September 25 – October 2, 2016
Holland America's ms Zaandam
Have you ever dreamed of driving down the America's Pacific Coast? Or sailing into San Francisco underneath the Golden Gate Bridge? Let us do the driving for you! Join us as we stop in some of the most beautiful, LGBT-friendly west coast cities. Even if you've lived on the west coast your entire life, Olivia will make your "backyard" seem like new as you experience it with 1,450 women.
Begin your vacation in Vancouver, a city filled with outdoor, museum and gallery attractions that will keep you busy, and the city's gay-friendly Davie Village, in the West End, is a must-see. In coffee- and beer-friendly Seattle, visit the iconic Pike Place Market, the best example of the city's local, fresh products, take an excursion to the EMP Museum (Rock 'n Roll Museum) to learn about the city's influence on popular music, or see a 365-degree view of Seattle, Mt. Rainier and Puget Sound from the Space Needle.
In Oregon, we'll dock in Astoria, home to films such as The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop. Taste Oregon's award-winning beers, sample Pacific Northwest cuisine, enjoy coastal wines and see Haystack Rock at Cannon beach. Next, we'll overnight in San Francisco, where you'll have the options to see breathtaking views from iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf/Pier 39, Lombard Street, the Castro district and Napa Valley wine country.
In Santa Barbara, stroll the cobblestone streets of Solvang, a quaint Danish town, or take a trip to Santa Ynez Valley wine country. The trip will come to an end in San Diego, and before you leave, be sure to check out Hillcrest – the city's gay mecca – with its kitschy shops and gorgeous views of downtown.
Your Entertainment
Betty DeGeneres
Betty DeGeneres, mother of Vance and Ellen DeGeneres, has been an LGBT activist for the last 18 years, starting as the Human Rights Campaign's first non-gay spokes-person for their National Coming Out Project. This was just after retiring from Cedar-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where she was a Speech Pathologist. Her "late blooming" speaking career began with speeches at HRC Dinners all across the U.S. And then speaking at universities and then corporations. Her book, "Love, Ellen - A Mother/Daughter Journey" has been well-received, as has her second book, "Just A Mom". We are thrilled to have Betty join us on now her 5th Olivia vacation!
Wilson Phillips
2015 marks 25 years since the debut of Wilson Phillips' self-titled debut album, and Wilson Phillips has a lot to celebrate. Since the beginning of their union in 1990, Wilson Phillips have won the Billboard Music Award for "Hot 100 Single of the Year" for the now iconic single "Hold On", and were nominated for four Grammy Awards, as well as two American Music Awards. During a 10-year hiatus, Wilson Phillips were busy with solo projects and became mothers. In 2004, they reunited and released California, featuring cover songs from famous California artists, including "Go Your Own Way" by Fleetwood Mac, among others. 2010 saw the release of their Christmas album, Christmas in Harmony. In 2011, they appeared in the blockbuster comedy, Bridesmaids, bringing "Hold On" to a new generation of fans.
Your Ship - Holland America's ms Zaandam
Designed to provide maximum comfort, the Holland America ms Zaandam has spacious public areas that boast a sophisticated décor, including the stunning atrium and two-story theater.
The musically-themed ms Zaandam offers a unique shipboard atmosphere. Inspired by the world's great music, artifacts and memorabilia from a variety of genres decorate the ship. You'll find musical instruments such as Bill Clinton's saxophone and signed guitars from Queen, Iggy Pop, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones used as art objects throughout the ship. At the heart of the ms Zaandam, in a soaring three-story atrium: a Baroque-style Dutch pipe organ, inspired by the traditional barrel organs still found on the streets of The Netherlands.
The restaurants range from the casual to the elegant, and the atmosphere onboard is always friendly. There are wide decks for strolling, great sea vistas, and spacious staterooms—many with private verandahs—for relaxing. Step onboard for a first-class trip!
Some of the ship's other highlights include:
Rotterdam Dining Room: features impeccable service and an extensive wine list. Five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carb options.
