TRANSPORT AND
ESSENTIAL INFO
TESTIMONIALS CONTACT US


Transportation to Cruise Ship
and Essential Information

"Midnight Sun" Cruise with Molly McCord
Holland America Nieuw Statendam


LINKS to sections on this page

Flight, Hotel, and Transfer to the Cruise Port

Travel Insurance

Get Travel Documents in Advance

Arrival at Cruise Port

ID's and Incidentals

What to Do When You Get Onboard

Preparation and Packing

Travel Restrictions


GETTING TO THE PORT


LOCATION OF CRUISE TERMINAL:

Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal
Skarfagardar 8

104 Reykjavik, Iceland

The Nieuw Statendam will depart from Port of Reykjavik (Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal), located at Skarfagardar 8, 104 Reykjavik, Iceland. You will check in at the Cruise Ship Terminal before boarding the ship. Passengers will be allowed to board the ship starting approximately 11:30 am on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at the Terminal. If you arrive too early, you will be waiting on the dock. So please arrive at the designated boarding time printed on your Boarding Pass. The ship will sail at 7:00 pm.

Please contact Diane ASAP at 336-749-1219 to book flights, hotel, and travel insurance.

For check-in at the Terminal, remember to bring the following items on your person or in your hand-carry-on luggage:
- Your Boarding Pass that you printed out
- Appropriate Passport or other acceptable government-issued ID
- Visa for Iceland, United Kingdom, or Denmark (if required, according to your citizenship)



START EARLY AND STAY LATE to Enjoy the Magic!

We have arranged awesome Pre-cruise and Post-cruise shore excursions. Pre-cruise, on Friday, June 7, on our private, exclusive excursion: "Fire and Ice Tour," we will explore the otherworldly Reykjanes Peninsula (with its very recent lava flows) and a visit to the famed Blue Lagoon spa. This awesome excursion begins at Center Hotels Klöpp on June 7 at 10:45 am and returns that evening.

NOTE: In case of a Blue Lagoon shutdown due to volcanic activity, we have arranged for an alternate magnificent bathing spot: the Sky Lagoon.

Post-cruise on June 16, we will enjoy our amazing Roskilde: Land of Vikings and Monarchs" excursion in Copenhagen. (including luggage pick-up at Oceankaj Cruise Terminal in Copenhagen and drop-off at Mayfair Hotel) See details here: www.divinetravels.com/Iceland2024Excursions.html


AIR TRAVEL from Home to Cruise

Our travel partner Diane Michael at Luxury Travel Destinations would love to assist you in a seamless journey from home to Iceland and from Copenhagen back home. Please contact Diane here: 336-749-1219 or here:
diane@luxurytravel-destinations.com. State your closest airport city closest to home, and she will reply with a rate quote.

IMMIGRATION

When you pass through immigration at Keflavik Airport in Iceland, you might be required to prove you have booked a hotel or a cruise. So please have your cruise Boarding Pass and/or your Hotel reservation printed out to show to the immigration officer.

CHANGE MONEY AT AIRPORT

Upon your arrival, we suggest changing money at the airport at an ATM or currency exchange, so you will have Icelandic Króna to pay for small tips for drivers, guides, and waiters on shore excursions, tips for porters and ship crew, souvenirs, and other expenses you foresee while in Iceland. Some tourist attractions charge to use the toilets. Typically, the cost is about 200 ISK. You can pay with coins or possibly credit card. When nature calls in a remote outdoor location, carry toilet paper or Kleenex and a ziplock bag to put used paper in. Then throw it into a trash bin later.

TRANSFER AIRPORT TO CRUISE PORT OR HOTEL

We highly recommend you arrive at least one day prior to the cruise, but if you are arriving on June 8, please make sure your flight arrives before 12:00 noon. Holland America does not provide transfers from Airport (KEF) to the Port of Reykjavik (Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal). Below are several ways you may transfer from Keflavik Airport to your destination:

TAXICAB to Cruise Port or Hotel
At Keflavik Airport, you can get a taxi 24 hours a day at the airport taxi stand. We suggest you ask for a taxi that takes credit cards, and ask the price before boarding the cab. If you run into difficulties, you can call a cab here:
• A–Stöðin: +354 420 1212 / +354 520 1212, taxi@kefairport.is
• Borgarbílastöðin: +354 552 2440, www.borgarbilastodin.is
• BSR: +354 561 0000, info@taxireykjavik.is, www.bsr.is
• Hreyfill: +354 421 4141 / +354 588 5522, tour@hreyfill.is

