History Doesn't Just Live in Museums There is a particular thrill in standing at a ship's railing as a coastline of ancient ruins comes into focus. For travelers who feel that pull, the question becomes: what is the best cruise for history lovers? The honest answer depends on which era or civilization fascinates you most — the ideal ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

We’re excited to celebrate two milestones at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™! This week marks the grand opening of four brand-new pickleball courts and the 28th anniversary of our award-winning private island. To kick things off, we hosted a Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) tournament on December 6 — bringing fun, competition, and unforgettable island vibes to our tropical paradise. ...

The perfect cruise, if planned well, offers a journey that combines the iconic with the unexpected. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser, foodie, history buff, or seasoned traveler eager to discover parts unknown, Holland America provides a variety of Mediterranean cruises to appeal to every interest with a curated blend of must-see cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations. From the winding medieval ...

This November, Holland America Line guests will be the first in the world to experience a groundbreaking new production at sea: Fosse & Verdon: The Duet That Changed Broadway. In partnership with entertainment leader RWS Global and The Verdon Fosse Legacy®, Holland America Line is debuting an original tribute to the artistry of Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon — ...

At Holland America, our cuisine goes beyond the plate. From classic favorites and regionally inspired cuisine to artisanal breads and handcrafted pastas made fresh daily on board, our onboard dining is a door to different cultures — filled with history, traditions, and sometimes adventure. Destination Dining™ With fresh local ingredients sourced from trusted purveyors, our Destination ...

From the thunderous crash of calving ice-blue glaciers in Alaska to sailing past ice-capped mountains and the epic fjords of South America, scenic cruising offers breathtaking views and immersive experiences at sea on storied waters — without ever leaving your ship. What is Scenic Cruising? How Does it Differ From a Day at Sea? A Day at ...

Wondering what to do on your next cruise? Whether you’re an adventurer, a foodie, a trivia buff, or simply seeking relaxation, Holland America offers cruise activities for every personality type. For the Sporty: Pickleball, Volleyball & More Stay active and take in breathtaking sea views. Holland America’s top-deck pickleball courts offer 360-degree ocean views — whether you’re ...

Multi-gen cruising is growing in popularity. According to a 2024 report by the Cruise Lines International Association, more than 30% of families are cruising with at least two generations on board. It’s easy to understand why. Everyone wants different things on a vacation — little kids love the pool, teens like to socialize, parents need a night out, and ...

If Portugal tops your list for must-see destinations, it’s no wonder why. From its rich history and captivating culture to charming cities and beautiful beaches, there’s a lot to enjoy. Here’s a look at some of the best places to visit on a Portugal cruise: Funchal Attracting explorers from all over the world and named ...

There’s a lot to savor on a Grand South America Voyage, from dancing the tango in Buenos Aires to trekking Amazon jungles to exploring the beauty of Rio De Janeiro. With Holland America Line, you can see the world from your doorstep and go deeper into some of the destinations you visit with Overland Adventures. Departing on Oct. 7, ...

Holland America Line kicked off its 2023 Alaska cruise season on April 29 with the arrival of Eurodam at Port of Seattle. Known as “Seattle’s Hometown Cruise Line,” Holland America Line marked the day with a celebration at Pier 91. Festivities included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Miss Washington Regan Gallo and Miss Alaska Jessica Reisinger, and lively music with ...

The 150th anniversary festivities for Holland America Line are in full swing, and we couldn’t be more excited! As we prepare for a transatlantic voyage from New York City to Rotterdam, the Netherlands – retracing (in reverse) the company’s original voyage – we knew it was the perfect time to announce the winner of our 150th Anniversary Poster Contest ...

Celebrations are underway for Holland America Line’s 150th Anniversary, and you still have time to join the fun. If you’re craving a getaway but not sure where to go or what to do, consider embarking on one of our Heritage Cruises. Focused on ports rich in our brand’s history, Heritage Cruises feature unique onboard and shoreside experiences, and there ...

We’ve got spirit, yes, we do! Holland America Line has signed on as an official sponsor of the Oregon Ducks and Oregon State Beavers, sharing the spirit of cruising across college sporting events. Together we’ll celebrate our shared passion for community while engaging Ducks and Beavers fans with fun-filled experiences, including in-game activities and promotions. Both universities are within ...

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam VII departed the city of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, today on its historic 150th Anniversary Transatlantic Crossing. The 15-day journey recreates Holland America Line’s maiden voyage of Rotterdam I that departed the city 150 years ago today. The crossing follows the path of that first sailing to New York, with calls at Le Havre, France, and Plymouth, ...

Today is International Book Lovers day, and while a cruise is the perfect vacation to catch up on a good book lounging on deck overlooking the sea, it's also the ideal way to explore the homes, birthplaces and locales of your favorite author or book. From Prince Edward Island and the home of Anne of Green Gables to Isla Robinson ...

On April 18, 2023, Holland America Line is celebrating its 150th Anniversary — making it one of the longest-operating travel companies in the world. To commemorate the milestone, the cruise line is planning special events and activities, including two commemorative transatlantic crossings. Today, the April 3, 2023, crossing opens for booking, while the Oct. 15, 2022, departure has limited space ...

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 ...

Holland America Line is enhancing the preboarding guest experience and making embarkation easier by adding the use of mBark facial recognition and the VeriFLY vaccine verification program in all U.S., Canadian and European homeports. mBark is a mobile system that enables guests to check in for their cruise in less than 10 seconds, while the VeriFLY digital wallet for COVID-19 ...

Holland America Line has been exploring Alaska since 1947, and the premium cruise line is putting 75 years of expertise into new “Alaska Up Close” programming — a 360° experience that immerses guests in The Great Land in a way that only Holland America Line can deliver. Through authentic experiences on board and ashore that focus on culture, cuisine and ...

Any Barcelona cruise guest will soon become familiar with two titans in the world of Spanish creative expression: Pablo Picasso and Antoni Gaudí. Their works are well represented in this artistic hub, as both artists once called the city home. Things to Do in Barcelona for Art Lovers Pablo Picasso An icon of the modern art movement, Pablo Picasso helped ...

A Holland America Line Cruisetour combines an Alaska cruise with an overland adventure to Denali and the Yukon. Ranging from nine to 18 days, Cruisetours delve deeper into the region with an unforgettable experience that includes a stay at our own McKinley Chalet Resort at the entrance to Denali National Park. The property is Holland America Line’s magnificent 68-acre hotel ...

Holland America Line ships have long been regarded as floating art galleries for their extensive collections of museum-quality pieces. Rotterdam is no exception, and guests are in for a visually rewarding journey with some of the most thought-provoking, striking and bold pieces in the fleet — including historical works and memorabilia from beloved previous sister ships. Rotterdam’s art collection is ...

Wine is a passion at Holland America Line, and we poured our expertise into crafting cruises along the California coast that visit some of the state's famous wine regions. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply a fan of vino, the "Wine Country & Pacific Northwest" cruises offer an opportunity to explore wine country with ease. When in port, explore ...

Holland America Line offers the best live music at sea with Music Walk featuring B.B. King's Blues Club, Lincoln Center Stage, Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Rock Room. But music can extend beyond the shipboard part of your cruise. Experiencing music and its origins, showcased in some of the world’s most remote and diverse destinations, is a calming, engaging, uplifting ...

Holland America Line is set to return to cruising this summer with itineraries in the gorgeous eastern Mediterranean. There's no better locale than Greece to become immersed in the culture of the region that is drenched in sun-kissed skies, azure seas and a history that stretches back to ancient times. The seven-day “Adriatic Allure” itinerary departing Sept. 5 will sail ...

As Holland America Line moves closer to the 150th Anniversary of our founding in 2023, this past year has taught us the importance of celebrating the smallest of milestones. So, we’re proudly commemorating our 148th Anniversary Sunday, April 18, 2021. As one of the longest-serving and most experienced cruise lines in the world, Holland America Line has grown into an ...

Passover began last weekend and ends this Sunday, and Easter is Sunday as well. If you're looking to celebrate with a sweet treat, we have two amazing recipes from our Master Chef Rudi Sodamin. For Passover, we're sharing a delicious macaroon, and Easter a rum custard tart with mango and kiwi. Both of these delicious desserts are sure to make ...

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 ...

It's Bacon Lovers Day, and there's no other way to celebrate than by making Culinary Council Member Chef David Burke's famous Clothesline Candied Bacon that we serve in Pinnacle Grill. From the moment you smell the aroma of the bacon and see the delicious candied strips hanging from the clothesline, you'll know you're in bacon heaven! Don't worry if you ...

