An unforgettable northbound journey through Alaska’s soul-stirring scenery — from Vancouver to Whittier.
Alaska isn’t just a destination — it’s a dream for many travelers. On Holland America Line’s Glacier Discovery Northbound cruise, clients board in Vancouver and sail one-way through dramatic fjords, historic towns and glacier-packed bays en route to Whittier. This seven-day itinerary is ideal for couples, empty nesters and bucket-list travelers seeking immersive, soul-stirring experiences — without sacrificing comfort.
- One-way route allows for deeper inland exploration
- Smooth logistics with flight and transfer packages
- Unique access to Glacier Bay and College Fjord
- Perfect for celebrating milestone anniversaries or retirement
Commission-Friendly and Advisor-Smart
Travel advisors will appreciate more than rave reviews from happy clients. Holland America offers generous commission structures on cruise fares, shore excursions, beverage packages, specialty dining and transfers — especially when booked as part of a Have It All premium package.
- Earn on bundled packages and upgrades
- Group space and promotional fares available
- Enhanced tools via GoHAL.com and partner portals
- Earn perks and grow your knowledge with HAL Academy available on GoHAL.com
Port Highlights: More Than Just Scenic Stops
We visited Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, and each port offered its own character and pace. Some clients will opt for guided excursions; others prefer to explore independently — and both work beautifully here. From cultural history to wildlife to walkable towns, these stops offer something for everyone.
- Ketchikan: Visit the Totem Heritage Center or take a nature tour in Tongass National Forest
- Juneau: Ride the Mount Roberts Tram, hike to Mendenhall Glacier or go whale watching
- Skagway: Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, followed by a salmon bake or brothel tour
Glacier Viewing from the Ship: No Binoculars Required
Holland America’s mid-sized ships — like the Nieuw Amsterdam — offer breathtaking glacier viewing from your stateroom, the bow or wraparound decks. For many guests, this is the most powerful part of the cruise.
- Glacier Bay National Park: Onboard narration by rangers and Tlingit cultural guides
- Margerie Glacier: A 350-foot wall of blue ice that calves dramatically
- College Fjord: View Harvard, Yale and Wellesley Glaciers in Prince William Sound
- Frequent sightings of sea otters, harbor seals, bald eagles and whales
- Encourage clients to book a veranda stateroom — they’ll thank you later
Onboard Experience: Quiet Luxury at Sea
Holland America Line’s atmosphere is refined without being stuffy — ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural enrichment, good food and relaxed pacing. Sea days are a chance to reset and enjoy immersive programming or quiet time in elegant surroundings.
- BBC Earth Experiences with wildlife footage and live narration
- Regionally inspired menus and fresh local seafood
- Naturalist talks and Alaska Native cultural presentations
- Cozy lounges, library corners and uncrowded decks
- Trivia contests, mixology classes and wine or spirits tastings
Extend the Journey: Land + Sea Packages or DIY Add-Ons
Because the cruise ends in Whittier, clients are perfectly positioned to extend their trip. Holland America Line’s Land+Sea Journeys pair the cruise with multi-day lodge stays in Denali and other interior destinations.
- Independent travelers can head to Anchorage or Seward for glacier cruises, kayaking or hiking
- Add a night at the cruise line’s Denali Lodge in Denali for unforgettable wilderness experiences
- Custom-fit post-cruise adventures equal more commissions and a deeper client experience
Client Profiles: Who to Target
This cruise is incredibly versatile, making it easy to match to a wide range of travelers — especially those drawn to nature, slower pacing and authentic experiences.
- Retired couples seeking slow travel
- Multi-generational families with adult children
- First-time Alaska cruisers who want the highlights
- Milestone travelers (anniversaries, birthdays, retirements … )
- Wellness-minded travelers — fresh air, quiet mornings and natural beauty
This isn’t the kind of trip people forget once they unpack. It stays with them — in the sound of calving glaciers, the feel of morning air on deck, the memory of that one perfect view.
One couple told me, “This cruise reminded us why we travel — it helped us slow down and really notice what was around us.”
When you recommend a journey like this, you’re not just booking a vacation. You’re offering something deeper. And that’s what keeps clients coming back — for more adventures, and for you.
Bonus Tips for Travel Advisors
- Book veranda staterooms early — they sell out fast in peak months
- Suggest pre- or post-cruise hotel stays for added comfort. In Vancouver, Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA, is just a short walk from Canada Place cruise terminal. In Anchorage, Hotel Captain Cook, is a full-service downtown favorite.
- Emphasize HAL’s loyalty perks and special offers for past guests
- Recommend June through August for peak wildlife and best weather
Sharon Kurtz
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