PRIVATE CAR SERVICE to Cruise Port or Hotel
For a luxury experience, you might arrange in advance for a driver to greet you at the airport, holding a placard with your name on it, right after you pass through immigration. You may get a rate quote and book a car at one of these sites:
• Welcome Pickups: www.welcomepickups.com/reykjavik/airport-taxi
• HreyFill: www.hreyfill.is/en/keflavik-airport
• Snaeland Travel: https://airportshuttleiceland.com

BUS TO HOTEL Only: No Service to Cruise Port
Flybus: Molly has used this service, and it is an inexpensive, reliable way to transfer from the Keflavik Airport to the Center Hotel Klöpp or wherever you will stay. Here’s how it works: You would take a bus from the Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik and then transfer with your luggage to a second bus. That bus would drop you off a few blocks from your hotel. Here is where to book in advance: www.re.is/tour/flybus: On this page, you can scroll down on the drop-down menu and pick CenterHotel Klöpp for 4999 ISK ($35.80 US).
Grayline: Here is a similar service: Grayline: Call: +3545401313 or e-mail: iceland@grayline.is https://grayline.is/tours/keflavik-airport/keflavik-airport-to-reykjavik-to-gray-line-bus-terminal-8706_67. On this page, you can scroll down on the drop-down menu and pick CenterHotel Klöpp for € 31 ($33.39 US)

TRANSFER CRUISE TERMINAL TO COPENHAGEN AIRPORT

If you would like transfers from the Cruise Terminal to the airport in Copenhagen on June 15, please send Diane your full flight itinerary: diane@luxurytravel-destinations.com. The transfer available on June 15 is $39 and flights must depart after 12:00 PM.

HOTEL PACKAGES AND TRANSFERS

We strongly recommend you stay overnight in Reykjavik on June 7, 2024 or earlier, to assure you get to the ship before it sails! Arrive a few days early, and take in all of Iceland’s magic. You might also stay to sightsee in Copenhagen after the cruise. We would happily reserve your hotel, subject to availability, and rates subject to change until reservations are locked in. Please contact Diane for reservations: diane@luxurytravel-destinations.com

If you have booked your own flights, but want help with hotel, transfers, or pre- and post-cruise excursions, please provide all flight details to Diane Michael here: diane@luxurytravel-destinations.com. Please include flights from home to Reykjavik and Copenhagen back home: airline, flight numbers and times.



FLIGHTS BY HOLLAND AMERICA FLIGHTEASE®

Holland America Line Flight Ease® delivers what cruise travelers are looking for: a convenient, worry-free way to book air travel featuring flight inventory from most airlines, our specially negotiated low prices, the freedom to change your flights - with no change fees, and late-arrival protection with 24-hour assistance. In addition, you can earn frequent flier miles with participating airlines.

CHOICES: Customize your air itinerary with your preferred travel dates, airport, airline, flight, and aircraft cabin class. Select from Flexible or Restricted fares*. Your flight selections will be confirmed immediately.

SAVINGS: Our Flexible Fares* are competitively priced and often lower than pricing found on other sites – with added benefits not found elsewhere. With Flexible Fares, you may change your flights without change fees** at any time prior to your cruise final payment date.

LATE ARRIVAL PROTECTION: In the event your flights are delayed or cancelled by the airline on the day you are en route to or from your cruise, our staff is ready to assist you, 24/7. We’ll even take care of any flight changes if needed to join the voyage at the next available port of call.

SUPPORT: Should you need assistance with your flight selections or during your air travels, you may rely on our support to ensure worry-free travel. Contact your Travel Advisor or call the support line at 1-800-628-4771.


TRAVEL INSURANCE


SECURE YOUR VOYAGE WITH TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is not included in your Midnight Sun Cruise and Seminar-at-Sea fare. You are urged to purchase travel insurance, in case of possible injury, illness, cancellation, heliport airlift from the ship, or other unforeseen emergencies. For policy details and information about what is covered/not covered, please contact our travel advisor Diane Michael here: 336-749-1219.

