20 things you MUST do on your next HOLLAND AMERICA cruise!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching my Guide from Holland America. Please consider supporting my channel by clicking ‘subscribe’ directly underneath the video - thank you, and welcome onboard!

[@valsmith232]

Great tip on the dry sauna. I will find it on my next cruise. Thanks

[@cindylou4055]

Yes, I swim laps in the evening, and watch the sunset all the time in the evening. Where I purposefully eat at the late dinning. That dining room is much quieter as well, and the staff are not stressed rushing to serve you. Thank you for telling me about the Orange Party. I will definitely try that. Great tips!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks for watching - I’m glad you agree with so many! Yes - you must try the Orange Party - it’s so so fun!!

[@leenoble796]

You are the best HAL promoter ever. Thank you

[@FraserAtSea]

What a compliment - thanks so much, Lee!

[@stcrombie]

We've done half a dozen cruises on Holland America and will reach 4-Star level on the next one. We've cruised the Caribbean a couple times, Circle Hawaii three times and a 28-day trans-Atlantic to the Baltics. Next we want to see Alaska and then it's back too Hawaii! We love the sea days!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh wow - sounds like you’ve got some excellent cruises under your belt - what an experience that must’ve been! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to leave a comment!

[@carolcrawford5831]

Highly recommend adding in the land tour in Alaska to Denali with HAL's McKinley Lodge and the train. We did Southbound last May on Noordam. HAL was fantastic with smooth land arrangements.

[@wendimiller6903]

This was by far the best Cruise Tip Video, for content, I have ever seen!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much Wendi - hopefully lots more to come! 😊

[@lauralee9041]

I can’t wait for my first cruise with Holland. Thanks for the tips.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, thanks so much for watching. Have the best trip!!

[@TalkingSchtick]

Great job. I’m a big HAL fan. You covered it well, love your recommendations and tips.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much, Cameron!

[@amandaregis313]

We're doing the Boston to Montreal cruise on board the MS Volendam this summer. We opted in for the Have it All, which because we purchased it so far in advance, even our in advance gratuities are included. Our first night we'll be celebrating our 39th anniversary with dinner at the Pinnacle Grill. And we both have plenty of orange clothing, and for me, accessories. We have a walking tour in Bar Harbor and the Confederation Bridge tour in Charlottetown. We'll explore Halifax and Sydney on our own, and since my husband grew up in Quebec City, he's already dragged me through all the streets and stairs of Old Quebec City, so that's going to be a relax day before arriving in Montreal. Great tip about the pools.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, this sounds like you’re ‘all set’ to have such an amazing trip! I’m releasing 2 videos per week currently, but have Bar Harbor etc content coming from my New England and Canada cruises - a beautiful part of the world! Thanks so much for watching, and for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@amandaregis313]

Also, along with all that fun, on the way into Halifax, I'll be saying a quiet hello to my father, a Royal Canadian Navy Officer who was buried at sea in 61, and my aunt, his stepsister, who's ashes were spread on the way from New York to Montreal a few decades back. While my grandparents were on the town (in Montreal), she was raising him.

[@PBG345]

Your enthusiasm is amazing. Leaving in a month for the Rotterdam transatlantic, and this was so helpful. I'm going to watch again and take notes.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much - I’m so glad you enjoyed! Thanks for commenting too!

[@rtpierce]

Hello, @PBG345, we'd LOVE to hear how the transatlantic went for you. We're doing that next Oct. 2025. Is there enough to do when there are less crew, or maybe it's less entertainers on board during the 6 days at sea? We don't want to be bored, but love these ships!

[@mauricemosley8380]

Thanks for the tips. Took notes. You gave highlights no one else have said in their HAL Pinnacle class videos.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching - glad you found it useful!!

[@jfminton54]

Very well done. I'm a four star soon to be a five star. I love HAL over all the other cruise lines and I've tried them all.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks for watching, and therefore supporting my channel! Ahh, you've been on quite a few HAL trips then - how many have you done to get to the 'almost' 5 stars?!

[@jfminton54]

@@FraserAtSea26. I need about 50 cruise nights to five star. I've also been on Carnival, Royal, celebrity, princess, Norwegian ...always come back to HAL. smaller ships, excellent service and staff and the food is very good.😊

[@gillianpeddie2410]

I agree the orange party is a huge highlight. Will definitely have to try the bar hop now

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, you must! Thanks so much for watching, Gillian!

