FAQs
Top Questions
Q: Will Delbert McClinton be onboard the 2025 Cruise?
When Delbert agreed to transition Sandy Beaches Cruise to StarVista LIVE for the 2023 Sandy Beaches Cruise and beyond, we made an open-ended offer for Delbert to sail with us and perform as long as he wished.
We are thrilled that Founder and Musical Host Delbert McClinton will be joining us again in 2025! Whether Delbert sits in with other artists or does full performances, or anything in between, it’s wonderful to plan on seeing him onboard again.
Q: If the cabin category I want to book is sold out how can I get on the Wait List?
If a particular cabin category is sold out, we encourage you to Join Our Wait List as we often have cancellations and cabins become available. You can join our wait list by filling out the form online and your name will automatically be added to our Wait List.
If the cabin category that you would like becomes available, you will receive an email stating availability. These cabins will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to book quickly.
Q: Will proof of a COVID-19 vaccination be required to sail on the Sandy Beaches Cruise 2025?
For the 2025 Sandy Beaches Cruise, proof of vaccination will not be required to sail. We do highly recommend that every guest is fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and boosted (if eligible) at time of sailing.
Q: What does the price of the Sandy Beaches Cruise include?
In addition to admission to all of the amazing performances and onboard events produced by StarVista LIVE, all of the standard items associated with a Holland America Line Cruise are included, which includes but is not limited to meals including 24-hour room service (except for meals at the specialty restaurants), non-carbonated beverages (i.e. coffee, juices, tea, etc.), use of the ship's beautiful pools, and use of the ship's health & fitness center.
The price does not include airfare, ground transportation, onboard purchases (i.e. spa services, specialty restaurants, carbonated and bottled beverages, alcoholic beverages, gift shop, etc.), gambling, excursions, or travel insurance.
Holland America Line does offer beverage packages. Please check the Holland America Line site for more information, as you will book your beverage packages through Holland America Line.
Q: What is the cruise itinerary?
2025 Cruise Dates & Ports
Day | Date | Port | Arrive | Depart |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sunday | 1.12.25 | Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA | 5:00 PM | |
Monday | 1.13.25 | At Sea | ||
Tuesday | 1.14.25 | At Sea | ||
Wednesday | 1.15.25 | San Juan, Puerto Rico | 8:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
Thursday | 1.16.25 | At Sea | ||
Friday | 1.17.25 | Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands | 7:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
Saturday | 1.18.25 | At Sea | ||
Sunday | 1.19.25 | Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA | 7:00 AM |
*Ports of call subject to change
**All times are ET
Q: What type of identification will I need to board the ship?
For United States Citizens: StarVista LIVE requires a passport book for all travel outside of the United States. Passports must not expire within six months after your date of travel in order to be considered valid. For further information and passport requirements, please visit www.state.gov
Passport cards are not acceptable for this charter.
For Non-United States Citizens: You must have a valid passport and any necessary visas for travel. Please carefully verify the existing identification requirements for your particular travel situation with your local consulate. In addition, non-U.S. citizens who have previously been admitted to the United States for permanent residence must carry their Permanent Residence Card (Form I-551), commonly known as a Green Card. Resident aliens not in possession of this must obtain one at the nearest office of the United States Immigration Service.
Visas: Visa requirements vary depending on the passport under which you are traveling and the countries being visited. Guests traveling under non-U.S., non-Canadian and non-European passports must check with the Consulate of every country visited during the cruise for specific Visa requirements. When contacting the Consulate for the country being visited, be sure to provide the complete itinerary of the cruise so the Consulate can provide the correct information as your Schengen Visa requirements. Guests may also contact a Visa service agency in their country for assistance.
Q: How do I book a stateroom?
The 2025 Sandy Beaches Cruise is currently sold out. Join our waitlist to be notified when cabins become available! Once you join the waitlist, you’ll receive weekly email notifications with any available cabins that week – reserving your cabin is easy! You can book your cabin online here or call (855) 487-2639 and one of our reservationists will gladly help you. If you have not sailed with us on any StarVista LIVE cruise in the past, you will need to create a StarVista LIVE account here before booking your cabin.
