Arriving in Athens around sunrise and leaving the next evening gives you enough time to really settle into the rhythm of the city. With about 35 hours, you can experience Athens in layers, from ancient wonders to long lunches, great wine, and a touch of seaside relaxation. Day 1 Morning: The Acropolis of Athens, an Ancient Wonder ...

Not only was yesterday the longest day of the year, but Holland America was proud to sponsor the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center’s (AWCC) Summer Solstice Songs event on Sunday, June 21. What better way to give summer a warm welcome than with live music and majestic animals? Unplugged Live Performances During the Summer Solstice Songs event, attendees ...

There are travelers who live to plan every detail years in advance, and then there are the travelers who live for the thrill of the last-minute trip. Maybe a destination calls to them—a city unexplored, a lingering bucket list item, a place they’ve always wanted to go but never did. Or maybe it’s the thrill of a good deal. ...

When guests ask, we listen. We're bringing back another beloved onboard tradition fleetwide — the Farewell dinner for a memorable final evening at sea. This festive cruising classic honors all the connections and memories created during your Holland America journey. At this Farewell Dinner, dine on long-standing favorites, such as Beef Wellington and Baked Alaska, while the Vivace ensemble ...

Iceland and Norway’s weather is famously unpredictable, often shifting from sunshine to rain within hours. But with a well-planned approach focused on layering, packing for Iceland and Norway becomes simple, leaving you free to enjoy the experience in any season. Whether you are sailing through Norway’s fjords or exploring Iceland’s dramatic coastlines and ports such as Reykjavík, preparation makes ...

Key Takeaways Holland America Caribbean itineraries offer late-night or evening stays in San Juan, Willemstad, Kralendijk, or Oranjestad, indicated with a crescent-moon icon next to the port on the itinerary map. Late-night shore excursions are available for purchase, including sunset sails, fort tours at dusk, and nighttime kayaking. A late-night stay means the ship stays docked in port for ...

Choosing the right stateroom is one of the most consequential decisions you'll make before a cruise — and it's also one of the most personal. Holland America Line offers several stateroom categories across its fleet, from thoughtfully designed Interior Staterooms to expansive Pinnacle Suites, and knowing how to decide what cabin to book for a cruise means weighing your ...

Wellness is more than a state of mind; it’s a way of life. In honor of World Bathing Day coming up on June 22, Holland America is taking a deep dive into some of the hot springs you can visit on your cruise. You can also enjoy warmth and wellness onboard with offerings such as the Thermal Suite and ...

A major reason guests choose our cruises is the unique views of landmarks and cities all around the world, including those you can only get sailing under some of the world’s most iconic bridges. Snap photos you’re likely to capture nowhere else like the engineering masterpiece that is The Golden Gate Bridge, or the iconic Sydney Opera House! ...

Cruise: booked. Flights, hotels, and transportation? We got you! Holland America has you covered for all the other travel details, including booking your flight, so you can have peace of mind before you board. We think of everything, so you don’t have to. Stress-Free with FlightEase® Holland America offers a worry-free way to book your flights ahead ...

Some cruises get you there. At Holland America, the journey is just as important as the destination. With beloved traditions like the Orange Party and Royal Dutch Tea, immersive onboard programming, cooking demos, and pickleball with open-ocean views, every moment onboard is crafted to delight. That’s why we’re honored to be nominated in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ ...

By: Jenni Fielding (Note from Holland America staff: Please enjoy this post from Jenni Fielding, a.k.a. Cruise Mummy, a guest of our recent transatlantic voyage.) Travel today often feels like a race. Early starts and packed itineraries, all in the pursuit of seeing as much as possible in as little time as we can manage.  It’s exciting, of course. But all too ...

A new chapter in cruising has officially begun. The newly reimagined Oosterdam is now open for booking, inviting you to be among the first to experience the next evolution of Holland America. As the first ship to debut Holland America Evolution, Oosterdam marks a thoughtful transformation — one that brings more enhancements, more Pinnacle-inspired experiences, and more innovative stateroom ...

We are refreshing staterooms throughout Oosterdam as well as adding new rooms, giving you more opportunities to experience the new Pinnacle of Cruising with Holland America. In addition to these updates, we are introducing new room categories designed for how guests travel today. Pinnacle Suite: Views Shaped by the Ship’s Passage Our most expansive suite yet, the ...

Some views on board a ship are reserved for those who know the sea best. With the debut of Bridgeview Suites on Oosterdam, you now have the rare opportunity to experience those elevated perspectives for yourself. Debuting on Oosterdam beginning Fall 2027, Bridgeview Suites are a brand-new, highly exclusive suite category created for those who prioritize space, scenery, and ...

A day at sea is an invitation to slow down, and there is no better place to unwind than the Thermal Suite, located near the spa and fitness center on board. Designed to fully embrace its setting at sea, the Thermal Suite features expansive windows that look directly out onto the ocean, allowing you to relax while watching the ...

On every Holland America cruise, there’s a time when our Dutch heritage comes alive in a vibrant sea of orange. We celebrate with our signature Orange Party on every sailing, bringing guests together to toast a beloved tradition inspired by Koningsdag, the Netherlands’ national holiday in honor of their king. The color orange is strongly associated with the Netherlands ...

Solo travel has evolved — and so have the expectations of travelers who choose to explore the world on their own. More guests are cruising solo than ever before, and they’ve been clear about what they want: space, comfort, thoughtful design, and a balcony they don’t have to share. As part of Holland America Evolution, Oosterdam introduces Solo Verandahs ...

For more than 150 years, Holland America Line has pioneered travel by sea. With Holland America Evolution underway, we’re bringing the Pinnacle of Cruising to more ships — and Oosterdam is the first to take shape. The First Ship to Debut Holland America Evolution As the first ship to debut this transformation in Fall 2027, Oosterdam marks ...

Eight weeks of color, history, and blooming wonder await at the Keukenhof Tulip Festival — and this year, Holland America unveils a tulip of its own. A Sea of Tulips: Keukenhof Tulip Festival If there’s one sight that signals the arrival of spring, it’s a field full of tulips stretching endlessly into the horizon. Nowhere on earth ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...