NOTE: Travel insurance is nonrefundable. We offer travel insurance for USA citizens or USA residents only. If you are from another country, please get travel insurance from a local carrier.


GET TRAVEL DOCUMENTS IN ADVANCE


CHECK IN FOR YOUR CRUISE ONLINE
AND PRINT OUT YOUR EXPRESS DOCS


For your convenience, and to expedite your embarkation at the Cruise Terminal on sailing day, please utilize the Online Check-in procedure and start the process as soon as possible.

Create a Holland America Account Please create a Holland America Account here: https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/us/my-account/log-in/sso-log-in. When setting up your account, enter your booking number when prompted, in order to ensure that your booking is connected and accessible within your account.

Express Docs Registration Is Available NOW To expedite embarkation on sailing day, you are required to utilize the Online Check-in procedure. To complete Online Check-in for all guests in your party, you will need:

- Full legal name(s)
- Birth date(s)
- Passport, visa or permanent resident card number(s) and expiration date(s)
- Home address(es)
- Home telephone number(s)
- Emergency contact information
- Flight information
- Credit card you wish to use for onboard purchases
- Additional questions


Here is where to check-in:
https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/us/my-account/log-in/sso-log-in

For a more in-depth look at the Online Check-in process, watch our video walk-through here:

 

Required fields are indicated in red and with an asterisk.

During Online Check-in, you will securely submit your passport, immigration, disembarkation, and credit card info. If you begin the process and cannot finish due to insufficient information, your work will be saved, and you may complete it later.

IMPORTANT: Please check that your name and date of birth match your travel documents.


WHAT TO PRINT OUT

1. BOARDING PASS: Complete your Online Check-in before June 2, and print out your BOARDING PASS/EXPRESS DOCS after you complete your online check-in. Your Express Docs will contain valuable information about what to expect onboard, and more. Please review this document carefully for any questions or concerns.

PLEASE NOTE: You will be assigned an appointment time for your arrival at the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal in Reykjavik. That time will appear on your Boarding Pass that you print out.

2. LUGGAGE TAGS: After Online Check-in, your personalized Luggage Tags will be ready for print-out along with your Boarding Pass. Print out enough Luggage Tags for all your bags, even carry-ons. (Trust me from experience!). With a stapler or clear packing tape, attach your Luggage Tags to every piece of luggage just before you arrive at the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal.

IMPORTANT: If your Luggage Tags do not display your stateroom number, it means your room is not yet assigned by Holland America. Make sure both your Boarding Pass and Luggage Tags have your correct room number on them. If your room is not yet assigned, print out the Luggage Tags closer to the sailing date, when your room number will appear on the tags.

If you have any issues completing your Online Check-in, please contact Holland America at 855-932-1711, and a representative will happily walk you through the process. Please be aware that Holland America Line cannot print, email or fax guest's Boarding Pass.


GET INFO WITH YOUR SMART PHONE

With the Holland America Line Navigator App, you can book specialty dining reservations, arrange spa services, get beverage packages, WiFi packages, or add on other packages, as desired. The Holland America Line Navigator is also available as a mobile app, so you can keep your cruise itinerary and all onboard activities in the palm of your hand. Here is a recent video about it.

 


MANAGE YOUR BOOKING

You can log in to Holland America and plan and book spa reservations, read about cruise preparation, pre-reserve Internet, drink, bottled water, laundry, and specialty dining reservations and packages, pre-register for the cruise, print your cruise documents and luggage tags, and more:

https://book2.hollandamerica.com/secondaryFlow/login/booking

Enter your Booking Number, your Last Name, and then indicate on the drop-down menu whether this is for yourself (Guest on the booking), or your friend or family (Friend or family of the Guest).



ARRIVAL AT CRUISE PORT


ARRIVE AT PORT ON JUNE 8

The Nieuw Statendam will depart from Port of Reykjavik (Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal), located at Skarfagardar 8, 104 Reykjavik, Iceland. You will check in at the Cruise Ship Terminal before boarding the ship. Please arrive at the Cruise Terminal at the pre-assigned boarding time displayed on your Boarding Pass.