Q: What information will I need in order to book a cabin?
The first step in booking your cabin is to create a StarVista LIVE account here if you have not sailed with us in the past.
If you have sailed with StarVista LIVE before, or are currently booked on one of our cruises, you already have an account, which can be accessed here.
Before booking your cabin, make sure you have the following information handy:
- First and Last Legal Name
- Date of Birth
- Address
- Country of Citizenship
- Required Identification (i.e., Passport Number, Visa Number if not a U.S. citizen, etc.)
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- Any dietary restrictions or medical notes
- Credit Card number
Please note: The 2025 Sandy Beaches Cruise is sold out. If interested, join our waitlist to be notified when cabins become available!
Q: What is StarVista LIVE's cancellation policy?
All payments made are non-refundable and non-transferable. StarVista LIVE strongly encourages the purchase of Travel Protection. Once you receive your booking confirmation, a link will be provided to purchase Travel Protection from Travel Insured.
Q: Am I guaranteed access to all shows on board?
Each event and performance onboard is set up in a festival environment. With numerous shows and activities going on at the same time with limited capacity in each venue, it is suggested that you plan in advance what events you would like to attend and arrive as early as you can. Get a glimpse of the Sandy Beaches Cruise schedule by clicking here. Please note that the schedule will not be available until approximately 30 days prior to sailing.
Health & Safety Protocols
Q: Will proof of a COVID-19 vaccination be required to sail on the Sandy Beaches Cruise 2025?
For the 2025 Sandy Beaches Cruise, proof of vaccination will not be required to sail. We do highly recommend that every guest is fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and boosted (if eligible) at time of sailing.
Q: What other health and safety protocols will be in place for the Sandy Beaches Cruise 2025?
We know that health and safety is top of mind when deciding to take any trip. Holland America Line has made enhancements to their health and safety protocols that are extremely comprehensive. Take a moment to review them here and contact us at info@sandybeachescruises.com if you have any questions.
Before You Book
Q: What is the price of the Sandy Beaches Cruise?
Pricing and availability for our 2025 Sandy Beaches Cruise can be found here.
Q: What does the price of the Sandy Beaches Cruise include?
In addition to admission to all of the amazing performances and onboard events produced by StarVista LIVE, all of the standard items associated with a Holland America Line Cruise are included, which includes but is not limited to meals including 24-hour room service (except for meals at the specialty restaurants), non-carbonated beverages (i.e. coffee, juices, tea, etc.), use of the ship's beautiful pools, and use of the ship's health & fitness center.
The price does not include airfare, ground transportation, onboard purchases (i.e. spa services, specialty restaurants, carbonated and bottled beverages, alcoholic beverages, gift shop, etc.), gambling, excursions, or travel insurance.
Holland America Line does offer drink packages. Please check the Holland America Line site for more information, as you will book your beverage packages through Holland America Line.
Q: Are there payment plans available?
We offer an easy, monthly payment plan to pay for your cabin for the Sandy Beaches Cruise. To view payment plan details, including paying with Uplift, click here.
StarVista LIVE is dedicated to making the payments for cabins as guest-friendly as possible.
*All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Q: What is StarVista LIVE's cancellation policy?
All payments made are non-refundable and non-transferable. StarVista LIVE strongly encourages the purchase of Travel Protection. Once you receive your booking confirmation, a link will be provided to purchase Travel Protection from Travel Insured.
Q: Are there any cruise discounts available?
Alumni Discount: Anyone that has ever sailed previously on, or has an active current reservation for, a StarVista LIVE cruise is entitled to Alumni pricing when booking a new StarVista LIVE Cruise. If you’re booking over the phone, just let one of our reservationists know that you have sailed with us before and they will confirm your eligibility for this discount.
If you booked online and need your alumni discount applied to your reservation please email info@sandybeachescruises.com and provide your full legal name, booking number, and what cruise or cruise(s) you’ve been on with StarVista LIVE and we will verify and add your Alumni discount to your reservation.
Military Discount: To qualify for our “Military Rate” you must provide a copy of your DD-214 or a military ID. Please email this to info@sandybeachescruises.com after booking and the 5% discount will apply to your balance before your first payment installment. Note that to receive this discount, the person who served must be sailing in the cabin.
