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 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 has unveiled its 2027/2028 Legendary Voyages season, with itineraries ranging from 26 to 47 days.   The collection includes a ‘28-day Legendary Solar Eclipse & Cosmic Port Explorer’, visiting 13 ports across the UK, Denmark, France, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar and Morocco, with an opportunity to view a solar eclipse at sea off the coast of Morocco.   In addition, it features the cruise line’s first Caribbean-based Legendary Voyage, a 28-day ‘Pan Am 100th Anniversary Legendary Voyage’, which will retrace historic Clipper routes across the Caribbean, Mexico and Latin America. The itinerary will visit 18 destinations and closely follow Pan Am’s Great Circle Route, with nearly half the ports featured on the airline’s original schedules.   Across the wider programme, cruises will visit destinations in Alaska, Europe, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, South America and the Amazon. Itineraries comprise:   * 28-day ‘Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice’ – departing roundtrip from Seattle on June 6, 2027. Prices from £4,239pp. * 28-day ‘Solar Eclipse & Cosmic Port Explorer’ – departing roundtrip from Rotterdam on July 10, 2027. Prices from £4,609pp. * 35-day ‘Legendary Voyage of the Vikings’ – departing roundtrip from Boston on July 17, 2027. Prices from £7,509pp. * 34-day ‘Legendary South Pacific Crossing: Honolulu & Tahiti’ – departing Seattle on September 19, 2027. Prices from £3,909pp. * 47-day ‘Ultimate Mediterranean & Atlantic Passage’ – departing New York on October 11, 2027. Prices from £6,179pp. * 35-day ‘Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas Legendary Voyage’, departing roundtrip San Diego on October 14, 2027, on Zaandam, or February 13 and February 19, 2028, on Koningsdam. Prices from £3,989pp. * 28-day ‘Pan Am 100th Anniversary Legendary Voyage’ – departing Miami on October 30, 2027. Prices from £3,199pp. * 26-day ‘Australia, Coral Sea & Fiji Legendary Voyage’ – departing Sydney on January 4, 2028. Prices from £3,479pp. * 28-day ‘Legendary Amazon Explorer’ – departing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale on January 6, 2028. Prices from £4,439pp. * 35-day ‘Legendary South Pacific Crossing: Tahiti & Honolulu’ – departing Sydney on March 26, 2028. Prices from £3,659pp.   Legendary Voyages feature an elevated onboard experience with activities such as themed dinners and parties, including Holland America Line’s signature Orange Party, local cultural performances and arts and crafts classes.   Paul Grigsby, vice president of revenue planning and deployment at Holland America Line, said: “Our guests are always looking for adventures that feel personal and unforgettable, whether that’s following the paths of ancient explorers, watching a solar eclipse at sea or spending unhurried time in some of the world’s most storied cities. These new Legendary Voyages tap deeply into those desires, blending historic routes, rare access and extraordinary port time with the premium onboard experience our long-time cruisers return for again and again.”   Cruises will operate on Nieuw Statendam, Noordam, Volendam, Westerdam, Zaandam and Zuiderdam.

  Holland America Line has introduced a new shore excursion to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC).   The ‘Exclusive Eland & Friends Moose Discovery’ tour will launch during the upcoming Alaska cruise season. It includes a scenic drive along the Seward Highway and a guided behind‑the‑scenes visit to the conservation centre. During the tour, guests will learn how the AWCC supports moose health and wellbeing through enrichment activities, diet preparation, behaviour observation and station training.   Among the moose guests may encounter is Eland, who arrived at the conservation centre in June 2025. His name, the Dutch word for “moose”, was selected by Holland America Line social media followers and reflects the cruise line’s Dutch heritage.   The excursion was launched to mark National Moose Day, which is dedicated to recognising moose for their ecological importance and cultural significance.   Sarah “Howie” Howard, executive director of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, said: “Partnerships like this allow us to deepen both care and connection. This shore excursion invites guests to experience moose up close in a thoughtful way, while learning first-hand how exceptional animal care and conservation education support long‑term wildlife protection.”   Kacy Cole, chief marketing officer of Holland America Line, said: “Seeing wildlife is one of the top reasons guests choose to cruise Alaska. This new shore excursion gives our guests an extraordinary opportunity to connect with moose in a way that is both unforgettable and responsible, working alongside conservation experts to support the animals and the environment they call home.”   To further enhance guest engagement and support long‑term moose care, Holland America Line donated $150,000 to AWCC. The donation will support ongoing animal care initiatives and the development of the Holland America Moose Promenade, a scenic elevated boardwalk overlooking the moose habitat.   Holland America Line also donated repurposed wooden benches from the deck of Noordam and reclaimed mooring ropes from Westerdam, adding authentic nautical elements from the company’s fleet to the conservation centre.   Construction of the promenade is expected to begin in autumn 2026, with completion planned for the 2027 Alaska cruise season.   Holland America Line’s Alaska season runs from April to September across six ships. The line has a collection of over 200 Alaska shore experiences.

