HAL plans new apps, dining and entertainment
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Holland America Line (HAL) has revealed plans for a new app, dining options and entertainment onboard its ships as the fleet goes through drydock periods.
Michael Smith, VP hotel operations at HAL told Travel Daily a new app will be rolled out later this year that will allow passengers to receive the cruise diary on their phone. Passengers will receive notifications if an activity or show is about to start that they showed an interest in, while they will also be able to book excursions or make restaurant reservations using the app.
“This is really like nothing we’ve seen before, and the app works remotely so our customers do not have to worry about connecting to WiFi either,” he explained.
Tablet use is also being trialled in its restaurants and technology is being used more efficiently by its front of house teams to fulfil requests quicker.
Having spent 15 years in the New York hotel industry Smith is also keen to bring more innovate concepts to its dining and entertainment.
These include new ‘Dive In’ burger options which has since seen the number of burger orders triple, while new menus are being introduced taking inspiration from city restaurants and trends.
“Traditionally cruises have not done the ‘grab and go’ concept well but people want that,” he explained. “I’ve been heavily influenced by what hotels and cities offer and we’ve had fantastic feedback from our guests.”
In the entertainment arena all ships will soon include giant LED screens similar to those on TV talent shows, while a Broadway production company will be taking over the shows.
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