Please note that in order to receive these discounts, you cannot have already paid in full at the time of the application or request.
Q: If the cabin category I want to book is sold out how can I get on the Wait List?
If a particular cabin category is sold out, we encourage you to Join Our Wait List as we often have cancellations and cabins become available. You can join our wait list by filling out the form online and your name will automatically be added to our Wait List.
If the cabin category that you would like becomes available, you will receive an email stating availability. These cabins will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to book quickly.
Q: I can’t go this year, but when can I book for next year?
Next year’s cruise will open for public sale shortly after this year's cruise returns. Keep in mind that the current guests have the ability to rebook for the following year, so inventory may be limited upon return. Check back to the website often for more specific details and get on our email list to learn about any pre-sale opportunities.
Q: What is the cruise itinerary?
2025 Cruise Dates & Ports
Day | Date | Port | Arrive | Depart |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sunday | 1.12.25 | Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA | 5:00 PM | |
Monday | 1.13.25 | At Sea | ||
Tuesday | 1.14.25 | At Sea | ||
Wednesday | 1.15.25 | San Juan, Puerto Rico | 8:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
Thursday | 1.16.25 | At Sea | ||
Friday | 1.17.25 | Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands | 7:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
Saturday | 1.18.25 | At Sea | ||
Sunday | 1.19.25 | Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA | 7:00 AM |
*Ports of call subject to change
**All times are EST
Q: Where can I learn more about the Nieuw Amsterdam?
You can find information on the Holland America Line Nieuw Amsterdam on our website here. Here, you will find information on staterooms, venues, dining options, other ship amenities, and more.
Q: What type of identification will I need to board the ship?
For United States Citizens: StarVista LIVE requires a passport book for all travel outside of the
United States. Passports must not expire within six months after your date of travel in order to be considered valid. For further information and passport requirements, please visit www.state.gov
Passport cards are not acceptable for this charter.
For Non-United States Citizens: You must have a valid passport and any necessary visas for travel. Please carefully verify the existing identification requirements for your particular travel situation with your local consulate. In addition, non-U.S. citizens who have previously been admitted to the United States for permanent residence must carry their Permanent Residence Card (Form I-551), commonly known as a Green Card. Resident aliens not in possession of this must obtain one at the nearest office of the United States Immigration Service.
Visas: Visa requirements vary depending on the passport under which you are traveling and the countries being visited. Guests traveling under non-U.S., non-Canadian and non-European passports must check with the Consulate of every country visited during the cruise for specific Visa requirements. When contacting the Consulate for the country being visited, be sure to provide the complete itinerary of the cruise so the Consulate can provide the correct information as your Schengen Visa requirements. Guests may also contact a Visa service agency in their country for assistance.
Q: Why do I need a passport book?
A valid passport book is required for all travel outside of the United States. Passports must not expire within six months after your date of travel in order to be considered valid. For further information and passport requirements, please visit www.state.gov.
Passport cards will not be accepted to meet this requirement.
StarVista LIVE requires that everyone traveling on one of our themed cruises have a passport book. We understand that some “closed-loop” cruises, as well as Customs and Border Patrol, may not require a U.S. passport to sail, but we require all guests bring theirs in case of an extremely uncommon emergency.
For this reason, passport cards will not be accepted to meet our travel requirements.
Q: I am calling from outside of the U.S. How can I reach you?
For Europe, Australia & New Zealand, please call 313-203-1051 and ask about the Sandy Beaches Cruise.
Q: Are children allowed to cruise?
We do not allow anyone under 18 to sail on one of our themed cruises. Anyone over 18 but not yet 21 must share a cabin with a companion 21 or older.
Q: How are events scheduled in the various venues and how does that affect waiting in line?
We schedule many performances and activities in a number of venues throughout the ship.
We try to match the artist and their performance with the most appropriate venue, taking into account the entire schedule, so as to afford guests opportunities to see as much entertainment as possible. Get a glimpse of the Sandy Beaches Cruise schedule by clicking here. Please note that the schedule will not be available until approximately 30 days prior to sailing.
