HAL offers incentives for booking 2014 cruises early

Holland America Line is offering a package of value-added extras for early bookings of selected 2013 holiday cruises and 2014 sailings.

Called “Explore 4” the promotion in some cases includes reduced deposit, a drinks package or card, a free dinner at a specialty restaurant and free berths for the third and fourth passengers in a cabin.

The items can be applied on selected 2013 holiday cruises and 2014 sailings. To get all four amenities, bookings must be made by Oct. 15.

Holland America said that by taking advantage of a 50% reduced deposit, guests will have more flexibility and time before paying the final deposit on their cruise.

The cruise line said guests who qualify for the free meal would dine at Pinnacle Grill if they are in ocean category staterooms or Canaletto if they have an interior cabin.

Holland America also announced a sweepstakes for agents who make bookings under the new program. They can win gourmet meals and computer tablets.

Four grand prize winners will get a seven-day cruise for two in a verandah cabin.

Follow Tom Stieghorst on Twitter @tstravelweekly.