The allure of Alaska's rugged wilderness and Canada's expansive Yukon Territory has captivated travellers for generations. In 2026, Holland America Line, renowned for its deep-rooted history of exploring Alaska, invites you to embark on an unforgettable adventure. The Holland America Line's 2026 Alaska Cruisetour Season unveils a collection of 18 meticulously crafted itineraries that seamlessly blend the splendour of a cruise with the immersive experience of an overland journey. This unique offering provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness towering glaciers, encounter majestic wildlife, and traverse the untamed beauty of Denali National Park and the Yukon.
A Fusion of Sea and Land: The Ultimate Alaskan Adventure
Holland America Line's Cruisetours are designed to offer the best of both worlds—luxurious cruising and in-depth land exploration. Guests have the flexibility to choose the sequence of their journey, whether they prefer to start with the serene voyage along Alaska's coastline or delve first into the heart of its wilderness.
An Unrivalled Itinerary
Each Cruisetour includes days at sea aboard one of Holland America Line's elegant ships: Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Westerdam, or Zaandam. The sea voyage features breathtaking passages through Glacier Bay, with views of colossal ice formations and the chance to spot marine wildlife such as humpback whales and orcas. Ports of call include the historic towns of Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, each offering unique excursions that delve into Alaska's rich heritage and natural wonders.
The overland portion is equally compelling, with journeys aboard the luxury, glass-domed McKinley Explorer train, providing panoramic views of the Alaskan wilderness. Select itineraries enhance the experience with a ride on the historic White Pass & Yukon Route railroad, tracing the path of gold rush prospectors through rugged mountain terrain.
Exclusive Access to Canada's Yukon Territory
Holland America Line remains the only cruise line to guide guests deep into the Yukon, a region steeped in the lore of the Klondike Gold Rush. Stops in Whitehorse and Dawson City offer a glimpse into the pioneering spirit that shaped this part of the world. The inclusion of the Tr'ondëk-Klondike, a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site as of September 2023, adds a significant cultural dimension to the journey. Here, travellers can explore the historical impact of the gold rush on Indigenous peoples and witness well-preserved sites that tell the story of this transformative era.
Immersive Experiences: Wildlife and Wilderness Like Never Before
The 2026 Alaska Cruisetours are not just about the destinations but also about the profound experiences that await.
Denali National Park: A Wilderness Icon
At the heart of the overland journey lies Denali National Park, home to North America's tallest peak, Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley. Guests will stay at the newly renamed Holland America Denali Lodge, strategically situated at the park's edge. This lodge offers a blend of comfort and rustic charm, providing an ideal base from which to explore the park's six million acres of unspoiled wilderness.
All Cruisetours include either the Denali Natural History Tour or the more extensive Tundra Wilderness Tour. These guided excursions venture deep into the park, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe Alaska's "Big Five": grizzly bears, moose, Dall sheep, caribou, and grey wolves. The Tundra Wilderness Tour, in particular, extends 43 miles into the park, increasing the likelihood of wildlife sightings and providing a more intimate connection with the landscape.
Yukon Exploration: A Step Back in Time
In the Yukon, guests can partake in the Klondike Gold Tour in Dawson City, now included in all Yukon & Denali itineraries. This experience allows travellers to see the original discovery claim that sparked the Klondike Gold Rush and visit Gold Dredge No. 4, the largest wooden-hulled dredge in North America. With narration provided by a Parks Canada guide, the tour brings history to life, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of those who sought fortune in this remote land.
Elevated Comfort: The Holland America Denali Lodge
A highlight of the Cruisetour experience is the stay at the Holland America Denali Lodge. Formerly known as the McKinley Chalet, the lodge has been renamed to reflect its deep connection to Denali National Park. Perched on the banks of the Nenana River, the lodge offers breathtaking views and modern amenities. Guests can unwind in well-appointed staterooms, dine on locally sourced cuisine, and enjoy evening entertainment at the Denali Square, a vibrant gathering space featuring live music, fireside seating, and Alaska-themed presentations.
New and Enhanced Itineraries for 2026
Holland America Line has expanded its offerings for the 2026 season, introducing new itineraries and enhancing existing ones to provide even more value and exploration opportunities.
13-Day Alaska, Denali, and Yukon Cruisetour
This new itinerary aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam or Westerdam begins in Fairbanks, where guests can immerse themselves in Alaskan culture before flying to Dawson City. After exploring the Yukon's gold rush history, the journey continues to Denali for a three-day adventure. The tour culminates with a scenic train ride aboard the McKinley Explorer to the ship, where guests embark on a seven-day cruise to Vancouver. This Cruisetour includes three complimentary excursions: the Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks, the Klondike Gold Tour in Dawson City, and the Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park.
Enhanced Inclusions Based on Guest Insights
Responding to emerging consumer preferences, Holland America Line now includes the Klondike Gold Tour and the Tundra Wilderness Tour in all Yukon & Denali itineraries. This enhancement ensures that guests receive a comprehensive and enriching experience, delving into both the natural splendours and historical narratives of the regions visited.
Booking Benefits: The Have It All Premium Package
To celebrate the launch of the 2026 Alaska Cruisetour Season, Holland America Line is offering an exclusive Have It All premium package. When guests book their Cruisetour with this package, they receive a suite of amenities designed to elevate their journey. This includes:
- Shore Excursions: Opportunities to explore ports of call with curated experiences.
- Specialty Dining: Access to the ship's speciality restaurants, offering diverse culinary delights.
- Signature Beverage Package: A wide selection of wines, beers, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Surf Wi-Fi: Stay connected with internet access throughout the voyage.
- Added Perks: Free prepaid Crew Appreciation, ensuring exceptional service, and upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi for an even more luxurious experience.
These inclusions provide outstanding value and convenience, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the adventure without worrying about additional costs.
Embark on Your Adventure: Planning and Booking
With Cruisetour fares starting at $2,259 per person, based on double occupancy and inclusive of taxes and fees, this is an opportune time to secure your place on a journey that promises to be both transformative and unforgettable.
As you contemplate this extraordinary voyage, imagine the thrill of witnessing glaciers calving into the sea, the serene beauty of Denali's snow-capped peaks, and the rich tapestry of history woven through the Yukon Territory. The Holland America Line's 2026 Alaska Cruisetour Season offers a rare chance to experience these wonders in one seamless adventure.
To explore the various itineraries and begin planning your journey, visit our Cruise Planner. Here, you can compare options, select your ideal stateroom, and customise your trip to ensure it aligns perfectly with your travel aspirations.
Start Your Alaskan Journey with S.W. Black Travel
At S.W. Black Travel, we are committed to turning your travel dreams into reality. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in every aspect of planning your 2026 Alaska Cruisetour with Holland America Line. From selecting the perfect stateroom to advising on the best itineraries and exclusive offers, we're here to ensure your journey is seamless and tailored to your desires.
Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Contact a travel adviser today to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Your exploration of Alaska's majestic landscapes and rich history awaits, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.
Comments