  Holland America Line has launched two new shore excursion collections, featuring more than 150 tours worldwide.   Focusing on cultural experiences, the ‘Meet the Maker’ and ‘Community Connections’ tours have been designed for guests to immerse themselves in the heart of local life and engage with communities.   The ‘Meet the Maker’ excursions provide opportunities for guests to meet the local artisans, chefs, farmers and craftspeople behind the flavours and traditions of a region. Examples include: * ‘Tasmanian Tasting Trail’ in Burnie, Tasmania. Travelling through Tasmania’s countryside to meet the artisans who create some of its most popular flavours. Includes a visit to the House of Anvers to taste handcrafted chocolates paired with morning tea, continuing to 41° South for lunch and to learn how a family grows ginseng and raises salmon in spring‑fed ponds. The tour also stops at Ashgrove Cheese Factory and Spreyton Cider Company. Available on departures including the 14-day Australia and New Zealand voyage, departing January 3, 2027. Prices from £2,429pp. * ‘Magna Grecia Farm Experience’ in Katákolon, Greece. Visits the Magna Grecia Farm, a fourth‑generation family estate in the Olympia region, where guests can explore the olive grove, taste the farm’s olives, discover vineyards and meet the resident animals. Includes classic Greek mezes paired with local wine, with mineral water provided and the option to try ouzo, in addition to a Syrtaki dance demonstration. Available on departures including the 11-day Greek Isles: Istanbul Overnight with Dubrovnik, departing May 4, 2027. Prices from £2,429pp.   The new ‘Community Connections’ options showcase the inner workings and ways of life of the destinations visited. Every tour supports local businesses as part of Holland America Line's overall sustainability strategy. Examples include: * ‘At Home with the O'Hanlon Family’ in Cobh (Cork), Ireland. Guests are welcomed into the home of Finn and Peter O'Hanlon, who have a lifelong passion for Irish food. At their home, guests cook a three-course traditional Irish lunch, including soda bread and Irish stew. Available on departures including the 14-day Wild British Isles: Glasgow Overnight, departing May 29, 2026. Prices from £3,199pp. * ‘Maori Waka (Canoe) Experience’ in Waitangi (Bay of Islands), New Zealand. This tour showcases the relationship of the Maori people with the water. Following a traditional Maori welcome, guests will board a waka (canoe) to travel along the Waitangi River, while watching for the Haruru Falls and visiting a 1,000-year-old ancestral site. Available on departures including the 14-day New Zealand Discovery, departing February 13, 2028. Prices from £3,019pp.   Carole Biencourt, vice president of onboard revenue for Holland America Line, said: “Guests consistently express a desire for deeper, more authentic engagement with every destination, which inspired the creation of our new ‘Meet the Makers’ and ‘Community Connections’ collections. These experiences go far beyond traditional sightseeing, opening doors to kitchens, workshops, and community spaces so travellers can share stories, learn time-honoured techniques, and engage directly with the people who shape each place. Seeing a destination through a local lens deepens understanding and fosters authentic connections and memories that endure long after the voyage.”   The new collections build on the existing shore excursion programme, including the cruise line’s partnerships with The HISTORY® Channel and National Geographic.   As part of Holland America Line’s current wave offer and running until February 26, 2026, guests who book applicable voyages with ‘Have it All’ fares will benefit from a free stateroom upgrade, free car parking on sailings departing from Dover in 2026, and reduced fares for children aged 18 and under travelling as the third and fourth guests.   Additionally, guests who book by January 31, 2026, will also receive up to US$500 per stateroom onboard spending money. ‘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, and visiting destinations worldwide, including: * ‘Seven-day Norwegian Fjords with Nordfjord’, departing October 31, 2026, onboard Nieuw Statendam, starting at £1,369pp. * ‘14-day Greece, Italy & French Riviera Collectors’ Voyage’, departing August 22, 2026, onboard Oosterdam, starting at £2,939pp.