Factoring in the total number of guests, the volume of performances and activities, and the size of other venues, we do occasionally run into lines and seating pressure. We manage this to the best of our ability by opening up the venues early when we can, scheduling multiple shows at the same time, adding shows when we can and communicating the schedule so guests can plan their day and evenings. But like many well attended activities (e.g. concerts, sports events, etc.) lines can develop.
Q: Am I guaranteed access to all shows on board?
Each event and performance onboard is set up in a festival environment. With numerous shows and activities going on at the same time with limited capacity in each venue, it is suggested that you plan in advance what events you would like to attend and arrive as early as you can. Get a glimpse of the Sandy Beaches Cruise schedule by clicking here. Please note that the schedule will not be available until approximately 30 days prior to sailing.
Q: Will I have a chance to get an autograph or picture with the artists?
The cruise is a floating music festival and as such, the artist’s performances are the primary focus of the schedule and autograph sessions are not formally scheduled. However, there is opportunity for informal interaction between the artists and guests in several ways. In some of our smaller venues, we encourage the artists, and they often do time permitting, to greet guests and sign or take a picture after the event or show. Additionally, some artists will bring copies for sale of their latest project (CDs, books, etc.) and when they do, we will often schedule a formal signing around those sales. When this happens, we communicate these events to guests so they can plan their schedules.
Of course, with 2,000 guests, the festival nature of the cruise, the artists’ planned schedules (sound check, performances, Q&A sessions, activities, etc.), and our desire to provide as many performances as possible, it is a very busy week that will limit artist availability.
Q: Will the entertainers be onboard the whole time?
Many of our artists will be onboard the ship for the entire cruise. However, there may be some cases where an artist must join us during the trip or depart early due to schedule or other commitments.
Book & Manage Your Stateroom
Q: How do I book a stateroom?
The 2025 Sandy Beaches Cruise is currently sold out. Join our waitlist to be notified when cabins become available! Once you join the waitlist, you’ll receive weekly email notifications with any available cabins that week – reserving your cabin is easy! You can book your cabin online here or call (855) 487-2639 and one of our reservationists will gladly help you. If you have not sailed with us on any StarVista LIVE cruise in the past, you will need to create a StarVista LIVE account here before booking your cabin.
Q: What information will I need in order to book a cabin?
The first step in booking your cabin is to create a StarVista LIVE account here if you have not sailed with us in the past.
If you have sailed with StarVista LIVE before, or are currently booked on one of our cruises, you already have an account, which can be accessed here.
Before booking your cabin, make sure you have the following information handy:
- First and Last Legal Name
- Date of Birth
- Address
- Country of Citizenship
- Required Identification (ie. Passport Number, Visa Number if not a U.S. citizen, etc)
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- Any dietary restrictions or medical notes
- Credit Card number
Q: How can I view or modify my reservation after booking?
You can review your existing booking here. Once you click the link, sign into your StarVista LIVE account to access your existing reservation, update your contact information, payment information and more. If you would like to speak with a reservationist, please call us at (855) 487-2639 during our hours of operation (M-F 9:00 am - 5:00 pm EST).
Q: How do I know if I have accepted the terms and conditions? If I have not yet accepted, how can I accept the terms and conditions?
If you have not yet accepted the Cruise Terms and Conditions, please make sure you do so as soon as possible to ensure that your reservation is not cancelled. If you are not sure whether or not you have accepted, you can check your terms and conditions status by logging into your account.
Simply log in to your account and look for an “Accept Terms” button under the reservation. If this button appears, you have not accepted the terms and conditions. Click this button and follow the instructions.
If you do not see this button, this means that you have already accepted the terms and conditions. You may also click on View/Modify under your reservation and you will be taken to the Payment page, which will list all of your important information including cabin number, dining time, and Terms and Conditions status on the left-hand side of your screen.
Q: Can I use my (Mariner’s Society, Crown and Anchor, Captain’s Club) earned perks? Can I gain points for this sailing?
