The Collections of Holland America Line, debuting this summer on Alaska, Canada/New England and European itineraries, provide guests with nearly 500 specially selected shore excursions. Included in the Collections series are the Signature, Medallion, Encore and World Wonders Collections, each with its own individual focus and its own descriptive logo.
“The Collections of Holland America Line is just one more example of how we enrich the cruise experience for each guest,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “By offering private tours, exotic discoveries and ‘off the beaten path’ opportunities in ports around the world, our guests can be assured of receiving rich, lifetime memories every time they cruise with us.”
Medallion Collection
Medallion Collection tours provide in-depth perspective and access to events and sights not normally or readily available. They feature first-class style, smaller groups and multi-day overland journeys. Examples include an unforgettable meal in Ketchikan on the Alaska Chef’s Table; the opportunity to become a dolphin trainer for a day in Puerto Vallarta; or the chance to experience the timeless Spirit of Lake Titicaca on an overland adventure in South America.
Encore Collection
Designed especially for guests who have previously visited the destination, The Encore Collection provides tours beyond well-known attractions; each showcasing hidden gems, unique perspectives and “insider’s stories.” For example, guests who have seen the Coliseum in Rome can instead select an Encore tour that will take them to Etruscan treasures of Tarquinia and Tuscania. For those who are tired of shopping in Cozumel, an Encore Mexican cuisine demonstration and tasting tour is an alternate choice for their consideration. Other Encore Collection excursions: a guided exploration of the most prominent and important places of Eva Peron’s life in Buenos Aires; visits to the best tapas restaurants and bars in Barcelona; or a private boat tour of the islands of Istanbul.
World Wonders Collection
The World Wonders Collection features the many wonders of the world such as natural treasures, architectural marvels, and astounding technical achievements. Included in this collection is an overland adventure to the Galapagos Islands and the landmarks of Quito, a flight over the spectacular sights of Antarctica or a hike to the summit of Mauna Kea volcano in Hawaii.
Signature Collection
Designed for independent-minded travelers, Signature Collection tours allow guests to customize their excursions and to reserve private transportation (cars, minivans, Hummers, limousines or planes) for transport. This exclusive touring option comes with driver or pilot and an English-speaking guide in all ports where English is not the mother tongue. Samplings of Signature Collection tours include an exploration of Juneau’s untamed coastline in a private boat or a private plane over Alaska’s glaciers and forested terrain. In Europe, Asia and South America, guests can visit out-of-the-way villages or travel through ancient landscapes in a private car or van.
In addition to excursions in The Collections of Holland America Line, hundreds of exciting and interesting tours are available in 320 ports of call worldwide. The Collections of Holland America Line tours will be identified in upcoming shore excursion brochures and on the wwww.hollandamerica.com website.
