Holland America Line partnered with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, the 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the eponymous landmarks, to celebrate the cruise line’s 150-year journey from immigrant carrier to consumer ocean liner fleet. An element of the partnership includes a curated exhibit at Ellis Island detailing the brand’s historical prominence in bringing one in 10 immigrants ...

Clear-to-the-bottom water. Swaying palm trees begging for you to plop down with your beach blanket and a good book underneath. Candy-colored buildings lined up along the brilliant white sand. Sound magical? It might be time to plan a Caribbean vacation! Island-hopping on a Caribbean cruise is the most cost-effective way to explore this remarkable region. Instead of spending money ...

If you are setting sail on a Pacific Coast cruise and have a craving for Mediterranean-like vibes, look no further than Catalina Island in California. Located 24 miles southwest of Los Angeles, you’ll discover a gorgeous landscape of beaches, mountains, coves and canyons. Here is a guide to help you make the most of a day on Catalina Island ...

Are shimmering turquoise waters and white sandy beaches calling your name? When you embark on a Holland America Line cruise to the Eastern, Southern, or Western Caribbean, you’re sure to discover the enchanting beauty of the islands. From historical sites to family-friendly activities, here’s a preview of some of the things you could do as you island hop on ...

With 227 breathtaking islands, Greece is incredible. Our Greek Isle cruises whisk you to small villages and iconic cities. Stand in the same place as the world’s greatest philosophers and poets, share mezes with friendly locals, or watch the sun sink into the jewel-blue Aegean Sea.   Athens, the Gateway to Greek Isles  Athens is the ...

Following a Panama Canal transit, Nieuw Amsterdam arrived today at Half Moon Cay, the first ship to visit on the 25th anniversary season of Holland America Line’s private island. The ship’s team marked the opening of the season with a special beachside display. In this season that also marks our 150th anniversary as a line, seven Holland America Line ships ...

On Sunday, Oct. 10, waving flags, cheering team members and a “Welcome Home” sign greeted guests as they joined Koningsdam at the Port of San Diego for our first West Coast departure since the start of the industry-wide pause. Koningsdam is the largest Holland America Line ship to be sailing from the West Coast, and she will spend the season ...

We invite you on a whirlwind tour of the sundrenched ABC Islands. Part of the Leeward Antilles in the southern Caribbean, islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao feature diverse natural habitats that call for adventure. The stories below show the importance of these special surroundings to the people who live there and offer a glimpse of how you can experience ...

The Galapagos Islands are composed of 120 volcanic islands. Their extreme isolation has led to some pretty interesting animal species, and Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Shore Excursion Manager Judy Hu dreamed of visiting the island for years. That dream became reality when she led the Galapagos Overland Adventure shore excursion during a 2012 South America Grand Voyage. The reason ...

I know this island well, one might say ‘intimately’, for not only did I call here on the ‘Mail’ run, but I also spent over a week here, after abandoning my ship, along with 83 others, we were brought back here by the tanker which sighted our lifeboats and rescued us. Having nothing but a rather dirty-white uniform to my ...

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, Holland America is launching its America 250 campaign — celebrating a 150-year history deeply woven into the nation’s story. From immigrant voyages to wartime service and the evolution of modern cruising, Holland America’s history mirrors America’s own journey of discovery, resilience, and innovation. 150+ Years of Shared History ...

There’s so much to love about cruising to North American cities, from harbors lined with gleaming skyscrapers to experiences that take you back in time — strolling Boston’s Freedom Trail or exploring the winding streets of Old Québec. Boston — “The Cradle of Liberty” The 2026 7-Day America’s 250th Celebration: Stars & Stripes Voyage offers the opportunity ...

Kristen Bass, fleet training specialist, has a personal connection to Holland America Line that extends long before her first day with our cruise line 10 years ago. In fact, it goes back to a transatlantic journey in September of 1893.  Nearly 130 years ago, a young couple in their 30s was preparing for a ...

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam arrived at New York City yesterday morning on its maiden call to the city following a transatlantic crossing that departed Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Oct. 15. The ship is nearing the end of a 15-day cruise that is recreating the maiden voyage of Holland America Line’s first ship — Rotterdam I — that departed Rotterdam 150 years ...

As our 150th anniversary approaches April 18, 2023, Holland America Line is adding a second commemorative transatlantic crossing aboard Rotterdam to the schedule of celebratory events. Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 4, 2023, the 16-night itinerary sails to Rotterdam, the Netherlands, retracing in reverse the company’s first voyage. From Fort Lauderdale, the ship heads to New York City ...

To Our Guests, For more than 150 years, Holland America has pioneered travel by sea. Today, we are pleased to announce the largest fleet update in our history — Holland America Evolution. This evolution will bring the Pinnacle of Cruising to six ships, adding guest favorites, new onboard enhancements, and signature experiences to Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Westerdam, Noordam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and ...

Picture this: you’re wandering around the world’s most charming city, stepping in and out of small shops when you realize your port call time is just around the corner. You only wish you had a few more hours to meander the cobblestone streets before heading back to your stateroom. In fact, most travelers are looking for more than just ...