  Holland America Line is experiencing a surge in demand for European cruises, with bookings for its 2026 season up more than a third compared to this time last year.   The rise is especially notable in the cruise line’s Northern Europe voyages, an increase of nearly 50% year over year, as travellers seek out the region’s dramatic natural beauty and easy‑to‑explore cities. Convenient departures from both Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and Dover, England, give guests easy access to some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes and culturally rich ports.   Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management for Holland America Line, said: “Given the strong pace of bookings we’re seeing and our ‘Start Your Journey Sale’ promotion underway, I’d recommend anyone considering a summer European cruise book soon. With our Dutch roots and unmatched expertise in the region, guests know they’re travelling with the European cruise experts when they choose Holland America. These voyages will sell out and at the fast pace we are seeing this year, now is a good time for guests to secure their ideal cruise.”   Highlights of the 2026 Europe season include:

• Immersive itineraries with more time in port: HollandAmerica Line’s Europe cruises are designed to offer longer port days and more overnights, giving guests time to explore destinations in depth. Many itineraries allow for evening dining ashore, cultural performances and local nightlife in popular cities across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
• Access to iconic cities and hidden gems: The 2026 season features itineraries that visit more than 175 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and explore 35 countries across the Mediterranean, British Isles, Northern Europe and the Canary Islands. Guests can experience ports such as Barcelona, Spain; Naples, Italy; and Dubrovnik, Croatia; as well as lesser visited gems including Portofino, Italy; St. Tropez, France; and Valletta, Malta.
• Regionally inspired culinary experiences: Dining on board reflects the flavours of the regions visited, with menus inspired by Mediterranean, Northern European and British Isles cuisine. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, regional wines and destination-themed dishes crafted by HollandAmerica Line’s Culinary Council of world-renowned chefs.

  Guests who book a Europe 2026 summer cruise will be able to watch the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Holland America Line will broadcast every match across its fleet. From June 11 to July 19, 2026, all 104 matches will air in staterooms via Sport 24 Special Event Channels, with select games featured on the Lido big screen or in World Stage theatres.   Running until February 26, 2026, guests who book applicable voyages with ‘Have it All’ fares will benefit from a free stateroom upgrade, free car parking on sailings departing from Dover in 2026, and reduced fares for children aged 18 and under travelling as the third and fourth guests.   Additionally, guests who book by January 31, 2026, will also receive up to US$500 per stateroom onboard spending money.   ‘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, and visiting destinations worldwide, including:

• ‘14-Day Wild British Isles: Glasgow Overnight’, departing May 29, 2026, from Dover onboard Nieuw Statendam, starting at £3,289pp.
• ‘14-Day Greece, Italy & French Riviera Collectors’ Voyage’, departing August 22, 2026, onboard Oosterdam, starting at £2,939pp.
• ‘7-Day Western Mediterranean with HISTORY Channel’, departing August 29, 2026, onboard Oosterdam, starting at £1,519pp.
• ‘14-Day Arctic Crossing & North Cape with HISTORY Channel’, departing August 30, 2026, onboard Rotterdam, starting at £2,889pp.
• ‘14-Day Canary Island Enchantment’, departing October 2, 2026, from Dover onboard Nieuw Statendam, starting at £2,979pp.
• ‘7-Day Norwegian Fjords with Nordfjord’, departing October 31, 2026, onboard Nieuw Statendam, starting at £1,369pp.

  Holland America Line and Seabourn have moved to the OneSource travel agent platform. The enhancement underscores the cruise lines’ dedication to providing assistance and resources to agent partners, streamlining their experience and fostering business growth.   OneSource is currently used by Holland America Line and Seabourn’s sister brands, P&O Cruises, Cunard and Princess Cruises.   The platform offers a dynamic array of sales tools and resources, empowering travel partners to amplify their business with Holland America Line and Seabourn. From access to the POLAR Online, FlightEase and Plain Sailing booking tools; to destination guides, product planners and marketing toolkits; to unlocking upcoming training opportunities and the latest offers, OneSource serves as an all-encompassing trade-friendly tool.   Karen Farndell, Associate Vice-President of Sales and Marketing for the UK and Ireland for Holland America Line, said: “Travel agent partners are at the heart of everything we do, and moving onto OneSource is another clear step towards giving them a more seamless, efficient and rewarding experience. By streamlining our tools, training and resources, we’re making it easier than ever for agents to grow their Holland America Line business and deliver exceptional service to their customers.”   Tom Andrews, Director of Sales UK & EMEA for Seabourn, said: "We are confident that the new and improved trade platform will improve how our travel advisor partners engage with Seabourn. Our aim is to provide an efficient, centralised hub that caters to our partners' unique requirements, ultimately saving them time and equipping them with the best tools to thrive in their businesses."   Holland America’s previous agent platform was GoHAL.co.uk, while Seabourn’s was GoSeabourn.co.uk   To ensure agents have a seamless transition to the new platform, they are encouraged to visit OneSourceCruises.com, logging in with their existing Holland America Line or Seabourn credentials.