[@kathyslocombe1182]

Thank you for such GREAT tips! We're on the Koningsdam in 2 weeks on a 35-day Hawaii/South Pacific cruise and so excited to experience and enjoy the tips that you gave us. I was checking our Events on the Navigator app and there is so much to do. We certainly won't be bored. THANK YOU again!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh wow - I haven’t managed Hawaii or South Pacific yet, but that’s going to be SO amazing - I’m so jealous of the 35 day part too - amazing! Thanks so much for watching - I’m so glad you found useful. I’ve got more from my time onboard coming soon - dining guide going live on Sunday!

[@Vanhockeymom]

I’m booked on that ship April 5-27! Can’t wait. For us it’s San Diego to Mexico to Hawaii back home to Vancouver. See you there!

[@FraserAtSea]

@@Vanhockeymom have the best trip!

[@kathyknepp9785]

This was helpful; going on our first cruise on HAL in August to Alaska I think the Rotterdam.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, you’re going to love that - what a gorgeous ship for cruising Alaska. Thanks so much for watching!

[@bobfrees2290]

Hi Fraser. You did a real nice job covering many areas of HAL ships. Regarding the male and female saunas: they are available on all classes of HAL ships but are much smaller and usually located just across from the hydro pool on the other ship classes. Also no windows. A few other tips I would add. First, avoid the crowds in the buffet on embarkation day by going to the MDR for lunch if you can make it prior to closing time at 1pm. Second, I usually put in a standing order for chilled soup each night in the MDR or Club Orange by adding the server or maitre'd. Whatever flavor the kitchen feels like making is fine. It might be strawberry, melon, mango, raspberry, passion fruit or whatever. They used to have chilled soups on the menu more often but lately they are rare. I find that the HIA package and the Club Orange add one are well worth the cost. Just $25 per person per day for CO, and $50 per person per day for HIA. I'm a 4 star mariner. Happy sailings!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for this comment, Bob - great to get some more tips here, which will help more people for sure! How cool that the sauna is available on all HAL ships - that’s SUCH a positive!

[@bobfrees2290]

@@FraserAtSea For reasons I don't understand the saunas are not marked well at all, so you kind of have to know where to look, particularly on the other ship classes. It's about the only place on board to be nakey with others.

[@dkorsey]

Great tips! We are going on a 28 night Greece & Turkey cruise on a pinnacle ship and this was a great heads up!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh wow - you’re going to love that - I did 14 and am so jealous!

[@helenrizi4719]

Going on our 10th Holland America cruise later this month and still learned some new things from your video--can't wait to try the orange party bar hop!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh wow - I’m so glad it was useful - thanks so much for watching. Enjoy your 10th cruise - I wish it was me!

[@helenrizi4719]

@@FraserAtSea going on the 28 day Amazon cruise

[@TreesVerwoerd]

Very informative video. Thank you for sharing. We are so lucky to sail on the Rotterdam in august this year. We love cruising!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much - she’s a beautiful ship! Have a great trip!

[@teriwilson6260]

Thanks so much for these tips! We are going on the Rotterdam in March and this has been the most informative video I've seen so far!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks for watching, Teri! You’re going to have such a great trip - she’s a beauty!

[@TVHouseHistorian]

I just got off an Alaska sailing on the Koningsdam. The service was exceptional, and the included food was marvelous. Rudy's Sel de Mer was phenomenal, and well-worth the price. Loved the Lido Deck pool area. Something about it seemed so tranquil and relaxing. The cake event was incredible, but the overcrowding it caused in the Lido buffet made it intolerable. Overcrowding seemed to be a huge issue on our sailing, which I think has to do with ship layout, as well as scheduling. My takeaway was that, while HAL are marvelous to sail with, and bends over backward to give guests the very best experience, they really aren't the cruise line for me.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, I’m happy you’ve had so many great experiences on there, despite not exactly rushing back. I did love my time onboard, but would agree it can be BUSY on there in areas! Thanks so much for watching!!

[@Lorna.R]

Looking up future cruises and thinking about this ship. This series is really informative, thanks

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, I’m so glad you’re finding the videos useful - thanks so much for watching and therefore supporting my channel!

[@PickleballTodayCanada]

Thanks very much. Great tips. I just wrapped up a cruise on Volendam, which I loved, but the Rotterdam looks absolutely stunning.

[@FraserAtSea]

You’re so welcome - thanks so much for watching and therefore supporting my channel! I was a huge fan of Rotterdam!

