Holland America 80th Anniversary Alaska Cruises

As Holland America Line prepares for its 80th Alaska anniversary in 2027, expanded itineraries and Cruisetours will showcase the region’s landscapes, wildlife, culture, and local flavors.

Holland America 80th Anniversary Alaska Cruises
Image Credit: Holland America

Holland America Line is poised to celebrate 80 years of exploring Alaska with a robust collection of more than 100 cruises and enhanced Cruisetour experiences as part of its 2027 anniversary season. The program, running from April through September 2027, will feature six ships offering diverse itineraries that highlight Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, iconic wildlife, and cultural heritage.

Comprehensive Alaska Cruise Offerings in 2027

Led by its fleet of six ships, Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Zaandam, Holland America Line is set to deliver a range of cruise options departing from Seattle, Vancouver, and also one-way trips between Vancouver and Whittier. Guests will have the choice of exploring Alaska over seven to 28-day itineraries, including the highly anticipated monthlong "Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice" voyage, which features one of the most comprehensive routes mapped by the cruise line.

Holland America is introducing a new eight-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise in 2027, departing roundtrip from Vancouver. The itinerary includes glacier visits and stops at Glacier Bay, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert in British Columbia, offering travelers a shorter yet immersive experience.

  • The 28-day "Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice" cruise departs roundtrip from Seattle aboard Noordam, exploring the Bering Sea, Arctic Circle, and 11 Alaskan ports.
  • Seven-day roundtrip Alaska Explorer voyages from Seattle aboard Eurodam and Noordam, featuring stops at Victoria (British Columbia), Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka.
  • Seven-day Glacier Discovery itineraries between Whittier and Vancouver aboard Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam, featuring Glacier Bay, College Fjord, and Hubbard Glacier.
  • Fourteen-day Great Alaska Explorer cruises departing roundtrip from Seattle aboard Noordam, calling at lesser-explored ports like Kodiak, Valdez, and Prince Rupert, complemented by scenic cruising at Hubbard Glacier.
  • Exclusive Great Bear Rainforest itineraries, ranging from a seven-day roundtrip Seattle voyage aboard Noordam to two 18-day itineraries aboard Zaandam departing roundtrip from Vancouver.

Enhanced Cruisetour Experiences and Wildlife Encounters

For travelers seeking to combine ocean travel with land exploration, Holland America Line will offer its updated Ultimate Alaska & Denali Cruisetours for the 2026 season, alongside its 2027 cruise options. These multi-day itineraries include a two-night stay at the Holland America Denali Lodge, escorted rail journeys aboard the McKinley Explorer, and visits to interior locations such as Alyeska, Seward, or Homer. Guests will also enjoy complimentary access to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center as part of these packages.

With more than 175 shore excursions available across Alaska, many tailored toward wildlife encounters, the cruise line will also introduce new experiences such as a Reindeer Encounter at the conservation center. Onboard wildlife experts and National Park Rangers will provide educational insights, ensuring every voyage resonates with the natural and cultural heritage of Alaska.

Highlights of Glacier Viewing and Culinary Excellence

Holland America Line’s Glacier Guarantee ensures that all Alaska cruises include marquee glacier-viewing opportunities at iconic sites such as Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Hubbard Glacier, and Dawes Glacier. To enhance these experiences, ships are strategically positioned to allow for 360-degree views of the stunning formations.

Onboard amenities extend beyond scenic vistas, offering guests the best of Alaskan cuisine through the Global Fresh Fish Program. This initiative ensures locally sourced seafood, prepared within 48 hours of being harvested, reflecting the culinary traditions of the region.

Programs Supporting Local Authenticity

The cruise line remains committed to immersive experiences with its "We Love Alaska" program. Guests can participate in park ranger-led activities at Glacier Bay, cultural immersions, and regionally inspired programming that connects to Alaska’s unique identity. Dan Rough, Holland America Line’s vice president of revenue management, emphasized the company's dedication, stating, “As we approach our 80th year exploring the Great Land, we’re proud to offer cruises and Cruisetours that deepen our legacy of expertise and enrich every guest’s experience. Alaska cruises and Cruisetours are crafted to be unforgettable.”

Booking and Early Incentives

Holland America Line’s 2027 Alaska cruises are open for booking now, with 2027 Cruisetours set to become available later this fall. Guests booking early can leverage benefits through the premium "Have It All" package, which includes free prepaid crew appreciation, along with upgrades to Elite Beverage and Premium Wi-Fi packages. Members of the Mariner Society loyalty program may qualify for additional perks, including up to $400 onboard credits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Holland America Line’s Alaska cruise options for 2027?

Holland America Line will offer more than 100 Alaska cruises in 2027 aboard six ships. Itineraries range from seven-day Alaska Explorer voyages to the 28-day "Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice" journey.

What is the Glacier Guarantee?

The Glacier Guarantee ensures every Alaska cruise includes scenic visits to iconic glaciers such as Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, or College Fjord with optimized views.

What are Holland America’s Cruisetour features?

Cruisetour packages combine ocean journeys with inland exploration, including stays at Denali Lodge, scenic rail rides, and complimentary visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

What benefits are offered to early bookers?

Guests booking early with the "Have It All" premium fare can enjoy perks like free prepaid crew appreciation, package upgrades, and up to $400 onboard credit for loyalty members.

What wildlife encounters can guests expect?

Onboard wildlife experts and shore excursions let guests spot iconic animals like bears, eagles, and whales, with immersive experiences such as the new Reindeer Encounter at Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.