Passengers will be allowed to board the ship starting approximately 11:30 am on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at the Terminal. Please arrive at the designated boarding time printed on your Boarding Pass. The ship will sail at 7:00 pm.

For check-in at the Terminal, remember to bring the following items on your person or in your hand-carry-on luggage:
- Your Boarding Pass that you printed out
- Appropriate Passport or other acceptable government-issued ID
- Visa for Iceland, United Kingdom, or Denmark (if required, according to your citizenship)
- Your Credit Card used to set up your account during your online check-in at the Holland America website

HAND-CARRY ONE BAG

Make sure you keep one bag to hand-carry onto the ship. Upon arrival at Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal, your large suitcases will be transferred onto the ship and delivered to your stateroom. For security, luggage delivery will not commence until 1:00 p.m. and luggage may not arrive in your room for several hours—perhaps not until late night. Therefore, wheel a bag onto the ship with all you need for the day, including your smartphone, passport, Boarding Pass, travel documents, change of clothing, swim suit, workout clothes, sunscreen, cosmetics, make-up, jewelry, medications, book to read, and/or anything else you might want.

As soon as you arrive at the Cruise Terminal, give the porters all the bags you don’t want to drag onto the ship by yourself. Make sure your Holland America Luggage Tags (printed with your stateroom number) are securely attached to your bags. A suggested tip for the porter is 400 ISK per bag. If you don't have pre-printed Luggage Tags, you can get tags from the porter and write your name and room number on them.

The crew might be still preparing the ship for your cruise when you board. Your stateroom will be ready at approximately 1:00 p.m. Please do not try to visit your stateroom until an announcement that staterooms are ready has been made via the Public Address system.

CHECKING IN AT TERMINAL

For Port Check-in, you’ll present your travel documents and required proof of citizenship. If you completed Online Check-In, you will present your Boarding Pass. If you were unable to complete Online Check-In prior to travel, please allow sufficient time to complete the immigration questionnaire (one per person) at the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal.

Holland America is required to submit guest information to local law enforcement authorities. If they do not have your information by 90 minutes prior to departure, you will not be allowed to sail. If you do not complete Online Check-in in advance, you risk being turned away, and you will be responsible for costs to join the ship at the next port.


ID'S AND INCIDENTALS


SHIPBOARD ACCOUNT AND KEYCARD

CASH-FREE CRUISE:
For purchases made on the ship, you won’t use cash or credit cards. Instead, during Online Check-in, you’ll set up your Onboard Account. When you arrive at the Cruise Terminal in Reykjavik, you’ll be required to present a credit card, debit card, or cash to confirm that account.

On the ship, you’ll charge expenses for bottled water, soft drinks, liquor, specialty restaurants, spa or salon treatments, specialty fitness classes, optional professional photos, casino play, boutique shopping, laundry, ship-to-shore phone, email, WiFi, and any other onboard expenses, using the keycard that will be delivered to your stateroom.

Your stateroom keycard serves as your room key, your ID for security purposes when embarking and disembarking the ship, and a charge card for all onboard purchases. Please keep your card ready and available (we will give you a lanyard to hang it around your neck) whenever getting on or off the ship, as you will need to scan the card at the optical monitors located at the gangway.

PAYMENT OPTIONS:
Credit or debit card is Holland America’s preferred method of payment for your onboard account. A hold of $30 per day will be placed on your credit card. If you wish, you may bring cash and pay at the Guest Services desk on embarkation day. Please keep with you the credit or debit card you registered for the duration of the cruise, in case of any questions. IMPORTANT: If you wish to use a pre-paid Visa/Mastercard/American Express or Discover travel money or gift/reward card, please do not register that online. Instead, present it to Guest Services onboard the ship.

FINAL ONBOARD STATEMENT:
The amount of your final onboard statement plus any charges incurred on your last day will be charged to your credit card. NOTE: The multiple authorization holds will be released by your bank once your final credit card statement has been settled. For questions about how long the credit card hold remains in effect or how your available credit is affected, please contact your credit card issuer.

REFUNDS:
Refunds for purchases of onboard products and services will be credited to your onboard account whether purchased prior to or during your cruise. The final amount billed may take up to 24-hours following your departure from the ship. No refunds can be issued to pre-paid cards.

