Holland America Line expands its Standby Program
Travelers on a budget often dream of cruising to popular destinations in the world, but up until now, it hasn’t been viable. However, Holland America Line’s updated Standby Program is there for those willing to hop aboard a cruise ship for a fraction of the normal price.
Moreover, the cruise line’s newly expanded Standby Program costs potential sailors $99 per person, per day, with an inside or ocean-view stateroom. Moreover, travelers can pay $129 per person, per day in a coveted verandah stateroom.
Some Holland America customers might be concerned over the rate, as it previously cost $49 per person, per day. However, while the old $49 rate didn’t include taxes or fees, the latest $99 or $129 does. According to the latest fine print, the advertised standby fares include taxes and fees.
The price is better than most early bookings
Moreover, the new standby price is half the cost of most early bookings. As an example, the popular 7-day Alaskan Explorer, which offers more glacier and wildlife sightings than other cruise lines, can cost more than $200 per person, per day when booked in advance.Meanwhile, the 21-day Eastern Caribbean Wayfarer voyage, including a full day on Holland America’s private island, can cost around $230 per person, per day. However, the standby rate for both trips is 50 percent less and more.
What is the drawback of the Standby Program with Holland America?
Anyone wishing to take advantage of the offer needs to be available to leave at a moment’s notice. This involves being within driving distance of the port or having the budget to book last-minute flights.
Reportedly, Holland America notifies travelers on the standby list between two and seven days before departure. For this reason, travelers need to be prepared to pack their bags and get to the port within two days.
The other potential drawback is the traveler will be charged the cost of the trip when adding their name to the standby list. Meanwhile, if they are not cleared off the list, a refund will be made in four to six weeks.
Solo travelers can enjoy their own room for $99 per day for Inside or Ocean View rooms, or $129 per day for the Verandah room. However, if traveling with a partner, both parties will be charged the daily standby rate of $99 or $129 each.
Meanwhile, if there are three or four people in the group, the third and fourth guests travel for free. This means the daily cost for a family to cruise with Holland America Line via the standby list can be as low as $200 per day.
The eligible Standby Program cruises currently include trips as far away as April 2025, heading to Hawaii, Newfoundland, the Mexican Riviera, and the Caribbean.
Readers can view the full list of Standby Program itineraries on the cruise line’s website. Alternatively to join the standby list call 877-724-5425.