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Denali, Alaska

Cruise & Tour roundtrip from Vancouver

Alaska, Denali & Yukon Cruisetour

With striking mountain vistas, and a thriving art & theatre scene, there's plenty to see and do in the bustling seaport of Vancouver during a two night hotel stay before joining Nieuw Amsterdam®, to set sail with Holland America Line®, renowned for over 75 years of exceptional Alaska journeys. From the Glacier-cut fjords of the Inside Passage, wild-life spotting in the majestic Denali National Park & Preserve, to fascinating Gold Rush history and Native Traditions of the untamed Klondike Yukon Territory this 14 night Cruisetour combines the best of an Alaska cruise with an unforgettable journey into the heart of Alaska's interior.

Enjoy an elegant mid-sized ship, a comfortable stateroom with refined amenities and Holland America's signature Mariner's Dream™ bed, 24-hour in-room dining, world-class entertainment and cuisine, including a new first-of-its-kind Global Fresh Fish Program.  On the Nieuw Amsterdam enjoy World Stage, home to a variety of performances and lectures day and night, dance to your favourite songs at the Rolling Stone Lounge or sing along and test your music trivia with Billboard Onboard. For leisurely days at sea try your hand at the Pickleball courts that have amazing top-deck views or rejuvenate at Greenhouse Spa & Salon®.



Departs

  • 8 Aug 25 flying from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch
  • 10 Aug 25 | Cruisetour Alaska, Denali & Yukon

Deal Includes

  • Economy Class return flights from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch to Vancouver
  • Transfer Vancouver Airport to Hotel
  • 2 Night pre-cruise Hotel stay in Vancouver including transfer to Port
  • 7 Night Cruise onboard Nieuw Amsterdam® Vancouver to Whittier including all meals onboard
  • HOT EXCLUSIVE BONUS Receive USD$75 Onboard Spending Money per stateroom
  • Cruise Port Charges & Government Taxes
  • Cruisetrain Whittier to Anchorage (meet Tour Director)
  • 2 Nights Hotel Stay in Anchorage
  • Transfer Anchorage Hotel to Rail depot
  • Rail Holland America's exclusive premium glass-domed McKinley Explorer® Anchorage to Denali
  • Transfer Denali Rail depot to Hotel
  • 2 nights stay at Holland America Denali Lodge
  • Denali National Park Tundra Wilderness Tour, snack included
  • Transfer Motorcoach Denali to Fairbanks
  • Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks on an authentic sternwheeler, lunch included
  • Flight Fairbanks to Dawson City
  • 2 nights Hotel stay at Dawson Inn
  • Klondike Gold Tour
  • Transfer Hotel to Dawson City Airport
  • Flights Dawson City/Whitehorse/Vancouver (farewell Tour Director)
  • 1 night Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel (inside airport terminal)
  • Note all cruise dining is included. A snack is included on the Tundra Wilderness Tour, and lunch is included on the Riverboat Discovery cruise. Dining plans with included gratuities can be pre-paid, choose a Breakfast only, Denali or a Full Dining Plan to pair with your land journey. Please ask your consultant for pricing.


Cruisetour Itinerary

Vancouver, B.C., CA

4:00 PM (Embark)

The perfect combination of urban meets nature, Vancouver is a hub for lovers of the great outdoors. Enjoy picturesque views of the mountains while exploring the city’s local hot spots like Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown and more. Don’t forget to sample the best of the local culinary and cocktail scene for something truly unique. Here’s how to enjoy a stop at Hollywood of the North.

Scenic Cruising The Inside Passage

Relax and enjoy a full day of scenic Inside Passage cruising and immerse yourself in Holland America Line elegance.

Alaska's Inside Passage is a renowned cruising route through a protected network of waterways, featuring glacier-cut fjords, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Stops along the route showcase Alaska's rich history, including Native Alaskan culture in Ketchikan and Skagway's Gold Rush era legacy. Here's how to experience the best of the Inside Passage.

 Ketchikan, Alaska, US

Arrives: 06:30 AM

Departs: 03:00PM

Explore this uniquely Alaskan port, famous for its rich native culture, salmon fishing, and scenic Misty Fjords.