CRUISE TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION

IMPORTANT: Visa and documentation requirements vary by destination and change from time to time without prior notice. Passengers should check with the consulate of each country they will visit (Iceland, Scotland, and Denmark), or a visa service to verify current regulations. It is the passenger's responsibility to have proper travel documentation. They should reconfirm visa requirements with the consulate 14-30 days prior to the cruise.

Passport validity:
Many countries require passports be valid for six months after the completion of your travel. Check your passport to verify it will be valid for this period of time. Please ensure the name on the passport matches the name on the booking. Additionally, make certain that your passport contains blank pages for entry and exit endorsements and any visas that may be required. If necessary, allow sufficient time to renew your passport and/or obtain additional pages.

Passport holders should ensure passports are valid through the completion of travel. There may be occasions where Holland America will retain your passport at check-in. This is to ensure that you are not inconvenienced by immigration clearance during your cruise and where face to face inspection is not required. We recommend you bring a second government issued photo ID if you wish to have one with you while in port.

Passport Services for US Nationals
There are over 7,000 Application Acceptance locations in the US. Callers may locate the one closest to them by going to the US Department of State website at http://iafdb.travel.state.gov. The United States Postal Service also provides passport services. To obtain this information, go to usps.com to find a Post Office location, fees, and to download a passport application at http://www.usps.com/passport. For information regarding Passport applications, please visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html or call the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778 (M-F, 5am to 5pm Pacific Time).

*This information is provided as general guidance. Because governmental travel requirements change periodically, you must check with your travel agent or the government authorities for all countries you will visit to determine or verify the actual requirements at the time of sailing. Holland America assumes no responsibility for advising passengers of such requirements.


WELCOME ABOARD


WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU BOARD THE SHIP

As soon as you get onboard, go straight to your stateroom and get settled, if your room is ready. There you will find the "When and Where" newsletter with schedules for all the onboard activities.

If your room isn't ready yet, then head for one of the dining rooms onboard for lunch. If the spa or fitness classes are your thing, make your appointments on the first day, as the most popular treatments and times fill up fast.


SHIP SAFETY DRILL

 


Lunch Is Served

On June 8, the Lido Restaurant embarkation buffet and the Pool Grill shall open at 11:30 a.m. for lunch.


SEMINAR-AT-SEA CHECK-IN AND FIRST MEETING

MANDATORY Check-In
For "Midnight Sun" Seminar-at-Sea:

ALL attendees of the "Midnight Sun" Seminar-at-Sea are required to check-in, right after you board the ship, for the Seminar-at-Sea on Deck 1 Midship in The Hudson Room, between 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm. During your check-in, you will receive your cruise and seminar guide and your unique seminar entrance identifier so you can get into our seminars. Security on the seminar will be strict, and you will not be allowed into any events without your unique identification. Also, if you are attending any of our special Seminar-at-Sea shore excursions, you will receive your shore excursion tickets at this mandatory check-in.

MANDATORY First Meeting
Welcome-Aboard Sail-Away Orientation and Logistics:

The first meeting of our Seminar-at-Sea will take place in the Hudson Room, Deck 1 Midship, from 4:00 to 5:00 pm. See the entire TENTATIVE schedule at www.divinetravels.com/Iceland2024Schedule.html

Group Photo
At 5:00 pm, right after our first meeting, we will meet for a Group Photo in the Hudson Room, Deck 1 Midship.

Group Dinner:

At 5:15 pm, we will meet on Deck 3 Aft for our group dining. We will be seated together in a designated section of the dining room. Although you might be assigned to a specific table, you are not required to sit at that table. You may sit at any of our designated tables. We recommend that you sit with different people and make new friends on the cruise.


PREPARATION FOR YOUR CRUISE


LUGGAGE AND WHAT TO BRING

On the first day: For the first day of your cruise, pack a small carry-on bag with your travel documents, a change of clothes, bathing suit, workout clothes, and any medications you may need. Wheel that carry-on onto the ship. That way you don't have to wait for your checked bags to arrive in your stateroom.