UNESCO World Heritage sites have left unquestionable marks on the world, and you can visit many of them on a Holland America cruise. What does exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites look like? There’s a certain moment that happens when you step ashore in a place you’ve only seen in textbooks or travel documentaries. The stones feel older, or the ...

A morning in port that changes the way you travel The sun is just beginning to rise over Kusadasi as you step off the ship, the air still cool and quiet. Ahead, the ancient streets of Ephesus stretch out in pale stone, slowly warming in the early light. You walk past towering columns and worn marble pathways, listening ...

A good cruise is like a good bourbon. Both are too good to hurry through. Every Bottle Tells a Story This International Whiskey Day, Holland America launches a new partnership with Jefferson’s Bourbon and its celebrated Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea® Bourbon expression, beginning an exciting chapter across the fleet. The collaboration reflects a shared belief that ...

Discover a continent-to-continent adventure There’s cruising — and then there’s crossing an ocean. So, what exactly is a transpacific cruise? It’s exactly what it sounds like and more: a voyage crossing the vast Pacific Ocean, connecting continents such as North America and Asia, or North America and the South Pacific. These cruises aren’t quick island hops. Transpacific cruises ...

It’s rare that our two Grand Voyage ships cross paths, and something we love celebrating! On Saturday, March 7, 2026, Zaandam and Volendam met up in Sydney, Australia, and guests from both ships enjoyed a special Chocolate Afternoon Tea to commemorate the occasion. Hosted aboard Zaandam, Culinary Ambassador Jacques Torres curated a menu of signature chocolate creations. Guests delighted ...

Ireland is a place where the past and present exist side by side. In a single town, you might find a quiet centuries old church not far from a lively pub filled with music and conversation. From its rocky coastlines to its lively towns and verdant landscapes scattered with sheep, you’re always close to its ancient and mythical history. ...

In 1917, a unique tradition was born. A team of railroad engineers and locals set aside math and measurement, trusted instinct over precision and let luck take the lead. The rest is Alaska history. Welcome to the Nenana Ice Classic. For more than a century, the Nenana Ice Classic has been the main event in Nenana, Alaska, where predicting ...

The Pendleton® blanket, Alaska: The Great American Wilderness, was born from a shared belief that heritage is something you don’t just imagine — it’s something you hold, experience, and carry forward. As part of our America 250 partnerships in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial, our collaboration with Pendleton® brings together two brands deeply rooted in craftsmanship, innovation, and America. ...

Staying active on vacation should feel effortless, especially when you are sailing across stunning coastlines and enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. Holland America offers a variety of wellness experiences designed for every activity level, from gentle stretching and mindful movement to energizing sports and small group workouts. Here are six fun and unexpected ways to stay active on your ...

A cruise to Asia offers contrasting landscapes and experiences — from modern metropolises to tranquil natural landscapes. On a Japan voyage, for example, one could hurry across Tokyo’s Shibuya, the busiest intersection in the world, and venture to Kushiro to watch graceful, red-crowned cranes forage in wetlands. Our list unveils six can’t-miss wonders, created by Mother Nature, from Japan’s ...

As Shakespeare once wrote, “parting is such sweet sorrow.” The final day of your cruise is often a bittersweet one as you leave your home away from home, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. We've rounded up six tips for an easy and safe disembarkation, so you can focus on enjoying your last few hours on board. ...

Are you interested in learning more about Alaska cruises and cruisetours? We're excited to bring back our popular Alaska Cruise & Travel Show to Vancouver and Seattle. Join us for this FREE all-day event and discover what makes a Holland America Alaska cruise or cruisetour unforgettable. From towering glaciers and magnificent wildlife, to fresh, sustainable Alaska seafood, we’re ranked ...

“We are all the authors of our own story in this lifetime, and it’s up to us to decide how our story goes.” - Lindsay Cordero, United States Air Force veteran and artist As part of Holland America’s partnership with Crane Stationery to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we’re proud to showcase an exclusive collection of handcrafted stationery designed ...

The Caribbean is a vast tapestry of islands, each uniquely beautiful with its own history and cultures. Island-hopping by cruise is one of the best ways to explore — one day, you could be unwinding on a serene, white-sand beach and the next, you could be ambling through the sun-washed streets of a historic town. This guide explains how ...

Alaska's vast wilderness offers something extraordinary every month of the year, from the midnight sun illuminating glacier-carved fjords to the aurora borealis dancing across winter skies. The best time to visit Alaska ultimately depends on what you want to experience — whether that's wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, or cultural exploration. Understanding Alaska's distinct seasons helps you plan the perfect ...

Journeying to an otherworldly destination might be just what you need to kick off the new year. And what better way to do that than sailing into Antarctica for a once-in-a-lifetime trip? Our cruise itineraries make it a breeze to plan, and our expert tips help you prep. The Antarctica Experience The best and most popular route ...

