Holland America Line wins Cruise Critic’s ‘Best Service’ award for fourth year in a row

International

Cruise Critic praises the line’s genuine hospitality, long-serving crews and thoughtful blend of tradition and care

Holland America Line has been named “Best Service” in Cruise Critic’s Ocean Category for a record fourth consecutive year, becoming the first cruise line ever to achieve this distinction. The annual awards are selected by Cruise Critic’s team of experts and informed by traveler ratings and reviews.

“Phenomenal service is what the line truly lives and breathes”

“Our 'Best Service' category is one of the most coveted in our annual awards, as it highlights the above-and-beyond level of service that travelers can expect from the thousands of crew members across a cruise line's full fleet,” said Chris Gray Faust, executive editor of Cruise Critic. “The fact that Holland America Line has won this award over the past four years proves that phenomenal service is not just lip service – it's what the line truly lives and breathes.”

Editors highlighted the warmth and consistency of the crew:

“Holland America Line shines when it comes to service, thanks to a crew known for warmth, longevity and attention to detail. The line's staff, many who have spent decades with the company, deliver not just efficiency but also genuine hospitality that makes guests feel at home. Whether it's being greeted with a smile at the Grand Dutch Café, savoring a surprise cup of hot pea soup in Alaska or being led with a rousing crowd through the Bar Hop, service on Holland America Line goes beyond expectation. It's this thoughtful blend of tradition and care that keeps travelers returning year after year.”

Recognition for personalised service and crafted itineraries

“Our crew members are truly special, so we're thrilled that Cruise Critic's editors and readers have once again recognized them for the highly personalized service they provide,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “From the moment our guests step on board, they are greeted with warm smiles and a genuine hospitality that makes each journey a treasured memory.”

In addition to winning “Best Service,” Holland America Line was also named “Best Itineraries” for 2025 in the Ocean Category. Cruise Critic editors cited the line’s thoughtfully designed routes, including European sailings from Rotterdam, Dover and Lisbon, themed voyages such as Oktoberfest and Culinary Ambassador cruises, collaborations with the History Channel, and extensive Alaska offerings that include Glacier Bay access, Yukon cruisetours and rare itineraries reaching the Aleutian Islands.

About Cruise Critic

Cruise Critic is the world’s largest cruise reviews and information platform, with more than 50 million opinions, reviews and photos, alongside the world's largest online cruise community.

Full details of the 2025 Best in Cruise Awards can be found on Cruise Critic’s website. For more information about Holland America Line, travelers can contact a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL or visit hollandamerica.com.