Holland America’s contest to award Europe cruise for two

SEATTLE, wash. – Holland America Line is holding a “Share a Holland America Line Highlight” contest on its Facebook page asking fans to submit their favorite cruise experience on the line — or one they heard from friends or family — for the chance to win a seven- to 11-day Europe cruise for two in a verandah stateroom.

From now until Jan. 18, 2012, fans who “like” the line’s Facebook page can submit their favorite Holland America Line highlight and upload an optional photo to go with their written entry. Then, from Jan. 19-Feb. 2, entrants are encouraged to share their highlight and ask friends and family to vote. The 10 entries that receive the most votes will be announced Feb. 3 and become finalists to win the Europe cruise prize.

“We continually hear from our guests about their once-in-a-lifetime experiences onboard, and we want to bring these memorable stories together and share them,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. “Our Facebook community allows us to connect and interact with our fans on a more personal level and this is an ideal way to feature their cruising highlights.”

Once the 10 finalists are determined, a panel of judges composed of Holland America Line executives and shipboard officers, including Vice President of Marine Hotel Johan Groothuizen, Director of Mariner Society Gerald Bernhoft, Captain Albert Schoonderbeek and Hotel Manager Marco van Belleghem — as well as well-known travel journalist and Editor-in-Chief of ExpertCruiser.com Anita Dunham-Potter — will select the winner. The winning highlight will be announced Feb. 15, 2012.

The contest is open to legal residents 18 years or older of the United States, D.C., Canada (excluding Quebec), the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany and Australia.