Holland America's Ultimate Luxury Cruise Experience
Written by Dawn Wilson
I never really thought of myself as a cruise person until I realized there’s a whole elevated experience waiting for those who choose the right cruise line. The key is selecting a premium or luxury cruise line that offers exclusive experiences you’re looking for. Lines like Holland America, for example, offer programs packed with luxury amenities. I added Club Orange to my plan, which enhanced my entire cruise experience.
Club Orange is a premium service offered by Holland America Line that provides an elevated cruise experience for guests seeking luxury and personalized attention. For an additional fee, members enjoy a variety of exclusive benefits. One of the key perks on the Pinnacle Class ships is access to a private dining venue, where guests can enjoy breakfast and dinner with a refined menu featuring premium dishes. Members also benefit from priority check-in at the cruise terminal, allowing them to bypass long lines and board the ship more quickly. I’ll admit, this was the start of something truly memorable since I hate waiting in long lines. Just as important to me as someone seeking an elevated cruise experience, priority disembarkation was also included in the Club Orange package, which allowed me to leave the ship with ease at the end of the cruise.
In addition to these conveniences, Club Orange provided me with upgraded amenities in my staterooms, such as welcome gifts. We also had access to a dedicated Club Orange Lounge, offering me a comfortable space to relax and socialize. Personalized service is another highlight, with priority access to the Guest Services desk and enhanced room service options. Members are also invited to exclusive events and cocktail receptions throughout the cruise. Depending on availability, Club Orange guests may enjoy priority stateroom selection or even an upgrade to a higher category. In short, Club Orange provides an enhanced cruising experience with a focus on luxury, comfort, and exclusivity. It exceeded my expectations of what a cruise could offer.
Another highlight of my cruise was The Retreat offered by Holland America Line, which provided me with an exclusive and luxurious way to enjoy the outdoors during my cruise. Located on the ship’s top deck, this spacious and intimate area is designed for someone seeking a more refined, private experience while enjoying sensational panoramic ocean views. The retreat includes comfortable seating, lounge chairs, and cabanas, all situated in a serene, sun-soaked environment that feels like a personal sanctuary at sea.
Guests can reserve The Retreat for a variety of occasions, whether for a relaxing day of sunbathing, enjoying a quiet space to read, or even hosting a small gathering. It is the ideal place to go to disconnect and center yourself again. The retreat offers both shared and private seating options, ensuring flexibility depending on the guest’s needs. For those looking for extra indulgence, premium services such as food and beverage offerings, along with personalized concierge attention, are available. This allows guests to unwind and enjoy their time at sea in complete comfort and privacy, making it an ideal option for travelers seeking an elevated, exclusive onboard experience.
In essence, the Private Retreat is all about luxury, offering a peaceful escape with a high level of personal service, making it perfect for guests who want to enjoy a more tranquil and premium cruising experience while still being immersed in the beauty of the ocean.
I can’t imagine going on a cruise and not taking advantage of the spa services and amenities, especially as part of a luxury (VIP) experience. The Spa and Thermal Suite aboard Holland America Line ships offer an indulgent and rejuvenating experience designed to help guests unwind and recharge during their cruise. Located within the ship’s luxurious spa area, the Thermal Suite is a serene oasis featuring a variety of heat-based treatments aimed at promoting relaxation and well-being. The suite includes a selection of specialized thermal lounges, such as heated ceramic loungers, saunas, and steam rooms, all designed to soothe tired muscles and provide a calming atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the Thermal Suite is the Saltwater Whirlpool, where guests can enjoy a relaxing soak while taking in stunning ocean views. At times, it was hard for me to pull myself away for dinner because it was just so soothing and relaxing. The foot spas and cold plunge pools also provide an invigorating contrast to the heat, helping to stimulate circulation and enhance the overall experience. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the suite features rain showers with different settings that simulate tropical rain or warm mist.
Additionally, guests can take advantage of various spa treatments, including massages, facials, and beauty services, to further enhance their relaxation. The Thermal Suite can be accessed through a Thermal Suite Pass, which grants guests unlimited access during their voyage. It’s the perfect environment for someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the ship, offering a tranquil retreat to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate while sailing the seas.
I would remise if I didn’t mention the culinary scene Aboard Holland America's Rotterdam ship, as it truly enhanced my experience. We were spoiled for dining choices like Morimoto by Sea, Pinnacle Grill, and Tamarind, which were among my favorites. Morimoto by Sea presents a sophisticated blend of sushi and pan-Asian dishes, created by the renowned chef Masaharu Morimoto. Pinnacle Grill is a classic steakhouse offering premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and elegant sides in an upscale, intimate setting. Meanwhile, Tamarind serves an enticing menu of Asian-inspired dishes, featuring flavors from across China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a bold and diverse culinary experience. Each restaurant offers a unique and high-quality dining experience, elevating the onboard dining options to a new level of luxury.
With its numerous benefits, Club Orange offers the ultimate upscale, VIP experience. Holland America has thoughtfully designed every detail to ensure guests can indulge in complete comfort and relaxation, making it the perfect way to enjoy a luxurious, all-inclusive cruise experience.