Yes, you can earn points for sailing on the StarVista LIVE cruises. Unfortunately, you cannot redeem any earned perks through your cruise line membership. If you have questions regarding a specific perk or amenity, you are welcome to contact the cruise line directly. If you speak with the cruise line, please make sure they understand that you are trying to redeem perks on this full-ship charter.
Q: What is the payment schedule?
Monthly Installments: Make an initial deposit, then the remaining balance will be split into equal, interest-free monthly payments. All installments will be automatically charged on the first of each month to the credit card you have on file for payment, which can be updated in your StarVista LIVE account. All balances for our 2025 cruise must be paid in full by November 1, 2024.
Book Now, Pay Later with Uplift: Should you choose to pay with Uplift, you can spread the cost of your trip over low monthly payments for up to 16 months. Uplift is optional and gives you the extra flexibility to pay with term lengths up to 16 months that can extend past your event date. Uplift must be selected at the time of booking; it cannot be added on to an already existing reservation.
More information on payment plans available here.
*All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Past due payments are subject to a $35 late fee. See the Terms and Conditions for full details.
Q: Is there a cabin that can accommodate 4 people?
The occupancy limit varies by cabin, some of which can accommodate 3 or 4 guests. Please note that the cabin size will stay the same regardless of how many guests are booked. In most cases, a convertible sofa bed is provided for the 3rd guest. A 4th occupant will be sleeping on a Pullman (trundle) bed that folds down from the ceiling. This guest must have the physical dexterity to climb up to the bunk bed.
Q: What if I am traveling by myself? Are there single cabins? Can you help me find a roommate?
Guests traveling by themselves are certainly welcome! There is a small selection of inside cabins that are priced at a special single rate. If those are sold out, single guests may reserve any other stateroom and the cost will be doubled (this is known as the “single supplement”). If you are looking for a roommate, we can provide a list of names and you would contact them directly to arrange your own partnership. We will help organize the reservation when you both are ready.
Q: Can I change my traveling companion?
You may change your traveling companion up until final payment free of charge. After final payment, there is a $150 change fee up until two weeks before sailing. Changes less than two weeks before sailing cannot be accommodated. All parties involved must be aware of the changes occurring so all guests must send an email acknowledging any changes. Please send your emails to info@sandybeachescruises.com.
Q: Can I get an upgrade?
You are welcome to select a new cabin as available. If the cabin you would like is sold out, please contact us at (855) 487-2639 and we can add your name to the Wait List. If one opens up, we will notify you and you will be charged the difference in cost.
Q: Does StarVista LIVE work with Travel Agents?
StarVista LIVE, through its dedicated reservation department, provides an opportunity for registered Travel Agents to book guests on our unique theme music cruises and be significantly compensated for that effort. For more information visit the Travel Agent page on our website.
PLEASE NOTE: The Sandy Beaches Cruise is no longer enrolling new travel agents.
Travel Protection
Q: How do I purchase Travel Protection?
You can contact the provider, Travel Insured International, at 1-800-243-3174 or www.travelinsured.com. Be sure to mention your trip dates and that you are traveling on a StarVista LIVE cruise.
You are also able to purchase Travel Protection through a different provider of your choosing.
Q: What does Travel Protection offer?
Travel Protection can help protect you and your travel investment and can help provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Plans include coverages for Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Baggage & Personal Effects, Accident & Sickness Medical Expense, and more. We encourage you to contact the provider, Travel Insured International, at 1-800-243-3174 or www.travelinsured.com to find a plan that works for you.
Q: How much does Travel Protection cost?
The cost for your Travel Protection plan is dependent upon several factors, which may include your per-person trip cost, your place of residence, and your age. We encourage you to contact the provider, Travel Insured International, at 1-800-243-3174 or www.travelinsured.com to review plan options and related costs.
Q: If I have not purchased Travel Protection for my cruise, can I still do so?
Yes, you can contact the provider, Travel Insured International, at 1-800-243-3174 or www.travelinsured.com to see what plans are still available for you. You can also log into your StarVista LIVE account, go to My Reservations, and a button will appear with more information on how to get a travel protection quote.
Pre-Cruise Details & Travel Plans
Q: When will I receive my booking number from Holland America Line?
