Olympic medallist and Dutch speedskating star Joy Beune to serve as godmother for exclusive new tulip   To celebrate its 153rd anniversary, Holland America Line marked its enduring Dutch roots with the official naming of its newest signature tulip - “Savour the Journey” - during a ceremony at the iconic Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands. The vibrant orange tulip serves as a living symbol of the brand’s Dutch heritage and longstanding ties to Dutch culture, craftsmanship and tradition.   Cultivated by renowned Dutch growers KP de Geus of Maveridge International exclusively for Holland America Line, the Savour the Journey tulip reflects qualities long associated with the brand: elegance, warmth, hospitality and attention to detail. Its bold orange petals and glowing yellow centre embody both tradition and vitality, echoing the enduring connection between Holland America Line and the Netherlands’ rich horticultural legacy.   “Our Dutch heritage is central to who we are, and naming our Savour the Journey tulip at Keukenhof is a meaningful expression of that connection,” said Nico Bleichrodt, vice president, international sales and marketing, Holland America Line. “We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to name this tulip and for the care and craftsmanship behind it. It reflects the sense of intention that defines our brand and how we invite guests to experience the world.”   The tulip was officially named during a ceremony at Keukenhof that brought together Holland America Line leaders, partners and guests to mark the moment. The event traced the year-long journey to find and adopt the new tulip, highlighting the cruise line’s longstanding relationship with Keukenhof and its Dutch heritage. The programme culminated in a live sand-art performance that revealed the tulip’s name, Savour the Journey, followed by the formal dedication led by Captains Eric Barhorst and Jeroen Baijens, tulip grower KP de Geus, and tulip godmother and Olympic medallist Joy Beune. The celebration concluded with a Champagne toast among the blooming gardens.   A decorated Olympic medallist and one of the Netherlands’ most celebrated speedskaters, Joy Beune brings a deep personal connection to the moment. A proud Dutch athlete who has partnered with Holland America Line since 2025, Beune embodies the same spirit of excellence, heritage and forward momentum that defines the cruise line. In keeping with maritime tradition - where ships are formally named and welcomed into service with a godparent - Holland America Line extended that custom to its signature tulip. Beune’s role as godmother to the Savour the Journey tulip reflects the brand’s seafaring roots while celebrating modern expressions of Dutch culture.   “It’s truly special to serve as godmother to this tulip,” said Joy Beune. “There’s nothing more Dutch than tulips and speed skating — both are part of our national identity. I love that Holland America Line is honouring its Dutch roots in such a meaningful way, and ‘Savour the Journey’ reflects a mindset I really connect with: taking pride in the path, not just the finish line.”   As part of the tulip-naming celebration, Holland America Line also took part in the Bloemencorso Bollenstreek Flower Parade on April 18, an event that draws around one million visitors each year. The cruise line last participated in the parade in 2013, when it unveiled its previous signature tulip, and first joined in 1948 to mark its role in transporting tulips from the Netherlands to the US. This year’s return continues that long-standing tradition.   “We are honoured to continue our longstanding relationship with Holland America Line in such a meaningful way,” said Ferry Huurman, director of operations at the Keukenhof. “Flowers, and tulips in particular, are deeply rooted in Dutch tradition, and welcoming a new tulip into our gardens is always a special moment. Hosting this celebration together symbolises the rich Dutch heritage we proudly share, as well as the joy that tulips bring to visitors from around the world.”   Holland America Line’s Dutch heritage continues to shape the guest experience today, particularly on its Northern Europe cruises embarking from Amsterdam, Dover and Rotterdam. From Dutch Day celebrations on board to regionally inspired cuisine and enrichment, the cruise line brings its roots to life throughout the journey. Cruise guests can sail on select Northern Europe itineraries that showcase this heritage while exploring some of the continent’s most storied ports. Itineraries include:  

• 7-Day Viking Trails & Celtic Origins: Edinburgh Evening Stay, June 14, 2026— Reykjavik to Rotterdam
• 14-Day Baltic & Scandinavian Capitals, June 26 or 27, 2026— Roundtrip from Rotterdam or Dover
• 7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Hidden Gems, Sept. 5, 2026— Amsterdam to Rotterdam
• 13-Day Fjords of Norway, Sept. 19, 2026— Rotterdam to Dover
• 15-Day Arctic Journey & Northern Lights, Oct. 15, 2026— Dover to Rotterdam
• 7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord, May 8, 2027— Roundtrip from Amsterdam

