are open to parents and kids together.
• Quiet Time – Holland America libraries are cozy spots for storytime or puzzles.

Tips for Cruising Holland America With Kids

1. Book Early – Family staterooms sell out fast.
2. Plan Downtime – Kids can get overstimulated with too much go-go-go.
3. Mix Ages for Activities – Sometimes the best memories happen when everyone’s together.
4. Budget for Extras – Specialty dining, shore excursions, and internet packages add up.

Bottom Line

A Holland America cruise with kids blends adventure, relaxation, and family time in a way few vacations can. With thoughtful planning—choosing the right ship, itinerary, and activities—you’ll set your family up for a trip full of memories you’ll talk about for years.

Check out this post if you want to explore some other good cruises for families.

Note: Affiliate links on this page may earn me commission if used to make purchases. This doesn’t cost you a penny extra, and it helps to keep my website up and running for free.