Why Holland America Line is a Great Cruise Line for Multigen Trips

Cruises are a popular option for multigen trips for good reason. On most family-friendly ships, there is something for everyone to enjoy, from grandparents who want to lounge in the sun with a book to active kids who prefer splashing in the pool. Plus, cruises offer plenty of time for everyone to come together for meals and excursions.

However, some cruise lines are better than others at ensuring all ages can enjoy the experience. Holland America Line stands out as one of the best from my own experiences.

HAL’s three Pinnacle Class ships, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam, offer family staterooms sleeping up to five. Alternatively, multigen families traveling together can book connecting staterooms; this is the perfect choice for extended families who want to stay close yet have their own space. Verandah staterooms are another great HAL option because families can open a hinged divider to create a larger outdoor space for families to enjoy together.

HAL also makes the group booking process easy. That means extended families don’t need to worry about being separated on different excursions or not being able to eat together. HAL can also arrange private meals, events and shore excursions.

When it comes to where to go, HAL has a wide range of options. Alaska cruises are one of HAL’s most popular destinations for multigen cruises, especially in the summer when kids are out of school. Families can enjoy Alaska’s breathtaking national parks, wildlife, glaciers, fjords and hideaway harbors together. More active family members can try zip lining, mountain hiking and dog sledding. In winter, HAL’s Caribbean cruises are a popular choice; all HAL Caribbean cruises stop at Half Moon Cay, where families can engage in a variety of activities. The Stingray Adventure at Half Moon Cay is a particular favorite.

Kids ages 3–17 can enjoy HAL’s kids’ clubs. Younger kids go on scavenger hunts and craft, while older kids have tournaments and outdoor sports. Teens have their own space and can participate in teen arcade challenges, pinball tournaments and movie nights. HAL also has a new family game room open in the evenings with Skee–Ball, air hockey, board games, a dance party and more.