Introducing Holland America Line’s Explorations Central: an Immersive Destinations Experience that is Transforming Travel!
It’s Holland America Line’s 70th anniversary this year and the cruise line is celebrating by adding innovative features that make their already fabulous cruises better than ever! Holland America Line is introducing Explorations Central (EXC), a new concept designed to enhance guests’ destination experiences. EXC makes Holland America Line cruises even better by providing guests with personalized travel advice and cultural engagement opportunities. The multifaceted EXC experience immerses travelers in destinations so they enjoy richer, more meaningful excursions.
Explorations Central will serve as the Hub for destination services on all Holland America Line ships. It will be located in the Crow’s Nest, perched high atop each vessel. Guests can come and enjoy the coffee bar while taking advantage of the sweeping views, library, and all the destination services of the EXC. Alcoholic libations will be available in the evenings. The area will also feature a virtual ship’s bridge that provides guests with real-time data from the actual bridge.
ms Westerdam will be the first ship to debut Explorations Central, starting on the May 23, 2017 sailing. The cruise line will be rolling out the innovative program across its entire fleet by the end of the year. EXC offers seven areas of programming to enhance guests’ destination experiences:
EXC Guides
Knowledgeable location experts will share illustrated stories designed to infuse a sense of wonder for each destination that will enrich guests’ journeys.
EXC Talks
Every evening until 8, you can join Guides for informative talks and discussions in Explorations Central. Find out interesting facts and gain insights into local issues through question sessions.
EXC Encounters
Local experts and cultural representatives come on board to immerse you in the culture and history of your next destination before you reach port. You’ll get the chance to immerse yourself in the unique items and products of upcoming areas in informal, small-group gatherings with local cultural representatives. You could find yourself engaging in a local etiquette lesson, learning how to play a musical instrument, or making local arts and crafts.
EXC Port Guides
Using information provided through a partnership with AFAR Media, online Port Guides will help you create exclusive guidebooks for each destination, tailored specifically to your interests. Each personalized journey will feature in-port activities tailored for your specific interests.
EXC Port Maps
Forget having to wade through thick guides or confusing city maps. With EXC Port Maps, you get printed paper Port Maps that present an uncluttered, easy to follow guide to the landmarks and attractions you want to visit in port.
EXC Channel
Explore upcoming destinations through a carefully curated collection of films, documentaries, and TV shows that highlight authentic, personal experiences.
EXC Tours
EXC Tours are designed to allow guests to immerse themselves in travel experiences in port without having to worry about details. Relax and enjoy the adventure easily, comfortably, and confidently, without any unnecessary stress.
Are you ready to experience Holland America Cruise Lines’ immersive Explorations Central for yourself? Holland America Line offers two ways to experience the EXC’s rollout cruise aboard ms Westerdam, departing on May 23, 2017 from Venice, Italy. Choose a 12-days Mediterranean-East cruise or a more immersive 24 days Europe- Southern cruise. Rates begin at $1199 and $2299 respectively.
If you want to sail on Holland America Line first voyages with the exciting Explorations Central experience, call CruiseExperts.com today at 1-888-804-CRUISE(2784) to book your reservation. Act fast while cabins are still available! Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and join our InnerCircle for exclusive offers and cruise news you can use. Also, check out our new Resource Center, where you can receive expert knowledge from us before your next cruise or cruisetour!