Sarah Bretz, ContributorHolland America Line has announced the culinary and beverage lineup for its holiday cruises later this year.
Guests will enjoy a variety of holiday-themed culinary experiences, including a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, a new “Breakfast with Santa,” Christmas Eve and Christmas Day feasts, and special Hanukkah treats. The Christmas Eve menu in the dining room will feature dishes from around the world, honoring cultures and traditions from many of the destinations that the ships visit.
Thanksgiving
Guests will enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast from the leisure of the ship. The main dining room will offer a robust menu full of fall flavors for Thanksgiving dinner including a selection of traditional Thanksgiving turkey with cranberries and sweet potatoes; Beef Tenderloin with Apple Rösti; Honey-Baked Ham; and Mushroom Ravioli with Sage. The menu will also feature two new fresh fish dishes from Holland America’s Global Fresh Fish Ambassador Chef Masaharu Morimoto for an additional fee.
Christmas
Throughout the month of December, guests of all ages can savor seasonal delights during the Nutcracker Afternoon Tea Service offered on select sea days in the main dining room. The full tea service features a Grinch truffle, Santa Hat cupcake, Reindeer Chocolate tart, and savory sandwich items.
Leading up to Christmas, both the main dining room and Italian restaurant Canaletto will serve special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners. In the main dining room, Christmas Eve dinner will feature holiday dishes from around the globe including Norway, Thailand, Spain, and the Caribbean. Canaletto will serve festive Italian fare.
Families sailing in the Caribbean just before or during Christmas can join Santa Claus at a special Breakfast with Santa in Pinnacle Grill or Tamarind restaurant on Signature and Pinnacle class ships. The event includes festive crafts and Christmas music, followed by a family-friendly meal. After that, Santa will make his appearance and be available for photos. Breakfast with Santa is a $25 surcharge per adult or $15 per child ages 3 to 17 years old.
Hanukkah
Holland America’s ships will offer traditional Hanukkah dishes at the Lido Market. Guests will be able to enjoy doughnuts filled with strawberry jelly, a nod to the story of Hanukkah where oil burned for eight days. Freshly-baked challah bread and crispy potato latkes served with applesauce and sour cream will also be available.
New Year’s
Guests will have the opportunity to ring in the New Year with several celebrations happening all day long. New Year’s Eve festivities will kick off with a special dinner in the main dining room or at Pinnacle Grill for $69 per person where guests can enjoy a Colossal Crab Tower with Caviar, Sterling Beef Fillet with Butter-basted Lobster, and a Chocolate Countdown. The celebrations will move up to the lido deck for a party, complete with favors and sparkling toasts when the clock strikes midnight.
Holland America will also be offering a New Year’s Eve VIP Beverage Package. It includes a reserved booth at either the lido pool or B.B. King’s Blues Club, dedicated butler service, and a selection of hot and cold appetizers to enjoy throughout the evening. After a night of celebrating, passengers can enjoy a complimentary New Year’s Day brunch in the dining room, or they can splurge and have brunch at Pinnacle Grill for $25 per person.
Holiday Cocktails and Coffees
Special crafted cocktails and a selection of non-alcoholic coffee drinks that will be available during the holiday sailings include:
- Minty Elf Martini – Grey Goose vodka, Crème de Cacao, and peppermint schnapps
- Rudolph the Red Margarita – 1800 Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, pomegranate juice, and fresh lime
- De Lijn Ginger Mojito – De Lijn Gin, mint, ginger beer, and candied ginger
- Spiked Eggnog – Baileys, Kahlua, espresso, and eggnog
- Christmas Cocoa Mint Coffee – Kahlua, peppermint schnapps, and coffee
- Vanilla Gingerbread Latte – A classic latte featuring gingerbread and vanilla syrup
- Eggnog Latte – Espresso, eggnog, milk, and almond syrup
Comments
Are you planning a holiday cruise this year and if so, what holiday will it be over? What dish/drink looks best on Holland America’s menu this year? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!
