Friday, August 22, 2008

HollandAmerica.com Goes mobile

What's the point of having a cool cell phone with a web browser if you can't use it efficiently? For instance, most web sites look odd on my BlackBerry. Holland America Line noticed their Internet site was less that mobile-user friendly and solved the problem with a highly functional version of its website, www.hollandamerica.com, for all devices able to connect to the Internet.

“More and more people are using mobile devices to get things done when traveling, while waiting in line, and at other so-called down times,” said Richard D. Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “So, our new accessibility will allow them to check details and plan a cruise wherever they are.”

Web surfers will be automatically redirected to the new mobile site if a user accesses the site from a mobile device. To mobilize the site, images were removed and layouts simplified for use on a mobile device.

The most popular areas of www.hollandamerica.com have been adapted for mobile use. These include the research tools Cruise and CruiseTour Finder to find travel options and pricing, ports information to look up such things as departure port details and directions while in a cab, a complete For Booked Guests section for current cruisers, and the ability for past guests to look up their Mariner Society number on-line. A special phone number is listed for those who want to call in and book from their mobile device, too, since bookings cannot be made through the mobile website.

Surfers can choose to view the complete site with full images and options from their mobile device, too. For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

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