[@debbiegibbssmith]

Great video thank you so much! Our first HAL cruise is coming up. Picked up great tips thanks. Particularly the joining in with activities & Orange party & bar hop.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi Debbie, thanks a lot for watching, and for taking the time to leave a comment. Hope you have the best trip, and enjoy that Orange Party bar crawl!!

[@claudiayoung8571]

You covered so much, I have been checking out many you tube videos and am sailing on HAL to Alaska next year. We had not heard anything though about bar tour for the Orange Party though. Good video, will definitely try out the tastings, didn’t know they charged for them either.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, thanks so much for watching and supporting my little channel. Oh, the bar crawl was so much fun - make sure you get involved in that! Enjoy your next trip with HAL!

[@lizolmstead2564]

Thank you so much for this video. We are taking an Alaska Cruise in May and your tips were very helpful. I can tell you I will be drinking my milkshake in the sauna every day! These were great suggestions.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, thanks so much, and I’m so jealous of Alaska! This made me laugh - the thought of someone slurping a milkshake in the sauna, haha! Have the best trip!

[@blogtamara]

Thanks for the tips! Will certainly do the ‘shiptour’ in the theater. When I am going.

[@FraserAtSea]

I’d recommend it so much - such a highlight. Thanks a lot for watching, as always!

[@tinytink]

Fantastic video with so many useful tips thank you! We're doing the 21 day Panama canal cruise on the Rotterdam Nov 29th. So I wrote down all your tips! It's been 20 years since I cruised with HA. I liked trying others too . This will be my newly retired Marine husband's 1st cruise so I think I picked a good one. Next one will be a all out luxury cruise buy he didn't want to do that one 1st as he felt any others after couldn't compare. I think this 21 day cruise picked should be good for his 1st 😁😎 Happy sailing everyone!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi, thanks for watching, and thanks for taking the time to leave such a positive comment! It sounds like you’re going on the same cruise I did - I was in on Rotterdam for 21 nights for the canal out of Fort Lauderdale! I’ve got more videos coming in a few months from this cruise - stay tuned if you’re interested :)

[@avramgold6248]

One more comment. When we sailed on the New Rotterdam, there was no plague wall. That's because our cruise was the very first full cruise the New Rotterdam had scheduled for a regular Caribbean itinerary. Before that, the ship had sailed from it's birthplace in Europe to Fort Lauderdale for a short travel agent demonstration cruise and then ours, leaving port on November 10th, 2021 and arriving back to Fort Lauderdale on December 1st. Despite that this cruise was pretty much a crew-training voyage, all went fairly smoothly as last minutes itinerary changes for ports of call reminded us we were still coming out of COVID. We LOVED the ship. Our cabin was so new, the hairdryer was still wrapped in it's plastic sales bag! We were the first passengers to sleep in that cabin and it all felt very special, indeed.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh wow - what a ship to get on first! I had such a wonderful time on Rotterdam, and she still felt so new when I was on there. Thanks a lot for watching, and thanks for taking the time to leave this comment! :)

[@coasttocoasters]

We may have to give Holland America a try! Really curious to see what it’s like after watching your videos! Some great tips here too Fraser!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks a bunch for watching - I really enjoy HAL, but SO different to Royal etc!

[@coasttocoasters]

@@FraserAtSea Think that’s what is so curious about it to me! Would be nice to experience something a little different!

[@donletson5582]

This video was great I learned a bunch of things for my 18 day circle hawaii cruise. I'm looking so forward to it!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, thanks so much - thanks for your support for my small channel! 😊

[@WendyS18]

I’m considering a HAL cruise so this video is very helpful, thank you!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, thanks a lot Wendy - glad I could be of use!

[@LisaArenth]

Thank you so much for your helpful advice. I love Holland America cruises and your tips included a few things that I was unaware of.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, brilliant! Thanks so much for watching and supporting my channel. Enjoy your next cruise!!

[@kandm2597]

You just saved me a bundle on HAL! Milkshakes and saunas! Who knew!??

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, I’m happy to be of help! Maybe don’t combine them together 😂

[@kathyt3300]

Enjoyed your guide on What to do on Holland America! Loved how you phrased many of them as approaching it with an attitude change, like Try Something new! With an open mind, an experience can be enjoyable, even if we choose not to repeat it! Been thinking about taking a cruise on Holland, have only been on one other cruise with Princess and loved it!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi Kathy, thanks a lot for watching! The more cruises I’ve done, the more I’ve realised that attitude is often one of the key reasons for someone not enjoying a cruise! If you loved Princess, I reckon you’d probably really enjoy HAL. Thanks so much for watching!!

