If you’re looking for last minute cruise deals, Holland America’s standby list program is worth checking out. This program allows you to book a spot on Holland America cruises for $49 per person per day. Essentially, you’ll be put on a standby list, and if there are any available cabins close to the departure date, you’ll be confirmed to go on the cruise! It’s a great option for spontaneous travelers!
What Is the Holland America’s Standby List Program
Holland America’s standby list program is great for travelers who are flexible with their travel dates and are looking for last-minute cruise deals. The program allows you to add your name to a standby list, and if there is space available on the cruise ship, you will be confirmed to go on the cruise. They will review the standby list 7 to 2 days prior to sailing.
Holland America will notify you about your confirmation no less than two days before departure. Given the short notice, this program is best for people who live near the cruise port. Otherwise, you will be scrambling for last minute airfare!
You can add your name to the standby list by calling your travel agent or calling Holland America directly at 1-877-724-5425.
Holland America’s Standby List Payment Process
If you are interested in being placed on Holland America’s standby list, it’s important to understand the payment process. When you contact Holland America to request a spot on the standby list, you will be required to pay a fee of $49 per person per day for the first two people in your stateroom. It’s important to note that this fee is non-refundable.
When you are added to the standby list, you will be charged the full cruise fare. The only way you can receive a refund of the standby fee is if Holland America does not confirm your booking within two days of the scheduled sailing date.
How Much is the 3rd and 4th guests?
The 3rd and 4th guests are free, but you will have to pay their taxes and port fees.
When Will You Receive a Notification About Your Cruise Confirmation?
You can expect to receive confirmation of your cruise booking two days before your scheduled departure. They will tell you whether you are confirmed to go on the cruise or not. In case you are not confirmed, the cruise company will refund your cruise fare.
However, if you wish to continue waiting in the hope of securing a spot on the cruise, you have the option to remain on standby. This means you will remain on the standby list until 90 minutes before the departure time, and you will be notified if a spot becomes available.
What Cruise Ports?
There are several cruise ports that are included in the standby list of Holland America. If you are looking for a cruise to Alaska, you can choose sailings from Vancouver, Seattle, and Whittier cruise ports. There are also Pacific coast cruises from San Diego. As well as 14 to 42 days transatlantic cruises from Fort Lauderdale. There are also several New England cruises from Boston, Montreal, and Quebec.
What Stateroom Will You Get?
If you are picky about your stateroom, then you might not like this program. You won’t have the option to choose your stateroom. Instead, Holland America will assign you a stateroom category based on availability at the time of booking, which could be any category up to a verandah stateroom.
It’s important to keep in mind that the cruise fare is non-refundable, meaning that once you’ve confirmed your booking, you won’t be able to request a refund if you’re unhappy with the stateroom you’ve been assigned.
What About Solo Travelers?
If you are a solo traveler, you can add yourself to the standby list for $49 per day.
Can You Get a Refund?
Again, once you add your name to the standby list, you will be charged the full cruise fare of $49 per person per day. The only way you can get a refund is if you are not confirmed to go on a cruise. You do have the option to add a cancellation protection plan to your booking.
Who is Holland America’s Standby List Best For?
Holland America’s standby list is a great option for travelers who are looking for a last-minute getaway and have the flexibility to travel at short notice. It’s also best for people who live near the cruise port, so you don’t end up paying exorbitant last-minute airfare fees. Looking for more ways to get last minute cruise deals? Check out our article on 10 Tips for Cheap Last Minute Cruise Bookings.
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