Holland America Vs. Royal Caribbean: Your Ultimate Cruise Guide

Hey guys, ever found yourselves staring at a cruise brochure, or endlessly scrolling through websites, wondering which cruise line is truly best for your next big adventure? If you're currently in the exciting but sometimes overwhelming phase of choosing between Holland America Line and Royal Caribbean International, you've landed in the perfect spot. These two giants of the cruise world offer vastly different experiences, and understanding those differences is key to picking your perfect voyage. It's not about one being definitively "better" than the other; it's about which one aligns best with your travel style, your desired onboard vibe, and what you're hoping to get out of your vacation. Trust me, by the end of this guide, you'll have a much clearer picture of whether you're a Holland America person or a Royal Caribbean enthusiast, or perhaps even a bit of both! We're going to dive deep into everything from the size and feel of the ships to the dining, entertainment, and even the kind of itineraries each cruise line offers. So, grab your virtual life vest, and let's embark on this comparison journey to help you make an informed decision and book the cruise of your dreams. Understanding the nuances between Holland America and Royal Caribbean is essential because they cater to distinct passenger demographics and preferences. Are you dreaming of a relaxing, sophisticated escape, or are you craving an action-packed, thrilling adventure at sea? This fundamental question often dictates which of these two incredible cruise lines will be your ideal match. For instance, families with young children or teenagers often gravitate towards the high-energy environment and myriad activities offered by Royal Caribbean, while couples seeking romantic getaways, or solo travelers looking for enrichment and cultural immersion, might find Holland America's more refined atmosphere precisely what they're looking for. We'll explore how their ship designs, passenger demographics, and even the dress codes reflect these core differences. It's truly about finding your vibe on the high seas, and both Holland America and Royal Caribbean excel at delivering on their unique promises. So let's get into the nitty-gritty and help you plan that unforgettable trip!

Ship Size & Ambiance: Big Thrills vs. Classic Elegance

When it comes to the very first impression, the size and ambiance of a cruise ship are often the most striking differences between Holland America Line and Royal Caribbean International. These two cruise lines have taken distinctly different paths in their fleet design and the overall atmosphere they cultivate onboard. Let's talk about Royal Caribbean first. Guys, if you're looking for mega-ships that are practically floating cities, then Royal Caribbean is your jam. Their Oasis-class and Quantum-class ships, like the Symphony of the Seas or Odyssey of the Seas, are enormous, boasting a staggering array of innovative features and distinct neighborhoods. We're talking about ships that can carry over 6,000 passengers, feeling less like a ship and more like a bustling resort. The ambiance on Royal Caribbean is generally high-energy, vibrant, and incredibly family-friendly. You'll find a constant buzz of activity, from the lively pool decks to the sprawling promenades, and the sheer number of people creates a dynamic, often exhilarating atmosphere. These ships are designed to impress and entertain, with an emphasis on creating a lively, fun-filled vacation for guests of all ages, especially those seeking constant stimulation and new experiences. It's a fantastic choice for multi-generational families or groups of friends who love a lively environment and want to maximize their fun from dawn till dusk, or even later! The design aesthetic often leans towards modern, bright, and bold, with impressive atriums and grand spaces that truly showcase the scale of these magnificent vessels. Their commitment to innovation means there's always something new and exciting to discover around every corner, ensuring that every moment onboard is packed with potential for adventure and enjoyment, keeping the energy levels high throughout your entire cruise.

Now, let's pivot to Holland America Line. When you step onto a Holland America ship, you'll immediately notice a different vibe. Their fleet, while still impressive, generally consists of mid-sized ships that prioritize a more intimate, classic, and sophisticated cruising experience. Think of ships like the Koningsdam or Nieuw Statendam – elegant, refined, and designed for comfort rather than sheer spectacle. These ships typically carry fewer passengers, often in the range of 2,000 to 2,600, fostering an atmosphere that is calmer, more relaxed, and conducive to genuine connections. The ambiance on Holland America is one of classic elegance and understated luxury. You'll find beautiful art collections, rich wood finishes, and tasteful décor that evokes the golden age of ocean travel but with all the modern amenities. It's a more subdued environment, perfect for travelers who appreciate a quiet corner with a good book, engaging conversation over cocktails, or simply enjoying the ocean views without the constant hustle and bustle. The pace is a bit slower, allowing for a deeper sense of relaxation and appreciation for the journey itself. This makes Holland America a fantastic choice for couples, solo travelers, and those who prefer enrichment and cultural experiences over adrenaline-pumping activities. The passenger demographic tends to be a bit older, though they welcome all ages, creating a more mature and serene atmosphere onboard. The design aims for timelessness, focusing on comfort and a sense of sophisticated welcome, providing ample public spaces where guests can gather or find solitude. For those who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience, perhaps with a focus on port visits and educational opportunities, the ambiance of Holland America is often a perfect fit, offering a respite from the fast-paced world and a chance to truly unwind and savor every moment of their vacation at sea, without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. This attention to detail in creating a tranquil and elegant setting truly distinguishes them in the cruise line industry.