During a Holland America Line cruise to Alaska, the sights and sounds of the Last Frontier are front and center during the seven-day voyage. From interesting ports like Haines, Juneau and Ketchikan to the spectacular scenery of Glacier Bay, the Inside Passage and Tracy Arm Fjord, guests marvels at the beauty of the region. In 2016, Nieuw Amsterdam makes its ...

When it comes to ancient ruins, there's more to explore than just Europe and South America. Mexico boasts some of the most incredible and significant ruins in the world. The Mayan civilization spanned more than 2500 years, and hundreds of ruins in Mexico have been documented. In fact, there are so many sites that it's believed that more than 4,000 ...

During a Holland America Line cruise to Alaska, the sights and sounds of the Frontier State are front and center during the seven-day voyage. …

Holland America Line’s Director of Public Relations Erik Elvejord recently participated in the land-portion of a CruiseTour that visits Denali National Park in Alaska and sent us these cool photos. On Sunday, July 24, I headed out for an early morning paddle rafting trip on the Nenana River, one of the optional tours offered on CruiseTours that include Denali National ...

On August 12, 2026, thousands of Holland America Line guests gathered on decks across three ships to witness a total solar eclipse. Clear skies and strategic positioning led to breathtaking views for guests aboard Nieuw Statendam, Oosterdam, and Zuiderdam. One of the unique advantages of viewing an eclipse from a ship is being able to strategically position the vessel ...

The Sea Behind the Spirit Every barrel of Jefferson's Ocean bourbon carries the influence of the voyage. As part of the ongoing collaboration between Holland America and Jefferson's, barrels continue their journey aboard Eurodam, where changing sea conditions influence the aging process in ways that cannot be replicated on land. You can look forward to enjoying bourbon from ...

With Holland America, your 2027 Alaska journey doesn’t stop at the shores. Step into the heart of Gold Rush country and trace the footsteps of the Klondike prospectors on the only cruise line bringing guests to Dawson City, Yukon. On all Holland America’s Alaska, Denali & Yukon cruisetours, you’ll get two nights to explore in Dawson City, plus a Klondike Gold Tour curated with The HISTORY Channel™.  Exclusive Overnight Stays in Historic ...

Every voyage has a starting point. For Holland America’s Vista Class fleet, that starting point has a name: Zuiderdam. The first Vista Class ship delivered to the fleet, Zuiderdam arrived in 2002 as a vision for the next generation of cruise ships. Her ocean view-forward design, expansive verandahs, and “perfectly sized” methodology influenced every Holland America ship built since ...

Looking for a mix of European cultures, warm climate all year round, and otherworldly landscapes? It’s time to explore the Canary Islands — Spain’s Atlantic outpost of volcanoes and wine. Our perfectly sized ships bring you within reach of the island’s uniquely colorful volcanoes, coastal towns, and local flavors inspired by the islands’ geology. Key Highlights The ...

Celebrate the Season Without the Stress The holidays are a time for connection, celebration, and creating unforgettable memories. On a Holland America Holiday cruise, every detail is thoughtfully handled, so you can focus on what matters most: spending quality time with the people you love. From Thanksgiving through New Year's, our 2027 holiday sailings are now open and ...

For guests who want to experience Europe like a local, our more than 150 years of history and expertise makes all the difference. With our new year-round 2027–2028 sailings, perfectly sized ships, access to 200+ UNESCO World Heritage sites, and an insider view of Europe's cultural calendar, plan your journey to Europe unhurried. Our Most Expansive Cruise Season ...

What are cruises with the most scenic sailing days? Picture glaciers drifting past the ship, waterfalls cascading down fjord cliffs, and rugged coastlines sliding into view hour after hour. That is the appeal of cruises with the most scenic sailing days, also known as scenic cruising experiences — itineraries built to maximize time spent gazing at breathtaking landscapes ...

Booking is now open for the refreshed Zuiderdam, expanding a new era for the Holland America fleet. Be among the first to experience this beautifully reimagined ship as she sets sail in Spring 2028. Demand is expected to be strong, so now is the perfect time to secure your place on board. The Next Piece of Our Historic ...

Holland America is proud to be ranked in this year’s Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for 2026! Both in the Best Large and Best Mid-Size Ship categories, we’re honored that our perfectly sized ships are loved by both readers and travelers alike. Ranked By Readers The Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards are selected entirely by the ...