Holland America Line has announced the extension of its “Flexible Cancellation Plan” to September 30, 2022. As part of its “Worry-Free Promise,” the line will continue to implement health safety measures, including operating vaccinated voyages and requiring a medically supervised negative COVID-19 test prior to cruising.
Under the “Flexible Cancellation Plan,” which was originally offered for cruises departing through the end of April, guests who make a new booking by March 31, 2022, for itineraries that depart on or before September 30 can cancel for any reason and receive a “Future Cruise Credit” in the amount of any cancellation fees that normally would be incurred. Cancellations must be made up to 30 days prior to departure. Additionally, final payments for cruises through May 31, 2022, are due at 60 days instead of 75 or 90.
Holland America Line’s “Cancellation Protection Program” can be purchased for new cruises or Alaska cruisetour bookings or existing bookings as long as it is purchased before the date cancellation fees begin to accrue. The program is offered as a Standard or Platinum plan. With the Standard plan, guests can cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before cruise departure, and right up to departure under the Platinum plan. They will receive refunds between 80 and 90 percent of eligible amounts paid. The cost varies by cruise fare and is nonrefundable.
The line will continue to operate with COVID-19 protocols as guided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization and the company’s medical team and health experts.
As per the guidelines, guests must have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days before the start of the cruise and show proof of vaccination. The company is urging all eligible guests to receive COVID-19 boosters.
Travelers must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within two days of embarkation, and are required to wear masks in indoor areas—except when eating or drinking or in their stateroom. The cruise line recommends the use of higher-grade masks indoors (surgical or KN95).
Crew members are vaccinated for COVID-19 and are receiving a booster when eligible; KN95 masks are worn by staff at all times.
For more information, visit www.hollandamerica.com.
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