Are Meals Included on Holland America Line Ships?

One of the best parts of taking a cruise is knowing that so much is already taken care of before you even step onboard. From accommodations to entertainment, cruise fares often bundle together the essentials of your vacation. But one question that many first-time travelers ask is: Are meals included on Holland America Line ships?

The short answer is yes—meals are included. Holland America Line is well-known for offering a premium dining experience, and a wide selection of food is covered by your cruise fare. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and even room service without constantly worrying about additional costs. That said, not every dining venue is included, and some specialty restaurants carry extra charges.

This detailed guide will walk you through exactly what meals are included, where you can eat without extra cost, which dining experiences are considered premium, and how to get the most value out of your meals while sailing with Holland America Line.

Understanding What’s Included in Your Cruise Fare

The base fare for a Holland America Line cruise covers:

Three main meals per day served in multiple venues.
Snacks and casual eats available throughout the ship.
24-hour room service with a complimentary menu.
Special dietary options such as vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-sodium meals.

This means you can enjoy a full vacation without spending an extra dollar on food if you stick to the included dining options.

1. Main Dining Room – The Heart of the Experience

The main dining room is a hallmark of Holland America Line and is included in your ticket price.

Features of the Main Dining Room:

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served daily.
Elegant multi-course meals with changing menus.
Regional dishes inspired by the destinations you visit.
A choice of set dining times or flexible “As You Wish” dining.
Specialty options for dietary needs.

Whether you prefer a hearty steak, fresh seafood, or vegetarian cuisine, the main dining room offers a wide range of choices.

2. Lido Market – Casual Buffet Dining

For a more relaxed option, the Lido Market buffet is available for all three main meals.

What to Expect at Lido Market:

Multiple food stations offering international flavors, salads, pasta, desserts, and more.
Breakfast options include eggs, pancakes, cereals, pastries, and fruit.
Lunch and dinner feature hot entrees, soups, sandwiches, and themed nights.
Open seating, making it convenient for families or groups.

The Lido Market is included in your fare and is perfect for those who enjoy variety and flexibility.

3. Poolside and Casual Dining

If you’re lounging by the pool or prefer a quick bite, Holland America Line provides complimentary casual dining options near the pool areas.

Typical Poolside Eats:

Freshly made pizza.
Burgers and fries.
Tacos, sandwiches, and wraps.
Ice cream and snacks.

These options are included in your cruise fare and are great for a light meal or snack between activities.

4. Room Service – Dining in the Comfort of Your Stateroom

Holland America Line includes 24-hour room service at no extra cost for most menu items.

Included Room Service Options:

Continental breakfast.
Sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
Soups and daily specials.

Some premium items, such as steak or shrimp cocktail, may carry a small fee, but the majority of the room service menu is included. This makes it easy to enjoy a private breakfast on your balcony or a late-night snack in bed.

5. Specialty Dining – Extra-Cost Experiences

While most meals are included, Holland America Line also offers specialty dining venues that require an additional fee. These restaurants provide elevated cuisine, intimate settings, and unique flavors.

Examples of Specialty Restaurants:

Pinnacle Grill – A fine dining steakhouse with premium cuts and seafood.
Tamarind – Asian-inspired cuisine with sushi, dim sum, and exotic flavors.
Rudi’s Sel de Mer – A French seafood brasserie.
Canaletto – An Italian trattoria offering shared plates and pasta dishes.

These experiences are optional but popular among guests seeking variety or celebrating special occasions.

6. Snacks and Treats Around the Ship

In addition to main meals, you’ll find plenty of complimentary snack options:

Freshly baked cookies and pastries at coffee bars (basic pastries are included, specialty coffees cost extra).
Fruit and light bites at lounges.
Ice cream stations with soft-serve and toppings.

7. Beverages – What’s Included and What’s Not

When it comes to drinks, Holland America Line includes some basics with your fare:

Included Beverages:

Water.
Iced tea.
Lemonade.
Basic coffee and tea.
Juices at breakfast.

Extra-Cost Beverages:

Alcoholic drinks.
Soft drinks and bottled water.
Specialty coffees such as lattes and cappuccinos.
Premium juices and smoothies.

Guests can purchase beverage packages if they prefer unlimited access to premium drinks.

8. Special Dietary Requests

Holland America Line is committed to meeting dietary needs. Guests can request:

Vegetarian and vegan meals.
Gluten-free and dairy-free dishes.
Low-sodium and diabetic-friendly menus.

These requests should be made in advance and are available at no extra charge in the main dining venues.

9. Tips to Maximize Your Dining Experience

To get the best value from your included meals:

Mix and match venues – Try both the main dining room and Lido Market.
Use room service for convenience – Perfect for port days when you need an early breakfast.
Explore daily menus – Menus change regularly, so you’ll never get bored.
Enjoy complimentary treats – Don’t miss cookies, pastries, and ice cream stations.
Plan specialty dining for special occasions – While included meals are excellent, a specialty venue can make a birthday or anniversary extra memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all meals free on Holland America Line?

Yes, breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and most room service options are included in your fare. Specialty restaurants cost extra.

Do I have to pay for dessert?

No, desserts in the main dining room, Lido Market, and poolside venues are included. Specialty desserts at premium restaurants or coffee shops may cost extra.

Can I eat as much as I want?

Yes, meals are unlimited at included venues, and you can order multiple courses in the main dining room.

Are drinks included?

Basic drinks are included, but alcohol, sodas, and specialty coffees come with an extra cost.

Is food available 24/7?

Yes, with room service and late-night snacks, you’ll always have access to something to eat.

Conclusion

So, are meals included on Holland America Line ships? Absolutely. Guests can enjoy an extensive variety of dining options without paying extra—from multi-course dinners in the main dining room to casual buffets at the Lido Market, poolside snacks, and room service.

While specialty restaurants and premium beverages do cost extra, you’ll never go hungry sticking to the complimentary venues included in your fare. With world-class chefs, changing menus, and a mix of casual and fine dining, Holland America Line ensures that food is not just included, but also a highlight of your cruise experience.

For travelers seeking a worry-free vacation where meals are always taken care of, Holland America Line delivers a satisfying and flavorful journey at sea.