Holland America 7 Day Cruises

Holland America, the mega-cruise line, has doubled the number of departues of its popular seven day “deep Southern Caribbean” itinerary. The cruise line has developed this particular trip for “those seeking a week-long cruise to lesser visited Caribbean ports.” So if you’ve see all of the “Saints” and you still want to cruise the Caribbean, this may be a cruise for you.

“We are the only major cruise line to offer a seven-day itinerary that sails so far south from Florida,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “It is a popular cruise among our guests for the unique ports of call and the extra day at sea.”

Half Moon Cay: Half Moon Cay is the first port of call for the cruise. It is a private island, owned by Holland America, in the Bahamas. This stop is perfect for lounging on the white sandy beaches and enjoying the aqua blue waters. If you need a little more get up and go, you can take one of the guided Aqua Trax tours (like a jet ski), deep-sea fishing, kayaking tours, horseback riding, parasailing or snorkeling.

Oranjestad, Aruba: Oranjestad, Aruba is another port of call on the trip. Cruisers can party the night away, with a late night departure from the island. During the daylight hours, you can try scuba diving without the gear on a submarine adventure. The Atlantis submarine dives to depths of up to 150 feet viewing exotic marine life and shipwrecks that surround the island. I, personally, have always wanted to take a trip in a submarine.

Willemstad, Curacao: Willemstad, Curacao is the final port of call on the cruise. On this island, you can tour the Distillery at Chobolobo Mansion, where Blue Curacao liqueur is still made by hand. If you’re not interested in the booze, you can check out the 17th century Fort Amsterdam; Mikve Emmanuel Israel, the oldest synagogue in the Western Hemispher; Pietermaai Cathedral; the Franklin D. Roosevelt House or just soak up examples of Dutch colonial architecture.

Fares for this particular trip begin at $849 per person for an inside stateroom. Taxes and fuel supplement are not included. For more information, you can consult your travel agent, call (877) SAIL-HAL or visit hollandamerica.com.