Holland America vs. Princess: Which Classic Cruise Line Fits You?
Picture a glacier calving into an icy Alaska bay while you watch from your balcony with a cup of hot cocoa. That moment is why so many people choose Holland America or Princess. Both are classic, relaxed cruise lines known for great itineraries and warm service. The difference is in the details.
Quick answer: Choose Holland America for a quieter, more traditional cruise with longer itineraries and live music every night. Choose Princess for newer ships, easy MedallionClass technology and a slightly livelier, more family-friendly feel. Both are excellent for Alaska.
At a glance
| Holland America | Princess |
|---|---|---|
Vibe | Traditional, quiet, refined | Classic but a bit livelier |
Standout | Live music venues, longer voyages, Alaska cruisetours | MedallionClass, Movies Under the Stars, Alaska lodges |
Newest ships | Pinnacle class (Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam) | Sphere class: Sun Princess and Star Princess |
Daily gratuity | $18.00 per person | $18.00 per person |
Best for | Retirees, culture seekers, long voyages | Couples, multigenerational families |
Why people choose Holland America
Holland America has been sailing for more than 150 years, and it shows in the polished, unhurried feel. Evenings revolve around live music, from piano bars to rock and blues venues, plus excellent dining at the Pinnacle Grill. It's a favorite for longer voyages, including Europe, the Panama Canal and Alaska, where Holland America offers cruisetours that add Denali and the Yukon.
The crowd tends to be older and more experienced, which means quieter pools and a peaceful vibe. Kids are welcome, with Club HAL, but this line shines for adults.
Why people choose Princess
Princess blends classic cruising with modern convenience. The MedallionClass wearable unlocks your cabin, finds your family on board and delivers drinks right to your lounger. The newest Sphere-class ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess, bring fresh design and dining. In Alaska, Princess runs its own wilderness lodges, making land-and-sea cruisetours seamless.
My take as your travel advisor
For Alaska, you can't go wrong with either. I lean toward Holland America for couples who want a calm, music-filled trip and longer itineraries, and toward Princess for families traveling with grandparents and grandkids, or anyone who wants the newest ships and tech. If you're adding a land tour in Denali, book early. The best lodges and dates sell out first.
Which should you book?
Choose Holland America if you want a peaceful, traditional cruise with great live music and longer routes.
Choose Princess if you want newer ships, handy technology and a slightly livelier atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for Alaska? Both are top choices with land-and-sea cruisetours. Princess has newer ships; Holland America has a quieter feel.
Are they owned by the same company? Yes, both are part of Carnival Corporation, but each has its own style.
Are these lines good for families? Princess is more family-friendly. Holland America welcomes kids but skews toward adults.
Dreaming of Alaska? I'll compare Holland America and Princess cruises and cruisetours for your dates, at no extra cost. Get your free quote or call or text (618) 772-9206.
Glenn Sunnquist
Owner, SIX18 Travel LLC
Certified Travel Advisor
CLIA Member
Cruise & Resort Vacation Specialist
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