  Holland America Line has announced the creation of a new and exclusive tulip, celebrating its Dutch heritage.   The tulip will officially launch in April 2026, to highlight Holland America Line’s continued connection to the Netherlands, where it was founded in Rotterdam in 1873.   A ceremonial handover of the first bulbs recently took place at the Keukenhof Gardens. Captain Jeroen Baijens of the line’s flagship, Rotterdam, and Nico Bleichrodt, vice president of international sales and marketing, presented the bulbs to Keukenhof representatives.   The bulbs will be planted later this year and are expected to bloom in April 2026, with an official naming ceremony at the Keukenhof to take place. The flower will be featured in select gardens and events.   Nico Bleichrodt said: “We’re incredibly proud of our Dutch heritage, and nothing embodies Dutchness quite like a tulip. This new tulip is more than a flower; it’s a living symbol of the elegance, warmth and attention to detail that define our brand. Just as each petal is carefully cultivated, our award-winning service is rooted in genuine hospitality, creating space for guests to relax, connect and explore the world in comfort.”

  An eight-part TV docuseries featuring Holland America Line is set to return to TV screens on E4. Episode one of ‘Supercruising: Life at Sea’ will air on October 20 at 8pm.   The series, produced by Crackit TV, first aired on Channel 4 over the summer. It follows life onboard Holland America Line’s Pinnacle-class ships Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam across three voyages, visiting destinations including the Panama Canal, Caribbean, South America, Canary Islands and North Africa. The line’s first UK homeport season from Dover in a decade also features.   Viewers can additionally follow a variety of shore excursions, as guests explore itineraries over three continents.   Karen Farndell, Holland America Line associate vice-president of sales and marketing for the UK and Ireland, said: “We’re thrilled to see Supercruising return to TV and give viewers another chance to experience what makes a Holland America Line voyage so special. The original series was a huge success, helping to showcase our unique onboard experiences, range of destinations and locally sourced cuisine.   “The series also shines a light on the personal touches that define our cruises, from attentive service and hospitality to the sense of connection guests feel as they explore the world.   “And from the fantastic feedback we received via the trade, we also know that Supercruising acts as the ideal sales tool to help prompt enquiries and bookings.”   Episode one introduces crew including Rotterdam’s Captain Eric Barhorst, who oversees operations on the ship’s bridge while sailing through the Caribbean and Panama Canal, and Nieuw Statendam’s Executive Chef Jundiel Marcelo, who leads a culinary team of 200 as they prepare to depart from Dover.   Meanwhile, guests take advantage of excursions including horse riding in the lagoon of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, Holland America’s private island in the Bahamas, and in Madeira a couple experience a thrilling 2km basket sledge ride where – under the supervision of highly trained locals named ‘carreiros’ – they steer the basket down the steep and windy roads at speeds of up to 24mph.   The docuseries is narrated by actor Nick Brimble.   Stream all episodes of ‘Supercruising: Life at Sea’ on Channel 4.

