Holland America Line is bringing back the “grandeur” of the sailaway by revitalizing the experience onboard its ships. The cruise line and Taittinger, a family-owned Champagne house in France, is curating two drinks specifically for the sailaway.
The sailaway is a time-honored maritime tradition dating back to the early days of sea travel. Passengers would stand on the deck of a ship to wave to friends and family on the pier as they began their adventure.
“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,” said 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.”
On embarkation day, guests will enjoy sampling two exclusive cocktails crafted by Taittinger just for sailaway. The “Bubbly Bon Voyage” features hints of vanilla and passion fruit while the “Cast Off” features Flor de Caña rum, honey and lime juice. The cocktails can be purchased individually, but they are included in the Signature and Elite Beverage Packages.
In late summer 2025, the sailaway party will feature co-branded Champagne carts that will bring the party to the guests. Guests can purchase Taittinger champagne by the glass or the bottle or sample the exclusive cocktails.
“Taittinger is thrilled to help celebrate sailaway with Champagne,” said Vitalie Taittinger, president of the historic House. “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.”
Not only is Holland America Line bringing out the bubbly, but they are also looking to make the experience a bit more formal. Ship officers will attend the sailaway with the cruise director offering a welcome toast and speech. As the ship begins its sailaway, the exclusive sailaway soundtrack, “Home to Rotterdam” will be played. The atmosphere will be complete with music and dancing.
The cruise line will also integrate its Destination Dining into the sailaway as it features appetizers that focus on the region of the sailing. Vessels sailing in Alaska may offer Alaskan crab or smoked salmon, while vessels in Canada and New England may offer mini lobster rolls and tourtière with maple syrup. In Northern Europe, guests may be offered Frikadeller with beetroot and cucumber or caramel cheese with huckleberries, while those in the Mediterranean may be offered grilled mushroom, roasted pepper tapenade or seafood antipasti.
Wherever you’re sailing on Holland America Line, do not miss the sailaway party!