Take an adventure and cruise to Ketchikan, Alaska. Alaska's "First City" of Ketchikan is so named because it’s the first major landfall for most cruisers as they enter the picturesque fjords of the Inside Passage, where the town clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain. 

Ketchikan has long been an important hub of the salmon-fishing and -packing industries. Visitors can try their luck on a sportfishing  or simply savor the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants on a cruise to Ketchikan Excursions. Ketchikanis also one of the best spots along the Inside Passage to explore the rich cultural sights of Native Alaskan nations like the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. You can see intricately carved totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Park, while the attractions of Saxman Village just outside of Ketchikan offers the chance to see Tlingit culture in action, with working carvers and a dance show in the clan house. On an Alaska Cruise to Ketchikan don't forget to leave time to explore the sights in the town itself, including historic Creek Street, a boardwalk built over the Ketchikan Creek, where you can shop for souvenirs, smoked salmon and local art, while exploring gold rush­–era tourist attractions like Dolly’s House Museum.

Juneau, Alaska, US

Arrives: 07:00 AM

Departs: 08:00 PM

Enjoy a full day of exploring Alaska's capital-choose from exciting shore excursions and still have time to shop.

Cruise to Juneau, Alaska and visit the most remote, most beautiful and strangest state capital in the United States. Surrounded by water, forest and mountain sights, visitors seeking things to do in Juneau indoors and outdoors can hike a glacier, eat fresh-caught fish on a seaside patio and tour a grand capitol building all in one day.

Juneau is known for its outdoor recreation, fresh seafood and fine dining. The city itself is pleasant, but the real highlight of a visit to Juneau is tracking down some wildlife. You can hike up Mount Roberts to chance upon wild deer and bald eagles. Most sightseeing and whale-watching tours head north to Auke Bay—bring a good pair of binoculars to get the best view of these majestic and surprisingly graceful creatures. If you prefer land mammals, catch a floatplane to a nearby wildlife reserve such as Chichagof or Admiralty Island to spy some bears lolling around on Alaska cruise excursion.

The sleepy, misty city of around 32,000—mostly fishermen and small-business owners—has a frontier town vibe, but welcomes more than a million visitors each summer to its natural attractions, cementing Juneau as Alaska’s number-one tourist destination. Experience this breathtaking city on an Alaska cruise.

Skagway, Alaska, US

Arrives: 05:30 AM

Departs: 09:00 PM

Step back to the days of the last great gold rush-choose from exciting shore excursions and still have time to shop.

At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, the port town of Skagway served as the primary gateway to the legendary gold fields, and quickly grew into Alaska’s largest settlement. It was then a raucous frontier hub packed with trading posts, saloons and guesthouses. As the gold rush faded into the 1900s, so did Skagway—but today it has been reinvigorated as a gateway for a new kind of visitor: those looking to explore Alaska’s colorful history, pristine wildlife and unrivaled natural beauty.

Set sail on an Alaska Cruise and take an adventure in Skagway. At every turn, you’ll find yourself immersed in gold rush lore, from the infamous Red Onion Saloon that still keeps a pistol that Wyatt Earp left behind en route to the Klondike, to the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a classic narrow-gauge railway that traverses rugged mountains and passes cascading waterfalls and towering glaciers as it connects Skagway to Whitehorse deep in the Yukon. Known as the "Garden City of Alaska," Skagway is filled with beauty and nature. Explore the town on a Skagway Excursions. Much of the town has been preserved as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, where rangers offer free walking tours around the historic district. Take an Alaska Cruise to Skagway and you’ll also find a vibrant local community, home to a rich collection of local galleries, curio shops and restaurants serving seafood plucked fresh from nearby waters.

Glacier Bay

Arrives: 07:00 AM

Departs: 04:00 PM

Cruise the ice-studded fjords of this national treasure for a full eight hours as a Park Service Ranger narrates.

On your cruise to Glacier Bay, close your eyes and take in the sounds—the creaks and groans of  “living” ice, the shrill cries of gulls and soaring eagles, the splash of a breaching humpback whale. Frosted peaks towering over mossy forests, wide tidewater glaciers (there are seven in the park), and marine wildlife are givens on Glacier Bay cruises, but every experience in this changing biosphere is unique.