Temperature
The average temperature for Reykjavik, Iceland in June is a high of 54° and low 44° Fahrenheit. A few days might reach 68°F during your stay. Iceland’s temperatures are unpredictable and known for fluctuating quickly, from warm and sunny to frigid—even within the same hour. So be ready for rain, wind, or sunshine. For Kirkwall, Scotland: average high 57° and low 45° F. For Copenhagen, Denmark: average high 68° and low 53° F. So please pack appropriate clothing.

Suggested clothing for outdoor excursions
fleece jacket, down or fleece vest, long-sleeved cotton t-shirt, short-sleeved cotton t-shirt, waterproof jacket or windbreaker, waterproof pants that zip off at knee (for quick extreme changes in temperature), capris or shorts, sturdy water-resistant walking shoes or hiking boots, warm wool socks, lightweight thermal underwear top and bottom, lightweight sweater (cotton, cashmere, or merino wool), lightweight water-resistant touchscreen gloves that allow cell phone and camera operation, warm scarf, cozy knit beanie or fleece headband, fold-up umbrella, 2 bathing suits that can be used with mudpacks, long-sleeved swim coverup, rubber sandals or flip-flops.

Suggested electronics
foreign electrical outlet adapter for hotels in Europe, so you can use and charge dual-voltage devices (cell phone, computer, hair curler, electric razor, etc.), phone with USB cord charger, high-definition camera, laptop or notebook computer (Wi-Fi is available on the ship for a fee) with electrical charger, extra batteries. If any appliances are single USA voltage (110-120), you’ll need to also bring an electric transformer (if you will arrive June 8 and depart June 15, you won’t need an adapter or transformer).


More suggested items to pack
sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, waterproof bag to store clothing while bathing in hot springs, lightweight waterproof backpack, portable phone charger, portable rechargeable hand-warming heat packs (if you need extra warmth), eye mask to help sleep in midnight sun, magnetic hooks to stick on stateroom walls to hang extra clothing, shoe organizer (for cosmetics if many are sharing a bathroom), refillable lightweight water bottle, smart casual dinner clothes, formal clothes for dinner on two formal nights (on 7-day cruise), long pants and tops, sweatshirt or hoodie, sweatpants, underwear, compression socks (especially for airplane), sleeping-clothes, wristwatch (cell phones don’t register the correct time at sea), alarm clock (or get wake-up calls from ship Operator), cosmetics, toiletries, make-up, bar soap, medications and supplements, eyeglasses or contacts, backpack or fanny pack for shore excursions, binoculars, post-it notes (to leave notes for stateroom attendant on your door), yoga mat, book to read, journal, spiral notebook to take notes in Molly’s class. If you plan to visit the onboard fitness center, bring work-out shorts, t-shirts, socks, and athletic shoes.

Dinner attire:
We will enjoy Group Dining at our designated tables in the upper main dining room on Deck 3 aft at 5:30 pm each evening.
Meals in the main dining room follow this schedule: For a 7-night cruise, 5 smart casual nights and 2 formal nights. The number of smart casual and formal nights is at the ship's discretion. We appreciate your cooperation in observing these easy guidelines.

Suggested guidelines for these nights are:
- Smart Casual: Slacks and collared shirts or sweaters for men. Skirt or trousers, sweater, blouse or dress for women
- Formal Night: Suits and ties or tuxedos for men, cocktail dresses or formals for women
The ship offers tuxedo rentals for formal dinners and special occasions.

  

Save space:
Be sure to leave some room in your luggage for all those souvenirs and mementos. Some space-saving ideas include:
- Bring shirts and pants/skirts that mix and match, turning three outfits into five or six.
- Wear your heaviest shoes during embarkation and disembarkation so you don't have to pack them.
- Pack small items inside larger ones for efficiency.
- Bring an additional empty bag for those acquired extras.

Dining attire:
Shorts, T-shirts, and bathing suits are not considered appropriate attire in the dining rooms at dinner. Casual dress dining is available nightly in the Lido Market Buffet. Be aware you'll also need smart casual attire for some of the specialty restaurants.

Onshore attire:
You'll need comfortable walking shoes, as well as a hat or umbrella and sunscreen for protection from the sun. As rain is to be expected, you are advised to bring a poncho, raincoat, or travel umbrella. If you'll be touring any museums, cathedrals or churches, it's always wise to dress conservatively.