[@MadeNCda]

Good morning, Fraser. I have just subscribed to your channel and must say I really enjoy your level of detail and commentary. 😊 I've booked myself on a HAL cruise to Alaska for my birthday next year. I like the profile and style of cruise atmosphere HAL seems to provide. Thanks for this video!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! Thanks so much for watching - I’m so happy to read that you’re enjoying my content! I’ve got lots more from Holland America on my channel - just search for the HAL playlist 😊 Thanks for subscribing - welcome to Fraser at Sea! 🛳️ 🌊

[@debzemog]

Thank you so much for your informative video. I Will take my very first cruise in five days. I’m super excited, looking forward celebrating my 70th birthday on Holland America. Doing a seven day Mexican Rivera cruise out of San Diego. Orange party looks like fun can’t wait.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, thanks for watching, and for taking the time to leave a comment - it’s so appreciated. Have the best cruise!!

[@valorieb5229]

Thank you so much. I have a 23 night all one cruise coming in Oct. hopefully their smaller ships are just as much fun

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, amazing! Thanks a lot for watching my video and supporting my channel - please do come back and let me know what you think!!

[@scottp6319]

We're about to go on our first cruise ever on a HAL ship to Greenland! Your video was very informative and so glad I watched. I would've missed a lot of your suggestions. Can't wait! (I did notice your audio was very quiet and had to turn up the volume quite a bit, fyi (causing the commercials to come in blaring loud! lol)

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, thanks so much! Also, I’m going to try adjusting my mic for later videos - thanks so much for watching!!

[@sandraforrest8119]

Thank you Fraser another great video we have been looking at doing a Holland America cruise to Alaska 🐋 your room looks very large as well 😄

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much Sandra. I’ll have a room tour coming in due course - wait until you see it - I was SO impressed!

[@leenoble796]

We will be on Rotterdam on 3\29. First time on Pinnacle class. We will be 4 star on this cruise and have another booked for 12\4. Love HAL

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, amazing - I loved Rotterdam - have a ball!!

[@Chris_de_S]

See you on board. We sail April 12th trans Atlantic.

[@jeffreykyle8587]

2 weeks tomorrow, I’m on my first HAL cruise. Thank you for the tips!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, amazing - thanks for watching! My Dining Guide will go onto KZbin tomorrow night, if you’re interested! :)

[@jeffreykyle8587]

@@FraserAtSea looking forward to it and have set the alert.

[@gerrilarsen29]

Going Holland in September to Alaska…doing land/cruise starting at the resort near Denali. Bucket list for me and can’t wait! Enjoyed your tips too

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh my goodness - they’ll be so amazing for Alaska - I’m so jealous of that. Have the best trip!

[@richsimon7838]

Milkshake tip is great, I never would have thought about enjoying a milkshake!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, your waistline will never forgive me for that tip, haha! Thanks a lot for watching!

[@russellhearing850]

Thank you for this! The wife and I are preparing for a 17 day Holland America cruise to Hawaii. Koningsdam, which is also a Pinnacle class ship. I've been wondering what the sea days might look like.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, what a treat of a cruise that sounds. I haven’t made it to Hawaii yet, but it’s certainly on my list. Thanks for watching - I’ve got lots more HAL content on my channel if you’re interested! 😊

[@ianmacdougald1571]

Great video. Thanks. Going on a 21 day cruise on Rotterdam in April, 2025. Cannot wait.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, nice! I was on for 21 nights too - she’s a great ship for that length of cruise!

[@frederickpillsbury7467]

What an interesting video. I'm a 4 star Mariner with Holland America and learned something new. I did know about the free sauna ! My next cruise will be in January, 4 weeks out of Singapore to some very unusual ports aboard Noordam. We opted for Club Orange which you may know about. It will be a new experience with enhanced dining options. Looking forward to more cruise videos from you.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much - what a massive compliment. Thanks for subscribing!

[@MarieKlees]

They have a great afternoon tea and a chocolate buffet!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, agreed re Afternoon Tea - I loved how many different varieties they had!

