Key Takeaways
- Holland America Line introduces a ‘refer-a-friend’ program, rewarding both existing and new customers with $50 credits.
- Resuming operations post-pandemic, their flagship ship, The Westerdam, recently returned after a two-year hiatus.
- Renowned for global cruises across 114 countries, emphasizing Alaskan and extended Caribbean packages.
- Launching an exclusive “De Lijn” gin for their 150th anniversary, combining modern and Dutch elements.
Seattle, WA–Seattle-based cruise line company Holland America Line announced in a news release the launch of their new ‘refer-a-friend’ program.
Empowering Mariners with Referral Rewards
“Holland America Line has one of the highest repeat guest rates in the industry, but there is still an untapped segment of the market who have never cruised,” said Beth Bodensteiner, CEO of Holland America Line.
Per the program, previous users (automatic members of the organization’s Mariner Society) of the cruise line have an opportunity to earn a $50 credit by referring friends or family.
The newly referred customer also receives a $50 credit, which can be redeemed for amenities during the cruise or future cruise bookings.
“The best brand ambassadors are our Mariners who know our brand and know who would love to take a Holland America Line cruise for the first time,” added Bodensteiner in the release. “Our refer-a-friend program allows us to reach new cruisers while rewarding our loyal guests at the same time.”
The cruise line company restarted its services to most regions post-pandemic in July last year. According to a report, the fleet’s first ship, The Westerdam, arrived back in Australia on November 8 after a two-year break.
According to its website, the Holland America Line offers its cruise tour services in 114 countries worldwide and boasts of being the longest-serving cruise provider to the Alaskan region. The company is known for its long-duration cruises of the Caribbean, including seven-night and longer 10- to 21-night Caribbean packages.
Celebrating Tradition and Innovation with ‘De Lijn’ Gin
The cruise line has launched its exclusive “De Lijn” gin in commemoration of its 150th anniversary next year (available onboard and in “shipboard shops”). The bottle of gin features the orange of Holland America’s home country on the label and is said to “combine modern botanicals with a hint of Dutch tradition.”
What We Think
Holland America Line’s ‘refer-a-friend’ initiative cleverly leverages the loyalty of its existing customers to reach new cruisers. By offering incentives to both parties, they incentivize recommendations while rewarding loyalty.
The resumption of services and the reintroduction of their flagship ship signal a positive rebound post-pandemic. The exclusive gin release adds a unique touch, tapping into the celebratory spirit of their 150th anniversary.
This initiative reflects a strategic blend of tradition and innovation, catering to both loyal patrons and potential new clientele.
Read the full press release here.