 

Enhancements bring the pinnacle of cruising to six ships, adding guest favourites, new stateroom categories and signature experiences beginning with Oosterdam

  Building on strong momentum and record performance, Holland America Line announced Holland America Evolution, a bold multiyear investment to thoughtfully reimagine six ships. Representing the most ambitious guest experience update in the company's 153-year history, Evolution will deliver a comprehensive bow-to-stern revitalisation while bringing the best of its Pinnacle Class ships across most of the fleet.   The multiyear renovation will take place ship by ship, delivering substantial transformation focused on expanding onboard choice, adding restaurant and bar options, and refreshing and reinventing key guest spaces — including new stateroom and suite categories — while maintaining the spacious design and intimate ship feel guests value most.   “Our guests have been very clear about what they love about our ships and what they want to see more of, and Holland America Evolution is our answer to that,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president, Holland America Line. “This investment allows us to introduce experiences and venues that are new to the fleet, add Pinnacle Class favourites like Grand Dutch Café, and create new stateroom categories designed for the way people travel today, all while preserving the perfectly sized ship experience that defines Holland America.”   Signature Class and Vista Class Renovations Evolution will span the four Holland America Vista Class ships — Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Westerdam and Noordam — and the two Signature Class ships, Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam. The company will invest over $500 million across these ships for enhancements to guest spaces and additional staterooms and suites that will add capacity and provide more choice for guests.   The cruise line is working closely with longtime shipbuilding partner Fincantieri, which built all 11 ships in the company’s fleet. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to quality and precision as each ship’s enhancements take shape.   Oosterdam Debuts First Chapter of Holland America Evolution Oosterdam will be the first ship to undergo renovations, debuting in autumn 2027.  Ahead of additional details to be announced, Holland America is offering a first look at several guest-focused enhancements on the ship. These include the addition of the Grand Dutch Café, a longtime guest favourite previously available only on Pinnacle Class ships, along with new stateroom offerings, including purpose-built Solo Verandahs and expansive panoramic suites. Together, the updates reflect a focused investment in comfort, choice and experience shaped directly by guest feedback.   New and Expanded Staterooms and Suites As part of Holland America Evolution, accommodations will be expanded and reimagined to offer more guest choice and flexibility. The project will include a significant increase in stateroom inventory for Oosterdam, adding 76 staterooms while also preserving the “room at the rail” guests love. New and enhanced accommodations debuting on Oosterdam include:

• NEW: Solo Verandahs: Thirty purpose-built staterooms created specifically for solo travellers. Each features a private balcony, dedicated workspace and full Holland America Line amenities, responding to strong and growing guest demand.

• NEW: Bridgeview Suites: Two new suites offering sweeping 180-degree ocean views through panoramic windows, with 900 square feet of space, a wraparound balcony and separate living and sleeping areas designed to maximise comfort and ocean views. Located at the forward part of the ship, these suites emulate the perspective that can be seen from the ship’s bridge, inspiring the name “Bridgeview.”
• Reimagined Pinnacle Suite: The most expansive suite ever introduced on a Vista Class ship, offering 1,550 square feet of refined living space with panoramic views, a private balcony, separate living room, powder room, bedroom, ensuite bath and walk-in closet.
• Vista Suites debut on Oosterdam: Twenty-four Vista Suites, familiar to guests who have sailed on Pinnacle Class ships, will be introduced on Oosterdam for the first time, offering spacious, light-filled premium accommodations with a comfortable sitting area, oversized windows and a private verandah ideal for taking in ocean views.

