Holland America adds new embarkation tech

Holland America Line is introducing facial recognition and vaccination verification tools for customers embarking in all US, Canadian and European homeports. 

The move is intended to speed up the embarkation process. It uses mBark, a mobile system that enables guests to check-in for their cruise in less than 10 seconds. The VeriFLY digital wallet allows them to prove their Covid-19 vaccination and test results.

Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line, said the line wanted to “make the cruising experience better for our guests”, adding: “We recently completed testing with VeriFLY and mBark on a few sailings, and the most common comment from guests was, ‘that’s it?’ because it’s so fast and efficient.”

With mBark facial recognition, guests who load their photo and all necessary pre-travel information to Holland America Line’s website prior to embarkation will be able to use the touchless system. Following a quick face scan, guests can move through the check-in process in about 10 seconds. London-based SKO Systems designed and implemented the system for the line. 

VeriFLY gives guests the option to upload the required information to the app, including proof of their vaccination and test results, before they arrive at the terminal. Once registration is complete, guests can show the VeriFLY QR code or digital or printed pass to their check-in agent. VeriFLY is used by numerous other cruise lines, airlines and hotels. 

VeriFLY launched on Rotterdam in March and it will now roll out to the rest of the fleet, alongside mBark.

To celebrate 75 years of exploring Alaska, the line recently unveiled a range of Alaska Up Close on board experiences and shore excursions.