Onboard Activities & Entertainment: Adrenaline Rush vs. Cultured Comfort

Alright, let's get into the fun stuff: what are you going to do once you're on these ships? The onboard activities and entertainment offerings are perhaps where Royal Caribbean and Holland America diverge the most significantly, catering to entirely different preferences. If you're an adrenaline junkie or traveling with energetic kids and teens, Royal Caribbean is practically a floating amusement park! Their ships are renowned for their groundbreaking, over-the-top attractions that are designed to thrill and excite. We're talking about the FlowRider surf simulator, where you can catch a wave right in the middle of the ocean; towering rock-climbing walls that offer incredible views; and even zip lines that stretch across the open-air deck on Oasis-class ships. And let's not forget the North Star observation capsule, which lifts you high above the ship for panoramic vistas, or the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator. For aquatic fun, they often feature massive water parks like the Perfect Storm slides and dedicated Splashaway Bay areas for younger children, ensuring that everyone can find a way to make a splash. When the sun goes down, the entertainment continues with Broadway-style productions in grand theaters, ice-skating shows in the Studio B ice rink, and dazzling aquatic shows at the AquaTheater. Beyond these showstoppers, you'll find everything from escape rooms and laser tag to bumper cars at the SeaPlex, ensuring there's never a dull moment. Their kids' clubs, like the Adventure Ocean program, are incredibly comprehensive, offering age-appropriate activities and dedicated spaces that keep the little ones engaged and entertained for hours. It's an environment designed for constant engagement, perfect for those who want their vacation packed with excitement, innovation, and a wide array of choices for active participation. The energy is infectious, making it an ideal choice for families and groups who thrive on shared, action-packed experiences. The sheer volume of things to do ensures that every day onboard can be a new adventure, guaranteeing memories that are as vibrant and exhilarating as the activities themselves. From morning until late night, Royal Caribbean's focus is on providing an unparalleled level of diverse, high-octane entertainment that appeals to a broad spectrum of guests, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible on a cruise ship.

Now, let's shift gears and talk about Holland America Line, where the focus is on cultured comfort and enrichment rather than extreme thrills. While you won't find zip lines or surf simulators, what you will find is a thoughtfully curated array of activities designed to engage the mind and soothe the soul. Holland America excels in providing a sophisticated and enriching experience. Their entertainment often revolves around live music, with iconic venues like B.B. King's Blues Club, where talented musicians play incredible sets of Memphis-style rhythm and blues, creating an electric yet intimate atmosphere. The Rolling Stone Rock Room offers classic rock hits, and the Lincoln Center Stage presents world-class chamber music and classical performances. This emphasis on diverse musical genres provides a rich auditory experience for guests who appreciate high-quality live performances. Beyond music, Holland America offers robust enrichment programs. You can participate in cooking demonstrations and hands-on classes at the America's Test Kitchen, learning new culinary skills and savoring delicious dishes. They also host engaging lectures on a variety of topics, from history and art to local culture and wildlife, especially relevant to the destinations they visit. For those looking for physical activity, you'll find well-equipped fitness centers, invigorating yoga and Pilates classes, and tranquil spas like the Greenhouse Spa & Salon that offer a serene escape for relaxation and pampering. The casino offers classic gaming, and there are plenty of lounges for quiet conversation or a game of cards. The overall pace of activities is more leisurely, encouraging guests to relax, learn, and enjoy the journey at their own speed. It's perfect for travelers who prefer intellectual stimulation, cultural immersion, and opportunities for personal growth alongside their relaxation. While they do have kids' clubs (Club HAL), they are typically smaller and cater to fewer children, reflecting the generally older demographic and the line's focus on a more adult-oriented experience. This isn't to say it's boring; far from it. It's simply a different kind of excitement – one that values thoughtful engagement, artistic expression, and a deeper connection with the journey and the world around you. Holland America's approach to onboard activities is about providing a sense of sophisticated enjoyment, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their personal interests, whether that's expanding their knowledge, indulging in world-class music, or simply unwinding in an elegant setting. This dedication to refined and enriching entertainment options truly sets Holland America apart, making it a haven for those who seek a more contemplative and culturally rich cruise vacation.