  Grand Dutch Café Comes to More Guests As part of Holland America Evolution, the Grand Dutch Café is expanding to reach more guests with its debut on Oosterdam. Previously available only on Pinnacle Class ships, the venue’s addition reflects a continued focus on experiences guests consistently rank among their favourites. Inspired by European café culture and rooted in the cruise line’s Dutch heritage, the Grand Dutch Café is a relaxed, all‑day gathering place designed to fit naturally into the flow of the day, whether guests are stopping by briefly or settling in. Located on Deck 3 near the atrium, it serves as a welcoming anchor on board, offering an informal yet refined setting that reflects the communal role cafés play in everyday European life and reinforcing Holland America Line’s unhurried approach to travel.   “This is a great moment for Holland America and our guests, and we’re just getting started,” added Bodensteiner. “Over the coming months, we’ll be unveiling several more exciting additions to Oosterdam as well as the other five ships that are part of this evolution.”   Revitalising the Fleet, Sustainably On Oosterdam and throughout the renovations, sustainability is an important element of the updates, with a focus on revitalising the fleet while improving efficiency and reducing overall environmental impact. The line is refreshing and replacing interiors with a strong focus on waste reduction and circular design, prioritising upcycling and material reuse while bringing greater lightness and an elevated, timeless look and feel.   Behind the scenes, the company is making targeted technical investments to improve energy efficiency. This work includes smarter power management and enhanced system performance aimed at reducing energy demand and lowering operational carbon intensity over time.   What’s Next Additional details about Oosterdam’s renovations, including new voyages available following the upgrade, will be shared in the coming weeks for guests at hollandamerica.com/evolution. The site will give real-time updates as plans for all six ships are revealed.  

 

For the first time, bourbon barrels mature across a cruise fleet, their flavours shaped by the maritime conditions of Holland America’s carefully crafted itineraries

  Holland America Line and Jefferson’s Bourbon are announcing a partnership for a first-of-its-kind collaboration in which Jefferson’s Ocean Bourbon is aged at sea across the cruise line’s fleet. This marks the distillery’s maiden voyage partnering with a cruise line for its Ocean Aged at Sea® Bourbon series. The programme expands Holland America Line’s award-winning Single Barrel Program and marks a new milestone in its America’s 250th celebration, which highlights the theme “The Spirit of Independence.”   Beginning in March 2026, Jefferson’s began loading one barrel aboard each Holland America Line ship. By the end of April 2026, all 11 ships will carry their own exclusive barrel. Each barrel will sail for a minimum of six months and experience shifting climates, rolling waves, ocean air and the constant motion of the ship. These natural elements will shape the bourbon’s flavour, depth, character and finish, reinforcing the idea that every bottle has a story influenced by its journey.   “This partnership with Jefferson’s Bourbon is another way we’re setting ourselves apart through experiences that are too good to hurry through,” said Drew Foulk, director of food and beverage revenue and innovation at Holland America Line. “Aging bourbon aboard our ships and offering it exclusively back to guests later reflects our commitment to beverage programs that are shaped by the journey itself.”   Guests will be able to follow the aging journey through onboard activations like educational tastings that show how the ship’s itinerary shapes the spirit. Once bottled, the barrels aged on the cruise line fleet will be made available for cruise line guests to taste onboard. Each limited-edition barrel will create approximately 150 to 300 bottles that will be delivered back to the ships for guests to enjoy in 2027 and will expand upon the cruise line’s robust single-barrel program.   A Partnership Rooted in Innovation and the America’s 250th Spirit   As an official partner of Holland America Line for America’s 250th, Jefferson’s Bourbon brings a legacy of American ingenuity that spans eight generations. Founded in 1997 by Trey Zoeller and his father, Chet, a respected bourbon historian, the brand continues a family tradition that began with Trey's eighth-generation grandmother, one of the first women officially documented for her involvement in making American whiskey. Jefferson’s honours time-tested methods while embracing the same curiosity and innovation that have defined the American story for 250 years.   The concept of aging bourbon at sea began when Trey Zoeller wondered how constant motion, salt air and dramatic temperature shifts might influence the spirit. After 35 bottled voyages on cargo and fishing vessels, Jefferson’s is expanding the program to Holland America Line’s global fleet. The collaboration reflects the shared America’s 250th spirit of exploration, independence and craftsmanship.   "We are thrilled to partner with Holland America Line to embark on a truly unique adventure,” commented Zoeller. “By placing Jefferson’s Ocean barrels on their cruise ships, we’re diving into a quest to see how different routes and voyages (meaning different climates and agitation) influence the taste, smell, and mouthfeel of our whiskey. I truly appreciate Holland America's dedication to experimentation and innovation, allowing us to craft a one-of-a-kind experience for their guests. The whiskey they enjoy will be exclusive to their ships, available only once the voyage is complete. Jefferson’s Ocean is a true treasure to savour and share.”   America’s 250th Partnerships   In addition to Jefferson’s Bourbon, Holland America Line is marking America’s 250th celebration with partnerships featuring American brands that reflect the nation’s rich heritage. Holland America Line and Crane, the renowned American stationery brand, created an original collection of cards designed by artists from the United States Veterans’ Artists Alliance. The exclusive, handcrafted designs, available for purchase on board, are inspired by Holland America Line’s 11 ships and signature tulip.   In collaboration with Pendleton Woolen Mills—a Pacific Northwest lifestyle brand—a custom-designed, numbered, Alaska-themed throw blanket inspired by the Great Land was created exclusively for Holland America Line. The limited-edition throw will be available for purchase on board ships sailing in Alaska in 2026.   A 28-day Pan Am® 100th Anniversary Legendary Voyage will set sail in 2027. Inspired by the Pan Am® historic Clipper routes, it celebrates a golden age of global travel. The ship will visit 18 ports along the legendary Pan Am® Great Circle Route, a pioneering path that spanned the entire Caribbean and set the standard for modern travel in the region.   Additional limited-edition co-branded offerings and future brand collaborations will be unveiled in the lead-up to the July 4, 2026, milestone, creating a meaningful tribute to America’s 250th anniversary.   ‘America’s 250th Celebration: Stars and Stripes’ Cruise   Guests who want to celebrate America’s birthday in a unique way can set sail on Holland America Line’s America’s 250th Celebration: Stars and Stripes cruise. Departing Boston, Massachusetts, July 4, 2026, the sailing promises special moments and experiences, including a late-night departure from Boston so guests can witness the historic skyline fireworks from a distance, as well as a July 4 party on deck with classic American picnic foods and a live music tribute to The Soundtrack of America. The cruise will include visits to cities that played an important role in U.S. history, including Norfolk, Virginia, and an overnight at New York.