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve is best explored on an Alaska Cruise or an Alaska Land + Sea Journey cruise tour. Our ships are perfectly sized for the optimal experience. Prepare for inclement weather, even in summer and dress for rain. Pack a hat, gloves, wool or fleece layers, a warm coat and waterproof gear to comfortably admire the landscape from the open deck of your ship. There are glaciers, fjords, inlets, rivers, streams and wildlife galore on Glacier Bay cruises, so bring those binoculars.

 

More About Glacier Bay Cruises

With the serene majesty of snow-flecked and forested mountains defining its shores, Glacier Bay National Park offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. Keep your binoculars and camera on hand as you cruise Glacier Bay to the mile-wide Margerie Glacier, where you may have a chance to witness ice calving. Wildlife abounds in Glacier Bay, so stay ready—you never know when you will see the fluke of a humpback rise out of the water or spot a lone brown bear wandering a wind-swept beach.

 

Glacier Bay with the Experts

On our Glacier Bay cruises and Alaska Land+Sea Journey cruise tours, local experts come aboard for an experience that is both filled with natural wonder and enriching. As a proud Authorized Concessioner for Glacier Bay National Park, we partner with rangers and local Huna Tlingit guides who provide expert insight into this diverse ecosystem and millennia-old culture. You will not only leave Glacier Bay with a shorter bucket list, you will have a deeper understanding and appreciation of this 3.3-million-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

 

Your Glacier Bay Cruise Begins

As you cruise up the picturesque coast of Alaska’s panhandle toward Glacier Bay, immerse in all things Alaska by participating in Exploration Central activities, Glacier Bay’s natural history EXC Talks that aim to give an insider’s perspective on the destination. 

Attend the Glacier Bay Primer Talk before your cruise to Glacier Bay. Get important details about the National Park Service Rangers’ commentary and the presentation from the Huna Tlingit cultural guide, covering the area’s ecology, how advancing glacial ice forced the Huna Tlingit people from their home, and why it’s critical that wild lands remain wild.

 

Glacier Bay Cruise For the Kids

There’s plenty for little nature fans on cruises to Glacier Bay. Club HAL offers engaging age-appropriate activities for kids on your Glacier Bay cruise—and an exclusive Junior Ranger program for kids ages 3-16, available only in Glacier Bay.

 

The Taste and Tone of Alaska Onboard Your Glacier Bay Cruise

Dine on savory local salmon and other regionally produced foods, wines, and spirits from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest before catching evening entertainment. Enjoy jaw-dropping footage and rousing scores of BBC Earth's "Alaska in Concert" and the Alaska Stage Show; a captivating, animated stage experience bringing to life the cultural history of Glacier Bay and Tlingit traditions.

College Fjord

Arrives: 06:00 PM

Departs: 08:00 PM

Enjoy a leisurely day highlighted by evening cruising through picturesque College Fjord.

An Alaska glaciers cruise is the best way to see majestic, centuries-old rivers of ice cascading from the mountains to the sea. Glaciers have shaped many Alaska lakes, rivers and valleys one slow centimeter at a time. They’ve fascinated scientists and inspired artists for a long time. Scenic cruising College Fjord will bring you close to many glaciers—there’s even a spot where you can see eight at once. Your chances of watching ice thunder into the water is high, as the Prince William Sound is one of the most active areas for calving.

Out of all Alaska fjords, College Fjord is the most storied. The Harriman Expedition of 1899 with John Muir and other notable scientists traversed the College Fjord aboard the George W. Elder, funded by Ivy League colleges. All of the glaciers were named for various schools. As you travel into College Fjord, the glaciers on the left are named for women's colleges and those on the right are named for men's colleges. The names are Amherst, Barnard, Bryn Mawr, Harvard, Smith, Vassar, and Yale).

Harvard Glacier is the biggest – its face is a mile and a half across. In case you’re wondering, it is rumored that the scientists snubbed Princeton.

