{"id":82893,"date":"2025-08-26T10:40:58","date_gmt":"2025-08-26T17:40:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/?p=82893"},"modified":"2025-08-26T10:40:58","modified_gmt":"2025-08-26T17:40:58","slug":"a-guide-to-top-scenic-cruise-experiences-rivers-fjords-bays-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/travel-inspiration\/a-guide-to-top-scenic-cruise-experiences-rivers-fjords-bays-more\/","title":{"rendered":"A Guide to Top Scenic Cruise Experiences \u2013 Rivers, Fjords, Bays &#038; More"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\"><p>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 \u2014 without ever leaving your ship.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-1 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;\">What is Scenic Cruising? How Does it Differ From a Day at Sea?<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-2\"><p>A Day at Sea means relaxing and enjoying onboard activities as you cruise, but scenic cruising offers something entirely different. During Holland America\u2019s scenic cruising, the ship slows down and provides 360-degree views of jaw-dropping wonders. Your ship may glide past towering glaciers, under bridges, and sail along cascading waterfalls or ancient cliffs rich with lore.<\/p>\n<p>In select locations, if the weather allows, the bow opens so guests can enjoy front-row views. Depending on the scenic cruising experience, there\u2019s the possibility that an expert might join to narrate the experience or provide educational and historical insights. Expect the initial hush of the crowd, followed by audible oohs and aahs, and the gentle click of cameras as a story unfolds right before your eyes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-2 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background internalBanner nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-padding-top:30px;--awb-padding-right:30px;--awb-padding-bottom:30px;--awb-padding-left:30px;--awb-background-color:#dce3eb;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-1 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\" data-scroll-devices=\"small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-3 fusion-text-no-margin\" style=\"--awb-text-color:var(--awb-color6);--awb-margin-top:0px;--awb-margin-right:0px;--awb-margin-bottom:0px;--awb-margin-left:0px;\"><p><em>Ready to experience scenic cruising? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/en\/us\/find-a-cruise?xid=EXTHBG20250826UI4QABA9AR\">Book a cruise now<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-3 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-2 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-2 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;\">Three Unique Scenic Cruise Experiences Grand Voyages Offer<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-4\"><p>It\u2019s undisputed that a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/en\/us\/cruise-destinations\/grand-voyages?xid=EXTHBG20250826G36Q23XZ6T\">Grand Voyage<\/a> will take you to rare and renowned wonders, and scenic cruising is an unforgettable part of that experience. Check out these top scenic cruising sights on a Grand Voyage:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>P\u00edo XI Glacier<\/b> \u2013 As South America\u2019s largest glacier, this glacier continues to puzzle scientists as it defies global trends by growing rather than receding. Marvel at its towering, ice-blue walls stretching over 37 miles, set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains.<\/li>\n<li><b>Beagle Channel<\/b> \u2013 Remote and windswept, this strait in Tierra del Fuego (region shared by Chile and Argentina) extends over 150 miles, running along the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Spot sea lion colonies, fur seals, Magellanic penguins, dolphins, and various seabirds here.<\/li>\n<li><b>Glacier Alley<\/b> \u2013 Break out your camera as you sail along a breathtaking stretch of Patagonia where glacier after glacier tumbles into the sea.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-3 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;\">Glacier Bay, Alaska \u2013 An Iconic Fjord Cruise<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-5\"><p>Pristine <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/en\/us\/cruise-destinations\/alaska-cruises\/articles-and-videos\/glacier-bay-national-park-and-preserve?xid=EXTHBG20250826RTPVZQMGEH\">Glacier Bay<\/a>, located within Glacier Bay National Park, is truly one of Alaska\u2019s most astounding wonders. As your ship sails through this majestic Alaska fjord, park rangers come aboard to narrate the natural wonders unfolding around you. Glaciers calve into icy waters, and the ship turns slowly so both port and starboard guests enjoy unobstructed views. On chilly mornings, you\u2019ll even find Dutch pea soup served on deck \u2014 a time-honored tradition.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-4 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;\">The Panama Canal \u2013 Brilliant Engineering Meets Nature<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"><p>Sailing through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/en\/us\/cruise-destinations\/panama-canal-cruises?xid=EXTHBG20250826I8DGLPZ30Q\">Panama Canal<\/a> is more than a passage between oceans \u2014 it\u2019s a 50-mile journey through history and stunning natural beauty. Pass the emerald canopy of the Gamboa Rainforest, where toucans call and monkeys swing, and cross vast Gatun Lake, once the world\u2019s largest man-made lake. As your ship rises and falls through massive locks, you&#8217;re surrounded by engineering marvels and a lush, wildlife-rich landscape.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-5 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left\" style=\"margin:0;\">Must-See Sound &amp; River Scenic Cruise Destinations<\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-7\"><ul>\n<li><b>Milford Sound, New Zealand<\/b> \u2013 A remote fjord framed by soaring cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, often cloaked in mist. It\u2019s no wonder Milford Sound\u2019s cinematic beauty has been featured in films such as The Lord of the Rings trilogy.<\/li>\n<li><b>St. Lawrence River<\/b> \u2013 Perfect for guests seeking the charm of river cruises without sacrificing big-ship comforts. On select <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/en\/us\/cruise-destinations\/canada-new-england-cruises?xid=EXTHBG20250826FRCZCDNK2O\">Canada &amp; New England cruises<\/a>, glide past Qu\u00e9bec\u2019s historic towns and fall foliage.<\/li>\n<li><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/en\/us\/plan-a-cruise\/specialty-cruises\/solar-eclipse-cruises?xid=EXTHBG20250826M34BK24ZBH\">Solar Eclipse Sailings<\/a><\/b> \u2013 Enjoy unobstructed views of one of the most extraordinary celestial events, accompanied by an onboard astronomy expert. Set sail for a once-in-a-lifetime cosmic journey across sea and sky.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>From the rugged fjords and towering glaciers to legendary rivers that carve through time, scenic cruising places you at the heart of an incredible journey \u2014 one that\u2019s worth sharing.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-8\"><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Access Exclusive Deals &amp; More<\/h3>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default fusion-button-default button-1 fusion-button-default-span fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/en\/us\/sign-up?xid=EXTHBG20250826LX7WIZ81IZ\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">Sign Up for Special Offers<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1992,"featured_media":82898,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[54,30,32,31],"tags":[4376,4375,4379,4374,4380,4378,4377,4373,4372,4381],"class_list":["post-82893","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured-travel-inspiration","category-travel-inspiration","category-when-to-travel","category-where-to-travel","tag-alaska-glacier-bay","tag-bay-cruises","tag-douro-river","tag-fjord-cruises","tag-milford-sound","tag-norwegian-fjords","tag-panama-canal","tag-river-cruises","tag-scenic-cruises","tag-yangtze-river"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/82893","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1992"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=82893"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/82893\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":82901,"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/82893\/revisions\/82901"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/82898"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=82893"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=82893"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hollandamerica.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=82893"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}