  Holland America Line today (April 2, 2026) opened a month-long Anniversary Sale to mark its 153rd year.   Running to April 30, 2026, the sale features up to US$400 onboard credit per stateroom on departures from now to spring 2027, for cruises ranging from four to 69 days. The credit can be used on amenities including speciality dining, beverages, spa services, shore excursions, gift shop purchases and onboard photography.   The offer applies to all cruises on Holland America’s upcoming Dover season, which comprises a series of seven-and 14-day voyages - including to the Norwegian fjords, Iceland and Canary Islands - from mid-April to mid-October.   Sailings across all other Holland America Line regions also feature as part of the offer, including Alaska cruises and Cruisetours, the Caribbean, Canada and New England, Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Australia and New Zealand, South America and Antarctica, the Pacific Coast, Hawaii, Tahiti, Panama Canal, Mexico and Asia.   Collectors’ Voyages, which cover two back-to-back, non-repeating itineraries, are additionally included.   The Anniversary Sale is combinable with Holland America Line’s ‘Have it All’ package fare, which comprises shore excursion credit, a Signature Beverage Package, speciality dining credit, crew appreciation and a Wi-Fi Surf Package.   Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, said: “Celebrating 153 years of ocean exploration is about honouring the guests who have travelled the world with us. The Anniversary Sale is both a thank you to our loyal guests and an invitation to new travellers to experience our thoughtfully designed itineraries, immersive destination experiences and exceptional service - all with added value and special savings.”   Sample sailing Holland America Line Ship: Koningsdam Itinerary: Alaska Inside Passage Departure date: August 8, 2026 Duration: 7-days Price: From £1,169pp with Have it All Onboard credit: Up to $200 per stateroom Departure and return port: Vancouver Cruises and calls at: Scenic Cruising, The Inside Passage; Tracy Arm Inlet; Juneau; Skagway; Glacier Bay; Ketchikan Further details: 7-DAY ALASKA INSIDE PASSAGE Cruise Itinerary | Holland America