  Holland America Line has released details of its 2027/2028 Asia season, sailing from September to April on Noordam.   The season comprises 15 itineraries, ranging from 13 to 15 days, with the majority departing from Tokyo, Japan. Additional departures are available from Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Seattle, Washington.   The cruises will visit destinations in Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam. New calls include the Japanese ports of Hitachinaka, Nagoya and Maizuru, in addition to a new scenic cruising experience in Maizuru Bay.   There are overnight stays in Halong Bay, Vietnam; Seoul, South Korea; Bangkok, Thailand; Manila, Philippines; Osaka, Japan; and Shanghai, China.   Highlights include:   * 14-day Circle Japan, four departures available, roundtrip Tokyo or from Yokohama to Tokyo. Each itinerary circles Japan’s Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu islands, visiting up to 10 ports in Japan, as well as a call to Sokcho, Busan (Pusan) or Yeosu, South Korea. Select itineraries include late-night calls at Hiroshima, Osaka (Kobe) and Hakodate, Japan. From £2,799pp.   * 14-day Southern Japan, departing February 27, 2028, roundtrip from Tokyo. Calls at eight ports in Southern Japan, including a maiden call at Nagoya. Also features an overnight call at Osaka (Kobe), as well as a visit to Busan (Pusan). From £2,829pp.   * 14-day Japan, South Korea and China, departing October 24, 2027, from Tokyo to Hong Kong. Calls at six ports in Japan, including a late-night call at Hiroshima and two days at Shanghai. From £2,699pp.   * 14-day China & Japan Discovery: Shanghai & Osaka Overnight, departing February 13, 2028, sailing from Hong Kong to Tokyo. Includes overnight calls at Shanghai and Osaka (Kobe), as well as five additional ports in Japan. Fron £2,559pp.   * 14-day Japan & South Korea Discovery, departing March 12, 2028, sailing from Tokyo to Yokohama. Calls at five ports in Japan, including a late-night call at Osaka (Kobe) and three ports in South Korea, including Jeju (Cheju) and an overnight call at Incheon (Seoul). From £2,949pp.   * 14-day Far East Discovery, five departures available, sailing between Hong Kong and Singapore. Calls at ports in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, including overnight stays at Halong Bay and Laem Chabang (Bangkok), Thailand. Guests can also embark on December 19, 2027, spending Christmas Eve in Da Nang, Vietnam, and Christmas Day in the South China Sea, and celebrate New Year’s Eve in Nathon, Thailand. From £2,259pp.   * 14-day Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, departing January 30, 2028, sailing from Singapore to Hong Kong. Calls at six ports throughout the region, including overnight stays in Manila and Laem Chabang (Bangkok). From £2,449pp.   * 13- or 15-day North Pacific Crossing: 13-day departing September 12, 2027, from Seattle to Tokyo, calling at Ketchikan, Alaska; and Kushiro and Aomori, Japan, before reaching Tokyo. The 15-day departs April 23, 2028, from Tokyo, calling at Kushiro; Kodiak, Sitka and Ketchikan, Alaska; and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before reaching Vancouver, Canada. From £1,789pp.   Example shore excursions across the season include cliffside temples and villages in Busan; samurai-era castles and local markets in Kochi; and a tour of the ancient city of Hoi An when visiting Da Nang.   While on board Noordam, guests can enjoy the flavours of Asia through Holland America Line’s Destination Dining programme. From port-to-plate specialities to time-honoured classics, guests can experience offerings such as Japanese rockfish and fresh sushi, Korean bibimbap with beef bulgogi, Thai mango sticky rice, Filipino chicken adobo, matcha lava cake, Indonesian coconut-filled pancakes and Vietnamese-style fresh spring rolls. Guests onboard Asia cruises can also enjoy two pop-ups while sailing: Taste of Tamarind and Morimoto by Sea.   For a limited time, when guests book 2027/2028 Asia cruises with the ‘Have It All’ Early Booking Bonus, they will receive shore excursion credit, speciality dining credit, prepaid crew appreciation, the Elite Beverage package, premium Wi-Fi and up to US $300pp onboard 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. Guests must book these cruises by January 12, 2026, to receive the Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus.   Robert de Bruin, Holland America Line’s director of deployment and itinerary planning, said: “Asia offers guests a wealth of natural wonders and remarkable cultural landmarks. We know our guests are eager for deeper exploration, so this season we’ve added new ports, increased calls to lesser-visited destinations and provided extended stays in popular locales. These enhancements allow guests to make the most of their journey, fully delving into the culture of each destination.”   For more information on Holland America Line, consult a travel agent, visit hollandamerica.com or call 0344 338 8607.

  Holland America Line has launched the first lipstick blending bar at sea.   The Blend Bar features a hands-on experience led by beauty consultants, enabling guests to design their own lipstick or gloss.   It is currently available in the beauty section in the onboard shops on Nieuw Statendam, Eurodam, Westerdam, Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Volendam and Zaandam, and will be introduced on the remaining four ships in the fleet by mid-November.   Blend Bar offers a palette of more than 30 premium pigments, four finishes and over 20 signature flavours.   Working together with the consultant, guests can choose their colours to create a one-of-a-kind hue, match a favourite discontinued colour, or formulate a shade that complements an outfit. Each tailored blend can be made into one of four finishes: butter, crème, matte or gloss.   Once blended, the custom formula is melted and poured into a lipstick mold or gloss tube. Guests can choose a custom name for their lipstick, which will be applied to the tube upon completion. In addition, each guest receives their personalised product along with a formula card listing their selected ingredients for future recreations.   Blend Bar uses products that are free from parabens, sulphates, phthalates and GMOs, as well as cruelty-free, gluten-free and vegan ingredients. The pigments contain antioxidants and SPF for sun protection.   The experience is $65 for a custom lipstick or liquid matte, and lip gloss is $60 per tube.   Carole Biencourt, vice president of onboard revenue for Holland America Line, said: “Today’s travellers are looking for more than just a holiday - they want exclusive experiences like Blend Bar that feel personal, immersive and meaningful. We’re excited to launch the first lipstick blending bar at sea, where our beauty-loving guests can express themselves and create a unique souvenir of their time on board.”