In response to customer feedback and rising airfare costs, Holland America Line has adapted its deployment strategy to offer more extended roundtrip cruises from domestic homeports. This change in strategy reflects the growing demand for longer and more immersive travel experiences.
Holland America Line has introduced a new category of extended cruises, along with longer sailings to various destinations, such as the Caribbean. This shift has resulted in a 41% increase in the line's 12-day capacity, and a doubling of its capacity for sailings lasting at least 50 days. The decision to offer longer cruises was informed by extensive customer research and focus group discussions.
Travelers can look forward to more Caribbean cruises ranging from nine to 21 days. These itineraries feature visits to less frequented, exotic destinations such as the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), the Panama Canal, and Cartagena, Colombia. Additionally, Holland America Line is planning to extend its European sailings as well.
The rising cost of Air Travel has also encouraged the Cruise line to introduce a new category of 29 to 59-day roundtrip sailings from domestic homeports. As air travel becomes increasingly challenging and expensive, the demand for longer cruises starting and ending at domestic ports is expected to grow.
To cater to this demand, Holland America Line is launching a new category called "Legendary Voyages." These extended cruises will mainly depart from the United States or Canada. One such example is a 53-day journey from Seattle aboard the Westerdam, which will explore Alaska, visit 14 ports in Japan, sail to Hawaii, and then return to Seattle.
Holland America Line is not the only Cruise company focusing on longer sailings. Norwegian Cruise Line also plans to sail its first two Prima Class ships on seven to 12-day voyages, as they have found that customers are increasingly interested in more extended trips.
Holland America Line's shift in deployment strategy demonstrates a keen understanding of travelers' desires for more extended and immersive Cruise experiences. By offering longer roundtrip sailings from domestic homeports, the cruise line is addressing the growing demand for diverse and exotic destinations, as well as accommodating the challenges and expenses associated with Air Travel. This development is likely to attract more travelers seeking unforgettable journeys across the globe.