  Holland America Line’s Koningsdam is back in service following a two‑week dry dock in the Bahamas. The Pinnacle-class ship has received a series of enhancements ahead of its upcoming Alaska season.   The line has added five new, larger ocean view staterooms. Each stateroom accommodates up to four guests and features two beds that convert to a queen-size bed, along with a double sofa bed. Four of the staterooms are connecting, allowing larger groups to book together. 22 Vista Suites were also upgraded with new sofa beds.   Select staterooms additionally received new carpets.   A series of interior updates and upgrades have been made to shared guest spaces. Extra seating has been added to music venues Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge, while more seating has been provided in the area connecting the two, allowing guests to take in shows from either side.   Speciality dining venues Pinnacle Grill, Sel de Mer and Club Orange have had fixed tables replaced with flexible, moveable seating arrangements, allowing for a range of configurations to better accommodate different group sizes and guest preferences.   The onboard Effy jewellery retail space now features new flooring, wall finishes, lighting and display fixtures, along with upgraded signage and merchandising elements. The upgrades have previously been made on both Westerdam and Zuiderdam.   Finally, the onboard casino has been expanded to create a more spacious gaming environment for guests, the ship’s fitness centre has received updated gym equipment, and there is new carpeting in several public areas.   Koningsdam is now on its final Caribbean voyage of the season, before transiting the Panama Canal and heading to Alaska for the summer. Alaska voyages will sail from April to September with prices starting from £649pp.

  Conservation International is Holland America Line's new charity partner for its ‘On Deck for a Cause’ programme, on all sailings outside of Alaska.   Conservation International works in more than 100 countries and is a global leader in mangrove conservation and restoration, advancing the science and innovative approaches needed to protect coastal and marine ecosystems. It has helped to place 13 million square kilometres of lands and seas under formal protections - an area four times the size of India.   On Deck for a Cause is a non-competitive 5km fundraising walk held on every Holland America Line cruise, which is open to all guests. Everyone who donates through the programme will help support Conservation International’s efforts to protect Caribbean coastal ecosystems and its partnerships with local communities.   Beth Bodensteiner, president at Holland America Line, said: “Protecting the oceans we call home is a natural extension of our commitment to responsible travel. By selecting Conservation International as our charitable donation recipient, we’re empowering our guests to make a significant impact on the places they love to visit while enjoying their cruise holiday.”   Kelvin Alie, acting head of conservation programmes and senior vice president at Conservation International, said: “For nearly four decades, Conservation International has worked alongside coastal communities worldwide to protect the ocean ecosystems that sustain their livelihoods and economies. This partnership with Holland America Line builds on that legacy by supporting mangrove restoration on Caribbean islands, which are deeply connected to the sea. Together, we’re turning individual action into lasting impact for the ocean and for future generations.”   On Alaska sailings, On Deck for a Cause raises money for Alaska Geographic, a nonprofit education partner of the state’s parks, forests, refuges and conservation lands. The programme has previously supported cancer research organisations, Direct Relief and the Royal Dutch Guide Dog Foundation. Guests taking part in the walks receive a commemorative t-shirt and wristband.

  Holland America Line brought together guests from its two 2026 Grand Voyages on March 7, following a rare meetup of Zaandam and Volendam. The ship’s simultaneous calls to Sydney, Australia, were celebrated with a special Chocolate Afternoon Tea.   Hosted onboard Zaandam, the tea was led by Holland America Line Culinary Ambassador, Jacques Torres, who created a menu of signature chocolate treats. Guests were offered a selection that included scones and finger sandwiches, chocolate madeleines, chocolate canelé de Bordeaux, Le Lion chocolate dipped marshmallows and Gâteau de Voyage. The captains and senior officers from both ships joined the occasion.   Volendam is currently sailing on the 133-day Grand World Voyage, heading to Asia before crossing the Pacific Ocean and transiting the Panama Canal to end in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Zaandam will continue exploring Australia and New Zealand before sailing to French Polynesia and will then end its 93-day Grand Voyage in San Diego, California.   Darren Lewis, Zaandam’s hotel general manager, said: “Moments like this are what make a Grand Voyage truly unforgettable. When guests sail with us for months at a time, they become a community. Seeing that community from two ships come together in Sydney to share stories, celebrate the journey and enjoy a beautifully crafted afternoon tea was a powerful reminder of what makes Grand Voyages so special.”   The Chocolate Afternoon Tea was part of Holland America Line’s 2026 Grand Voyage guest engagement programme, which offers exclusive onboard and shoreside experiences.