Whittier, Alaska, US

Arrives: 01:00 AM

Disembark and enjoy a scenic rail journey along Turnagain Arm aboard the cruisetrain enroute to Anchorage where you will meet your Tour Director.

Holland America Line’s Alaska cruise tours now include the tiny town of Whittier. This remote village is nestled along breathtaking Prince William Sound, home to a stunning array of wildlife, including bald eagles, sea otters and killer whales, so have your camera ready. Whittier has the odd distinction of being almost entirely under one roof. No need to get in a car to go to the grocery store, bank or a friend’s house. All town services are sheltered from the often-inclement weather in this unique and practical way, and virtually all of Whittier’s approximately 220 residents live in the 14-story Begich Towers, originally a Cold War outpost for the U.S. Army. Not only will you experience Whittier’s small town charm on Alaska cruise, there is also plenty of outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, scuba diving and kayaking. It is also known for its high concentration of glaciers.

Anchorage, Alaska, US

Explore on your own or take optional excursions with an entire free day in Anchorage. Don't miss the chance to ride the Anchorage Trolley or immerse yourself in Alaskan tribal culture at the Native Heritage Center.

Embark on a cruise to Anchorage, Alaska, a haven for nature lovers. With its national parks, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife—from city moose to majestic whales—Anchorage is a must-visit. Experience the Northern Lights, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture. Your Anchorage, Alaska cruise port adventure awaits.

Day 10: Board the luxurious domed rail cars of the McKinley Explorer to Denali for a two night stay at this magnificent national treasure. Don't miss the chance to visit Denali Square and immerse yourself in the Denali experience.

Day 11: Today features the unforgettable Tundra Wilderness Tour. This 5 - 6 hour, fully narrated sightseeing excursion takes you into the heart of Denali National Park. The tour will go to mile 43 because of road construction but will continue to offer the best opportunity to view Denali’s iconic wildlife and North America’s tallest peak. (snack included) *Tundra Wilderness Tour may change times or date.

Denali is the number one reason to book Alaska cruisetours into the state’s rugged wilderness and it’s easy to understand why. At an impressive 20,310 feet above sea level, Denali isn’t just any mountain; it’s the centerpiece of Alaska’s interior, a shining jewel rising above pristine Alaska wilderness. Good news if you want more than just a glimpse of “the Great One.” When you book a cruisetour, you can settle in for up to three nights and get a true sense of North America’s tallest mountain.

Dawson, Yukon

Day 12: Today you'll head to Fairbanks, Alaska's Golden Heart City. After a step back in time aboard the sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery (lunch included), board a short flight bound for colorful Dawson City, Yukon.

Day 13: This morning see the original Discovery Claim that triggered the Klondike Gold Rush. Enjoy time at Gold Dredge 4 while a Parks Canada guide shares the history of gold dredging in the area. The afternoon is free for optional excursions.

Once the pulsing heart of the Klondike Gold Rush, Dawson City today is a cluster of wooden sidewalks and charming frontier-era shops on the banks of the Yukon river. There are plenty of reasons to take cruise tours to Dawson City, Yukon. Though gold rush lore is the main draw, it has a rich history well before the discovery of gold and subsequent stampede in 1896. The Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin or "people of the river" have frequented the area for thousands of years and there’s much heritage to learn and appreciate. The town was also a muse for literary legends, Robert Service and Jack London.

Present-day Dawson still has active gold mining and a thriving tourism and arts scene. Many adventurers stop in Dawson to stock up on supplies before heading to the ragged peaks of the Yukon’s Tombstone Territorial Park.

Not only can you step into the shoes of a prospector and pan for gold, Dawson City is likely the only place in the world where you can drink a cocktail with a real human toe plunked into it. Explore Dawson City, Yukon on Alaska Cruisetours.

Vancouver, B.C., CA

Day 14: Today you'll bid farewell to your Tour Director and fly to Vancouver on Yukon's own Air North to overnight at the luxurious Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel.

Day 15: Your Cruisetour concludes this morning in Vancouver.

