Holland America is a cruise line company that specializes in cruise destinations around the world. In addition to their own fleet of cruise ships, Holland America offers what they call "Shore Excursions" which are guided tours and guided activities that provide experiences ranging from site seeing to boat rides and hiking. Some examples of excursions for those who love the outdoors in Panama include canoe rides through rivers and canals and hiking.

Go to Holland America's official website to book a cruise online or call their toll free number.

Book Online: http://www.hollandamerica.com/ find-cruise-vacation/Main.acti on

Phone: 1-877-932-4259

Select Panama Canal as the destination on the website. Select the date and length of the cruise; they offer from just under a week to a full month. Select your departure port and the cruise ship. For most cruises the ship is already determined as is the port. Click on "View Cruise Itineraries."

Click on "Check Excursion Availability" directly above the cruise schedule to open a PDF file that will show the current excursions available for the time frame you choose. Note the details of each excursion as some of the shore excursions require a lot of walking or physical activity while others may require certain skills or multiple hours to complete. This information is listed next to each excursion option.

Click on "Cruise Details and Availability." Next select "Book This Cruise" after reviewing the price and schedule details. Enter your Holland America website log in information or create a free account when prompted. Book your cruise and make the payment online or over the phone. Be sure to check your e-mail for confirmation as it will contain details and your booking number.

Book an excursion after you have booked the cruise. This can be done at the following website: https://book.hollandamerica.co m/shorex/shorex.do . You will need your booking number and last name. You can also book excursions for other people (such as for a gift) by checking the option on the web page and entering their booking number and name.

Select your excursion and click "Book Excursion" to set it up and pay for it. If you are trying to book an excursion within 5 day or less of your cruise departure you must call 1-888-425-9376 to book over the phone.

Holland America states that some shore excursions may be sold out or may have a wait list. If you are placed on a wait list you will be notified if a spot becomes available or be given the option to cancel the excursion or book another one.

Book excursions far in advance, ideally right after booking the cruise itself. Check with your doctor if you plan on doing excursions that have descriptions involving physical activity such as hiking or long distances of walking.

Learn more about this author, Maxwell Payne.
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