Some cruise lines dabble in Alaska. Holland America Line owns it. They don’t just sell the destination—they embody it, right down to their famous claim: “We’ve been in Alaska since before there were roads.” That’s not just a marketing line; it’s pure, unshakable confidence built on decades of expertise.
If you want to stand out as a travel advisor, Holland America Line’s Alaska playbook is loaded with brand strategy lessons that go way beyond glaciers and wildlife. Let’s dig in.
Holland America Line knows exactly what sets them apart—and they’re not shy about it. They’ve invested in Alaska for over 75 years, built the most immersive shore experiences, and partnered with local experts who live and breathe the land. Their confidence isn’t just talk; it’s backed by experience and results.
Do this:
Find the one thing you do better than anyone else—and claim it. Whether it’s a destination, a travel style, or a client segment, lean in and make it the centerpiece of your brand. Don’t be afraid to say, “Nobody does this like we do.”
Holland America Line’s Alaska program isn’t just about scenic cruising. It’s about deep, authentic immersion—think exclusive Glacier Bay access, expert-led excursions, and partnerships with National Park Rangers and local guides. They’re not just showing guests Alaska; they’re introducing them to the soul of the place.
Do this:
Be the advisor who goes beyond the brochure. Know the difference between a “tour” and an experience. Tap into supplier training, firsthand knowledge, and local stories. When you connect clients to the real heart of a place, you become irreplaceable.
Your clients want you to know what’s best for them—even when they don’t say it out loud. Holland America Line’s unwavering Alaska confidence makes it easy for you to recommend them for that bucket-list trip. But here’s the twist: when you match the right client to the right experience, you’re building trust that lasts far beyond one sailing.
Do this:
Don’t just offer options. Explain why Holland America Line is your go-to for Alaska, and back it up with specifics—decades of local partnerships, unique land+sea journeys, and insider access. When your client returns raving, they’ll trust your advice for every trip, not just Alaska.
Here’s the real win: every time you deliver the perfect match (like Holland America Line for Alaska), you’re increasing your Customer Lifetime Value (CLV). They may not always choose the same cruise line, but they’ll always choose you, because you’re the expert who unlocked their dream trip.
Do this:
Follow up after their Alaska adventure. Ask what stood out, what surprised them, and where their wanderlust is pulling them next. Use their feedback to recommend future trips—maybe a Mediterranean cruise, a Canada/New England sailing, or even a unique land tour. Show that your expertise travels with them, wherever they go.
Clients don’t just want a booking—they want a trusted guide for their travel dreams. When you confidently connect them to the best experience (even if it’s not the cheapest or the trendiest), you become their go-to advisor for life.
Do this:
Let Holland America Line’s Alaska confidence inspire you. Own your expertise, champion the right suppliers, and always lead with what’s best for your client. That’s how you build a brand that lasts—and a business that grows year after year.
A few years ago, I had the honor of hosting one of Holland America Line’s “On Stage Alaska” events as a WorldVia Live broadcast. It was an extraordinary experience—one I’ll never forget. I had the privilege of interviewing a couple who have had Alaska at the center of their life since the very beginning of their relationship. The stories they shared were pure magic: from the wild beauty they’ve explored together, to the fact that they actually got married on a glacier. Their authentic experiences, the way they spoke about the spirit of Alaska, and the sense of wonder they still felt after all these years—those moments shaped my view of Holland America Line and Alaska forever. It was a reminder that Alaska is so much more than scenery; it’s about connection, adventure, and stories that last a lifetime.
Holland America Line doesn’t just cruise to Alaska—they set the standard. When you adopt their confidence, immerse yourself in authentic expertise, and always put your client’s dreams first, you’ll win their loyalty for the long haul. And that’s what Travel Marketeering is all about.
Want to talk Alaska strategy or swap stories about building client loyalty? Drop a comment or reach out—let’s keep raising the bar together.