Discover Alaska
Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

Why Discover Alaska? What makes booking with Discover Alaska a better choice than calling Holland America, or any local travel agency?

Answer: You cannot book our exclusive “Extra Value” customized program with Holland America or any other company involved in the travel industry. It is a specialized product developed by Discover Alaska over the past 37 years. Further, our experienced staff is “second to none” in knowing Alaska!

Question 2

I understand that Discover Alaska has produced a new DVD of the entire Alaska cruise/tour, start to finish. How can I get a copy? How much does it cost?

Answer: Yes you can obtain a free DVD. Give us a call at 1-800-624-7718 or fill out the “contact me” form on this website and we will send you a full one hour DVD documenting the entire trip from start to finish.

Question 3

Do I need a passport?

Answer: Yes. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel return date.

Question 4

How do I pay my gratuities on the ship?

Answer: 11 dollars per person per day is automatically added to your shipboard account. You may go to the front desk and ask to have the tips either increased or decreased as you may see fit.

Question 5

I am a diabetic; can I get diabetic friendly meals?

Answer: Yes you can, and that even includes diabetic desserts. Be sure to tell us when you book and we can include this information in your registration with the ship.

Question 6

I am in a wheelchair, what arrangements can you make for me?

Answer: All Holland America Ships are wheelchair friendly. As for the land tours Discover Alaska has booked for everyone, there are wilderness trails and other times that it may be necessary to get some help. Call us and talk to us about your particular situation and we will do our best to help you get to Alaska.

Question 7

If I decide not to go on one of your special land tours, can I get my money back on that tour so that I can spend it on something else?

Answer: Sorry, No. There are no refunds or ships credit for tours that you miss or choose not to attend. Discover Alaska has pre-arranged and prepaid all tours and meals in advance and therefore they are non refundable.

Question 8

Once I book a cabin with Discover Alaska, how hard is it to change cabins.

Answer: Well, we prefer you to book the cabin of your choice. Hopefully, by the time you book you would have researched, called and talked to a real human being here at Discover Alaska and made the right choice. Yes, if you change your mind it is usually possible, but it is based on availability. It does normally incur additional charges.

Question 9

What are the advantages to booking early?

Answer: Let's see….better prices, better cabin choices, better choice of seating at dinner while onboard ship.

Question 10

Do you have a payment plan? I have a monthly income and would like to pay monthly.

Answer: Yes, with no interest. Give us a call and we will tell you all about it.

Question 11

I can't lift heavy suitcases; does Discover Alaska help with the luggage?

Answer: Discover Alaska takes care of your luggage from the time you arrive at the hotel in Vancouver (located in the Airport) until the time you arrive at the airport for your return flight from Fairbanks.

Question 12

Can I stay longer at the beginning or end of my trip?

Answer: Yes, give us a call.

Question 13

I understand there is a reservations only restaurant on board. How is it different from the main dining room?

Answer: Our intimate, reservations-only Pinnacle Grill restaurants — a delicious alternative to the main Dining Room — are very popular. We recommend you make reservations as soon as you get onboard. Please note that there is a nominal fee when dining at the Pinnacle Grill.

Question 14

I understand that Discover Alaska provides "tour managers" throughout the entire trip. What exactly does a tour manager do?

Answer: Yes, we do provide our own tour manager every step of the way from the time you arrive until your return flight home. They are there to make sure that things run smoothly, to keep everyone informed, and to ensure that you receive all the outstanding features included in our program.

Question 15

If my flight is postponed or delayed how does this impact my trip?

Answer: If you purchased travel insurance, the insurance company will reimburse your expenses to get you back on schedule or to compensate for any missed portion of your trip. If you booked your air through Holland America, they are responsible to get you to the ship on time or to catch up at a later port of call. If you booked the air yourself; it becomes your own responsibility.

Question 16

Can I book my own flights?

Answer: Yes. (read the answer to question 16 just above)

Question 17

When do we need to have our invoice paid? 

Answer: 75 days prior to sailing.

Question 18

Do I have to take the tours that you have arranged for Discover Alaska travelers?

Answer: No. but no refunds will be returned if you miss one.

Question 19

Can we get connecting cabins?

Answer: Yes, there are a handful of connecting cabins aboard Holland America's ships. Call us and we will help you find them. BOOK EARLY to get them.

Question 20

Can I get a roll away bed for a third or fourth person in my cabins?

Answer: No. There are no rollaway beds, but there are cabins with convertible sofa beds for a third and a few with an upper berth for a fourth. Call us and we will help you find them. BOOK EARLY to get them.

Question 21

I am booking alone; do I have to pay a supplement to room alone?

Answer: Yes, if you want to occupy the cabin alone there is a 50% surcharge. It is also possible to find a roommate. We can help you find a “share.” Call us.