StarVista LIVE will email your Booking Number approximately 45-60 days prior to sailing and it will be posted in your SVL account for your convenience. With your HAL booking number, you will need to go to hollandamerica.com to complete the check-in online process no later than 72 hours prior to the cruise and download the Navigator App on your phone or tablet. Not only will your mobile boarding pass be available there, but you can also manage premium dining, spa and shore excursion reservations, review deck plans and read more information regarding your account with Holland America.
Q: Is there an easy, online option for check-in?
Per Holland America Line, all guests must check-in online for the Sandy Beaches Cruise. You will be sent a unique booking number approximately 45-60 days before the cruise. Once you have this, log in to hollandamerica.com to check in online. After you complete your online check-in, all guests must accept the Passage Contract and Risk Acknowledgment forms and complete the online check in at least 72 hours before embarkation. Your boarding pass and your check-in time will be available on the Navigator App.
Q: What if I cannot check-in online?
If you are unable to check-in online for any reason, please call our reservationists.
Q: When and how do I print my boarding pass and/or luggage tags?
Once you are issued your HAL Booking Number (approximately 45-60 days prior to sailing) and check-in online, there will be a button to print your boarding pass and luggage tags. Please note, you cannot print your boarding passes until you check-in online through HAL. You can also access your boarding pass after checking-in online by downloading the Navigator App. More information on how to download and use the app can be found here.
Q: When can I purchase pre-cruise packages and activities?
StarVista LIVE will provide you with your HAL booking number for use with the cruise line about 45-60 days prior to sailing. That number will allow you to complete your online check-in, as well as reserve other options, such as shore excursions, restaurant reservations, spa appointments, internet and drink packages, etc.
Q: What time should I book my flight before and after the cruise?
We highly recommend coming in a night prior to the cruise and staying in a hotel in the Ft. Lauderdale/Miami area. If you cannot make it in the day prior to the cruise, we suggest you arrive to the ship by 2:00 pm. Please select a flight that allows plenty of time to de-plane, gather luggage, drive to the ship terminal, and check-in at the ship terminal. At the conclusion of the cruise, we suggest you select a flight that leaves no earlier than 11:30 am from Ft. Lauderdale International Airport and 12:00 pm from Miami International Airport.
It is your responsibility to arrive at the ship in time for the departure and to secure your transportation at the end of your cruise.
Q: What hotel is recommended for the night before the cruise?
We recommend that guests arrive a day earlier than the cruise departs, if at all possible, as there may be weather-related travel delays. We typically secure a limited number of rooms as a special group rate for guests on the nights leading up to the cruise. More info on our pre-cruise hotel available here.
Q: Can StarVista LIVE book my hotel and travel?
Unfortunately, we are unable to assist in booking your hotel and travel at this time.
Q: What transportation is available from the airport to hotel, hotel to pier, and pier to airport and how do I book it?
StarVista LIVE does not provide transportation from the airport to the hotel or directly to the Pier, nor from the pier to the airport after the cruise. For those Guests staying the night before the cruise in our pre-cruise hotel, StarVista LIVE offers luggage service and motor coach transportation on the day of the cruise from the hotel to the seaport for a minimal fee. Simply bring your luggage down to the lobby and transportation helpers will assist you loading your luggage into our ground transportation and deliver it to the terminal. That’s it! Your luggage will be delivered to your stateroom on the ship. More information and pricing coming soon.
Q: Is there long-term parking available at the pier?
Port Everglades offers on-site covered parking for $20 per day. Please follow the signs to the midport garage.
Handicap parking is complimentary only if there are ADA modifications done to the vehicle such as: hand controls, extended pedals, wheelchair ramp, etc. Also, 100% Disabled Veterans with ADA license placard will receive complimentary parking.
For more information, visit www.porteverglades.net/cruise/parking/
PREMIER CRUISE PARKING
Self-uncovered parking with free shuttle to cruise ship terminal.
Special discount parking information will be available approximately 45-60 days prior to embarkation.
Q: Can we bring alcohol, soda, and water onboard? And, if so, how much of each?
Alcohol: StarVista LIVE abides by the applicable cruise line’s alcohol policy. Please refer to the Holland America Line’s website for the details.
