Holland America Line Newsroom

As Holland America Line’s Volendam cruises from port to port on its annual 133-day Grand World Voyage, a different kind of journey is unfolding on every sea day—one measured not in nautical miles, but in stitches and a shared purpose. Guests calling themselves “blanketeers” gather to knit and crochet blankets for Project Linus, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing handmade blankets to children facing illness, trauma or crisis. The organization was named after the security blanket-toting character Linus from the Peanuts comic strip.  

National Plan for Vacation Day is January 27, and Holland America Line is introducing the third annual edition of its plush mascot, Lewie the Lion, who is ready to plan his cruise around the world.

Holland America Line celebrated National Moose Day by introducing a new exclusive Alaska shore excursion that offers guests a behind‑the‑scenes visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC). As the No. 1 cruise line for Alaska Wildlife and Wilderness Tours, Holland America continues to expand its collection of more than 200 immersive Alaska experiences. The new conservation‑focused offering, along with a new Holland America Moose Promenade at the facility, allows guests to see moose and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.

Discover the secrets behind Baked Alaska and learn how to make it at home.

From candlelit dinners to live music and show-stopping performances, Holland America Line makes it easy for couples to turn an evening on board into an unforgettable date night at sea. Whether celebrating a milestone or simply savoring time together, guests will find countless ways to connect, enhanced by thoughtful touches, world-class service and a refined onboard atmosphere.

Holland America Line’s Westerdam is back in service with a fresh look and new features following a two-week dry dock in Singapore. Crew welcomed guests aboard the Vista-class ship on Jan. 18, 2026, for the 14-day Far East Discovery sailing. These guests were the first to experience enhancements such as a renovated Effy Lounge, a redesigned Crow’s Nest, additional Ocean View staterooms, and revitalized public spaces and accommodations.

Holland America Line is redefining destination discovery with two inspiring new shore excursion collections designed to turn every port into a personal connection. Introducing “Meet the Maker” and “Community Connections” — curated experiences that invite guests to go beyond the guidebook and immerse themselves in the heart of local life.

It was a celebratory send-off this weekend for two Holland America Line Grand Voyages, both departing Jan. 4 from opposite coasts of the United States. Sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the 133-day Grand World Voyage embarked on an extraordinary journey, while the 93-day Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage departed from San Diego, California, setting course across the Pacific Ocean on a roundtrip itinerary. Guests were welcomed by each ship’s captain, hotel general manager and members of the onboard leadership team, setting the tone for the remarkable adventures ahead.

Holland America Line is ringing in the new year with a special “Cruise Week” offer running from Jan. 5-12, 2026, underscored by a partnership with Cruise Critic– the world’s largest cruise planning website. As co-sponsor with Cruise Critic of a weeklong spotlight on “Wheel of Fortune, America’s longest-running syndicated game show, Holland America Line will be the only cruise brand featured throughout the week of Jan. 5.