Pinnacle Grill: This intimate reservations-only venue offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience. Featuring premium Sterling Silver beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated "Excellent" by Wine Spectator.
Lido Restaurant: offers a relaxed ambiance for all three meals and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties.
Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times: a comfortable, coffee house environment where you can browse through an extensive library, surf the Internet and check email or simply read the morning paper.
Pool and whirlpools: Relax on comfortable deck chairs or take a dip in the whirlpool.
Greenhouse Spa & Salon: features heavenly beauty and wellness rituals. Enjoy a facial, hot stone massage, or steam in a thermal suite.
Crow's Nest: offers sweeping 270° views during the day, and our Club O nightclub each evening.
Dining
Seating & Dining Times
You will be assigned a dining time when you book your reservation which will either be first seating or second seating dinner. Restaurant hours will be listed in your daily program.
Solos Seating
We will have a special solos dining area for those traveling alone.
Rotterdam Dining Room
The Rotterdam Dining Room features five-course menus offering classic preparations, regionally inspired cuisine and vegetarian options.
The Pinnacle Grill
The Pinnacle Grill offers delicious Sterling Silver Beef and fresh seafood options (nominal cover charge).
Canaletto Restaurant
Canaletto Restaurant serves dinner and features authentic Italian cuisine (nominal cover charge).
The Lido Restaurant
Lido Restaurant is a full-service buffet featuring cuisine from around the world.
The Terrace Grill
Dive-In at the Terrace Grill offers grilled meat, chicken and portabella burgers on brioche, gourmet hot dogs, crispy French fries and a taco bar with all the fixings.
Electricity
Cabins are equipped with one standard U.S. 110- and European 220-volt outlet.
Excursions
Excursions may be booked approximately 30 days in advance. Your booking number and detailed instructions on how to book shore excursions will be emailed to you.
Gratuities
Gratuities are included in the cost of the cruise. Gratuities are provided for your cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maître d' and other behind-the-scenes crew members.
Internet / e-mail / fax
There is an Internet center on board; minute plans are available. Pricing will be posted on board. Guests may also bring their own laptops and purchase a wireless plan.
Laundry, dry cleaning and launderette
Laundry, pressing and dry cleaning services are available. There is also a self-service launderette. Pricing is available on board.
Medical services
There is an onboard infirmary. Medical services entail an additional fee.
Money: Paying for things on board
On board, the currency is $USD. All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you create when you first check in. Please check with the front office on board for further details.
Phone
Each cabin has a phone. There is an additional fee to use this phone; cost is available on board.
Smoking policy
Please take note of Holland America's new smoking policy on board. Smoking is not permitted in any of the staterooms or public spaces, including all restaurants and corridors. Smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas only which include the Lido deck aft (back) on the starboard (right), outside on deck 8, on the Sports Deck, deck 9, and on your verandah.
Solo travelers
Traveling solo? Be sure to attend the Solos Welcome on the first day. Here you will meet your Olivia Solos Coordinators who will share your solos program for the week. We plan dozens of activities for our solo travelers, including special designated solos excursions in each port of call. In addition, we organize a special solos dining area for all meals and reserve a section for the nightly shows.
Spa services
Enjoy the luxurious Greenhouse Spa complete with massage, facials and a myriad of other spa treatments. Massages and other services are available for an additional fee.
Some of the in-room amenities you'll enjoy:
• Flat-screen television
• 24-hour room service
• Salon-quality hair dryer
• Vanity with magnifying mirrors
• 24-hour front desk
• Egyptian cotton towels
• Massage showerheads
• Deluxe bathrobes
• Individual thermostats
• Equipped with one standard U.S. 110- and European 220-volt outlet
• Personal safe
• Complimentary fresh fruit
• Complimentary shoeshine service
• International direct dial phones (extra charge)
• Wireless internet (extra charge)
• Laundry, pressing and dry cleaning (extra charge)
• Cell phone service (extra charge)
• Elemis Aromapure "Time to Spa" bath amenities
Pacific Coastal Cruise Itinerary
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
25 Sep
Vancouver/Victoria, British Columbia
4 PM
26 Sep
Seattle, Washington
7 AM
4 PM
27 Sep
Astoria, Oregon
11 AM
6 PM
28 Sep
At Sea
29 Sep
San Francisco, California
8 AM
30 Sep
San Francisco, California
8 AM
01 Oct
Santa Barbara, California
8 AM
5 PM
02 Oct
San Diego, California
7 AM
Embarkation and check-in begins at 11:30 am and will be available until 3:30 pm with all aboard at 4 pm.
