by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 2:20 PM ET, Wed April 16, 2025
Holland America Line is launching new sailaway traditions at the start of each cruise.
The cruise line is teaming up with Champagne producer Taittinger to help guests celebrate as they embark on their voyage. The new sailaway celebration will also include curated entertainment, music, food and beverages.
“A new level of service and excitement infused into our sailaway celebration is the perfect way to start a cruise—whether it’s to the glaciers of Alaska or the sunshine of the Caribbean,” says Michael Smith, senior vice president of guest experience and product development for Holland America Line. “Our guests can look forward to an enhanced experience designed to make the voyage truly unforgettable, one that honors the rich tradition of sailaway while elevating the deck party with touches of today.”
Travelers can enjoy a sailaway toast with two exclusive cocktails featuring Taittinger Champagne: the “Bubbly Bon Voyage” with notes of vanilla and passion fruit, and the “Cast Off” featuring Flor de Caña rum, honey and lime juice. The drinks are included in Holland America Line’s signature and elite beverage packages, or they can be purchased individually. Guests can also purchase Taittinger Champagne by the glass or bottle for an extra fee.
Travelers can also munch on passed appetizers inspired by the destination, like Alaskan crab, hot smoked salmon and Alaskan wild game sausage with onion huckleberry marmalade on voyages to No. 49, or mini lobster rolls and tourtière with maple syrup on sailings in Canada and New England.
During the revamped sailaway celebration, guests will also hear a speech from the ship’s cruise director and listen to the line’s exclusive sailaway soundtrack, “Home to Rotterdam.” This summer, the song will also be available as a ringtone.
This summer, the cruise line will also unveil co-branded Champagne carts that will be rolled around the ship.
“Taittinger is thrilled to help celebrate sailaway with Champagne,” says Vitalie Taittinger, the company’s president. “For over a century and a half, the time-honored tradition of sailaway has been a moment for Holland America guests to indulge in elegance and excellence—what better way for them to enjoy this elevated experience than with effervescence."
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