Dining Experiences: Gourmet Choices vs. Diverse Options

Let's talk food, because, let's be real, dining is a huge part of any cruise vacation, right? When you're weighing Holland America Line against Royal Caribbean International, their approaches to dining experiences are as different as night and day, each offering something unique to tantalize your taste buds. Starting with Holland America, their philosophy leans heavily towards refined dining, offering a more classic and often gourmet-focused culinary journey. You'll find that Holland America places a strong emphasis on quality ingredients, elegant presentation, and a dining experience that feels special and often celebratory. The main dining room on Holland America ships offers a traditional, multi-course meal experience with attentive service and a rotating menu that features a blend of classic dishes and contemporary creations. They often highlight fresh, regionally sourced ingredients, especially when sailing in specific destinations like Alaska, truly integrating the journey into the culinary experience. Beyond the main dining room, Holland America truly shines in its specialty restaurants. The Pinnacle Grill is their signature steakhouse, renowned for its prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood, offering an upscale dining experience that's well worth the additional charge. Then there's Rudi's Sel de Mer, a sophisticated French seafood brasserie, which is a true delight for lovers of exquisite fish and shellfish. For a taste of Italy, Canaletto offers delicious Italian fare in a more casual, yet still elegant, setting. And let's not forget the Tamarind, which serves incredible Pan-Asian cuisine. Even their casual Lido Market buffet is designed with a more upscale feel, offering diverse stations with freshly prepared dishes rather than just sprawling, generic buffets. They also have venues like the Dive-In for gourmet burgers and hot dogs, offering quality casual options. The overall dining experience on Holland America is about savoring each meal, enjoying the ambiance, and appreciating the culinary artistry. It’s perfect for foodies who appreciate nuanced flavors, elegant settings, and a more deliberate, unhurried approach to dining. Many guests highlight the consistency and high standards of food quality across all their dining venues, making every meal onboard a pleasant and satisfying part of the cruise experience. Their culinary team often collaborates with renowned chefs, elevating the menu further and ensuring a high standard of gastronomic excellence throughout the fleet. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, consistently delivering delicious and memorable meals.

Now, let's talk about Royal Caribbean's dining scene. This cruise line is all about diverse options and catering to a wide array of tastes and preferences, often with a focus on fun, innovation, and sheer variety. Given their mega-ship philosophy, Royal Caribbean offers a staggering number of dining venues, from casual bites to upscale specialty restaurants, ensuring there's literally something for everyone, every single day. The main dining room still offers a traditional experience, but you'll often find it to be a more bustling affair, with multiple seatings and a lively atmosphere. The Windjammer Marketplace is their main buffet, and it's massive, offering an incredible spread of international cuisines, comfort food, and fresh options, designed to handle thousands of hungry passengers efficiently. Where Royal Caribbean truly shines, however, is in its vast selection of specialty dining. You'll find a steakhouse (Chops Grille), an Italian trattoria (Giovanni's Table), and a sushi and Asian fusion spot (Izumi). But they also offer unique concepts like Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, which is an artistic, whimsical experience with dishes that look as fantastical as they taste. Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver brings celebrity chef flair to the high seas. For quick and casual eats, you have options like the Cafe Promenade for sandwiches and pastries, Sorrento's Pizza, and El Loco Fresh for Mexican street food. On their newer ships, you might even find unique venues like Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade serving pub grub, or the Dog House for gourmet hot dogs. The sheer volume of choices means you can eat something different for almost every meal of your cruise without repeating. This is fantastic for families with picky eaters, groups with diverse tastes, or anyone who loves to explore a wide range of culinary experiences. While some specialty restaurants come with an extra charge, many casual options are included in your fare, offering incredible value and flexibility. The overall dining vibe on Royal Caribbean is often more energetic and casual, reflecting the line's emphasis on fun and variety. It's about providing an abundance of choices to fuel your adventures and satisfy any craving, at any time of day. So whether you're craving a formal sit-down meal or a quick slice of pizza before hitting the next activity, Royal Caribbean has you covered with an incredibly broad and exciting culinary landscape that’s designed to keep every passenger happy and well-fed throughout their vibrant cruise journey, no matter their preferences or schedule.