With the Big Game behind us, one thing is clear: Whether your loyalty lies with Seattle or New England, Holland America has a homeport in your backyard ready to welcome you. We don’t choose sides — just unforgettable destinations. During this year’s broadcast, we brought the majesty of Alaska into homes across Seattle and Vancouver with a powerful new ...

Escape to the sunshine in 2027 and 2028 with Holland America cruises that whisk you away to the golden beaches of Mexico, the scenic Pacific Coast, the lava-laden landscapes of Hawaii, and through the astonishing engineering feat of the Panama Canal. With convenient West Coast departures, festive holiday cruises, rare ports of call, overnights and extended stays, natural and ...

Cruise ships are floating resorts — complete with restaurants, theaters, pools, and thousands of guests — so it’s fair to ask: How do cruise ships stay afloat? The answer lies in a fascinating mix of ancient science, modern engineering, and a few cruise ship secrets happening behind the scenes. Let’s break down the science of cruising in a way ...

For many travelers, unforgettable moments aren’t found at big city attractions, but in the natural world. According to our recent survey results, more than 4 in 10 Americans say seeing wildlife in nature would be the most memorable family vacation experience, compared with just 12% who say a theme park character encounter would stand out most. That preference is ...

When you have 30 or even 40 hours in port, you move beyond sightseeing into true destination immersion. From dining where locals dine to returning to the plaza at golden hour or simply wandering the streets to see where the next bend in the road takes you, this is how destinations reveal their authentic soul. Time Ashore, Done ...

In 2027–2028, we invite you to cross the Arctic Circle, witness a total solar eclipse at sea, retrace the historic routes of Pan Am® in the Caribbean, and so much more. And with 25‑ to 59‑day Legendary Voyages that immerse you in the story of every destination, it’s no surprise Holland America Line has earned Cruise Critic’s award for ...

When you think of Alaska, images of Glacier Bay National Park’s majestic ice-blue glaciers may come to mind. However, the entire state is filled with incredible glaciers (even some hidden gems) that you can easily access on one of Holland America’s many cruise itineraries. Get to Know Alaska Glaciers We’re highlighting some of the glaciers you may ...

Holland America is proud to partner with the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) as part of our long-standing commitment to celebrate wildlife and wilderness. To help commemorate National Moose Day on January 25, we have exciting updates coming this year to celebrate our work and partnership with AWCC. Partnering with Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center AWCC is a ...

If 2026 is the year you take your first cruise, consider this your invitation to travel smarter — not harder. An amazing first cruise should feel effortless, inspiring, and just a little bit indulgent. You unpack once, settle in, and let the scenery come to you. To help you choose, we’ve rounded up five regions that consistently deliver for ...

Commemorating a milestone in American exploration, innovation, and partnership On January 16, 1928, a small crowd gathered in Key West, Florida, to witness something quietly revolutionary: a Fokker F7 aircraft preparing to depart for Havana, Cuba. This wasn’t Pan American Airways’ first time flying the route; the airline had been carrying mail across the Florida Straits since October 1927. ...

Planning a vacation that includes flights, hotels, and a cruise is easier — and more affordable — when travel plans are coordinated together from the start. This guide will walk you through how to select your itinerary, synch air and hotel plans, and reserve shore excursions, seamlessly. With Holland America’s Flight Ease® platform and Navigator® app, you can bundle ...

Setting sail from Florida to the Caribbean is a bucket-list journey for many travelers. Whether you’re seeking turquoise waters, island breezes, or vibrant port towns, this guide makes planning effortless and exciting. Let us walk you through choosing your departure port, picking the perfect itinerary, and discovering the best ways to experience Ft. Lauderdale or Miami before or after ...

Alaska Statehood Day 2026 marks a milestone in America’s story, and Holland America is joining the celebration. For nearly 80 years, we’ve been sharing the wonders of Alaska — crafting journeys that reveal its glaciers, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From immersive Alaska Up Close™ programming to exclusive Denali and Yukon cruisetours, our commitment runs deeper than the Inside ...

Seeing Norway’s dramatic fjords, storybook towns, and cultural capitals doesn’t require weeks of travel. With 7-day cruises to Norway, you can experience the country’s most unforgettable highlights efficiently and comfortably — all while unpacking just once. This is an ideal way to balance scenic cruising with immersive time ashore, especially with Holland America’s carefully curated Norwegian itineraries. Finding the ...

Ring in the holidays with a festive spirit — or two! Whether you’re hosting a gathering at your home or will be with us on board one of Holland America's holiday cruises, our must-try cruise cocktails are deliciously merry and bright so you can enjoy them wherever you are. Holiday Cruise Cocktails With Lindt Holland America has ...

Having an incredible getaway doesn’t mean you have to travel far. The west coast of North America should be next on your list for 2026. It’s the beautiful cities and lush mountains of northern California, and the desert landscapes and historic cities of Mexico that will send you into “best vacation ever” territory.Joining Holland America on a cruise from the ...

Did you know that 52% of seniors or those aged 65+ rank travel and vacation as their number one priority for discretionary income? This season of life is the perfect time to set out on a new adventure — and what better way to make it happen than by taking a cruise and reconnecting with family and friends while ...