Holland America Expands Asia Cruises With New Japanese Ports for 2027-2028

Holland America Line has officially unveiled its highly anticipated 2027-2028 Asia cruise season, offering immersive cultural experiences and featuring exciting new destinations. Among the highlights are three newly added ports in Japan, Hitachinaka, Nagoya, and Maizuru, and a scenic cruising experience in Maizuru Bay. Sailing aboard the Noordam, this season spans from September 2027 to April 2028 and includes itineraries across Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam, with durations ranging from 13 to 15 days.

Unique Itineraries and Expanded Japanese Destinations

The season spotlights a total of 15 distinct itineraries, catering to travelers seeking to explore Asia’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Many of these cruises depart from Tokyo, Japan, offering added convenience for pre-cruise stays in the vibrant city. Other embarkation points include Singapore, Hong Kong, and Seattle, enabling greater accessibility for international travelers.

Highlighted itineraries include:

• 14-Day Circle Japan: Four departures available, roundtrip Tokyo or from Yokohama (Tokyo) to Tokyo.
• 14-Day Southern Japan: Departs February 27, 2028, roundtrip from Tokyo.
• 14-Day Japan, South Korea and China: Tokyo to Hong Kong, departing October 24, 2027.
• 14-Day China & Japan Discovery (featuring overnight stays in Shanghai and Osaka): Departs February 13, 2028, from Hong Kong to Tokyo.
• 14-Day Japan & South Korea Discovery: Departs March 12, 2028, from Tokyo to Yokohama (Tokyo).
• 14-Day Far East Discovery: With five sailings between Hong Kong and Singapore.
• 14-Day Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines: Departs January 30, 2028, sailing from Singapore to Hong Kong.
• 13- or 15-Day North Pacific Crossing: 13-day departs September 12, 2027, from Seattle to Tokyo.

The addition of Hitachinaka, Nagoya, and Maizuru to the roster broadens access to regions in Japan that are less frequented by cruise travelers. The itinerary also incorporates a scenic cruising experience in Maizuru Bay, allowing guests to appreciate the coastal beauty alongside the port visit to Maizuru.

Overnight Stays in Iconic Asian Destinations

To help guests fully immerse themselves in their destinations, six ports feature extended overnight stays: Halong Bay (Vietnam), Seoul (South Korea), Bangkok (Thailand), Manila (Philippines), Osaka (Japan), and Shanghai (China). These extended calls provide opportunities for evening shore excursions and deeper cultural connections, allowing visitors to fully experience the allure of these locations.

Diverse Onboard and Shoreside Offerings

Holland America Line’s Destination Dining program is a major draw for culinary enthusiasts, offering guests the chance to savor the regional flavors of Asia. Specialty dining pop-ups such as Taste of Tamarind and Morimoto by Sea further elevate the onboard gastronomic experience. Meanwhile, curated shore excursions emphasize cultural immersion, historical landmarks, and natural beauty in ports such as Busan, Kochi, and Da Nang.

Travelers booking the "Have It All" premium package enjoy a host of included amenities, such as shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, and Surf Wi-Fi. Additionally, early bookings qualify for the Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus, which offers added incentives for repeat guests.

Industry Perspectives and Strategic Focus

In a statement, Robert de Bruin, Holland America Line’s director of deployment and itinerary planning, highlighted the enhancements to the upcoming season. “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.”

With its innovative itineraries, expanded ports of call, and commitment to offering culturally enriching experiences, Holland America Line aims to meet the growing demand for cruise vacations in Asia. The 2027-2028 season not only enhances regional exploration but also reflects the cruise line’s broader efforts to attract travelers seeking meaningful, immersive travel opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which new Japanese ports will Holland America Line visit in 2027-2028?

The three new ports introduced in Japan are Hitachinaka, Nagoya, and Maizuru. Passengers will also enjoy a scenic cruising experience in Maizuru Bay alongside the port stop at Maizuru.

Where can passengers experience overnight stays?

Overnight stays are offered at six ports: Halong Bay (Vietnam), Seoul (South Korea), Bangkok (Thailand), Manila (Philippines), Osaka (Japan), and Shanghai (China).

What departure cities are available for this cruise season?

Itineraries depart from Tokyo (Japan), Singapore, Hong Kong, and Seattle, allowing flexibility in travel planning.

What activities are featured onboard and during shore excursions?

Onboard, guests can enjoy regional cuisine through the Destination Dining program and specialty pop-ups like Taste of Tamarind and Morimoto by Sea. Shore excursions emphasize cultural immersion, history, and natural beauty, featuring highlights such as Busan, Kochi, and Da Nang.

What travel benefits are included with the "Have It All" package?

The "Have It All" premium package includes shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, and Surf Wi-Fi. Early bookings may also be eligible for the Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus.