Holland America Line extends flexible cancellation policy, will adhere to CDC protocols

The flexible cancellation plan was extended on cruises departing through September so travelers who make a new booking by March 31 can cancel for any reason and receive a future cruise credit.

This follows similar policy updates by fellow Holland America Group brands Seabourn and Princess Cruises.

Final payment date extended

Cancellations must be made up to 30 days before departure. Additionally, final payments for cruises through May 31 are now due at 60 days instead of 75 or 90.

For additional reassurance, the line's 'Cancellation Protection Program' can be purchased for new cruises or Alaska cruise-tour bookings or existing bookings as long as it is purchased before the date cancellation fees begin to accrue. Offered as a Standard or Platinum plan, it lets travelers cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before cruise departure with Standard and right up to departure for Platinum. They'll receive refunds of 80% to 90% of eligible amounts paid. The policy's cost varies by cruise fare and is nonrefundable.

Will continue to follow CDC protocols

Holland America Line said it will continue to operate with COVID-19 protocols guided by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recently became voluntary, World Health Organization and the company's medical team and health experts.

By doing so, '... we have seen a very low rate of cases, and in almost all instances, with mild or no symptoms,' Holland America President Gus Antorcha said. 'We will keep these best practices in place because we know they are working to protect our guests, our crew, our homeports and the communities we visit.'

Vaccination mandated, booster 'strongly' encouraged

The line's vaccination mandate continues, and Holland America is 'strongly encouraging' all eligible travelers to receive boosters. A negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within two days before embarking is required, along with masks in public areas indoors, except when eating or drinking.

Higher-grade masks

Also, the line is recommending higher-grade masks indoors (surgical or KN95). Holland America said crew members are vaccinated and receiving a booster when eligible, adding that KN95 masks are worn by shipboard teams at all times.