The perfect combination of urban meets nature, Vancouver is a hub for lovers of the great outdoors. Enjoy picturesque views of the mountains while exploring the city’s local hot spots like Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown and more. Don’t forget to sample the best of the local culinary and cocktail scene for something truly unique. Here’s how to enjoy a stop at Hollywood of the North.

Cabin Types

from Auckland

Inside Stateroom

2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower.

Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch

Fly, Stay, Cruise & Tour

from $10,159 per person based on twin share

  • HOT EXCLUSIVE BONUS: Receive USD$75.00 Onboard Spending Money per stateroom
  • Great Land Dining Plans: All cruise dining is included. A snack is included on the Tundra Wilderness Tour, and lunch is included on the Riverboat Discovery cruise. Dining plans with included gratuities can be pre-paid, choose a Breakfast only, Denali or a Full Dining Plan to pair with your land journey.
  • Travel 08 Aug - 24 Aug 25

Oceanview Stateroom

2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. All H- and HH-category staterooms have fully obstructed views. Ambulatory accessible with roll-in shower, standard doors.

Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch

Fly, Stay, Cruise & Tour

from $10,869 per person based on twin share

  • HOT EXCLUSIVE BONUS: Receive USD$75.00 Onboard Spending Money per stateroom
  • Great Land Dining Plans: All cruise dining is included. A snack is included on the Tundra Wilderness Tour, and lunch is included on the Riverboat Discovery cruise. Dining plans with included gratuities can be pre-paid, choose a Breakfast only, Denali or a Full Dining Plan to pair with your land journey.
  • Travel 08 Aug - 24 Aug 25

Veranda Stateroom

2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows.

Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch

Fly, Stay, Cruise & Tour

from $11,679 per person based on twin share

  • HOT EXCLUSIVE BONUS: Receive USD$75.00 Onboard Spending Money per stateroom
  • Great Land Dining Plans: All cruise dining is included. A snack is included on the Tundra Wilderness Tour, and lunch is included on the Riverboat Discovery cruise. Dining plans with included gratuities can be pre-paid, choose a Breakfast only, Denali or a Full Dining Plan to pair with your land journey.
  • Travel 08 Aug - 24 Aug 25

Please note: Stateroom images and features are samples only. Actual furniture, fixtures, colors, configurations and window/porthole views may vary.

Terms & Conditions

Onboard Gratuities are not included, please allow: USD$17 per person per night for non-suite staterooms, USD$19 per person per night for suite staterooms.
* Weather dependent, may change to Denali Natural History Tour.

All cruise packages are based on Twin share, inside cabin and costs are per person. Availability is current as at 02 December 2024 and deals are available until date shown or until sold out. Space is strictly limited and is subject to availability at time of booking. On board credit where shown is per cabin & must be spent on board and is not refundable in cash. All passengers are bound by the individual cruise lines terms & conditions, please ask your consultant for a full copy. Current Deals must be paid in full at time of booking or deposit dates as shown. All passengers must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity at the end of their holiday. Travel insurance should be taken out at time of booking to cover in the event of any unforeseen cancellation. Included airfares are based on special non refundable economy fares, ground transfers are not included unless specified, any hotels included are on a room only basis unless specified. Hotels in certain destinations in Europe, USA and Asia may require local tourist taxes or resort fees payable at check in, We aim to give an indication of these where possible, but unfortunately you cannot pre pay this aspect of the hotel rate and must settle at check in. ESTA Visas are required for Itineraries visiting USA ,Canada, India, China, Vietnam, Schengen states & Sri Lanka. Visa costs are not included. Passports must be valid at least 6 months after the end of your holiday, If travelling on a non NZ passport other visas + NZ re-entry permits may also be required, please check with applicable embassy. Passport validity, Visas, Vaccinations and health requirements are the responsibility of the passengers. Individual cruise line T&C will apply based on the cruise line booked


HOT CODE: CMPCRU3009

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose which type of cruise is right for me
There are three main types of cruising

Ocean Cruises
There is a wide range of itineraries, cruise lines and cruise ships to choose from for those seeking an ocean experience, or an exciting adventure across many countries. Ocean cruising is an amazing holiday where everything you could possibly need is within easy reach.

