Holland America Line has just unveiled an exciting opportunity for avid travellers with their 2026 Grand Voyages. These incredible journeys promise an immersive exploration of the world's most fascinating destinations aboard the luxurious Volendam and Zaandam. Here’s a closer look at what awaits on these spectacular cruises.
An Unforgettable Journey Begins
Holland America Line’s Grand Voyages are renowned for their comprehensive itineraries and unparalleled experiences. For 2026, the cruise line has introduced two grand voyages that are bound to captivate travellers: the 132-day Grand World Voyage aboard Volendam and the 93-day Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage on Zaandam. Both voyages depart in January 2026, offering guests the chance to explore a combined 80 ports across the globe, all from the comfort of Holland America Line’s world-class ships.
The Grand World Voyage
The Grand World Voyage aboard Volendam sets sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 4, 2026. This 132-day journey traverses the globe, visiting 48 ports across 25 countries and touching all seven continents. Highlights of this extraordinary voyage include scenic cruising in Antarctica, an overnight stay in Alexandria, Egypt, and visits to iconic destinations like Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, and Oslo.
Beth Bodensteiner, Chief Commercial Officer for Holland America Line, shared her excitement: "Our Grand Voyages are renowned for connecting guests with the world’s most fascinating places while sailing roundtrip from the United States. Our team crafted this itinerary to show guests the parts of Australia and New Zealand they expect to visit, but also included frequently asked for, but rarely visited, ports throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands."
The Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage
For those dreaming of an extended exploration of the South Pacific, the Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage aboard Zaandam is the perfect choice. Departing from San Diego, California, on January 4, 2026, this 93-day voyage takes guests to 44 ports across 10 countries. This immersive journey features overnight stays in Honolulu, Sydney, and Auckland, and scenic cruising in the Great Barrier Reef.
Guests will have the chance to explore diverse destinations such as Fiji, French Polynesia, and Papua New Guinea. The voyage includes visits to lesser-known ports, providing a unique and intimate travel experience. As Bodensteiner noted, these itineraries are crafted to offer guests both the expected and the extraordinary, ensuring a truly memorable adventure.
Exclusive Early Booking Benefits
Travellers who book the full 132-day Grand World Voyage or the 93-day Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage by June 16, 2025, can take advantage of generous early booking bonuses. These perks include onboard spending credits, complimentary roundtrip airport transfers, and a variety of additional amenities valued at up to $9,350 or $7,900 per person, respectively.
For those who book early, the benefits are plentiful. They include up to $2,000 in onboard credits per guest, complimentary luggage delivery service, prepaid crew appreciation, a free shore excursion, and laundry and dry-cleaning services. Additionally, guests can enjoy a 3% discount for paying in full.
Luxurious Onboard Experience
Holland America Line is known for its exceptional service, superior amenities, and unique onboard experiences. Guests on these Grand Voyages can look forward to leisurely days at sea filled with enriching activities and evenings featuring local cultural performances and special guest headliners. Festive gala balls, dressy nights, and the Captain’s Grand Voyage Dinner add a touch of elegance to the journey.
Dining aboard Volendam and Zaandam is a culinary delight, with menus that change daily and feature local ingredients and regional cuisine. The ships’ intimate size allows access to smaller ports, offering guests a more personal and in-depth exploration of each destination.
Plan Your Grand Adventure
To embark on this next chapter of luxury cruising, reach out to a travel adviser at S.W. Black Travel, ensuring your journey on board these magnificent vessels is tailored to perfection, including being onboard with Holland America Line and beyond.
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