[@rjsams001]

I've been on multiple HAL cruises (2-star Mariner) but until recently I've never even heard of the Orange Party. Gonna watch for it on my next cruise.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, great - glad I could help! Please setup back and let me know how you enjoy it!

[@jhmumma]

Glad to find your channel because I've been on a cruise. In January, we're going on a HA cruise in the Caribbean and your information is valuable for me to get the best experience on the cruise.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, great to hear it - thanks so much for watching!!

[@dmobrecht109]

Loved your video. I’ve been wanting to try a Holland America cruise. I will definitely try it now. Thank you.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much!

[@roseneal9130]

Great video. Thank you so much. Love all the hints. We will be going to Alaska on the Noordam the end of June, 2024.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, great choice for Alaska - HAL would be a beautiful experience up there. Thanks so much for watching!

[@DaveCoombs90210]

Great tips - thank you - considering cruising with HAL for the first time so this was perfect

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching - glad you found it useful!

[@sharonsept7370]

I will be hosting an Alaska sailing on Koningsdam Jun 29th out of Vancouver. Second time doing this itinerary on this ship. Great ship with amazing views.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, that’s going to be amazing - have the best trip!

[@Annette_Mairi]

I so enjoyed this video! Thanks so much for the great tips as I’m off on a Holland America cruise to Alaska in just under two weeks. Your accent was a total bonus! 😉

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, thanks so much for watching - I’ve got lots more HAL on my channel soon if you’re interested in sticking around 😊 Thanks re the accent too - I get comments where people can’t understand me, so this made me smile!!

[@arlenekrause7115]

Hubby and I will be cruising over New Year’s Eve (8 day cruise). I’ve never heard of Ship plaques, so I’ve put that on my list along with the on free board saunas.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, I’m glad I could help you. Have the best trip!

[@Vanhockeymom]

Thanks for this Fraser. Well done.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks very much, Heather!

[@Vanhockeymom]

@@FraserAtSeaI love HAL - this is our 3rd HAL cruise. Last one was Ft Lauderdale to Vancouver through the Panama Canal this one is even longer. You’re bang on with the entertainment! So many things I’ve not done that I plan on doing this trip. We bought the have it all package this time. 63 days to go lol

[@lisal2092]

Great video! I think we were on the same cruise. Jan 14 - 26? Weather was fab! This ship is beyond amazing. 😍

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, I was sliiiightly before you - I was onboard going into December! I agree though - she’s excellent! 👌🏻

[@62orbetter4]

Two weeks the wife and I will be on Holland America cruising through the Panama Canal! I enjoyed this video and I am gonna go out and buy a yellow shirt so I can go to the orange party!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, amazing! The next video to go live on my channel (coming this Thursday) is the Panama Canal - hopefully you’ll enjoy that! Have the best trip :)

[@santiwarokka1177]

Thanks for the nice info, will be cruising HAL Oosterdam in May 2024 😊🎉😊🎉

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, nice - have the best time! I’ve got more HAL videos coming up 😊

[@avramgold6248]

When we booked our Asia HAL December 2025 Indonesia cruise last January, we wanted the low-end Have-It-Almost-All package but since this was an early booking, we got the Elite beverage package as a bonus. It will take months before we find out if ICE CREAM is included in our ELITE HAVE-IT-ALL package. Having it all, should mean: Having It ALL!!! We will be Mariner 4 status. Maybe this is a short cut to the premium ice creams! Will let you know...

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, please do let me know - I'll be intrigued to know the answer to this. Also, WOW to Asia - I'm jealous!

[@rheeeliker4513]

I spend a lot of time on Holland America ships, and totally agree with most of your comments. I'd add one thing - HAL does special dining events as well (for an extra charge), and the one to look for is the rijsttafel. You can find this either in the MDR for one night, or at Tamarind (which is where it would probably be on the Rotterdam). It's fabulous! Also, if there's a Tamarind Bar, check it out. It's at the very top of the ship, has full length windows, and on my only Pinnacle class cruise, was mostly deserted. Perfect for the Norwegian fjords.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! I do mention Tamarind in my HAL Dining Guide (coming this Sunday) - I loved it in there! I didn’t hear about that event - one for my plans next time! Thanks so much for taking the time to watch, and also to leave a comment!!

[@peterjones6322]

On other HA ships the milk shakes are available from the bar on the pool deck.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, that’s interesting! On Rotterdam, you had to go to the ice cream counter. A really useful tip - thanks for taking the time to leave this comment!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, that’s interesting! On Rotterdam, you had to go to the ice cream counter. A really useful tip - thanks for taking the time to leave this comment!