Vancouver/Victoria, British Columbia Sunday, September 25, 2016
Welcome to Canada! Arrive early and join our pre-cruise stretcher, or come on your own and explore the sights. Consistently rated as one of the world's greatest places to live, this city will enchant you with its breathtaking snowcapped crags, city-hugging beaches and dense waterfront forests. Vancouver is filled with outdoor, museum and gallery attractions that will keep you busy; visit vibrant Chinatown and Stanley Park, with its 1,000 acres of forests, gardens, lakes and lawns in the heart of the city. And, if you get the chance, check out the gay-friendly area, Davie Village!
Seattle, Washington Monday, September 26, 2016
Seattle is the jack of all traits. Incubator of jazz and grunge, jets and literature, coffee and computer software. Seattle is as much about reinvention as it is a landscape. But what a landscape! There are lakes, mountains and forests everywhere you look. The rest is an archipelago of neighborhoods studded with boutiques and coffee shops. Catch a salmon at Pike Place Market, ride to the top of the Space Needle, sample a local microbrew in Fremont, or slurp a bowl of steaming pho down in the International District.
Astoria, Oregon Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Known as the town Lewis and Clark built Fort Clatsop in to wait out the winter of 1805-1806, Astoria brings together histories old and new. Visit the fort, which today is a national memorial, and view its exhibits, living-history demonstrations and trails through the surrounding wetlands. Animal lovers can take an excursion to travel the rugged coastline, keeping a lookout for elk, bears, rabbits, eagles and blue herons. New history includes Oregon's thriving food and beverage industry, and while you're here, be sure to taste the local cuisine and pair it with beer or wine (your choice!).
Day at Sea Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Sunbathe on deck with some friends or join in one of the dozens of activities the Olivia team has planned just for you! Take a dance lesson, play bingo, head to the casino, or treat yourself to a spa day...the choices are nearly endless!
San Francisco, California Thursday, September 29, 2016 Friday, September 30, 2016
We're bringing you to Olivia's hometown today! San Francisco, with its incredible views of the bay from nearly every vantage point, offers you everything – from Chinatown and North Beach, to shopping and world-renown cuisine, this is one city to immerse yourself in as much as you can. Take an excursion to wine country, where you'll discover the difference between earthy Pinot Noir and hearty Cabernet Sauvignon. Or cross the Golden Gate Bridge and check out Muir Woods, one of the few remaining groves of virgin coastal redwoods.
Take a tour on the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus; hop on in one place, and hop off in another (there are 20 sites to choose from). Rent a bike and bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, or take a ferry ride across the bay to quaint Sausalito for delectable views. The curviest street in the world is Lombard Street – walk down and see the beautiful mansions lining the road. If you like learning about the world around you, head over to Golden Gate Park and check out the California Academy of Sciences (there's even a living roof!). Union Square offers blocks of shopping, and the Ferry Building provides a taste of the best, local food purveyors in the Bay Area. You'll even have the chance to visit Olivia's headquarters!
Santa Barbara, California Saturday, October 1, 2016
Sunny Santa Barbara truly is the Southern California you see in movies with its gorgeous beaches, beautiful sunsets and palm tree-dotting skyline. Walk to the end of the pier and try to catch a glimpse of Humpback whales migrating south for the winter. Stroll along State Street for shopping and eating, or take an excursion to Santa Ynez wine country and learn about the Rhône varietals that thrive there. You can also take an excursion to Solvang, a Danish town filled with thatched-roof buildings and scores of Danish bakeries.
