KONINGSDAM Alaska Cruise Guide 2026

Quick Reference

Cruise Line	Holland America Line
Ship Class	Pinnacle
Gross Tonnage	99,500 GT
Passenger Capacity	2,650 (double occupancy)
Crew Size	1,036
Year Built / Last Refurbished	2016 / Check with Holland America Line for latest refurbishment details
Number of Decks	14
Homeport (Alaska)	Vancouver
Typical Itinerary Length	7 nights
2026 Alaska Port Calls	85

Why Choose Koningsdam for Alaska

Koningsdam offers a sophisticated and immersive Alaska cruise experience. It's a mid-sized ship, which allows it to navigate scenic waterways like Tracy Arm Fjord more intimately than some of the mega-ships. The ship's focus on music, dining, and Alaska enrichment makes it a compelling choice for travelers looking for more than just port calls.

Compared to other Holland America ships in Alaska, Koningsdam strikes a balance between traditional cruising and modern amenities. While ships like the Noordam or Westerdam offer a more classic Holland America feel, Koningsdam has innovative spaces like the World Stage and Music Walk. For families, Koningsdam offers more dedicated kids' spaces than some of the older ships in the fleet. The Nieuw Amsterdam is similar in style and amenities, so consider it as an alternative if Koningsdam's dates don't work.

Signature features like the Music Walk, with Lincoln Center Stage, BB King's Blues Club, and Billboard Onboard, provide diverse entertainment options. The World Stage, with its massive 270-degree LED screen, brings Alaska's landscapes and stories to life. And the Explorations Central (EXC) program offers in-depth insights into the region's history, culture, and wildlife. Koningsdam is best suited for couples, families with older children, and travelers who appreciate a refined atmosphere and a wide range of onboard activities. The ship is well-maintained, and while it was built in 2016, it feels contemporary and fresh.

2026 Alaska Itineraries

Koningsdam typically sails a 7-night roundtrip itinerary from Vancouver, British Columbia. This is a popular choice as it avoids the need for one-way airfare to Anchorage or Seward.

A typical 7-night Koningsdam Alaska itinerary looks like this (check Holland America Line for specific 2026 sailing dates and times as they may vary):

• Day 1: Depart Vancouver (Evening)
• Day 2: Inside Passage (Scenic Cruising)
• Day 3: Juneau (Arrival: Morning, Departure: Evening)
• Day 4: Skagway (Arrival: Morning, Departure: Evening)
• Day 5: Glacier Bay National Park (Scenic Cruising)
• Day 6: Ketchikan (Arrival: Morning, Departure: Afternoon)
• Day 7: Victoria, BC (Arrival: Evening, Departure: Late Evening)
• Day 8: Arrive Vancouver (Morning)

Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight, offering stunning views of glaciers and wildlife. The Inside Passage scenic cruising days provide opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life from the ship. While not all itineraries include Tracy Arm Fjord, some may substitute Glacier Bay for Tracy Arm, offering equally spectacular glacier viewing. Holland America Line typically offers multiple sailings of this itinerary throughout the Alaska cruise season. Check their website for the exact number of sailings in 2026.

Stateroom Guide for Alaska

Best Stateroom Categories for Alaska

For maximizing your Alaska cruise experience on Koningsdam, a stateroom with a balcony is highly recommended. Being able to step outside and take in the scenery, spot wildlife, and feel the crisp Alaska air is invaluable.

When selecting your stateroom, consider the ship's orientation. For Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord, both port (left) and starboard (right) sides offer great views, as the ship often rotates to give both sides equal viewing opportunities. However, for itineraries that only cruise one direction through the Inside Passage, one side might have more consistent land views. Check the itinerary map and sailing direction to determine which side might be preferable. Some passengers prefer aft-facing balconies for the wider views, but these can be prone to soot from the ship's engines. Staterooms on higher decks generally offer better unobstructed views, but can also be more susceptible to motion. Check deck plans for unobstructed views.

