Alaska, Europe and the Panama Canal/South America have emerged as the top destinations for British cruise passengers sailing with Holland America Line.
The premium line claims to have seen an “unprecedented” 77% year on year growth in bookings to Alaska in 2010, although declined to provide figures. The company has eight ships deployed from Vancouver and Seattle on Alaska itineraries this summer.
The remaining space on this year’s cruises in Europe filled up in “record time” following the Icelandic volcanic ash crisis, according to the company.
HAL’s focus is on expanded ex-UK departures for 2011 with Eurodam, Ryndam and Prinsendam operating from Dover and Tillbury.
Longer “exotic” cruises continue to be a success, in particular the Panama Canal and South America.
Extra benefits like complimentary dinner at the reservations-only Pinnacle Grill or Champagne are being offered for 2011 bookings made by July 31.
Early booking prices lead in at £869 per person for a seven-night European cruise, a saving of 35% on brochure rates