  Holland America Line has launched its 2027/2028 South America & Antarctica season, sailing from October 2027 to March 2028.   All itineraries are 14 days or longer and Nieuw Amsterdam will make its debut in South America during the season, with voyages also taking place on Zuiderdam.   The season begins with a 26‑day ‘Inca Coast: Mexico & Latin America Legendary Voyage’, from Vancouver, Canada, to San Antonio (Santiago), Chile. It departs on October 7, 2027 on Nieuw Amsterdam and features overnights in Manta (Quito) and Callao (Lima), Peru.   Further highlights comprise: * 28-day 'Legendary Amazon Explorer' on Zuiderdam, sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, departing January 6, 2028. Includes overnight stays in Manaus and visits to Parintins, Alter do Chão, Santarém, Boca da Valeria and Caribbean destinations including Martinique, Barbados and St. Lucia. Prices start from £4,439pp. * 14-15 day 'South America Pathways: Chilean Fjords & Glaciers' on Nieuw Amsterdam with multiple departures. Cruise between Buenos Aires and San Antonio (Santiago), exploring Glacier Alley, the Beagle Channel, Cape Horn, and the Pío XI Glacier. Prices start from £1,889pp. * 17-day 'Inca & Panama Canal Discovery: Lima Overnight', on Nieuw Amsterdam, sailing from San Antonio (Santiago), departing March 21, 2028, taking in the Panama Canal, with overnight stays in Fuerte Amador (Panama City) and Callao. Prices start from £2,314pp. * 22-day 'South America & Antarctica' on Nieuw Amsterdam, sailing from Buenos Aires to San Antonio (Santiago) with multiple departures. Includes four days exploring Antarctica with scenic cruising through the Drake Passage, the Chilean Fjords and stops in Montevideo, Puerto Madryn, Ushuaia and Port Stanley. Prices start from £3,699pp. * ‘South America and Antarctica Collectors’ Voyages’. Combination, back-to-back sailings, such as the 41-day Inca Coast Discovery Collectors' Voyage, departing October 7, 2027. Prices start from £4,504pp.   In addition, the season features nine dedicated scenic cruising experiences where passengers stay on the ship. Highlights include a four-day Antarctic Experience, along with sailing past the Pío XI Glacier, through Glacier Alley, the Beagle Channel and the Chilean Fjords.   The season also consists of a series of Overland Adventures, a category of shore excursions that feature overnight stays inland away from the ship. Examples include a journey to Machu Picchu visiting the 'Lost City of the Incas', while a Galápagos Islands overland adventure offers access to one of the most biologically diverse places on earth.   Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management for Holland America Line, said: “By adding more sailings, including a new Legendary itinerary, we’re giving guests more opportunities to experience South America and Antarctica. These voyages are designed to help travellers really connect with the region, from the energy of South America to the history of the Inca Coast and the awe of Antarctica. And that sense of place continues on board, with destination-inspired dishes like Argentinian empanadas and enrichment such as Spanish or tango classes that bring the region to life throughout the journey.”   For a limited time, when guests book 2027/2028 South America and Antarctica cruises with the ‘Have It All Early Booking Bonus’, they will receive the benefits of an Elite Beverage Package, shore excursion spending money, speciality dining, Premium Wi-Fi package, prepaid crew appreciation and up to $300pp on board credit.   Guests can also take advantage of Holland America Line’s Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. Mariner Society loyalty members can enjoy up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom.