Soda & Water: StarVista LIVE abides by the applicable cruise line’s soda and water policy. Please refer to the Holland America Line’s website for the details.
Note: These policies are subject to change at any time without notification. For more information, please contact Holland America Line directly.
Q: When will the performance schedule be available?
The 2025 onboard schedule will be available around 30 days prior to our 2025 sailing. In the meantime, tune in to our YouTube Channel for some fun virtual events and interviews with the stars you love!
Once Onboard
Q: Will Delbert McClinton be onboard the 2025 Cruise?
When Delbert agreed to transition Sandy Beaches Cruise to StarVista LIVE for the 2023 Sandy Beaches Cruise and beyond, we made an open-ended offer for Delbert to sail with us and perform as long as he wished.
We are thrilled that Founder and Musical Host Delbert McClinton will be joining us again in 2025! Whether Delbert sits in with other artists or does full performances, or anything in between, it’s wonderful to plan on seeing him onboard again.
Q: Should I download the Holland America Line Navigator App?
We highly recommend downloading the free Holland America Line Navigator App before boarding the ship. This app is available on both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
- There are many perks to using this app before and during the cruise:
- Under Account, store/retrieve your digital boarding pass for embarkation
- Under the Plan tab, review deck plans to help you get where you want to go easily
- Under the Experiences tab, see itineraries and daily schedules, review all the possible shore excursions, browse the spa offerings and more
- Under the Connect tab, purchase an internet plan if you intend to check email, use WiFi to call home, or browse the internet and use the Complimentary Chat to stay connected with other cruisers
- While sailing, use the App to do all the above PLUS…
- Use the At Your Service to order meals and drinks
- Go to Account to check your billing statement
More information available here.
Q: Can I book drink packages/shore excursions like I would on other cruises?
Yes! StarVista LIVE will provide you with a booking number for use with the cruise line about 45-60 days prior to sailing. That number will allow you to complete your online check-in, as well as reserve other options, such as shore excursions, restaurant reservations, spa appointments, internet and drink packages, etc.
Please note that the reservation number that is printed on your email confirmation is for use with StarVista LIVE only and will not work on the cruise line’s website.
In addition, you will be able to book these activities through the Holland America Navigator App that can be downloaded directly to your smartphone. For more information on the Navigator App, please click here.
Q: Is internet service available and how much does it cost?
Each cruise line has various internet packages, and you can buy one directly from them once you have your cruise line reservation number which we will send to you about 45-60 days prior to the sailing. Please refer to the Holland America Line’s website for the details.
Q: Are the stateroom amenities & services on a StarVista LIVE cruise the same as those advertised on the cruise line’s website?
StarVista LIVE operates as a charter company contracting with the cruise lines up to two years in advance. Standard stateroom amenities (i.e. robes, yoga mats, sound systems, priority embarkation, etc.) are included as part of the StarVista LIVE cruise. These amenities and services are subject to change. The cruise lines occasionally offer new retail booking promotions (i.e. onboard credit, free internet, drink packages, dining packages, etc.) as enhanced amenities during certain periods of time for some cabin types. Unfortunately, not all the same promotional amenities and service options are available to StarVista LIVE under our contracted agreement, and therefore we do not offer them as a standard part of the price of our cabins. If you have questions regarding the amenities and services included with a particular stateroom category, please call our office prior to booking your cabin for confirmation.
Q: What dining options are available onboard?
The Nieuw Amsterdam offers many dining options onboard. All meals served in the dining room, New York Pizza and Dive In Grill as well as buffets served at the Lido Market plus room service (late night fees may apply) are included in your reservation. There are additional specialty restaurants open for dinner reservations. There is a nominal charge for these specialty dining establishments and reservations are recommended. The ship provides coffee, water, tea, fruit juice, lemonade and other drinks as part of the offerings. More information available here.
Q: Can special diets be accommodated?
If you have any food allergies or dietary requirements, please advise our reservationists at the time of booking, or note it in the “Dietary Restrictions” section when booking online. The sooner we are informed the better, as obtaining the products for many of these requests requires 30 days notice prior to sailing, and we want to ensure that we are able to fulfill your request.