San Diego, California Sunday, October 2, 2016
You will disembark this morning in San Diego and either head home or join us for a post-cruise stretcher. Enjoy the city's beautiful beaches and 75-degree weather. Consider a visit to the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. The historic Gaslamp District offers delicious cuisine and much of the city's nightlife, and Old Town provides clues to San Diego's past.
What is included?
• Accommodations for 8 days/7 nights on the ms Zaandam
• Dine in five restaurants (Rotterdam Dining Room, Lido Restaurant, Terrace Grill, Pinnacle Grill*, Canaletto*)
• Bars and lounges throughout offering premium alcohol and soft drinks along with the Explorations Café featuring specialty coffee drinks (beverages are an extra charge)
• Culinary Arts Center powered by Food & Wine Magazine
• Two swimming pools and Jacuzzis
• Casino, fitness center, internet café, full-service Greenhouse Spa, Signature Shops
• Gratuities, port charges/taxes, which are covered in NDA fees
• Stateroom amenities featuring luxurious beds with euro-top mattresses and finely woven cotton linens, Elemis bath products, deluxe bathrobes, Egyptian cotton towels, massage showerheads, 5x magnifying make-up mirrors and salon-quality hair dryers, flat-panel TV and DVD player, secure safe, complimentary fresh fruit on request, 24-hour room service, ice service, shoeshine service and nightly turndown
• Olivia's signature programming, entertainment and staffing assistance throughout
What's not included?
• Airfare
• Airport transfers
• Boutique, casino, spa, photos and bingo
• Internet access, phone, fax and other incidentals
• Medical attention
• Optional excursions
• Soft drinks, bottled water, specialty coffees, and alcohol such as wine, beer and cocktails
• Specialty restaurants
• Travel insurance
• Other incidentals
Traveler Info
Currency
The currency in the United States is the U.S. dollar. In Vancouver, it is the Canadian dollar, but U.S. currency is also accepted.
Languages
English
Climate
At this time of year the temperatures in Vancouver, Seattle and Astoria can be in the low-60s to mid-40s F. The temperatures in San Francisco can be in the low-70s to mid-50s, and in Santa Barbara and San Diego they can be in the high-70s to low-60s F.
Travel documentation and identification
You will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country's consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
Visa
If you are a U.S. citizen, you DO NOT need to get a visa ahead of time. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country's consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
Travel Insurance
We recommend recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to protect yourself and your trip investment from the unexpected. Now more than ever it's extremely important to think about the unexpected. It is important to purchase the travel protection within 15 days of your initial invoice date in order to receive the most coverage. Consider travel protection for Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay, and more.
Travel and arrival
Where to fly into/out of
You will need to fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR), approximately 30 minutes away from the cruise ship terminal, Canada Place (999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada), which is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver. We encourage all passengers to arrive a day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
You will need to fly out of San Diego International Airport (SAN), approximately 10 minutes (2.5 miles) away from the cruise ship terminal.
Suggested arrival/departure times
Guests arriving in Vancouver on the day of sailing (September 25, 2016), should arrive no later than 12 pm. Return flights from San Diego on the day of disembarkation (October 2, 2016) should be booked after 12 pm.
Check-in
Embarkation and check-in begins at 11:30 am and will be available until 3:30 pm with all aboard at 4 pm.
Luggage allowances
While there is no luggage limit on the cruise itself, airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances.
Transfer and Meeting up with Olivia
You will be able to book a one-way airport to ship transfer through Holland America approximately 30 days prior to sailing. Cost is approximately USD$29 per person. You can also use public transportation by taking the SkyTrain Canada Line. This station is accessible from inside the airport terminal, and the ride will take approximately 25-45 minutes (depending on the time of day and number of transfers). For just CAD$9, the Canada Line will drop you at the Waterfront station just two blocks from the cruise ship terminal at Canada Place.