Staterooms & Accommodations: Comfort & Style

When you're planning a cruise, your stateroom is your home away from home, and the comfort and style of your accommodations can significantly impact your overall vacation experience. Both Holland America Line and Royal Caribbean International offer a range of cabin categories, from interior rooms to luxurious suites, but they often differ in their design philosophy, amenities, and overall feel. Let's first explore Holland America's approach to staterooms. Generally speaking, Holland America cabins, especially their standard veranda (balcony) staterooms, are often praised for being spacious and thoughtfully designed. The emphasis is on comfort, functionality, and a classic, elegant aesthetic that complements the overall refined ambiance of the ship. You'll typically find tasteful décor, quality linens, and well-appointed bathrooms. Many guests report that even their entry-level interior and ocean-view cabins feel generous in size compared to some other cruise lines. Their veranda staterooms come with private balconies, perfect for enjoying morning coffee or an evening cocktail with ocean views, and the furniture is usually comfortable and practical. The storage space is often ample, with plenty of drawers and closet room, which is a huge plus for longer voyages. For those seeking extra luxury, Holland America's suites, such as the Neptune Suites and Pinnacle Suites, offer considerably more space, enhanced amenities like concierge services, larger balconies, and exclusive access to the Neptune Lounge. These suites provide a truly indulgent experience, often featuring separate living areas, double vanities in the bathroom, and even whirlpool baths. The attention to detail in their staterooms reflects their commitment to a premium experience, focusing on quiet comfort and a serene environment where guests can truly relax after a day of exploration or onboard activities. The design tends to be timeless rather than overly trendy, ensuring a welcoming and sophisticated feel that appeals to travelers who appreciate traditional elegance. Their beds are often lauded for their comfort, featuring their signature Mariner's Dream™ bed, designed to ensure a restful night's sleep. From the cabin layout to the bathroom amenities, Holland America strives to create a consistently comfortable and aesthetically pleasing sanctuary for its guests, ensuring that even standard cabins feel like a peaceful retreat on the high seas. This dedication to providing well-appointed and spacious accommodations is a significant draw for many who choose a Holland America cruise, reflecting their overall focus on delivering a high-quality, comfortable journey that prioritizes guest relaxation and satisfaction throughout the entire trip.

Now, let's turn our attention to Royal Caribbean's staterooms and accommodations. With their focus on innovation and attracting a diverse, often younger, and family-oriented demographic, Royal Caribbean's cabins tend to be modern and efficient, often incorporating clever space-saving designs. While standard interior, ocean-view, and balcony cabins might sometimes feel a bit more compact than on Holland America, they are packed with modern amenities and are designed to be highly functional. Many of their newer ships feature virtual balconies in interior staterooms, which are floor-to-ceiling LED screens displaying real-time ocean views, bringing a sense of the outside world into an otherwise enclosed space – a truly innovative concept! Their balcony staterooms offer private outdoor space, which is always a coveted feature for enjoying the sea air and scenery. Royal Caribbean is particularly known for its diverse range of family-friendly cabins. They offer various configurations, including interconnecting rooms, larger family ocean-view or balcony staterooms, and even dedicated Ultimate Family Suites on some ships that are incredibly imaginative, featuring in-suite slides, air hockey tables, and separate bedrooms for kids and adults. These specialty family cabins are designed to make cruising with children as fun and convenient as possible. For those seeking luxury, Royal Caribbean's suites are expansive and often come with access to exclusive areas like the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen restaurant. Their Star Class suites, for instance, offer unparalleled service with a Royal Genie concierge, complimentary specialty dining, and other premium perks that provide a truly opulent experience. The design aesthetic in Royal Caribbean cabins is generally more contemporary, often brighter, and sometimes bolder to reflect the energetic vibe of their ships. While they might prioritize maximizing the number of amenities and ensuring efficient use of space, comfort is still key. You'll find comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, and all the necessary conveniences for a pleasant stay. Storage solutions are cleverly integrated, and the overall feel is fresh and up-to-date, aligning with the innovative and dynamic nature of their cruise line. For travelers who value modern conveniences, innovative features, and a wide variety of cabin options to suit different group sizes and budgets, Royal Caribbean delivers a strong offering. Their focus on technology and family-oriented solutions ensures that accommodations are not just places to sleep, but integrated parts of the overall fun and adventurous cruise experience, catering effectively to the needs of a wide range of guests, from solo adventurers to large family groups.