[@JenniferGuillard]

Great informative video. I didn't know about the free sauna. Heading on our next cruise with HAL to Norway and the Mediterranean in 2025. Love your tips ❤

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks for watching, Jennifer. That sauna’s going to be fab with the Norway views - have the best trip!!

[@MarieKlees]

I have been on Holland America charter cruises with Gertrude Byrne’s Irish entertainment cruises. Everything was wonderful. Holland goes out of their way to make it special like a huge welcome cake decorated with Irish flag, tons of appetizers passed at the sail away party, appetizers set up outside at the clubs Crows Nest and Piano Bar at night. On these charter cruises, there is Entertainment in all these places after the MainStage show each night as well as poolside during daytime. These charter cruises have been to Alaska, Caribbean, Mexico Riviera, Mediterranean and Greek Islands. Holland America never disappointed

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh wow! I knew charter cruises were a thing, but have never heard of this group before. I bet an Irish charter is SO much fun!

[@MarieKlees]

@@FraserAtSea They are great fun! Gertrude Byrne has been doing these for years.

[@brookwithnoe97]

Thanks for the tips! I hope the Volendam has the pub crawl orange party

[@alises.5986]

I’m so glad I found your channel. Subscribed halfway into the first video! Great tips, clear content, and I love your accent and focus on family fun 😊

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, what a lovely comment - I’m so glad you found my channel too. Welcome onboard, and thanks for being here! ❤️

[@mycrazylife2go]

We’re going on Rotterdam June 14, 2026 on a 7-DAY VIKING TRAILS & CELTIC ORIGINS: EDINBURGH EVENING STAY. I can’t wait.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, that sounds wonderful - LOVE the overnight in Edinburgh! Please have the best trip and come back to let me know how you get on. I’m often in Edinburgh - say hey if you spot me!! 👋🏼 😊

[@mycrazylife2go]

@@FraserAtSea - I definitely will look for you.

[@KaisDinoAdventures]

Hey there!!! Happy Thursday!! Hope you are having a great week. Glad we stopped by to see another video of yours!!! Your channel is doing great!!! Hope you have a great February!!!!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, thanks so much - you guys too! Thanks for watching!!

[@tammy_oh_nevermind]

These are good tips, thanks! I've only done one Holland America on Eurodam, which doesn't have half these options. 😂 I enjoyed it, anyway.

[@FraserAtSea]

Yeah, the ships can be pretty different, huh? I really enjoyed Pinnacle class. Thanks for watching, Tammy!

[@wendingourway]

I'm going to go on a limb and say that I really think you enjoyed the cruise on Holland quite a lot! lol All fantastic tips!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, is it that obvious? I had such a fun time on Rotterdam - more to follow…!!

[@alsnow3582]

Wow, great timing for me to hear these tips. we're cruising on Rotterdam in two weeks. I'll have to watch this video daily until then! Thank you!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, thanks so much for watching - you’re welcome back any time! Lots more from this ship coming to my channel soon 😊 Thanks for commenting too!

[@thom7529]

Excellent video Fraser, and great tips! I’m 14 days away from embarkation on 2 b2b HAL cruises! 🇨🇦

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I’m so jealous! Thanks so much for watching, and safe sailing!!

[@petermacfarlane4388]

Thank you for the excellent video. I' sailing fgrom Vancouver to Anchorage on the Noordam at the end of this month. Bar Crawl. I can do that.

[@FraserAtSea]

You’re so welcome, Peter - thank you for watching! Have a fantastic trip on the Noordam!

[@BeverleyBedford-v8q]

Going to try the bar hop at the orange party.

[@FraserAtSea]

Please do - it’s such good fun!

[@tinytink]

Yes I can't wait for us to try it !!

[@pamelahaskin9738]

New follower here. Such great tips! The orange party sounds like heaps of fun.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much - welcome onboard! It was so much fun - I’ll be showing more in my vlogs at some point - stay tuned!

[@davidwilliams4865]

Really enjoy HAL. Back on the Statendam this coming December and then Rotterdam in March, 2025.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, a good few bookings on your agenda - that’s great! Thanks a lot for watching!