Q: How do I pay for things onboard?
From Holland America Line: All onboard purchases and services are charged to your account by using your stateroom keycard. Registering a credit card (Visa®, Mastercard®, American Express®, and Discover®) as part of your pre-cruise check-in process activates your keycard. The day you board, Holland America Line places an initial hold on your credit card for $60 per person per cruise day. If you spend the initial hold amount, Holland America Line will authorize your card for the total of your onboard purchases to date plus an additional $60 per person per day for the remainder of your cruise. Please note that there may be multiple authorizations throughout your cruise, and that some banks may keep the hold in place for up to 30 days.
Cash is not accepted for individual transactions (i.e., bars, shops, spa, shore excursions), but cash is accepted in the casino.
If you do not wish to use a credit card, on the day of boarding, you will need to visit Guest Services and deposit $60 cash per person per cruise day. Any excess deposit will be refunded to you at the end of the cruise. Traveler's checks may be cashed at Guest Services. Personal checks are not accepted on board.
At the end of your cruise, you will receive a final statement, and your card will be charged only for the actual amount of your purchases. Refunds for purchases of onboard products and services will be credited to your onboard account whether purchased prior to or during your cruise. The final amount billed may take up to 24-hours following disembarkation.
Q: What is the dress code in the dining room, around the pool, in the ship’s restaurants?
The overall dress theme for the cruise is “smart casual.”
Daytime attire is not subject to limitations, so guests may dress in appropriate and tasteful clothing of their choosing. Coverups and footwear are required in all venues and dining areas.
Evening attire is subject to the dress code for that particular evening. Most evening dress code is “smart casual,” which means no shorts, tank tops, or T-shirts in the main dining rooms or premium restaurants. Jeans are acceptable attire for the “smart casual” evenings. There will be one Formal Night, and our nightly themes offer you a chance to dress up in theme-appropriate clothing most nights.
More information on nightly themes will be released approximately 45-60 days prior to sailing and will be listed on our website.
Q: Where can we smoke on the ship? Can I smoke on my verandah?
The smoking policy designates all interior spaces, including staterooms and the casino, as non-smoking areas. This includes cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. Electronic cigarettes are allowed in staterooms (because they do not leave any residual odor) but cannot be used in public areas. Anyone who violates the ban on smoking in the staterooms will be charged a $250 cleaning fee. No smoking of any kind will be permitted on stateroom balconies.
For guests who wish to smoke, there will be a designated area available for smoking outside on Deck 9, Sea View Bar and Pool. Clearly marked “Designated Smoking Area,” the area includes a sufficient number of ashtrays that are emptied regularly. Cigar and pipe smoking is permitted in the Designated Smoking Area.
Holland America Line reserves the right to modify the smoking policy onboard or alter the locations where smoking is permissible at any time. Please refer to the Holland America Line website for any other information.
Q: Is it possible to get married while onboard the cruise?
While we often conduct vow renewal ceremonies onboard our cruise, we cannot offer opportunities for wedding ceremonies at this time. Guests are welcome to choose to get married on land at a port of call during the sailing, but this is not something that StarVista LIVE or the cruise line is able to assist with. Congrats to you and yours!
Q: What type of noise can I expect to hear from my cabin?
If your stateroom is close to one of our main venues, you may be able to hear performances. Please be advised that some performances occur past 10 pm. Cabins near stairwells, the main dining room, and the pool can also be subject to operational sound.
Accessibility
Q: I have a walking disability or other handicap, what do I do?
Guests on our 2025 sailing with any mobility needs, severe allergies, respiratory needs, and other accessibility requirements must enroll in our SAFE program by filling out the form below before November 1, 2024.
Click here to fill out our Special Assistance Form
Q: I require a handicap accessible room, are any available?
Guests who require a handicap accessible room should call our office to check availability and book directly with one of our helpful reservationists. Please have appropriate documentation available to confirm your booking need. Please note we have a limited amount of handicapped accessible rooms, so inquire early. A waitlist will be available in the event that all of our handicapped accessible rooms are sold out.
Q: Is the boat handicap accessible?
Accessibility information can be found through Holland America Line.