You can take a taxi from the airport to the port for approximately CAD$40 and/or shared limo for approximately CAD$45-$55. The ride will take approximately 20-25 minutes depending on traffic.
Getting to the ship
You can take a taxi from the airport to the port for approximately CAD$40 and/or shared limo for approximately CAD$45-$55. The ride will take approximately 20-25 minutes depending on traffic.
After Your Trip - Transfers to the airport
For those going directly to the San Diego Airport, you can take a taxi from the port to the airport for approximately $16 USD. Transfers will be available to book via the Shore Excursion office on board. Taxis can be scarce after a cruise, so we recommend purchasing a transfer on board.
Excursions
Excursions may be booked approximately 30 days in advance. Your booking number and detailed instructions on how to book shore excursions will be emailed to you.
Money: Paying for things on board
On board, the currency is $USD. All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you create when you first check in. Please check with the front office on board for further details.
Navigation Deck. The Pinnacle Suite is the largest most luxurious accommodation on the ship. With approximately 1300 square feet, including verandah, this Suite features a bedroom with one king-size bed, living room, dining room, dressing room, pantry, refrigerator, guest toilet, one sofa bed that accommodates two additional guests, oversize whirlpool bath/shower, floor to ceiling windows and private verandah. As a Pinnacle Suite guest, you will have exclusive access to the industry-leading Neptune Lounge – this lounge features a private place to relax, socialize with other suite guests.
$ 5,199
$ 3,999
SA, SB - Neptune Suite
Navigation Deck. The Neptune Suites offer the most spacious accommodations next to the Pinnacle Suite. Indulge, unwind and relax in the comfort of this expansive suite. These suites feature two beds convertible to one king-size bed, one sofa bed that accommodates two additional guests, whirlpool bath/shower, large sitting area, dressing room, floor to ceiling windows and private verandah. Enjoy the same amenities of the Pinnacle Suite, including exclusive access to the Neptune Lounge. Approximately 566 square feet, including verandah.
$ 4,599
$ 3,499
A, B, AA, BC, BB - Vista Suite
Navigation Deck, Verandah Deck. These staterooms feature two beds convertible to one queen-size bed, bathtub/shower, sitting area, floor-to-ceiling windows, a private verandah and all standard amenities. Pamper yourself with a verandah where you can enjoy spectacular ocean views while indulging in room service in the comfort of your stateroom. Approximately 297 - 379 square feet including verandah.
$ 3,299
$ 2,499
C, D, E, F, FF, DA, EE, DD - Oceanview Stateroom
Main, Dolphin, Lower Promenade, Verandahe Decks. These rooms offer an ocean view with a window for natural sunlight. Rooms include two beds convertible to one queen-size bed with bathtub/shower and all standard amenities. Approximately 140 – 319 square feet..
$ 2,599
$ 1,999
HH, G, H - Oceanview Stateroom
Lower Promenade, Dolphin, Main, Navigation Decks. All G-category staterooms have portholes. All H-category staterooms have partial sea views. All HH-category staterooms have fully obstructed views. Rooms include include two beds convertible to one queen-size bed with bathtub/shower and all standard amenities. Approximately 140 – 319 square feet.
$ 2,399
$ 1,799
I - Interior Stateroom
Lower Promenade, Navigation, Verandah Decks. Interior staterooms offer a comfortable sleeping environment and include two beds convertible to one queen-size bed with shower and all standard amenities. Approximately 182 – 293 square feet.
$ 2,099
$ 1,599
J - Interior Stateroom
Dolphin, Main Decks. Interior staterooms offer a comfortable sleeping environment and include two beds convertible to one queen-size bed with shower and all standard amenities. Approximately 182 – 293 square feet.
$ 1,999
$ 1,499
K - Interior Stateroom
Main, Navigation, Verandah Decks. Interior staterooms offer a comfortable sleeping environment and include two beds convertible to one queen-size bed with shower and all standard amenities. Approximately 182 – 293 square feet.