Itineraries & Destinations: Explorers vs. Vacationers

When choosing your ideal cruise, where the ship takes you is often just as important as the ship itself. The itineraries and destinations offered by Holland America Line and Royal Caribbean International are distinctly different, catering to varying travel appetites – from seasoned explorers seeking cultural immersion to vacationers looking for popular sun-drenched escapes. Let's delve into Holland America's world of travel. Holland America has built a stellar reputation as a cruise line for explorers and cultural enthusiasts. They are renowned for offering longer, more exotic voyages and a broader range of itineraries that often delve into less-traveled ports and provide a deeper sense of destination immersion. Think extensive Alaska cruises that go beyond the usual ports, South America expeditions, circumnavigations of Australia and New Zealand, epic Grand Voyages that span continents, and even comprehensive trips to the Amazon. They are particularly strong in regions like the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Pacific Northwest, where their smaller ships can access ports that mega-ships cannot. Their itineraries are designed for travelers who are genuinely interested in the history, culture, and natural beauty of the places they visit. Port calls are often longer, allowing for more in-depth exploration, and the onboard enrichment programs often tie directly into the destinations, with experts giving lectures on local history, wildlife, and customs. This approach appeals to a demographic that values learning and discovery as much as relaxation. Holland America is also famous for its world cruises and extended journeys, attracting guests who have more time and a strong desire to see the world from a unique perspective. These longer voyages foster a strong sense of community among passengers, many of whom are repeat guests who appreciate the leisurely pace and intellectual stimulation. For those who prioritize the destination and a richer, more contemplative travel experience, Holland America's extensive and diverse itineraries are a major draw. They excel at crafting routes that allow for authentic cultural engagement and breathtaking scenic beauty, making every port visit a meaningful part of the overall journey. The planning behind these itineraries is meticulous, ensuring that guests get the most out of each destination, whether it's an iconic city or a remote natural wonder. This dedication to truly immersive travel experiences sets Holland America apart as a choice for the discerning global explorer.

On the flip side, Royal Caribbean is the go-to cruise line for vacationers looking for popular, action-packed destinations and often shorter, more frequent getaways. While they do offer longer itineraries, Royal Caribbean's bread and butter are their highly popular cruises to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, and Alaska, often focusing on well-known ports of call. Their itineraries are designed to maximize fun and sun, with frequent calls to their private islands, CocoCay in the Bahamas and Labadee in Haiti. These private destinations are packed with their own array of activities, from massive water parks and zip lines to pristine beaches and exclusive cabanas, essentially extending the ship's entertainment offerings onto land. For families and first-time cruisers, these destinations, combined with the ship's attractions, offer a convenient and exciting vacation package. Royal Caribbean also offers cruises to Europe, Bermuda, and other popular regions, but the emphasis is often on accessible, enjoyable routes that appeal to a broad audience, including families with children and groups of friends looking for a lively escape. Their shorter 3- and 4-night cruises are incredibly popular for quick getaways, bachelorette parties, or simply testing out the cruise experience. While they offer excursions, the focus isn't typically on deep cultural immersion but rather on providing a range of exciting activities and beautiful scenery at each port. Their ships themselves are often the destination, with the ports acting as additional playgrounds. This is perfect for those who want a fun-filled, vibrant vacation where the journey is as much about the onboard experience as it is about the places visited. Royal Caribbean's strategic placement of its diverse fleet ensures that there are always exciting options available, whether you're seeking a quick dose of sunshine or an adventure through stunning landscapes. The itineraries are crafted to blend maximum fun at sea with enticing port adventures, making it an excellent choice for those who want a dynamic and energetic vacation experience. The ease of access to popular destinations, coupled with the incredible amenities on their ships, makes Royal Caribbean a top contender for anyone seeking a lively, engaging, and memorable cruise holiday, effectively catering to a wide range of travelers who prioritize excitement and convenience in their travel plans.