Question 22

This is my first time cruising, I'm nervous about getting sea sick. What can I do to minimize sea sickness?

Answer: First of all, this is the Inside Passage of Alaska. The water remains smooth and calm. With islands on one side and the Alaska mainland on the other side, sea sickness is seldom a problem. If this explanation isn't enough, call you local doctor or visit your local drug store and ask some questions.

Question 23

I do not like waiting in lines. Do you use the large ships?

Answer: NO! Holland America's ships are considered medium sized, holding between 1200 and 1400 passengers. As for lines, they are normally quite short on Holland American Line ships. Other cruise lines cannot make that statement.

Question 24

I've heard the cabins are very small on cruise ships.

Answer: The cabins on Holland America Line are much larger than industry standards. Inside cabin's average 182 square feet and outside cabin's average197. Balcony cabins are even much, much larger.

Question 25

When is the best time to go?

Answer: The best time to go is when you can get away, but give us a call and we will tell you about the advantages of spring, summer, and early fall.

Question 26

How much luggage can we bring?

Answer: This will vary depending upon the airline. Be sure to check with the airline to determine how much luggage and if there will be any checked baggage charges.

Question 27

What's the weather like?

Answer: The temperature during our sailing season is pleasant, between 55 and 80 degrees. A bit cooler around the glaciers.

Question 28

Can my family reach me if there's an emergency?

Answer: Yes, each ship is equipped with ship to shore radio/phones. Additionally, email is available if you wish to use it. Here are some telephone numbers that might help you if someone needs to contact you.

Westmark Fairbanks 1-907-456-7722

McKinley Chalets Resort 1-907-683-8200

Anchorage Hilton 1-907-272-7411

Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel 1-800-441-1414

For a shore to ship at sea call…1-866-425-7447 

Have the ship name, party's name and state room number ready.

Question 29

If I buy air from you, can I deviate?

Answer: Yes, you can deviate, but there are additional charges. It's always best to book early. Give our air/sea department a call at Discover Alaska and they will happy to help you.

1-800-624-7718

Question 30

Would you recommend an Inside or Outside cabin?

Answer: Outside. You are always near land so the views are always fabulous! Both sides of the ship are outstanding.

Question 31

Is a Balcony worth it?

Answer: If it were transatlantic, no….maybe. But in Alaska, with the shore (and wildlife) so close, yes it is worth it, and they sell out first.

Question 32

There will be several of us; can we room next to one another?

Answer: Yes, based upon availability. Book early, Book early, Book early!

Question 33

Can we have 3 or 4 people in a cabin?

Answer: Yes, but only in cabins that are designed for a third and fourth. They are few. Book early.

Question 34

Do you offer incentives for referring travelers who book with Discover Alaska?

Answer: Yes, multiple cabin incentives information can be found on this website at incentives or just give us a toll free call at 1-800-624-7718

Question 35

Can we pre-book any additional excursions?

Answer: Yes, our Alaska tour guides have been talking to all kinds of excursions companies in Alaska, call us and ask about these, “other extras”.

Question 36

Is the Discover Alaska“tour manager” with us for the entire trip?

Answer: Yes, a Discover Alaska tour manager is available every day, but not necessarily every minute. They do not accompany sightseeing tours as you will have tour guides for that. Our tour managers work hard to ensure that your time in Alaska is the best it can possibly be.

Question 37

Is room service on the ship really free?

Answer: Yes. Although a tip is most appreciated.

Question 38

Can we renew our vows on board?

Answer: Yes.

Question 39

What's there to do on a cruise ship in the evenings?

Answer: You will be amazed! Call for our free Alaska video. 1-800-624-7718

Question 40

I run at least 2 miles each day, where does one run onboard.

Answer: How about in the state of the art workout facility or on the Lower Promenade deck, it's a full wrap around deck.

Question 41

Can I get my hair done onboard?

Answer: Yes and many other ways to pamper yourself in the Spa.

Question 42

I understand that we do not use cash on board, what if I run short of cash for shore shopping excursions?

Answer: There are ATM's onboard and cash can always be withdrawn at the purser's desk by credit card.

Question 43

I do not like to dress up, are the dinners formal?

Answer: Yes, there are two formal dinners, but dress in Alaska is very casual for the most part. If formal just isn't for you, try one of the other “never formal” eating venues onboard. Formal wear is considered to be a Tuxedo or business suit for the gentlemen. For the ladies an evening dress is always appropriate.

Question 44

How's the food?

Answer: GREAT!

Question 45

Can we tour the Galley?

Answer: Usually, yes, by signing up for one of the free tours.

Question 46

I would like to do a couple of days of fishing, can I leave the ship and catch up with it a day or two later?

Answer: No. But you can take day trips fishing in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Haines.

Question 47

Are there smoking areas on the ship? 