Stateroom Types & Pricing

• Interior: (Approx. $800 - $1,200 per person): The most budget-friendly option. While you won't have a window or balcony, you'll still have access to all the ship's amenities. Not ideal for Alaska viewing from your room.
• Ocean View: (Approx. $1,200 - $1,800 per person): Offers a window to the outside world. Provides natural light but lacks a private outdoor space. A step up from an interior cabin, but still not the best for Alaska.
• Balcony: (Approx. $1,800 - $3,000 per person): The top pick for an Alaska cruise. A private balcony allows you to enjoy the scenery and wildlife sightings at your own pace. Worth the investment for the full Alaska experience.
• Suite/Mini-Suite: (Approx. $3,000 - $5,000+ per person): Offers more space, enhanced amenities, and often priority embarkation/disembarkation. Includes a larger balcony, often with better views.

Note: Prices are approximate and vary by date, demand, and stateroom location. Check with Holland America Line for current pricing.

Dining on Koningsdam

Koningsdam offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences.

• Main Dining Room(s): The main dining rooms are the Dining Room and the Grand Dutch Cafe, offering elegant multi-course meals. Dress code is typically smart casual, with some formal nights. Offers both fixed seating and "As You Wish" (anytime) dining options.
• Specialty Restaurants:
  • Pinnacle Grill: Steakhouse specializing in premium cuts of meat and seafood. (Approx. $39 per person cover charge)
  • Canaletto: Italian restaurant serving family-style dishes. (Approx. $25 per person cover charge)
  • Rudi's Sel de Mer: French seafood brasserie, featuring unique seafood dishes. (Approx. $49 per person cover charge)
• Buffet and Casual Options:
  • Lido Market: Buffet offering a wide variety of cuisines.
  • Dive-In: Casual poolside grill serving burgers and hot dogs.
  • New York Pizza: Freshly made pizza.

Don't miss a meal at the Pinnacle Grill for a special occasion – the steaks are excellent. Rudi's Sel de Mer is a unique experience with beautifully presented seafood. For a casual meal, the Lido Market is a great option with diverse choices.

During Alaska cruises, Koningsdam often features Alaska-specific dining options, such as fresh Alaskan salmon and halibut on the menu. Keep an eye out for special Alaska-themed menus in the main dining room.

Room service is available 24 hours a day, with a limited menu available at no extra charge. A wider selection is available for a small fee.

Holland America Line can accommodate various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other allergies. Be sure to inform the cruise line of any dietary restrictions when booking your cruise or at least 30 days prior to sailing.

Entertainment & Activities

Signature Experiences

• Music Walk: This is a collection of live music venues, including:
  • Lincoln Center Stage: Showcasing classical music performances. Tip: Arrive early for popular shows as seating fills up quickly.
  • BB King's Blues Club: Featuring a live blues band. Tip: Get ready to dance!
  • Billboard Onboard: Two pianists playing popular hits. Tip: Request your favorite songs.
• World Stage: A state-of-the-art theater with a 270-degree LED screen, creating immersive visual experiences. Tip: Check the daily program for showtimes and themes.
• Explorations Central (EXC): Offers a variety of Alaska-focused enrichment programs, including lectures, presentations, and demonstrations. Tip: Attend the naturalist talks to learn about Alaska's wildlife and geology before your port visits.
• Blend: Unique wine-blending experience where you can create your own custom wine blend. Tip: Book in advance as space is limited.

Onboard Activities

• Pools & Hot Tubs: Two pools (one covered) and several hot tubs are available on the Lido Deck (Deck 9).
• Greenhouse Spa & Salon: Offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
• Fitness Center: Equipped with treadmills, elliptical machines, weights, and other exercise equipment.
• Casino: Features slot machines, table games, and tournaments.
• Kids/Teens Programs: Club HAL (ages 3-12) and The Loft (ages 13-17) offer supervised activities and entertainment.
• Alaska Enrichment: Naturalist talks, wildlife spotting with onboard experts, and ranger programs (sometimes with National Park Rangers).