[@lopezlopez7132]

Not a bad video and the guy seems to be a nice and genuine person, but he contradicted himself by saying that he is a believer in cruise fare covering pretty much all the fun on a cruise and, at the same time he suggested so many paid activities, that if you do them all you'll pay thousands of dollars. Still I liked the way he talked and the information he gave us.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! I’d never propose you spending thousands of dollars - I certainly don’t, ha! Thanks for watching!

[@lopezlopez7132]

@@FraserAtSea Hey! I'd never spend my time in a sauna, when I can take part in some athletic activity, like bear drinking contest! 😜 As I said, good video in general. Thanks.

[@jeffkellyb7712]

Sauna is free. Thermal suite, including steam rooms, cost.

[@deekang6244]

@@lopezlopez7132Hey! I’d never join a beer contest. You’ll find me in the sauna, relaxing.

[@lopezlopez7132]

@@deekang6244 No, I'll not find you there because I'll not be looking for you...

[@williamhansen5498]

Great video I am saving it to my favorites. I will be taking a TA in November so you have given wonderful advice. Thank you.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much for such a positive comment, William - glad you enjoyed!

[@rtpierce]

@@FraserAtSea Fraser we have enjoyed this video so much! You are very talented on video and you explain things so clearly for all of us. We are looking at a repositioning on MS Rotterdam, Transatlantic October 4 2025 starts in Rotterdam, ends in Ft Lauderdale. Any tips for the 6 days at sea? Videos we can watch about that period of time? Activities on Rotterdam during the 6 days? This will help so many others who do the Transatlantic portion. Thanks so much! Will watch more of your Rotterdam videos as well!

[@jlawrence0181]

Do remember that the BB Kings Blues Club is only in the Pinnacle Class ships. Also, HAL ships have a promenade deck where you can walk around the entire ship which few lines still do. Some Princess ships take you into certain crew areas without an additional charge - the kitchen and the backstage of the theatre.

[@FraserAtSea]

Very good points, yeah! I’ve only actually cruised Pinnacle class, so can’t comment on other HAL ships (yet!). However, I’m hoping to cruise on others in the short term - watch this space!!

[@Krypto64]

A non-smoking area of a casino is something, but I still feel for the crew members on the gaming tables who have no choice but to work in the smoking section. The absence of casinos is something I do enjoy about Ambassador ships - isn’t it funny how so many US cruisers see a casino as essential?

[@FraserAtSea]

Yeah, it’s such a cultural difference - I was surprised to see the casino VERY busy on Queen Anne a few weeks ago, but was delighted it was all non smoking. I also feel for the crew members who need to be there all shift, especially when they don’t necessarily smoke…

[@barbaradace7952]

Regarding the "Art Trail": you can ask Guest Services to print out a list of the art pieces, including the name of each piece and that of the artist. I never have figured out why HAL doesn't just post that information next to each piece of art, as galleries do!

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh wow - this is SUCH a good tip - I wish I’d known this for my cruise. Thanks for this!!

[@SusanP-d4h]

I love Holland America and you did a great job but you left out the one thing that should be required for everyone and that’s watching the presentation “Origins”. It tells the story of 150 years of blazing new trails ( discovering Alaska might work for cruising) , treating immigrants as passengers not steerage cargo, and ensuring those immigrants were medically screened and treated if necessary before they boarded so they would not be rejected at Ellis Island. Holland America set up hotels in Rotterdam for this and even English lessons were given. And remember we are talking about poor immigrants looking for a new life. Make sure you watch this on your next Holland America adventure.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, I did actually feature this in one of my HAL vlogs - very good point! Very insightful, and fascinating to see how they’ve evolved over the years, isn’t it?

[@SamSitar]

your video will help me plan my first cruise.

[@FraserAtSea]

Amazing - thanks for watching! Be sure to subscribe - lots more coming too!

[@e_d_v_a_u_s]

Thanks for the video! Well done! 👍

[@FraserAtSea]

You’re so welcome - thanks for watching!

[@l.wallace4252]

Excellent video! Wonderful tips. Thanks! 🎉

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching!!

[@jbarttx2100]

Very nice video! Thanks for sharing!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching, Jeff - glad you enjoyed!