Luggage Allowance:
Each guest is permitted to carry a reasonable amount of personal property (including luggage) aboard the vessel; however, for your comfort and convenience, it is recommended that you limit the number of pieces you take. Keep in mind that airlines may charge for excess or oversize luggage. Charges incurred for excess or oversize baggage are the sole responsibility of the passenger. Each airline has a different limit on the amount of luggage they allow. Check with your air carrier for specific restrictions, such as allowance of pounds and any additional charges.

Luggage Tags:
When you print out your Express Docs from the Holland America website, luggage tags will be included on one of the pages. Fold and staple or tape those tags around your luggage handles just before you arrive at the port in Reykjavik so your luggage will arrive safely in your stateroom. Please print out extra luggage tags, in case you or another person in your party loses theirs.


Packing for Your Cruise
Many domestic airline carriers now impose excess baggage fees for one or more bags and bags weighing over 50 lbs., so check with your carrier regarding weight restrictions.

All luggage should have a sturdy personal identification tag that will not be lost or damaged in the course of typical airport and trucked luggage handling. On journeys including air travel, luggage will be subject to a considerable amount of handling and we would recommend that your luggage be of sturdy construction.

We recommend that your travel protection insurance should cover any possible loss or damage that may occur. Any loss or damage caused by Holland America or an airline must be reported immediately to the responsible party.

Holland America will make every effort to assist you in safeguarding your belongings. But remember, you are responsible for your possessions at all times. Holland America is not responsible for money, jewelry, cameras, binoculars, documents or any other articles you retain in your personal control. We strongly recommend you hand-carry all valuables and breakables, including jewelry, electronics and cameras, essential medications, travel documents, valuables, and breakables should be hand carried in your possession at all times. Please read the Passage Contract for limitations and responsibilities for lost items and baggage.

What Not To Bring:
For the safety of our guests and crew there are certain items that are not allowed onboard. If these are found they will be confiscated. Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, flammable liquids, explosives, and dangerous chemicals will not be returned.

Weapons, illegal drugs, and other items that could interfere with the safe operation of the ship or the safe and secure environment of our guests and crew are prohibited. Do not pack fragile or expensive items (such as jewelry) in checked luggage.

- Illegal Drugs & Substances. If you sneak Marijuana or other illegal drugs onboard, you will be arrested.
- Firearms & Ammunition, including realistic replicas
- Alcoholic Beverages (Alcoholic beverages that are purchased in ports-of-call or from shops onboard will be stored by the ship and delivered to you on the last day of the sailing. Alcoholic beverages seized on embarkation day will not be returned.)- Sharp Objects, including knives and scissors (Personal grooming items such as safety razors are allowed. Scissors with blade length less than 4 inches are allowed.)
- Candles & Incense
- Coffee Makers, Clothes Irons, Electrical Extension Cords, & Hot Plates
- Baseball Bats, Hockey Sticks, Cricket Bats, Bows and Arrows
- Skateboards & Surfboards
- Martial Arts Gear
- Self-Defense Gear, including handcuffs, pepper spray and night sticks
- Flammable Liquids and Explosives, including lighter fluid and fireworks
- HAM Radios
- Dangerous Chemicals, including bleach and paint



HEALTH INFORMATION

Information regarding required vaccinations for your cruise is listed on your Travel Summary (if applicable). We recommend seasonal influenza vaccinations for all passengers. Furthermore, you are strongly urged to seek advice from your primary care physician or an approved public health advisory service to identify any specific vaccination or health precautions required for each port of call. Vaccination requirements vary by destination and change from time to time. Passengers should check with the World Health Organization (WHO) (http://who.int/ith) or contact the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov/travel to verify current regulations.

Norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the developed world. The health and well-being of our passengers and crew is our highest priority. There are several measures which have been placed to prevent and contain illnesses on our ships that meet or exceed standards set by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The simplest way for you to stay healthy is to frequently and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet. You'll also find hand sanitizers located throughout the ship for your use after washing your hands. If you feel ill during your voyage, please immediately report to the medical center.

Health and Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend you review your health insurance coverage before cruising. Many policies, including Medicare, will not pay for services or hospitalization outside of the country or for emergency evacuation. Holland America ships are foreign-flagged and are considered "out of country." Please contact Diane at Luxury Trael Destinations: 336-749-1219, to arrange for insurance.


TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS


HOLLAND AMERICA SMOKING POLICY

For the comfort of all of our guests, all staterooms (cabins), showrooms, and most other indoor areas are designated non-smoking. No smoking of any kind will be permitted on any stateroom verandah.

Designated Smoking Areas on Nieuw Statendam:
Sea View Bar area
Casino smoking is allowed in designated areas for active players only and only when outside of 12NM from the Netherlands

Cigar and pipe smoking is not allowed anywhere inside the ship; it is only permitted on the outside decks where smoking is otherwise allowed. Electronic cigarettes are not permitted in staterooms or in other public areas of the ship other than designated smoking areas. Any guest who smokes inside staterooms or on verandahs in violation of our policy will be charged a US$250 cleaning fee per day of violation and will risk being removed from the ship for repeated violations.


PREGNANT WOMEN AND INFANTS

Since the cruise lines are not equipped with major medical facilities onboard, they have established very strict policies with regard to expectant mothers and infants. Each cruise line requires expectant mothers to provide a physician's letter (faxed in advance or hand delivered at the time of check-in) stating that the guest is in good health, fit to travel, and that the pregnancy is not high risk. The letter must also include the expected date of the child's birth.

Typically, a letter is not required for infants to travel. However, each cruise line has a minimum age requirement for guests traveling, which will be verified upon check-in at the pier. This minimum age requirement varies by cruise line and even itinerary. Always tell your Vacations To Go cruise counselor if you are pregnant or planning to cruise with an infant to insure you meet all required guidelines. Pregnant Women: Women cannot have begun their 24th week of pregnancy at any time before or during the cruise. If you are pregnant or sailing with a guest who is pregnant they must provide a physician’s letter stating the expected due date, medical fitness to travel and the pregnancy is not high risk. Please also include your name, booking number, ship and sailing date. Please fax your letters to our Access & Compliance Department at 800-577-1731. Infants: Minimum age is 12 months of age for trans-Atlantic sailings or any other itinerary which in the opinion of the Medical Department present a significant risk to infants between 6 and 12 months of age; minimum age is 6 months for all other sailings.


PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES

Holland America Line is committed to providing safe, easy, and accessible accommodations for all persons with disabilities, to the extent that is feasible. Holland America Line is dedicated to offering the finest cruising experience to our guests, including those with disabilities. Our ships provide a quality of service and a variety of accessible features to make your voyage a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

The Importance of Planning Ahead
Holland America Line does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability. We seek, to the extent feasible, to accommodate guests with disabilities. However, some needs require adequate time to prepare for a guest's arrival. It is recommended that guests make every effort to contact our Guest Accessibility Department and to submit a Special Requirements Information (SRI) Form well in advance of the departure of their cruise and/or cruisetour. We recommend submitting an SRI upon booking or a minimum of 45 days prior to departure.

Guests who are unable to care for their basic needs (e.g. dressing, eating, moving from wheelchair to seating and/or from seating to wheelchair or standing and attending safety drills) MUST have a capable traveling companion. The medical staff on board is not available for daily care unless an individual is hospitalized in the ship's Medical Center. In limited situations (either on board or ashore), we may find it necessary to ask the individual to make alternative travel arrangements, such as if an individual with a disability is unable to satisfy certain specified safety and other criteria, even when provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services.

Our vessel has specially designed staterooms for guests who require mobility assistive features. If you have not booked one of these accessible staterooms but instead will be using a standard stateroom, you need to know about some limitations that adversely impact maneuverability, especially ingress and egress into bathrooms. For example, bathroom dimensions, doorsills, and the height of bathtubs in standard staterooms are often difficult to negotiate for guests who have mobility limitations. Additionally, standard stateroom doors and hallways may be too narrow for a wheelchair or scooter to maneuver into and out of the stateroom. Note: For safety reasons, these mobility devices must be stored and charged in the guests' staterooms.


CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

FOR QUESTIONS AND PHONE REGISTRATION:
Diane at Luxury Travel Destinations: 336-749-1219
Email Diane at: diane@luxurytravel-destinations.com


TRANSPORT AND
ESSENTIAL INFO
TESTIMONIALS CONTACT US