Holland America Line has announced an exciting extension of its 2026 Europe season, giving travellers even more chances to explore Europe’s diverse landscapes aboard Nieuw Statendam. This six-week expansion adds four compelling voyages—ranging from the mystical Northern Lights of Norway to an immersive overnight in Lisbon—and builds on the line’s reputation for personalised service and culturally rich itineraries. Departing roundtrip or one-way from historic Rotterdam, Holland America Line invites guests to discover familiar favourites and hidden treasures across the continent.
Embracing Northern Wonders: Arctic Journey & Northern Lights
For those drawn to the ethereal glow of the aurora borealis, Holland America Line’s newly added 14‑day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights cruise (departing 7 November 2026) promises an unforgettable adventure. Sailing north from Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam calls at Ålesund and Trondheim before crossing the Arctic Circle—where the sky transforms into a canvas of dancing colours. In Tromsø, the so-called “Capital of the Arctic,” guests can join guided expeditions to aurora-viewing spots under pristine dark skies, then spend an enchanting overnight in Alta, known as the world’s premier Northern Lights capital.
Throughout the voyage, Holland America Line’s signature Wake-Up Call service alerts guests the moment the aurora appears, ensuring no one misses this natural spectacle. The itinerary also ventures to Leknes in the Lofoten Islands, a remote archipelago prized for its dramatic coastal cliffs and quiet fishing villages. By blending late-night port stays with immersive shore excursions—such as a reindeer sledding outing or a local Sami cultural visit—this cruise taps into the heart of Arctic Norway like never before.
Mediterranean & Atlantic Treasures: Lisbon Overnight
On 21 November 2026, Nieuw Statendam embarks on a 14‑day Lisbon Overnight journey that marries Mediterranean sun with Atlantic heritage. After sailing past the rugged shores of northern Spain, guests disembark in Cadiz to explore Andalusia’s flamenco rhythms and historic fortresses, before continuing to Malaga’s blooming gardens and the hilltop palaces of Granada.
Further south, the ship visits Alicante and Cartagena, where Roman ruins and modern marinas coexist along the Costa Blanca. Gibraltar’s iconic Rock offers panoramic views of two continents, while Porto’s gateway, Leixoes, leads to UNESCO-listed cityscapes and world-renowned wine cellars. The highlight of this voyage is the overnight in Lisbon: with a full day and evening ashore, travellers can stroll the mosaic-lined Avenida da Liberdade, sample caldo verde in traditional tascas and visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery under moonlight. This roundtrip exploration from Rotterdam marks Holland America Line’s first Mediterranean departure from the port in a decade, opening a new chapter in European cruising.
Short & Cultural Crossings
For guests seeking a taste of Norway’s fjords on a tighter timeline, the seven‑day Norway with Nordfjord cruise offers awe-inspiring scenery and quaint coastal towns. From the glacial waters of Nordfjord to the pastoral beauty of Geiranger, passengers can kayak under towering cliffs or join a local guide for a hike past thundering waterfalls—all complemented by intimate onboard lectures on Norwegian history and folklore.
Alternatively, the 15‑day Cultural Crossing with England and Normandy unveils Europe’s historic northern coastlines. Beginning with a scenic Channel crossing, guests savour calls in historic Dover and vibrant Bruges before arriving in the hinterland to explore Calvados distilleries and the D-Day beaches. This voyage blends heritage tours, such as the Bayeux Tapestry museum visit, with gourmet dining experiences aboard Nieuw Statendam, illustrating Holland America Line’s dedication to connecting guests with local culture through thoughtfully curated itineraries.
Premium Value with Have It All & Mariner Society Bonuses
Booking one of these newly extended 2026 Europe season sailings with the Have It All premium package enhances value and convenience. The package bundles shore excursions, specialty dining, the Signature Beverage Package and Surf Wi‑Fi into a seamless offering, while adding free prepaid crew appreciation and upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi‑Fi. Loyal Mariner Society members also benefit from an Exclusive Early Booking Bonus—up to USD 400 (approx. AUD 608) onboard credit per stateroom when booking by 9 July 2025.
These enticing incentives underscore Holland America Line’s commitment to rewarding loyalty and ensuring every voyage is as stress-free and enriching as possible.
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Secure Your Spot on the Extended Europe Season
Don’t miss the chance to experience Holland America Line’s expanded European voyages in 2026. Get in touch with a travel adviser at S.W. Black Travel to book your 2026 Europe season voyage and let our specialists help you plan a truly memorable cruise, complete with exclusive perks and personalised service.
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