Holland America Line and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center introduce moose shore excursion

 

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.

Learn more about Holland America Line

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