Historic river-breakup contest offers a chance to win a seven-day Alaska cruise

Holland America Line will sponsor the 2026 Nenana Ice Classic, an historic Alaska competition inviting participants to guess the precise moment the ice on the Nenana River gives way each year, which marks the first time the long-running tradition has ever had a title sponsor.

“As the first-ever sponsor, we’re proud to help ‘break the ice’ on a new chapter for this iconic Alaska tradition—bringing people together, supporting the Nenana community, and celebrating the powerful connection between Alaska’s rivers, its people and the journeys we’ve been privileged to share here for nearly 80 years,”  said Robert Morgenstern, senior vice president of Alaska Operations at Holland America Line.

Holland America, which has explored Alaska since 1947 and has “We Love Alaska” programming on board, which immerses guests in the local culture, is offering participants the chance to win a seven-day Alaska cruise for two. In addition, the cruise line will donate $1 to the Nenana community for every contest entry submitted.

The Nenana Ice Classic, one of Alaska’s longest-running traditions, began in 1917 when a group of railroad engineers and residents wagered on the exact moment the ice on the Tanana River would break each spring. What started as a small bet among workers building the Alaska Railroad has grown into a beloved annual event that draws participants from across Alaska and beyond.

Participants predict the precise minute the tripod, a simple wooden frame set on the frozen Tanana River, shifts 100 feet downstream as the ice breaks and triggers the pulley‑and‑clock system that records the winning time. “Tripod Days” in early March marks its ceremonial raising. Nearly $16 million has been awarded since the Nenana Ice Classic’s inception, supporting communities across Alaska.

The Nenana River runs behind Holland America Denali Lodge where Holland America Line guests stay on overland Alaska Cruisetours. Many Cruisetours pause in Nenana on the journey inland, connecting guests to the wild heart of Denali National Park and Preserve.

For nearly 80 years—long before Alaska achieved statehood—Holland America Line has been exploring the region. Sharing the spirit of the Great Land with guests from around the world, sponsoring the Nenana Ice Classic is a natural extension of the cruise line’s celebration of Alaska’s rich culture, outdoor traditions and tight-knit communities.