Evening Entertainment

• Shows & Theater Productions: Broadway-style shows and other performances in the World Stage.
• Live Music Venues: Music Walk offers a variety of live music options.
• Bars & Lounges:
  • Ocean Bar: Located near the atrium, a great spot for cocktails and conversation.
  • Crow's Nest: Observation lounge with panoramic views, perfect for pre-dinner drinks.
  • Gallery Bar: Serving cocktails and appetizers.
• Late-Night Options: Casino, Music Walk, and select bars and lounges stay open late.

Best Spots for Alaska Viewing

Koningsdam provides several excellent vantage points for enjoying Alaska's scenery and wildlife.

• Deck 11 Forward: Offers unobstructed panoramic views. This is a great spot for glacier viewing and wildlife spotting.
• Crow's Nest (Deck 12 Forward): An observation lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows. A comfortable indoor alternative for rainy days.
• Your Balcony (if applicable): The most private and convenient option for enjoying the scenery.
• Sea View Pool (Deck 9 Aft): Relax by the pool while taking in the views.
• World Stage (Deck 2 & 3): Even if you don't catch a show, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer great views while in port.

For glacier viewing, get up early to secure a good spot. The captain will typically announce when the ship is approaching a glacier. Even if it's raining, the Crow's Nest offers a warm and dry alternative with excellent views.

What to Pack for Koningsdam Alaska Cruise

Packing for an Alaska cruise requires careful consideration of the variable weather conditions.

• Layers: Essential for Alaska. Pack thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and a waterproof outer layer. The weather can change quickly, so being able to add or remove layers is crucial.
• Formal Nights: Holland America Line typically has one or two formal nights per 7-night cruise. Men typically wear suits or tuxedos, while women wear cocktail dresses or gowns.
• Shore Excursion Gear: Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are a must for exploring ashore. A waterproof rain jacket is essential, as is a backpack for carrying essentials.
• Glacier Viewing Essentials: Binoculars are crucial for spotting wildlife and getting a closer look at glaciers. A warm hat, gloves, and a camera are also essential. An Alaska cruise hoodie or Alaska cruise sweatshirt is a must-have for early morning glacier viewing.
• What NOT to Bring: Towels (provided by the ship), irons (available in laundry rooms), and prohibited items (check Holland America Line's website for a list).
• Pack an Alaska cruise jacket for rain at port.
• Carry-on bag for embarkation day essentials: medication, important documents, phone charger, and a change of clothes.

Tips for First-Time Koningsdam Cruisers

• Book Early: The best staterooms and itineraries tend to sell out quickly, especially for peak season sailings.
• Download the Navigator App: This app provides daily schedules, deck plans, and other useful information.
• Make Specialty Dining Reservations: Popular restaurants like Pinnacle Grill and Rudi's Sel de Mer often book up in advance. Book online before your cruise or immediately upon boarding.
• Do the Drink Package Math: Determine if a beverage package is worth it based on your drinking habits. Consider how many drinks per day you typically consume and compare the cost to individual drink prices.
• Book Shore Excursions in Advance: Popular excursions, such as helicopter tours and whale watching trips, often sell out. Book online before your cruise to guarantee your spot.
• Embarkation Day Hacks: Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on bag so you can enjoy the pool while waiting for your stateroom to be ready. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• WiFi Package Advice: Holland America Line offers various WiFi packages. Consider purchasing a package if you need to stay connected, but be aware that speeds can be slow and unreliable in some areas.
• Gratuity/Tipping Expectations: Gratuities are typically automatically added to your onboard account. Check Holland America Line's website for current rates.
• Loyalty Program Info: Join Holland America Line's Mariner Society to earn rewards and benefits on future cruises.
• Money-Saving Hacks: Look for onboard promotions and discounts, such as spa specials and drink specials. Many passengers pack Alaska cruise t-shirts or funny Alaska cruise shirts as casual port day wear and easy souvenir alternatives.
• A long-sleeve shirt works well for layering on deck.

Who Is Koningsdam Best For?

