Holland America Line Marks 80 Years With Expansive 2027 Alaska Season

HAL 2027 Alaska Season
Holland America Line Marks 80 Years With Expansive 2027 Alaska Season
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Holland America Line is preparing to make 2027 a landmark year in its history, unveiling its largest Alaska deployment yet as the cruise line celebrates 80 years of exploring the Great Land. Across more than 100 sailings, six ships will take guests closer than ever to the glaciers, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage that define Alaska. From short scenic voyages to epic 28-day expeditions, the season promises a remarkable blend of nature, discovery, and comfort.

With enhanced Ultimate Alaska & Denali Cruisetours debuting in 2026 and a line-up of new and returning itineraries, Holland America Line is reinforcing its position as the cruise industry’s leader in Alaska exploration. Guests can expect more glacier encounters, more wildlife moments, and more opportunities to connect with local culture, both at sea and on land.

Six Ships, Countless Itineraries

The Holland America Line Alaska 2027 season will see Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Zaandam deployed to Alaska. Sailing between April and September, guests will have the choice of roundtrip voyages from Seattle or Vancouver, or journeys between Vancouver and Whittier.

Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice

The standout of the season is the 28-day Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice voyage aboard Noordam. Departing 6 June 2027, this itinerary times its arrival into the Arctic Circle with the Summer Solstice. Guests will visit 11 Alaskan ports, enjoy overnights in Anchorage, and experience late-night departures from Juneau and Valdez. Scenic cruising highlights include the Inside Passage and the Great Bear Rainforest.

A New 8-Day Alaska Inside Passage Voyage

In 2027, Holland America introduces a roundtrip Vancouver itinerary offering an extended look at the Inside Passage. This new 8-day sailing features Glacier Bay, calls to Skagway, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert, plus a late-night stay in Juneau. It’s an ideal choice for travellers seeking a slightly longer holiday without committing to multiple weeks at sea.

Pairing Alaska With British Columbia’s Wilderness

For guests wanting to go beyond Alaska, the Great Bear Rainforest cruises stand out. Whether sailing the 7-day itinerary roundtrip from Seattle or the immersive 18-day voyage from Vancouver, these journeys combine Alaskan highlights with the pristine landscapes of British Columbia, including Nanaimo, Prince Rupert, and Victoria.

HAL Alaska 2027 Interior

Enhanced Ultimate Alaska & Denali Cruisetours

For many travellers, a cruise to Alaska is just the beginning. Holland America’s Ultimate Alaska & Denali Cruisetours extend the experience inland, combining a 7-day Glacier Discovery voyage with multi-day overland adventures.

Multi-Day Adventures in the Interior

Starting in 2026, each Ultimate Cruisetour will include two nights at the Holland America Denali Lodge, plus a visit to Alyeska, Seward, or Homer. These stops allow guests to discover the rugged beauty of Alaska’s interior, from towering peaks to remote coastal towns.

Guided Experiences and Exclusive Wildlife Encounters

Every Ultimate Cruisetour will now feature a dedicated Tour Director, ensuring a seamless journey and offering insider knowledge on Alaska’s landscapes, wildlife, and history. Guests will also enjoy a complimentary visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where moose, bison, bears, and other native species can be seen up close.

Combining Land and Sea Seamlessly

These itineraries are carefully timed so guests can enjoy the best of both worlds: the comfort of Holland America’s ships at sea, and the raw, untouched beauty of inland Alaska. It’s a blend of luxury and adventure that few other cruise lines offer.

Westerdam

Glacier Encounters on Every Voyage

Holland America Line stands out with its Glacier Guarantee, ensuring glacier viewing on every Alaska cruise. These icy giants are the crown jewels of the region, and 2027 itineraries offer more opportunities than ever to get close to them.

Scenic Cruising Highlights

Depending on the itinerary, guests may sail into Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier, or Tracy Arm’s Twin Sawyer Glaciers. Ships often rotate on the spot, giving guests panoramic views from all sides.

Enriching the Experience With Park Rangers

During Glacier Bay scenic cruising, a National Park Ranger joins the voyage, sharing stories about the glaciers, the park’s history, and its wildlife. This adds a deeper level of understanding to the spectacular sights outside.

Shore Excursions to the Ice

Beyond ship-based viewing, excursions such as the 26 Glaciers Cruise from Whittier, a helicopter tour to the glaciers in Skagway, and a float trip at Mendenhall Glacier give guests an even more intimate perspective.

Wildlife and Cultural Immersion

Alaska is home to some of North America’s most iconic wildlife, and Holland America ensures guests have ample opportunity to see it in its natural habitat.

Expert Guidance Onboard

A wildlife expert sails on every Alaska voyage, helping guests identify and understand the animals spotted along the route. The onboard Wildlife Spotting Guide pinpoints the best places to see bears, whales, bald eagles, and more.

Locally Sourced Culinary Experiences

Through the Global Fresh Fish Program, fresh Alaskan seafood is brought from port to plate in less than 48 hours. Guests can sample exclusive dishes created by Fresh Fish Ambassador Chef Morimoto, alongside sustainably sourced, triple-certified seafood.

The “We Love Alaska” Program

This signature program brings local voices onboard. Expect workshops led by Alaskan residents, cultural presentations, and culinary events that showcase the traditions of the region. It’s a chance to connect not just with the place, but with the people who call it home.

With over 100 cruises and more than 175 shore excursions, the 2027 Alaska season is one of the most diverse in Holland America Line’s history. Whether you’re drawn to the drama of the glaciers, the thrill of spotting wildlife, or the cultural depth of the Great Land’s communities, there’s an itinerary for you.


Holland America’s milestone anniversary makes this an especially meaningful year to travel. The line’s expertise, combined with new itineraries and enhanced Cruisetours, ensures guests will see Alaska at its most vivid and unforgettable.

If you’re ready to find the perfect sailing, explore your options through the Cruise Finder and start planning an adventure tailored to your interests. No matter your travel style, this 80th anniversary season offers the chance to experience Alaska in ways that few others can match. Search available voyages now and let the journey begin with the Cruise Finder.

Celebrate Alaska’s Great Land With Holland America Line

Holland America Line’s 2027 Alaska program is not just another cruise season, it’s the culmination of eight decades of passion, knowledge, and exploration in one of the most captivating regions on Earth. From the glaciers and wildlife to the warmth of Alaskan communities, every moment is designed to immerse you in the destination.

If you want to be part of this historic year and create your own unforgettable stories in the Great Land, get in touch with us today. With so many exceptional itineraries on offer, now is the time to secure your place and join the celebrations.

Shane Black

Shane is the founder & managing director of S.W. Black Travel. He has travelled extensively and is never too far away from his next trip. His extensive knowledge and dedication to providing exceptional travel experiences have established S.W. Black Travel as a premier travel agency. Shane’s vision is to create unforgettable journeys for clients, combining personalised service with expert insights into the world’s most captivating destinations.

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