River Cruises
A leisurely cruise along the world’s waterways is a relaxing, and luxurious, way to travel. Whether you’re navigating across Europe or cruising Southeast Asia’s Mekong River, each new day on a river cruise brings a new experience.  

Luxury Cruises
Luxury beyond belief. Soak up Michelin-star fine dining restaurants, butler service, and luxurious suites. Luxury cruising appeals to those travellers demanding an unparalleled, all-inclusive travel experience away from the hustle and bustle of the large crowds

What types of cruises are there?
There are cruises tailored to every type of traveller ie; adults only, couples, families, retirees, singles, large groups etc.  Depending on the cruise line will depend on the type of cruise available and what is best suited to the experience you want. 

Most offer a full range of activities and facilities to participate in as a family. Kids clubs are also offered in some ships and are focused on keeping children entertained.  Be prepared, some are more “kid-friendly” than others -always check with your HOT travel consultant 

Many cruise lines have adults only areas, and some are even fully adults only cruise ships.  The larger the ship, the more space you will have. If you are looking for something a little smaller and more intimate, your cruising specialist will help you find that.

Can I go on a cruise if I’m travelling alone?
Yes - taking a cruise is a great way to relax and see the world at your own pace. A cruise is a fun and safe environment to meet other people, or just soak up the experience solo. Ask your cruise consultant about what’s best for solo travel and find out about the special add on rates for single occupancy of double staterooms.

Should I check in before I go
YES - we highly recommend checking in online ahead of time. While the process differs between cruise lines, you will usually need to create an account and enter your personal and booking details. It’s a must to do this in advance as you will be provided with a lot of important information to ensure you are fully prepared. This takes the stress out of the boarding process.

You may be offered a choice of a few different boarding times, although some cruise lines do pre-allocate this for you.  Your check in process will also outline when your bags are likely to be available once you are on board. This is important as it may not be immediately so you might want to reconsider what you take as carry-on so you have some essentials on hand 

What happens when I embark
Like all travel, ensure you arrive at your embarkation port on time (preferably a little earlier) for your allocated boarding time. Make sure you have your boarding passes printed, your luggage tags securely attached to your bags and your passport on hand ready to go.  

Look out for your designated terminal, drop off your bags, then make your way through the security process. This is very similar to an airport, with metal detectors and x-rays for smaller carry-on bags.  

Once through security, you will approach the check-in counter, where you will have your photo taken and receive your onboard card, which will serve as your cabin key, onboard payment method and onboard ID. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin during embarkation.

Is cruising expensive?
Like all travel, the cost is dependent on a lot of factors – things like the length of cruise, destination(s), the type of cruise line or room type.  But because there is so much variety, there will be a cruise to suit everyone's budget.  It can work out to be great value for money compared to a regular fly/stay holiday.

Will I get seasickness?
Most modern cruise ships have stabilizers in place to ensure passenger comfort. Plus, cruise ships will alter their routes in advance to avoid any adverse weather patterns and storms etc.

But if you are prone to motion sickness, you could find yourself getting seasick on your cruise holiday. You could try natural remedies or over-the-counter prescribed medicines to counter motion sickness. 

Do I need a passport or visa to cruise
You will require a passport to cruise internationally. Some close to home domestic sailings will only require a valid driver’s license. It is always recommended to have a valid passport whilst cruising and is your responsibility to ensure you have the applicable photo identification. Some countries do require you to obtain a visa in advance if you wish to disembark the ship in port. You will need to check the visa requirements for the countries visited on your cruise itinerary. Countries such as China, Russia, India, Canada and the USA require all New Zealand passport holders to obtain a visa. Always check with your HOT travel consultant and they will direct you to the right information.

Will I save money if I book at the last minute or early?
We recommend that if you are looking for a great deal book your cruise early. Some cruise lines offer great incentives for the early booking travellers. Thery could be things like complimentary room category upgrades, bonuses and discounted prices. Some even do airline flight credits! But these deals are normally for a limited time and will not last.   Join our HOT cruise newsletter / email database, and we will let you know when there are offers or special deals available.