Answer: Yes.

Question 48

Do you need a currency exchange when going to Canada? 

Answer: No, they will take American money, but you will get Canadian money in change. It's better to use a credit card.

Question 49

Going Northbound, on the last day is there time to book an excursion? 

Answer: No.

Question 50

What does 65” mean when it comes to the suitcases?

Answer: The circumference of the suitcase totaled cannot be more than 65 inches. If wheels, that is not included.

Question 51

How many nights are formal? 

Answer: Two, the second night and next to the last night, it's optional.

Question 52

On formal nights, is it all right for the men to wear a sports jacket and necktie? 

Answer: Yes

Question 53

When will we receive our final documents? 

Answer: 2 to 3 weeks before you sail.

Question 54

What payment options are available at Discover Alaska?

Answer: Deposit is $600 pp plus your insurance premium with final payment due 75 days prior to departure. You may also make monthly payments at no additional cost. All passengers must be paid in full 75 days prior to departure. Payments may be made by check, money order, or major credit card.

Question 55

What happens if I miss the ship in one of the ports?

Answer: If it is due to a tour that you booked through Discover Alaska which books all of its excursions through Holland America, the cruise line will foot the bill to catch you up to the ship. Any other situation, you are on your own.

Question 56

Is there a duty-free shop on board? 

Answer: Yes, many, and at very competitive prices.

Question 57

Are there hair dryers in the cabins? 

Answer: Yes and in the hotels

Question 58

Do you have nonsmoking cabins? 

Answer: No, but all the rooms are thoroughly cleaned after each cruise. Often smokers book balcony cabins because spouse is non-smoking. We can request smoking and non-smoking rooms in the hotels.

Question 59

Do they have e-mail accessibility on the cruise? 

Answer: Yes, guests can send and receive electronic mail.

Question 60

Is there a laundry on the ship? 

Answer: Yes. There are self-service Laundromats situated in various locations on board.

Question 61

How far ahead of time do I receive my air flight schedule? 

Answer: Holland America usually sends them to Discover Alaska about 60 days ahead of time and we immediately forward this information to you.

Question 62

Are there safes in the cabins?

Answer: Yes, each cabin has its own safe.

Question 63

I am traveling with a group of 9 other passengers from our city. We will all leave from the same airport at the same time. Can we request seating on the Holland America flights so that we sit near one another?

Answer: Flight arrangements are always at the mercy of the airlines. The earlier you make any special flight requests, the more likely we will be able to accommodate them.

Question 64

Does it cost to use the ATM machine aboard the ship?

Answer: Yes there is a small charge.

Question 65

Is there a medical staff aboard the ship?

Answer: Yes, there is med staff aboard the ship, and HAL is noted for maintaining some of the best English speaking medical staff at sea.

Question 66

Are there other advantages to booking flights through Discover Alaska?

Answer: If there are any changes to the ships departure, Holland America will:
... provide accommodations.
…handle new flight reservations if flights are canceled
…issue less restrictive tickets than most airlines
When you book air on your own, you take full responsibility. If you miss the ship's departure, you are considered a "no show."

Question 67

If I choose to handle my own flights, do I need to tell Discover Alaska?

Answer: Yes. If you are going to handle your own flights, please tell your Discover Alaska specialist at the time of booking. That way it will be in your record when we review it.

Question 68

Why buy the Discover Alaska Travel and Cancellation Insurance? Why buy insurance at all?

Answer: With the state of travel today, many travelers believe insurance is well worth the additional cost. Late planes, sickness, lost luggage, and many other setbacks can be minimized by a small investment. Discover Alaska offers one of he best insurance policies in the industry. Check out the question below for an additional incentive!

Question 69

Are there any incentives for buying the insurance through Discover Alaska?

Answer: Book early and Discover Alaska will pay half the Travel and Cancellation Insurance policy premium! That's right, early bookers will receive half off insurance if they decide to buy. We have found that early bookers are aggressively seeking out the best values and usually opt for the insurance. Call us and we will explain more. 1-800-624-7718. Just say I want to learn more about the 30% discount on travel and cancellation insurance.

Question 70

What is the Fuel Surcharge?

Answer: Due to the high cost of fuel oil, Holland America and the airlines have added fuel surcharges. It can frequently change, so be sure to ask.

Question 71

What happens if I book, then change my mind?

Answer: Your deposit is refundable minus administrative fees up till 75 days prior to departure. Within 75 days of departure Holland America starts to impose some fairly hefty cancellation penalties. That is why it's a good idea to buy cancellation insurance. Discover Alaska offers one of the best insurance policies in the industry. Give us a call and we will tell you all about it. Please read carefully Discover Alaska's Terms and Conditions pertaining to penalties and administrative fees.

Question 72

How do I make dining room reservations?

