Holland America Line is doubling down on its reputation as the fjord authority, adding Zuiderdam to join Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam in dedicated Northern Europe service from 2027. This strategic expansion gives guests more chances to explore spectacular coastlines, historic capitals and remote Arctic landscapes with a line that blends Dutch heritage and modern comfort.
Zuiderdam Joins the Fleet
Zuiderdam’s addition means three ships cruising exclusively in Northern Europe, ensuring sailings won’t sell out as quickly. Departing from Amsterdam, she’ll bring Holland America’s signature “Dutch Touch” to new voyages, from Scandinavian fjords to Greenland’s iceberg-dotted waters. Guests will appreciate fresh itineraries and the familiarity of Holland America service delivered aboard a vessel fully updated for 2027.
Homeport Flexibility in Rotterdam and Amsterdam
Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam maintain their Rotterdam homeport, while Zuiderdam embarks from Amsterdam — both gateways tucked into the heart of the Netherlands. Each ship will also offer departures from Reykjavik, Iceland, giving passengers in the UK and North America options to fly directly to the ship. This flexibility eases logistics and maximises time ashore in unique Northern European cities.
Expanded Itineraries and Departure Ports
In 2027, Holland America Line sailings range from seven-night getaways to 21-day odysseys. Itineraries include roundtrips from Dover, England, and Reykjavik, plus seasonal crossings from Fort Lauderdale and Miami in the spring and autumn. Whether you prefer the classic “Voyage of the Vikings” or shorter “Viking Homelands” loops, the extra ship means more departure dates and cabin choices than ever before.
Designing the Authentic Northern European Experience
Holland America’s “Dutch Touch” goes beyond windmills and wooden shoes; it’s woven into every detail of a Northern Europe cruise. Onboard traditions, regional cuisine and culturally inspired entertainment transform a voyage into a deep-dive discovery of the world’s northernmost realms.
The Dutch Touch Onboard
Every ship in the region season features “Dutch Day,” a floating festival celebrating the Netherlands with tulip-themed décor, clog-painting workshops and streaming performances of Dutch folk music. Signature lounges serve genever-inspired cocktails, while the ship’s décor nods to Dutch design principles—clean lines, natural materials and thoughtful simplicity—creating a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Local Flavours and Cocktails
Dining on these cruises centres local sourcing and seasonal tastes. Passengers might savour Norwegian salmon cured aboard with fresh dill or sample a “Nordic Negroni” made by award-winning Dutch bartender Tess Posthumus. Specialty restaurants showcase Baltic rye breads, Icelandic skyr desserts and British teas, promising a culinary journey as varied as the ports themselves.
Cultural Immersion Through ‘Up Close’ Presentations
Complementing shore days, the onboard “Up Close” lecture series brings historians, naturalists and local experts onto the stage. You’ll learn about Viking navigation techniques, the geology of Greenland’s ice sheets and the art of Baltic craftsmanship. Evening performances may feature German oom-pah bands or Irish step dancers, extending cultural discovery well past the gangway.
Exploring Fjords, Capitals, and Arctic Marvels
From Norway’s emerald-green fjords to Iceland’s volcanic coastlines, Holland America’s expanded fleet delivers unparalleled vistas. Each itinerary is crafted to accentuate nature’s grandeur alongside storied cities and UNESCO-listed treasures.
Norwegian and Icelandic Fjord Cruising
Holland America’s reputation as a fjord authority means expertly mapped routes through Sognefjord, Geirangerfjord and Eyjafjörður, among others. Guests can admire cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs and drifting icebergs from their stateroom balconies or the ship’s observation lounges. Expert narration by onboard naturalists brings each landscape to life with insights into wildlife, geology and folklore.
Baltic Capitals and Viking Homelands
Itineraries in the Baltic and Scandinavia visit iconic capitals such as Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm, each offering late-night or overnight stays. Beyond cities, optional excursions delve into Viking homelands with The HISTORY Channel partnerships, exploring ancient rune stones, stave churches and Viking ship museums. It’s a seamless blend of past and present, ideal for history buffs and curious families alike.
British Isles and Greenland Adventures
The expanded season includes visits to Liverpool, Killybegs and Reykjavik, plus extended Greenland calls that few lines offer. In Nuuk, experience Inuit culture and dramatic fjord vistas, while Greenland’s remote settlements provide rare glimpses of Arctic life. These off-the-beaten-path ports reward explorers seeking serenity and authenticity beyond Europe’s usual hotspots.
Customising Your Voyage with Holland America
Planning a cruise is more than choosing dates; it’s about selecting the right cabin, excursions and extras that suit your style and interests. Holland America offers an array of choices to personalise every element of your Northern Europe adventure.
Cabin Options for Every Traveller
Whether you prefer a cosy interior stateroom or a suite with private verandah, Holland America’s fleet offers categories to match every need. Mid-ship balconies deliver smooth sailing and easy access to public spaces, while aft suites boast expansive views and butler service. For those seeking wellness, select AquaClass cabins include spa-inspired amenities and exclusive access to the Thermal Spa.
Innovative Shore Excursions and Late Departures
Late-evening departures and overnight ports are a hallmark of these itineraries, allowing guests to savour local nightlife and sunrise vistas. Excursions range from hiking to hidden waterfalls in Iceland to gourmet walking tours in Riga. Many experiences are curated with regional partners, ensuring authenticity and small-group access to cultural sites and natural wonders.
Premium ‘Have It All’ Packages and Mariner Benefits
To elevate your journey, the Have It All premium package bundles shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi-Fi — plus prepaid crew appreciation and complimentary upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi. Mariner Society loyalty members can also claim up to US$400 onboard credit per stateroom (A$608) when booking by 27 August 2025, making luxury more accessible.
Before you map your journey to the land of the midnight sun and emerald fjords, explore all sailings and cabin categories with our intuitive Cruise Finder. Real-time availability, detailed deck plans and departure filters help you craft the perfect itinerary without endless searches. Whether you’re coordinating family schedules around school holidays or syncing your bucket list with Aurora forecasts, Cruise Finder simplifies planning.
Planning early not only secures your preferred stateroom — whether a forward-facing balcony for glacier gazing or a suite steps from the Observation Lounge — but also unlocks exclusive pre-sale offers and cabin upgrades.
Secure Your Northern Europe Cruises Today
Holland America Line’s tripling of its Northern Europe presence for 2027 reaffirms its status as the premier Northern Europe cruises specialist. From the comfort of three dedicated ships, you’ll traverse glittering capitals, majestic fjords and remote Arctic outposts with genuine Dutch flair and attention to detail.
Ready to discover why Northern Europe captivates travellers year after year? Contact our cruise specialists and we’ll craft a voyage tailored to your interests, complete with the ideal cabin, excursions and premium packages. Your next extraordinary adventure awaits.
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