Holland America Embraces Reputation as Line for “Older” Cruisers with New AARP Benefit

There are SO many jokes I could tell here. But as someone who both adores Holland America and has been receiving glossy ads touting the benefits of AARP membership for nearly a decade, I should refrain.

But while I have your attention, I do want to mention an ENTIRELY UNRELATED idea I had for what the former Lincoln Center Stage (RIP) spaces could now be used for: valet walker parking for the MDR, free with a valid AARP card!

I kid, I kid. And for those who use mobility aids, feel free to whack me with it the next time we cruise together!

Anyway, Holland America recently announced a new partnership with AARP that will allow members to receive $50-$200 of onboard credit per stateroom on most cruises five days and longer. Here’s the full Holland America press release announcing the new benefit:

Holland America Announces Onboard Credit Benefit for AARP Members

Seattle, Wash., July 24, 2023 —Holland America Line will offer AARP members a member-only onboard credit that can be used for a variety of amenities. Combinable with several other special offers and fares, the amount of onboard credit depends on type of stateroom and length of voyage, ranging from $50 to $200 per stateroom.

AARP members can book a Holland America Line cruise using their travel advisor or directly with the cruise line to receive the onboard credit that can be put toward shore excursions, spa services, beverages, specialty dining, gift shop purchases and more.

“Holland America Line is thrilled to extend this offer to AARP members, who are avid travelers and a key demographic for our brand,” said Kacy Cole, chief marketing officer, Holland America Line. “We look forward to enticing AARP members to join us for a cruise to one of the many incredible destinations we explore.”

AARP members can book a Holland America Line cruise to locations around the world, including Alaska, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Europe, Mediterranean, Mexico, South America and beyond. Cruises eligible for this offer range from weeklong getaways to longer “Legendary Voyages” up to 59 days.

“Holland America Line cruises open the world to AARP members, allowing them to visit other regions and experience different cultures with ease and comfort,” said Victoria Borton, vice president, lifestyle product and services, AARP Services. “Members appreciate the cruising experience and level of premium service that’s synonymous with Holland America Line.”

This offer is available for all voyages except Grand Voyages, Grand Voyage segments and voyages less than five days. It can be combined with Holland America Line’s popular Have It All premium package of amenities that includes shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi. The offer may also be combinable with other shipboard credits the guest may be eligible to receive. Visit hollandamerica.com for details and full terms and conditions.

Final Thoughts

Stay tuned for details about how to apply for the credit (those haven’t been announced yet). But in the meantime, I’m about to dig one of those glossy AARP ads out of the recycle bin and join up! And I’m going to add this new onboard credit benefit to my List of Things I Love About Holland America! And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 points): What do you think of this new benefit? Do you plan to take advantage of it? Share your thoughts to the comments.

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