$ 1,899
$ 1,399
L - Interior Stateroom
Lower Promenade, Main Decks. Interior staterooms offer a comfortable sleeping environment and include two beds convertible to one queen-size bed with shower and all standard amenities. Approximately 182 – 293 square feet.
$ 1,699
$ 1,299
M - Interior Stateroom
Dolphin, Main Decks. Interior staterooms offer a comfortable sleeping environment and include two beds convertible to one queen-size bed with shower and all standard amenities. Approximately 182 – 293 square feet.
Pre-cruise vacation stretcher and a post-cruise stretcher available on request.
Rates: Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Pricing does not include airfare, insurance, fuel surcharge or NDAs of $399 (subject to change).
**3rd/4th person occupancy is $999 pp + NDAs.
Early bird prices valid until August 26, 2016.
Availability updated weekly and is provided for informational purposes only. The accuracy is not guaranteed. Olivia & HappyGay Travel will not be held responsible for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies. It is advised for guests to check information provided on this site with an HappyGay Travel Travel Consultant.
Betty DeGeneres, mother of Vance and Ellen DeGeneres, has been an LGBT activist for the last 18 years, starting as the Human Rights Campaign's first non-gay spokes-person for their National Coming Out Project. This was just after retiring from Cedar-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where she was a Speech Pathologist. Her "late blooming" speaking career began with speeches at HRC Dinners all across the U.S. And then speaking at universities and then corporations. Her book, "Love, Ellen - A Mother/Daughter Journey" has been well-received, as has her second book, "Just A Mom". We are thrilled to have Betty join us on now her 5th Olivia vacation!
2015 marks 25 years since the debut of Wilson Phillips' self-titled debut album, and Wilson Phillips has a lot to celebrate. Since the beginning of their union in 1990, Wilson Phillips have won the Billboard Music Award for "Hot 100 Single of the Year" for the now iconic single "Hold On", and were nominated for four Grammy Awards, as well as two American Music Awards. During a 10-year hiatus, Wilson Phillips were busy with solo projects and became mothers. In 2004, they reunited and released California, featuring cover songs from famous California artists, including "Go Your Own Way" by Fleetwood Mac, among others. 2010 saw the release of their Christmas album, Christmas in Harmony. In 2011, they appeared in the blockbuster comedy, Bridesmaids, bringing "Hold On" to a new generation of fans.
Welcome to Canada! Arrive early and join our pre-cruise stretcher, or come on your own and explore the sights. Consistently rated as one of the world's greatest places to live, this city will enchant you with its breathtaking snowcapped crags, city-hugging beaches and dense waterfront forests. 
Known as the town Lewis and Clark built Fort Clatsop in to wait out the winter of 1805-1806, Astoria brings together histories old and new. Visit the fort, which today is a national memorial, and view its exhibits, living-history demonstrations and trails through the surrounding wetlands. Animal lovers can take an excursion to travel the rugged coastline, keeping a lookout for elk, bears, rabbits, eagles and blue herons. New history includes Oregon's thriving food and beverage industry, and while you're here, be sure to taste the local cuisine and pair it with beer or wine (your choice!).
Sunbathe on deck with some friends or join in one of the dozens of activities the Olivia team has planned just for you! Take a dance lesson, play bingo, head to the casino, or treat yourself to a spa day...the choices are nearly endless!
We're bringing you to Olivia's hometown today! 
Take a tour on the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus; hop on in one place, and hop off in another (there are 20 sites to choose from). Rent a bike and bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, or take a ferry ride across the bay to quaint Sausalito for delectable views. The curviest street in the world is Lombard Street – walk down and see the beautiful mansions lining the road. If you like learning about the world around you, head over to Golden Gate Park and check out the California Academy of Sciences (there's even a living roof!). Union Square offers blocks of shopping, and the Ferry Building provides a taste of the best, local food purveyors in the Bay Area. You'll even have the chance to visit Olivia's headquarters!
Sunny 
You will disembark this morning in 
