Not new to cruising, but new to HAL

[MikeNJ1109]

My wife, daughter and I are looking into Holland America Line for a cruise to Alaska in 2019, either the end of June or the beginning of July. We have cruised a dozen times, but on other lines (RCL and NCL), and have had a blast with them, and this would be our first cruise on a line that has a "more classy", and definitely well earned reputation for quality service.

 

I've begun going through the "HAL for Dummies" link here on CC, but wanted to post and ask for hoping CC members who know HAL best to give us their input.

 

At the time of the cruise, I'll be 58, my wife will be 52 and our daughters will each be 13. We know RCL and NCL have great programs for kids of that age, but we know very little about HAL -- for those with kids that have sailed HAL, have they enjoyed it? We want the kids to have a blast (yes, we're going to Alaska, who wouldn't have fun?) but were wondering in terms of Kids activities on board. We're trying to move beyond zip lines and rock walls for a more refined experience, but still want our girls to enjoy their onboard experience as well.

 

Thanks in advance to the group, we appreciate everyone's input.

 

Cheers,

 

Michael

[Crew News]

Here is a link to the HAL teen activities in Alaska:

 

http://www.rogerjett-photography.com/here/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/AL-15-Kids-13-17.pdf

 

It is my experience that the Club HAL activities are so well appreciated by teens that except for dinner, they are seldom seen on board. The team scavenger hunts are also an exception and seem to be one of the most popular activities that take new friends all over the ship for one afternoon.

 

Good luck in your cruise planning for Alaska. There is so much to see and do that many cruisers return the very next year.

[cb at sea]

I don't think onboard activities are as important on an itinerary-heavy cruise. It's all about being OFF the ship in Alaska! They will have a fine time, I'm sure!

[JimnKaren]

Unless you are on a 14-day Alaska cruise, your days are mostly in port or near glaciers. At the time you are considering, there will be many (not lots) of passengers in your kid's age group. They should enjoy themselves.

 

Jim