  Holland America Line and Back in Time for Bed (BITFB) have announced they will host a family ship visit onboard Rotterdam.   The event, designed specifically for parents working in the travel industry, will take place on April 3, in Southampton, from 10am-2pm.   Attendees will be able to experience a range of activities, including a preview of the onboard Kids’ Club, which features three programmes that vary depending on age: * Kids’ Programme, for ages 3 to 6 * Tweens, for ages 7 to 11 * Teens, for ages 12 to 17   During the event, a ‘scavenger hunt’ will take place, so that families can explore the ship together and win Easter prizes. In addition, it will include lunch with menu options from the ship’s Lido Market, Dive In Burger or New York Pizza & Deli.   There is space for up to 75 people, who will be hosted by the Holland America sales team. It is the first time the line has organised a family ship visit in the UK.   BITFB is a support network for working parents across the UK travel industry. It was launched in February 2023 by Vicky Billing, director of trade and partnerships in the UK and Ireland at Riviera Travel, and Anna Perrott, chief commercial officer at Panache Cruises.   Vicky Billing said: “Anna, the BITFB board, and I are absolutely delighted to be partnering with Holland America Line for our upcoming family fun day. These events mean so much to our community, as they bring together working parents from across the industry and provide the chance to share something special with our children.   “I know my little girl, Ellie, can’t wait to step onto another ‘big ship’, and I’m sure many of our members feel exactly the same. It’s going to be a fantastic day for families, and as always, the travel industry shows just how much of a big family it truly is. We’re extremely grateful to Holland America Line for making this opportunity possible. Keep an eye out for the registration link; it’s going to be a whole lot of Easter fun.”   Karen Farndell, associate vice-president of sales and marketing for the UK and Ireland at Holland America Line, said: “We’re excited to be working with Back in Time for Bed to host our first-ever onboard family ship visit in the UK. From the imaginative world of Club HAL to our spacious family facilities, every detail is designed with togetherness in mind. Our Pinnacle Class ships even feature five‑berth family ocean‑view staterooms, giving larger families room to relax, play and explore in comfort.   “We can’t wait to welcome everyone onboard and create experiences they’ll talk about long after the day ends.”   For more details on the event, go to www.backintimeforbed.com

  Guests sailing on Holland America Line’s 133-day Grand World Voyage are supporting a children’s charity initiative while at sea, knitting and crocheting handmade blankets for donation through non-profit organisation Project Linus.   During sea days onboard Volendam, guests - known onboard as ‘blanketeers’ - meet regularly to create blankets for children experiencing illness, trauma or crisis.   The activity has been part of the cruise line’s Grand World Voyage programme for more than 20 years, turning time at sea into a collaborative volunteer effort. Experienced knitters and crocheters work alongside beginners, with guests sharing skills and helping newcomers learn basic techniques. Crew members also take part when their schedules allow.   This year’s voyage departed on January 4, 2026, with participating guests bringing nearly one million yards of yarn in more than 30 colours onboard. Supplies are organised in advance and distributed to volunteers, with each completed blanket taking several days to produce. Across the last three Grand World Voyages, guests have created more than 1,600 blankets in total.   Once the voyage concludes in May, the blankets will be sent to Project Linus, where they are labelled and distributed to children through hospitals and care organisations. Each blanket carries a label reading: “Made with Tender Loving Care for Project Linus.”   Karen Farndell, director sales & marketing for Holland America Line, said: “Seeing our guests come together to support such a meaningful cause while travelling the world is incredibly special. Our Grand Voyages are all about community and connection, and this long-standing blanket-making initiative is a wonderful example of that spirit in action. What begins as a relaxing onboard activity becomes something that delivers real comfort to children in need - and we’re very proud to help facilitate that through our partnership with Project Linus.”   The 133-day Grand World Voyage is sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale and visiting more than 50 ports across multiple continents.