[@tjtriesagain]

Are you going to do more videos from your HAL cruise? I just put a deposit on a HAL cruise the other day on the Koningsdam which i believe is the same class of ship on yours.. I haven't been on HAL as a solo or as an adult, so I'm kind of wondering if I'll be the youngest person onboard. I mostly picked them because of the itinerary and date frame - Its a 10 night Mexico that does the 3 ports you did on Carnival but it also goes further south and up the Sea of Cortez/Gulf of California, also stopping at La Paz, Lareto and Manzanillo. I think it's really cool that you can submit orders from the pizza and burger places on the app and they send you a notification when it's ready.. I was able to get a much better deal by using a friend's travel agent - one e-mail got me extra Onboard Credit and prepaid gratuities vs direct with the cruiseline, which seems crazy.

[@FraserAtSea]

I am indeed - I have a full vlog series coming in due course - watch this space! That sounds like a great 10-nighter you’re booked into - I’m jealous!!

[@allisonvandiepen8052]

Super helpful tips! Excited for our cruise!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@markcoleman8568]

Well done video thanks Sir!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks for watching, Mark!

[@62orbetter4]

Hey there. I want to do videos from my upcoming cruise to Panama. Just like you did. What equipment do I need? I have an iPhone 13 and I have a Bluetooth wireless microphone kit. What else would I need?

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! So I’ve popped some of the kit I use into my Amazon store - hopefully you’ll find that useful: Check out this list My Cruise Tech from fraseratsea www.amazon.co.uk/shop/fraseratsea/list/2FD84F0DTGHNA?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_aipsflist_aipsffraseratsea_10277RQCN4QVPD755FDR&language=en_US Have a great trip - happy filming!!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, tried to reply but not sure if it posted. I’ve popped my kit into my Amazon shop - you might find useful - happy filming!! Check out this list My Cruise Tech from fraseratsea www.amazon.co.uk/shop/fraseratsea/list/2FD84F0DTGHNA?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_aipsflist_aipsffraseratsea_10277RQCN4QVPD755FDR&language=en_US

[@andrea4727]

Thanks for the tips. How do you book the bar hop for orange party? Do you book on the ship or ahead of time?

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi Andrea, thanks for watching! You can book onboard from any of the bars - they’ll be advertising the orange party date when you’re on the ship. Enjoy - I’m already jealous!

[@TSVitanza]

Go try Pinnacle Grill AT LUNCH!

[@FraserAtSea]

Totally agree - this is coming up in my dining guide - unreal value!

[@bettywillis9218]

Loved Loved Loved the pool grill . Order the veggie burger with meat.

[@FraserAtSea]

Mmm!

[@deekang6244]

Lol

[@mcclelm]

Would love to go on the bar hop when we sail on the Rotterdam, but my boyfriend doesn't drink alcohol. Did you hear of or see anyone who doesn't drink going and participating but getting liquor free options?

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, good question! It shouldn’t be an issue at all. I didn’t see alcohol free, but I’m confident they’d have a solution - don’t worry! You totally should do the hop - I loved it!

[@cindybailey6765]

Is the pool heated? We’re scheduled for a Norway cruise on Rotterdam next summer and I’m a swimmer. I’d love to do an evening swim but I’m guessing it would be pretty chilly!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hmm, good question! The ‘indoor’ pool (with the retractable roof) certainly wasn’t cold when I was there. If it wasn’t heated, I guess it would’ve felt cold even in the Caribbean as not always in direct sun. While I can’t say for sure, I’d hazard a guess and say yes(?), but don’t hold me to that, ha! Have a great trip to Norway!

[@ErikaEmody]

Hi! Do recall whether the water in the pools was still salty or if they had desalinated it so it was more like freshwater?

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! I don’t recall the main pool being salty - I swam in there loads, and would’ve noticed that! I can’t comment on the pool outside at the back of the ship though - I never swam in there. Hope this helps!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! I don’t recall the main pool being salty - I swam in there loads, and would’ve noticed that! I can’t comment on the pool outside at the back of the ship though - I never swam in there. Hope this helps!

[@tanittaclark9613]

Curious how are they if you need to board early. Do they stick to scheduled boarding times

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! For my cruise, they stuck to boarding times. It wasn’t bad though - I didn’t need to wait long at all!

[@dougkeirnes4540]

Are you by any chance related to Jamie Fraser? You know..from Outlander 😄 Nice video

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, this made me laugh. Sadly not!! Thanks for watching - stay tuned for lots more! 😊

[@KathrynMueller-d8x]

Great tips

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks a lot for watching!!

[@philliptheesfeld8742]

Excellent video! So many great ideas and tips that I've never heard anywhere else! This is a "must watch" for anyone planning to sail on a HAL Pinnacle Class ship.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching - this genuinely means so much!