Cruise pricing, like most things, reflects supply and demand. The more demand there is for a particular cruise the higher the price will be. Demand could be determined by factors such as the destination, seasons & duration of the cruise holiday. 

Like anything, waiting till the last minute does involve risk. If you wait, your cruise may have sold out.  Then there is also the possibility of getting the cruise but in a room category that you don’t want. Our expert advice is - book early!

 

Is there a dress code on board
It will depend on what cruise line you are sailing with. As a rule, casual dress is accepted during the day, with smart casual or formal attire being required at night. Most cruise lines do not accept caps, jandals, bare feet, swimwear or sleepwear in formal dining venues.  

Some cruise lines enforce a stricter dress code, with men required to wear jackets and women cocktail attire at dinner. If you do not comply with your cruise line’s dress code, you may be asked to leave a particular venue. Make sure you check with your HOT travel consultant   - you don’t want to get caught out

Do cruise ships cater for passengers with accessibility requirement?
Yes, most cruise lines have accessibility assistance in place for passengers with disabilities. Cruise ships typically offer a range of wheelchair-accessible cabins, however, the number of these may be limited. You must advise at time of booking – make sure you speak to your HOT travel consultant and outline any requirements for you or your travelling companions

Some ocean ships can be large, which at times can be difficult for passengers with mobility problems to navigate. To make things easier, on some cruise ships you can rent a scooter or wheelchair for the duration of your cruise. Always check in advance with your HOT travel consultant

Can I smoke onboard a cruise ship?
All cabins and public areas onboard cruise ships are strictly non-smoking / vaping. You can, smoke/ vape in the ship’s designated smoking zones only

If in doubt, ask the staff onboard your ship. 

Are my valuables safe on board?
If you bring valuables with you, they are best to be kept in your in-room safe.  We also recommend you keep your passport, and any important documents locked in the your safe also.


Are gratuities or tips included?
This depends on the cruise. Your cruise consultant will outline this as part of the booking process.  Some holidays include gratuities in the total price, whilst others might require you to pay once you are onboard.

How much luggage can I bring on the cruise?
Cruise lines are not generally concerned about how much luggage you bring onboard, so there are largely no luggage restrictions on cruise ships. But be aware, some staterooms have limited closet space!  But remember, if you are travelling by air etc to your departure port, all airlines have weight and ‘number of bag’ restrictions.

Don’t get caught out – make sure you check the details carefully and be aware of any restrictions.  Airlines do charge for oversize or excess baggage. Be prepared, check the restrictions with your travel consultant or the airline carrier directly before you book your flights.


Should I book shore excursions or do my own sightseeing?
Talk to your HOT travel consultant, it depends on what you want to do.  You have options – you can do the shore activities arranged directly by the ship, as the quality and service offered is guaranteed.  A bonus, if the tour is delayed the ship will wait for you before it sets sail again.

You can, however, book shore excursions, whilst on board, or in advance if you want a more structured adventure.  Doing your own local sightseeing can be exciting, however you’ll have to pay close attention to time as the ship will not wait for you if you are running late.


What currency is used onboard?
This varies depending on cruise line and destination.  You can almost guarantee that the currency on most cruise lines will not be in NZD. Ships based in Australia will usually have AUD onboard. Ships that cruise in a variety of destinations will have a currency to reflect their company's ownership, which could be currencies such as USD or Euro. Make sure you ask your HOT travel consultant in advance, so you are prepared.


What if I require a special diet?
If you have special dietary requirements, you should advise your HOT travel consultant at time of booking.  If you do have special requirements, make sure you arrange your meals in advance. However, if you do forget, you can arrange it onboard.


What room type should I book?
A lot of first-time cruisers choose an inside room (internal without a window) mainly due to the cost.  However, it is normally only a small difference per day to upgrade to an oceanview room (with a view).

Or investigate an upgrade to a balcony/veranda room which offers floor to ceiling windows that open to allow the fresh ocean air in. Check with your HOT travel consultant

Can I take visitors on board?
Think of a cruise ship like an airplane.  No you can’t. Due to immigration and security reasons only registered guests are permitted onboard at all times.


