Holland America Line has been named the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). Come February 2023, this partnership will bring pickleball courts and professional instruction to Holland America’s ships. Passengers will have the opportunity to improve their skills and enjoy the popular racquet sport while on vacation.

“Holland America Line has embraced and committed to pickleball in a very exciting way and will bring engaging, 360-degree collaborations between its cruise line and the sport we all love.”

Connor Pardoe ~ Commissioner and CEO of the PPA Tour

Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis for a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. The PPA is the leading organization for professional pickleball players and events, and the partnership with Holland America will bring the excitement of the sport to the cruise industry.

“To play pickleball is to make new friends, from around the neighborhood or around the world. This ageless sport welcomes players young and old, fast or slow,” said Theresa Haynie, a founding board member of Seattle Metro Pickleball Association and an International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association instructor. “It’s a fun game to teach and even more fun to learn. Now with pickleball on board ships with this wonderful partnership, cruisers and players have one more adventure to experience and take home with them.”

Holland America’s ships will feature top-notch pickleball courts and offer professional instruction from PPA players. Passengers will have the opportunity to participate in clinics, exhibitions, and even compete in pickleball tournaments.

“Mirroring its rapid growth as the fastest growing sport in the U.S., pickleball is the most popular sport on our ships. It’s wonderful to see guests bond over their shared love of the game — and the ever-changing scenery makes the perfect pickleball backdrop,” said Kacy Cole, vice president of marketing for Holland America Line. “We like to say that travel unites us, but sports do that as well, and Holland America Line is proud to be the first and exclusive cruise line partner of the PPA. We’re excited to offer our guests an elevated pickleball experience as they travel to spectacular and scenic cruise destinations.”

Beyond improving your pickleball game, Holland America’s ships offer a wide range of activities and amenities for passengers to enjoy, including poolside games, fitness classes, live music, and world-class dining options. The cruise line also offers different excursions at each port of call to allow passengers the opportunity to explore exotic destinations and try out new activities.

Along with shipboard activations, “How to Play Pickleball” tutorial videos will be featured on in-stateroom TV programming. Guests will be able to purchase branded pickleball starter kits in the shipboard retail shops starting in 2023.