• Families with young kids: While it doesn't have waterslides, Club HAL provides structured activities.
• Couples/honeymooners: The ship's sophisticated atmosphere and diverse dining options make it a great choice for couples.
• Multi-generational groups: Offers something for everyone, from kids' programs to live music and fine dining. Matching cruise shirts or Alaska cruise family shirts are popular for embarkation day and group port photos.
• Solo travelers: Easy to meet people at the bars and lounges.
• Budget-conscious cruisers: Interior staterooms and casual dining options provide affordable options.
• Luxury seekers: Suites and specialty restaurants offer a premium experience.

Koningsdam is a good fit for travelers who appreciate a refined cruise experience with a focus on music, dining, and Alaska enrichment. It might not be the best choice for those seeking a high-energy party atmosphere or extensive waterslides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Koningsdam good for an Alaska cruise?

Yes, Koningsdam is an excellent choice for an Alaska cruise. Its mid-size allows access to scenic waterways like Tracy Arm or Glacier Bay. The ship's enrichment programs, comfortable staterooms, and Alaska-focused dining contribute to an immersive experience. The Music Walk provides diverse entertainment on sea days.

What deck is best for Alaska views on Koningsdam?

Higher decks generally offer better, unobstructed views. Deck 11 forward offers panoramic vistas, as does the Crow's Nest observation lounge on Deck 12. Balcony staterooms, regardless of deck, provide private viewing opportunities. Consider the ship's orientation for optimal glacier viewing on either port or starboard side.

Do I need a balcony on Koningsdam for Alaska?

While not essential, a balcony is highly recommended for an Alaska cruise on Koningsdam. It provides a private space to enjoy the scenery, spot wildlife, and breathe in the fresh air. The balcony significantly enhances the overall Alaska cruise experience.

How many sea days are on a Koningsdam Alaska cruise?

A typical 7-night Koningsdam Alaska cruise includes two full sea days, one at the start cruising the Inside Passage and one dedicated to Glacier Bay (or Tracy Arm) scenic cruising. These days offer ample opportunity to enjoy the ship's amenities and Alaska enrichment programs.

What is the dress code on Koningsdam?

The dress code on Koningsdam is generally smart casual. During the day, comfortable clothing is appropriate. Evenings are typically smart casual, with collared shirts and slacks for men and dresses or skirts for women. There are usually one or two formal nights per cruise where more formal attire is encouraged.

Does Koningsdam have a kids club?

Yes, Koningsdam has dedicated kids and teen programs. Club HAL caters to children ages 3-12 with supervised activities and games. The Loft is a teen-only space for ages 13-17, offering a place to socialize and participate in age-appropriate activities.

Is Wi-Fi included on Koningsdam?

Wi-Fi is not typically included in the base fare on Koningsdam. Holland America Line offers various Wi-Fi packages for purchase. Pricing varies depending on the duration and bandwidth. Be aware that internet speeds can be slow and unreliable, especially in remote areas of Alaska.

What time does Koningsdam arrive in port?

Arrival times in port vary depending on the itinerary and port. Typically, Koningsdam arrives in port between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Check the daily schedule or the Navigator app for specific arrival times for each port of call.

Can I book shore excursions through Holland America Line?

Yes, you can book shore excursions through Holland America Line. They offer a wide variety of excursions in each port of call, ranging from whale watching tours to helicopter rides. Booking through the cruise line provides assurance and convenience, but independent tour operators are also available.

How old is Koningsdam and has it been refurbished?

Koningsdam was built in 2016. While the ship is relatively new and well-maintained, Holland America Line occasionally refurbishes ships to update amenities and décor. Check with Holland America Line for the latest information on any refurbishment plans for Koningsdam.

Explore More Alaska Cruise Ships

• Eurodam Alaska Cruise Guide
• Noordam Alaska Cruise Guide
• Star Princess Alaska Cruise Guide
• Norwegian Bliss Alaska Cruise Guide
• Alaska Cruises 2026: All Ports & Ships

Gear Up for Your Koningsdam Cruise

Sailing on the Koningsdam? Browse our collection of Alaska cruise shirts, hoodies, and outerwear — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port of call.