Is there babysitting on board?
Babysitting is available at extra cost on some ships. Many cruise lines will offer popular kids club facilities onboard, and some cater better than others.  But if you are on a cruise that is targeted at families will be spoilt for choice for ways to entertain the whole family


Is there WiFI and mobile reception?
Yes you can. Most ships offer Wi-Fi throughout the ship, whilst some only offer in designated areas. Most cruise ships have internet cafes on board. Charges do apply for the use of broadband & because it is based on satellite 
Phone Reception is generally only available in ports. Some cruise lines have agreements with land-based phone service companies. If you chose to use this service, you will be paying international roaming rates for these calls.  Find out before you go – your HOT travel consultant can help

How do I pay for on board expenses?
Just like many hotels, an onboard account will be set up for you prior to departure. This means all your onboard purchases can be charged to this account.  Payment will be made at the end of the cruise.

Are there laundry services on board?
Laundry and cleaning services are always available. It’s either self-service laundry facilities or a professional laundry service.  You will find washing machines, dryers, ironing boards, irons and detergent on board. Self-service washing machines & dryers generally tend to be coin operated.

Can I bring alcohol onboard the ship?
You are not allowed to bring alcohol onboard the ships. Duty free and personal alcohol purchased onshore will be collected upon your check in and can be collected on the last day of your cruise. Any Duty- and Tax-Free alcohol purchased on the ship will be held for safekeeping and can be collected on the last day of the cruise.

Not to worry - cruise lines largely offer drink packages so you can purchase drinks onboard. If not, your drinks can be charged to your cruise card.

Can I place a deposit for a cruise booking?
At time of booking you can choose to pay for the cruise in full or pay the minimum per person deposit amount.

When do I need to pay for my cruise in full?
If you have chosen to pay a deposit only, your full payment deadline will be determined by the cruise you book, so please check your Invoice for the final payment due date.

What is included in the price of a cruise?
Cruise holidays are one of the most value for money holidays you could go on. Your transportation, accommodation and main meals are included whilst onboard. Selected activities and entertainment are also included in the price.

There are some additional activities that you may have to pay separately for, like special restaurants & shows.  Ask your HOT travel consultant for a full list of inclusions and added extras you can pay for separately

Do I need travel insurance?
YES – we absolutely recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time you book your cruise. Your HOT travel consultant can organise a quick and simple quote for you. 


Can I book my complete holiday including a cruise?
Your local HOT travel consultant will be able to curate you the perfect holiday making sure that it all works like clockwork.  We can organise your flights, transfers, an amazing cruise, then accommodation and add in extras like a tour, car hire or sightseeing etc. This is where using a HOT travel consultant is critical – it’s complex and our consultants are expert and making it the best holiday ever. 

How can I cancel or make changes my cruise booking?
We know ‘life’ happens.  To cancel your booking, get in contact with your HOT travel consultant as soon as you can. Please note that cancellation fees will apply. Similarly, if you need to make any changes or amendments, we can help, but again, be prepared, change / amendment fees will apply.  Some of your booking may be non-refundable.

When is my final payment due?
Your final payment will be due approximately four to five months before departure. You can find all payment amounts and due dates on your Booking Advice.

When will I receive my travel documents?
Approximately one to two weeks before your departure date. These documents will be sent directly to your email. If in doubt, ask your HOT travel consultant. You would have already received your online passenger information to complete well in advance.

Can I hold a cruise booking?
Pricing for cruises is dynamic and is subject to change. Talk to one of our HOT travel consultants and they can talk you through how it can / does work.

How do I book a cruise for more than 4 people, or book multiple staterooms?
Contact a HOT consultant if you are travelling with more than 4 people, you may need two or more rooms – there are also limitations around the age of children being in rooms by themselves etc –ie; children may not be booked in a room on their own. Children must be accompanied by an adult (over the age of 21) in a room.

What if I am cruising with children?
There are various restrictions imposed by cruise liners around ages of children travelling.  If you are travelling with a child under the age of 12 months, make sure you let your HOT travel consultant know. There are also some restrictions around travelling if you are pregnant and will depend on what stage you are at, again, contact your travel consultant to find out more  as these can vary by cruise liner