Price & Value: What's Your Budget?

Alright, let's talk about the elephant in the room for many travelers: price and value. Understanding what you get for your money is crucial when comparing Holland America Line and Royal Caribbean International, as their pricing structures and what's included can significantly impact your overall cruise budget. Generally speaking, Royal Caribbean often presents itself as the more budget-friendly option upfront, especially for families. Their base fares can appear lower, and they frequently run promotions that make cruising accessible to a wide range of travelers. However, it's important to consider what's included and what's extra. While the sheer volume of activities and many dining options are included in the base fare, Royal Caribbean is known for its upselling. Many of the truly exciting attractions like the North Star, RipCord by iFLY, or escape rooms might have an additional charge. Specialty dining restaurants, premium beverages, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions are almost always extra. This means that while the initial price looks attractive, your final bill can climb quite a bit if you indulge in all the fantastic add-ons that make a Royal Caribbean cruise so exciting. This à la carte approach means you can customize your spending, which is great if you want to pick and choose, but it also means you need to budget carefully to avoid surprises. For families, the value can be excellent if you stick to the included activities and dining, as there's so much to do. However, for those who want to experience everything, the total cost can quickly approach or even exceed that of a more inclusive cruise line. They often have robust loyalty programs that offer perks, which can add value for frequent cruisers. The key with Royal Caribbean is to go in with a clear understanding of what you want to experience and factor in the potential costs of those extras. For many, the sheer amount of included fun and the memorable experiences make the overall value proposition very strong, especially if you're good at managing your spending on additional amenities. Their dynamic pricing model, with various sales and promotions, means that smart shoppers can often find excellent deals, but it's essential to calculate the all-in cost to truly compare apples to apples.

Now, let's look at Holland America Line's approach to price and value. While Holland America might sometimes have higher initial base fares compared to Royal Caribbean, especially for similar itineraries and cabin categories, they often lean towards a more inclusive value proposition. The price often reflects a more refined and comprehensive experience, even if certain premium items are still extra. You'll find that their standard dining (main dining room, Lido Market, some casual spots) is consistently high quality, reducing the need to constantly upgrade to specialty restaurants, although those are still available for an additional charge. The enrichment programs, live music venues, and often more extensive daytime activities are typically included, providing significant value for guests who appreciate these experiences. Holland America also tends to offer more all-inclusive package options like their "Have It All" program, which bundles amenities such as shore excursions, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and a beverage package into a single, often discounted price. This can provide excellent value and make budgeting much easier, as many of the common extras are taken care of upfront. For travelers who prefer a more predictable total cost and appreciate a higher standard of service and quality throughout their journey, these packages can be very appealing. The generally older demographic often appreciates this streamlined approach to pricing and fewer opportunities for constant upselling. While you might pay a bit more initially, the perceived value comes from the consistent quality of food, service, and the enriching activities that are part of the core experience, rather than something you need to pay extra for. The refined ambiance and the quality of the ship itself also contribute to the sense of value, making it feel like a premium experience without constantly reaching for your wallet. For those who enjoy a more serene and sophisticated cruise where many aspects of a high-quality vacation are simply part of the package, Holland America often delivers exceptional value. It's about investing in a more encompassing and less fragmented experience, where the emphasis is on consistent excellence and comfort, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their vacation without constant financial considerations. This focus on providing a well-rounded and often more predictable cost structure makes Holland America a strong contender for travelers who prioritize a high-quality, seamless, and elegant cruise experience.

The Verdict: Who Should Choose Which?

So, after diving deep into the distinct worlds of Holland America Line and Royal Caribbean International, it’s time for the verdict: who should choose which cruise line for their next adventure? It truly boils down to your personal travel style, your priorities for a vacation, and the kind of experience you're chasing. There isn't a single