Answer: Whatever your dining preference, be it early or main sitting for two, groupings of four, six or eight guests, Holland America Line will make every effort to honor your request. All dining requests should be made when you book with Discover Alaska. You will be confirmed or waitlisted at the time of booking.

Question 73

When will I find out what table assignment I have in the main dining room?

Answer: Upon embarkation you will find a confirmation card in your stateroom confirming your seating assignment and table number. If, for some reason, your dining request was not submitted before your cruise date, the Maitre d' will assign you to the sitting that is available

Question 74

What are the dining hours?

Answer: Dining times are subject to change depending on ship activities and port times. That being said, here are some common hours of operation for the main restaurants of the ship.

Main Dining Room

Breakfast            8:00am Open seating

Lunch               12:30PM Open seating

OPEN DINING:
Lower level dining is open seating from 5:15pm to 9:00pm.
(it is recommended that you make reservations each day)

FIXED DINING:
Early Dinner sitting, Upper level of Dining Room    5:45pm

Main Dinner sitting, Upper level of Dining Room     8:00pm

Pinnacle Grill (by reservation only)

Lunch               12:00 noon-1:00pm

Dinner                5:30pm-9:30pm

Reservations may be made between 8:00am and 9:30pm in the

Pinnacle Grill Restaurant. (A cover charge is required)

Lido Restaurant

Breakfast:

Continental                   7:00am-10:30am

Full                               7:30am-10:00am

Lunch:

Buffet                           11:30am-2:00pm                    

Deli & Salad Bar          11:30am-5:00pm

Ice cream                       6:30am-8:15pm

Late Night Snack                      11:00pm-12:00 midnight

Terrace Grill                          11:30am-6:00pm
Pizza, hamburgers, hotdogs, veggie burgers and chicken burgers

Taco Bar                                 11:30am-5:00pm

Coffee and Tea is available 24 hours a day in the Lido Restaurant

Question 75

Is the Pinnacle Grill really worth it?

Answer: The Pinnacle Grill is a special place on ship. The food and service you will find to be incredibly exceptional - it is more than a meal, it is an experience. If you are looking for a very special dining experience, this is it!

Question 76

Can you accommodate special diets?

Answer: Holland America Line makes every effort to assist special dietary requests, including vegetarian, fat-free, sugar or salt-free, if advised at time of booking. Kosher or special medical diets must be pre-ordered a minimum of 90 days prior to sailing. * Kosher meals are prepared off the ship in a kosher kitchen, frozen and brought to the table sealed in their original containers. There is no kosher kitchen on board.

Question 77

What provisions for children are made on board?

Answer: For infants, Holland America Line provides baby food, diapers, high chairs, booster chairs and cribs upon special request (30 days notice) via your travel professional or by calling Ship Services at 1-800-541-1576. Please note: There is a nominal fee for these items. For our younger guests, Holland America's Club HAL® program offers fully supervised activities, games, parties, menus and shore activities — broken out by ages: 3-7, 8-12, and teens 13-17.

Question 78

How do I pay for shipboard purchases?

Answer: Sign for your purchases, then settle your account with one convenient transaction at the end. Payment is accepted with American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Discover Card, cash or travelers' checks.

Question 79

How can I be reached at sea?

Answer: You may easily make and receive calls in the privacy of your stateroom using our satellite communication telephones. Your documentation packet will contain detailed information, including the phone number for your ship at each specific location. It is also listed at question 28 of these FAQ's

Question 80

How do I make Dining Room reservations?

Answer: Whatever your dining preference — early or main sitting; for two or groupings of four, six or eight guests; with family or friends — Holland America Line will make every effort to honor your request. All dining requests should be made in advance of sailing through a Discover Alaska professional. You will be confirmed or waitlisted at the time of booking.

Question 81

What it the best way to book excursions on the trip?

Answer: Its easy. Just click the link below. It will take you to the Holland America Excursion booking website. We highly recommend booking HAL approved tours for many reasons.

Click Here Holland America Excursion and book away!

Question 82

Are pets allowed on this Cruise/tour?

Answer: No pets allowed, with one exception. You guessed it …seeing eye dogs.

Question 83

What are the advantages to booking Holland America approved land tours?

Answer: Your time in port is limited and trying to find the best way to use it is sometimes confusing. Holland America representatives prescreen and choose only the highest quality, most reputable companies to handle its valuable cargo…You. They are in constant communication with tour managers which makes for smooth sailing while on shore. It is easy to sign up for them. Click on the Holland Excursion link in question 81 or register onboard, but do it as early as possible because many tours fill up and booking after you leave the ship is impossible.

Occasionally, something happens to cause a tour to miss the boat. Holland America Line foots the bill to catch you up to the boat.

If you have booked your own tour and something goes wrong…you are on your own.