“Those who see the world better understand the world; and when we better understand the world we can gain insights into ourselves and personally experience the transformative effects of travel. EXC is going to show our guests the world in a whole new way and enable them to engage in truly meaningful experiences.” Orlando Ashford, President, Holland America Line
Initially announced in December 2016, Holland America has released more information about their new Exploration Central concept as it premiers on the ms Westerdam in a few days. Exploration Central, or EXC for short, will be rolled out fleet wide by the end of 2018.
What is EXC? According to Orlando Ashford EXC is the “newest dimension of [the] destination experience at Holland America,” further describing it as a more immersive destination experience.
The experience starts onboard the ship with Exploration Central, which will be located on the top deck of the ships. This specially designated area will provide a rich of destination related resources, including “Exploration Guides” who are knowledgeable location experts and will “inspire a sense of wonder and enthusiasm for each destination.”
The onboard experience will also include EXC Encounters, which will bring local experts and entertainers onboard and create an immersive atmosphere so that passengers can delve into a destination’s culture and history before arriving in port.
Passengers will also experience the EXC Channel in their staterooms. This dedicated channel will provide “specially curated films, documentaries, and TV shows featuring the destinations on their itineraries.”
What about when passengers are off the ship, in the destination? EXC will include online destination port guides which guests will be able to use to customize their in-port activities based on their individualized interests. Once in port there will be EXC Tours that passengers can experience, allowing them “to immerse themselves in authentic, engaging travel experiences.”
Susan Schaefer is the owner of Ships ‘N’ Trips Travel located in Tennessee, and specializes in leisure travel with a focus on group travel and charity fundraisers. Through their division Kick Butt Vacations, she focuses on travel for 18 to 23-year-olds. Susan can be reached by email at susan@shipsntripstravel.com or by phone at (888) 221-1209.