  Holland America Line is celebrating 100 years of cruising in the Caribbean.   The line first sailed in the region on February 18, 1926, when its then ship Veendam II departed from New York, making the company among the first to offer regularly scheduled departures to the Caribbean. The cruise visited Havana, Cuba; Kingston, Jamaica; Colon/Cristóbal, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Bermuda.   Voyages to the Caribbean are included in Holland America Line’s ongoing ‘Start Your Journey Sale’, which runs until February 26, 2026.   Guests who book applicable voyages with ‘Have it All’ fares will benefit from a free stateroom upgrade and reduced fares for children aged 18 and under travelling as the third and fourth guests. The ‘Have it All’ benefits include a Signature Beverage Package, shore excursion credit, speciality dining, Wi-Fi and prepaid crew appreciation.   The offer is valid for bookings on more than 500 cruises departing from summer 2026 to spring 2027, including Caribbean itineraries.   Karen Farndell, associate vice-president of sales and marketing for the UK and Ireland at Holland America Line, said: “Celebrating 100 years of cruising in the Caribbean is a proud moment for Holland America Line and a testament to our deep roots in the region. From our very first Caribbean sailing in 1926, we’ve been committed to offering thoughtfully curated itineraries that connect guests with the culture, history and natural beauty of these destinations.”   Holland America Line's Caribbean highlights include: * 1926: first Caribbean (then “West Indies”) cruise on Veendam II * 1927: first calls at Willemstad, Curaçao and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands * 1959: first calls at Aruba once larger docks were developed * 1964: first calls at St. Maarten as the island became a growing tourism destination * 1997: Opening of Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s private island in the Bahamas, with Ryndam III making the first call

  Holland America Line has launched its 2027/2028 West Coast season, which features calls to destinations including Hawaii, Mexico, the Panama Canal and Pacific Coast.   The season comprises 31 itineraries, with longer stays in Honolulu, Hawaii, and extended time in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez. Cruises will operate on Koningsdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Zaandam via five US homeports, from October to April.   Itinerary highlights include: Hawaii * 17- or 18-day ‘Circle Hawaii’: sails aboard Koningsdam or Zaandam, with multiple departures available. All itineraries call at Nawiliwili, Kauai; Honolulu, Oahu; Kahului, Maui; and Kona and Hilo on the Big Island. Select itineraries include overnight and up to 40-hour calls in Honolulu, as well as visits to Ensenada, Mexico. Prices start from £2,839pp. Panama Canal * 14-day ‘Panama Canal’: sails aboard Zaandam from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to San Diego, California, departing January 16, 2028. Calls at Cartagena, Colombia; Acajutla, El Salvador; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Santa Cruz Huatulco, Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Prices start from £2,999pp. *15-day ‘Panama Canal Holiday’: sails aboard Zaandam, from San Diego to Miami, Florida, departing December 18, 2027. Calls at Cabo San Lucas, Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta and Santa Cruz Huatulco, Mexico; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; and Cartagena. Prices start from £3,099pp. Mexico * Seven-day ‘Mexican Riviera Holiday’: sails aboard Koningsdam, roundtrip from San Diego, departing December 23, 2027. Calls at Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. Prices start from £1,219pp. * Seven-day ‘Baja Peninsula’: sails aboard Koningsdam, with multiple departures available. Calls at Loreto, Pichilingue (La Paz) and Cabo San Lucas. Prices start from £1,269pp. Pacific Coast * Seven-day ‘Classic California Coast’: sails aboard Koningsdam roundtrip from San Diego, departing November 13, 2027. Calls at Santa Barbara, San Francisco (overnight) and Ensenada. Prices start from £1,299pp. * Seven-day ‘Great Bear Rainforest’: sails aboard Eurodam, roundtrip from Vancouver, departing April 23, 2028. Calls at Ketchikan, Alaska; Prince Rupert (overnight) and Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada; and Victoria (late-night departure). Prices start from £1,414pp.   Paul Grigsby, vice president of itinerary planning and deployment for Holland America Line, said: “Whether guests are chasing the sun in Hawaii or seeking the rugged, untouched beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest, this season truly has something for every type of cruiser. Across each distinct region, guests can immerse themselves in the moments that bring these destinations to life, whether that’s learning the meaning behind island traditions through Hawaii Up Close, spotting some of the 300 bird species that thrive in Tortuguero National Park, or tasting regionally inspired dishes made possible through Destination Dining and our Global Fresh Fish Programme.”   For a limited time, when guests book 2027/2028 cruises to Mexico, Hawaii, the Panama Canal or the Pacific Coast with the ‘Have It All Early Booking Bonus’, they will receive benefits of an Elite Beverage Package, shore excursion spending money, speciality dining, Premium Wi-Fi package, prepaid crew appreciation and up to $300pp on board credit.   Guests can also take advantage of Holland America Line’s Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. Mariner Society loyalty members can enjoy up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom.