Holland America’s Festive Menus for the Holiday Season

Holland America Line is celebrating the holiday season by offering themed food and beverage menus across its fleet, according to a recent press release.
The cruise line will provide guests with festive offerings for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s Eve. Among the highlights are a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, “Breakfast with Santa,” feasts for Christmas Eve and Day, and special Hanukkah treats.
The Christmas Eve menu will feature international dishes, reflecting the diverse cultures of the destinations visited by the cruise line.
Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage, and rooms division at Holland America Line, said, “Sailing with Holland America for the holidays offers a fun and stress-free way to celebrate.” He further mentioned that the onboard dining experiences not only simplify holiday planning but also offer a rich and diverse culinary journey with a touch of tradition, enhancing connections with loved ones and making the time on board special.

For Thanksgiving, the cruise line will serve a traditional feast that includes Thanksgiving turkey with cranberries and sweet potatoes; Beef Tenderloin with Apple Rösti; Honey-Baked Ham; and Mushroom Ravioli with Sage. Additionally, two new fresh fish dishes from Holland America’s Global Fresh Fish Ambassador Chef Masaharu Morimoto will be available for an extra charge.
During December, guests can participate in the Nutcracker Afternoon Tea Service on select sea days, which will feature seasonal treats like a Grinch truffle, Santa Hat cupcake, and Reindeer Chocolate tart. Families cruising in the Caribbean can enjoy “Breakfast with Santa” at Pinnacle Grill or Tamarind on select ships, which will include crafts, Christmas music, and photo opportunities. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners will be available in the Dining Room and Canaletto.
For Hanukkah, guests can find doughnuts filled with strawberry jelly at Lido Market. Additionally, freshly baked challah bread and crispy potato latkes served with apple sauce and sour cream will be offered.
The cruise line will also host New Year’s Eve celebrations, which will feature a special dinner in the Dining Room or at Pinnacle Grill for $69 per person, with menu highlights including a Colossal Crab Tower with Caviar, Sterling Beef Fillet with Butter-basted Lobster, and a Chocolate Countdown dessert. The celebrations will continue on the Lido Deck with a midnight party. Guests may also opt for the New Year’s Eve VIP Beverage Package, which includes a reserved booth, butler service, and appetizers. On New Year’s Day, a complimentary brunch will be available in the Dining Room, or a brunch at Pinnacle Grill for $25 per person.
The cruise will also offer a variety of festive holiday cocktails and coffees, including:

• The Minty Elf Martini
• Rudolph the Red Margarita
• De Lijn Ginger Mojito
• Spiked Eggnog
• Christmas Cocoa Mint Coffee
• Vanilla Gingerbread Latte
• Eggnog Latte