Holland America Line is gearing up for an unforgettable summer with the launch of Holland America Line Alaska cruises, setting sail from 26 April through September 2025. Guests boarding these voyages can look forward to expansive views of rugged coastlines, pristine forests and the chance to explore remote wilderness areas in unparalleled comfort.
With six ships—Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam—operating roundtrip from Seattle, roundtrip from Vancouver (Canada) and between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage), the line continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in Alaska expedition cruising. Each departure promises immersive onboard programming and thoughtfully curated shore excursions designed to connect travellers with Alaska’s natural and cultural treasures.
Unveiling the 2025 Alaska Season
Holland America Line’s 2025 season introduces a robust lineup of itineraries tailored to various interests and timelines. Six ships will traverse the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay and beyond, offering flexible voyage lengths ranging from seven-day Glacier Discovery cruises to an extraordinary 28-day Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice adventure.
These Holland America Line Alaska cruises voyages feature twice-weekly calls at Seattle, thrice-weekly departures from Vancouver and seamless transfers between sea and land at Whittier. With professionally guided land tours, guests can extend their experiences via Cruisetours that combine sea travel with overland journeys to Denali National Park and the Yukon.
Immersive Glacier Experiences
Every voyage highlights Glacier Day, a dedicated celebration of Alaska’s spectacular ice formations. On this day, ships position alongside a chosen glacier—be it Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier or the Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm—to deliver panoramic sighting opportunities.
Deckside festivities include scenic commentary, presentations by Glacier Bay National Park Rangers, Glacial Ice cocktails and Dutch Pea Soup served al fresco. Informational viewing stations and an open bow for Glacier Bay crossings ensure guests gain context and appreciation for these giants of ice, making each passage a profound encounter with nature.
Destination Dining™ and the Global Fresh Fish Program
Holland America Line’s Destination Dining™ concept brings regional flavours onboard through locally sourced ingredients and thematic menus. In Alaska, the Global Fresh Fish Program delivers seafood from port to plate within 48 hours, showcasing the freshest catches of the season.
Signature dishes by Fresh Fish Ambassador Chef Morimoto—such as Black Cod Yuzu, Lobster Two Ways and Halibut XO—feature prominently in live Cooking Shows. Held twice per seven-day sailing, these demonstrations delve into Alaska’s culinary heritage and fishing traditions, culminating in featured dishes served that evening in the Dining Room.
An Alaska Brunch completes the culinary journey, with offerings like Alaskan Blueberry Pancakes, Salmon & Potato Chowder, Wild Mushroom Tarragon Crepes and hot-smoked Gulf of Alaska Cod Benny. Savoury and sweet creations draw on Pacific Northwest bounty, delivering a flavourful portrait of the region’s finest produce.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation Initiatives
True to its promise of more wildlife viewing than any other line, Holland America Line assigns a dedicated wildlife expert to each ship. Guests receive a Wildlife Spotting Guide and can attend presentations on local species—bears, moose, eagles, whales and mountain goats—while shore excursions extend opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitats.
In support of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a portion of proceeds from the Alaska Brunch cocktails and Eland the Moose plush toy sales are donated to conservation efforts. This partnership exemplifies the line’s commitment to preserving Alaska’s ecosystems and raising awareness of vital wildlife initiatives.
Denali & Yukon Cruisetours
For land-based exploration, Cruisetours range from nine to 18 days, incorporating one- to three-night stays at Holland America Denali Lodge. These overland extensions offer access to Denali National Park’s majestic peaks and the vast Yukon wilderness—an exclusive offering not available from any other cruise line.
Recent investments of USD 70 million (approx. AUD 105 million) in Denali Lodge enhancements include updated guest rooms, an expanded riverside interpretive trail and refined culinary offerings at Canyon Ridge Grill. Combined sea and land packages create seamless transitions between glacier voyages and interior adventures, allowing deeper immersion into Alaska’s heartland.
Economic Impact & Community Engagement
The Alaska season is projected to funnel USD 150 million (approx. AUD 225 million) into Seattle and Vancouver economies through guest and crew spending on local goods, fuel and provisioning. This infusion supports regional suppliers—from commercial fisheries to artisan craftspeople—and bolsters employment in tourism and logistics sectors.
Holland America Line further strengthens community ties with its On Deck for a Cause programme, inviting guests to participate in a $25 fundraising walk aboard each sailing. Proceeds benefit Alaska Geographic’s educational and research initiatives, reinforcing the line’s ethos of responsible tourism and local stewardship.
Holland America Line remains dedicated to inclusive travel experiences, ensuring that shore excursions and onboard programming appeal to an international audience keen to explore Alaska’s wonders. Plan your perfect Alaska adventure with tailored filters, expert insights and real-time availability at Cruise Finder.
Dive Into Your Alaska Adventure
Embark on an epic journey through Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife and wilderness with Holland America Line. Contact S.W. Black Travel to book your Alaska cruise and let the experts help you navigate the best itinerary for your dream voyage.
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