Holland America Line is set to offer an unparalleled European cruising experience for the 2026 season. With four ships sailing across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canary Islands, and transatlantic routes, guests can choose from meticulously crafted itineraries ranging from seven to 42 days. This season promises more ports, longer stays, and unique celestial events that will make any European adventure unforgettable.
Exploring the Mediterranean Aboard Oosterdam
For those looking to immerse themselves in the Mediterranean through Holland America Line, the Oosterdam will host a series of Collectors' Voyages, ranging from 14 to 27 days. These journeys can be combined to create extensive 21-day itineraries with no repeat ports, allowing guests to thoroughly explore the region. Departing from Lisbon, Piraeus (Athens), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Trieste (Venice), these cruises offer a diverse range of starting points and destinations.
"There's so much to see throughout the Mediterranean region and by creating itineraries from multiple homeports we're giving our guests the opportunity to explore more ports and countries in an exciting way we haven't offered before," said Paul Grigsby, Holland America Line's vice president of revenue planning and deployment.
Northern Europe Aboard Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam
Guests looking to explore Northern Europe can climb aboard the Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam. Both Pinnacle-Class ships will return to their homeport in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, with Nieuw Statendam also offering select sailings from Dover, England. The 2026 season will feature an increased number of seven-day cruises to Norway's fjords and open-jaw sailings between Reykjavik, Iceland, and Rotterdam.
Additionally, this season introduces four new ports: Aberdeen, Scotland; Kalundborg, Denmark; Odda, Norway; and Portsmouth, England. These additions enhance the already rich itinerary options, allowing guests to experience over 80 ports across 20 countries.
Further Highlights of the 2026 Europe Season
Six Celestial Cruises
Holland America Line's 2026 season includes six celestial cruises, featuring three solar eclipse sailings, two Northern Lights cruises, and one summer solstice Arctic Circle crossing. These unique itineraries provide guests with front-row seats to some of the world's most extraordinary natural phenomena.
- July 18, 2026, 35-Day Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse (Legendary Voyage), Zuiderdam, roundtrip from Boston, Massachusetts.
- July 25, 2026, 28-Day Scandinavian Solar Eclipse with Greenland and Scotland (Legendary Voyage), Nieuw Statendam, roundtrip from Dover, England, or roundtrip from Rotterdam.
- Aug. 9, 2026, 13-Day Mediterranean Solar Eclipse with Barcelona Overnight, Oosterdam, from Lisbon, Portugal, to Piraeus (Athens), Greece.
- Oct. 4, 2026, 14-Day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights, Rotterdam, from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Oct. 17, 2026, 14-Day Arctic Journey and Northern Lights, Nieuw Statendam, roundtrip Rotterdam.
- June 13, 2026, 14-Day Arctic Circle Crossing: North Cape Solstice, Nieuw Statendam, roundtrip from Dover or Rotterdam.
Extensive Port Options
With 11 departure cities and 12 overnight ports, guests have numerous options for embarking on their European journey. From iconic cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Amsterdam to unique destinations such as Reykjavik and Fort Lauderdale, the variety ensures every traveller's needs are met.
Canary Islands and Transatlantic Journeys
Canary Islands Exploration
Nieuw Statendam will visit the Canary Islands on 13-day and 14-day "Canary Island Enchantment" itineraries. These cruises depart roundtrip from Rotterdam, with ports of call including Madeira, Portugal, and various locations in England.
Transatlantic Crossings
In March and April, Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam will cross the Atlantic Ocean from Fort Lauderdale to Rotterdam on 14-day cruises. Oosterdam will also cross from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona on a 14-day itinerary. These transatlantic voyages offer a unique opportunity to experience the ocean's vastness while enjoying Holland America Line's luxurious amenities.
Collectors' Voyages Combine Non-Repeating Itineraries
Many of the cruises can be extended into Collectors' Voyages, offering the ultimate European exploration. By combining two seven-day itineraries or longer non-repeating voyages, guests can create journeys up to 42 days, visiting more ports and experiencing centuries of art, history, and culture.
Have It All Early Booking Bonus
For a limited time, guests who book 2026 Europe cruises with the Have It All premium package will receive standard package amenities, including shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, and Surf Wi-Fi. Additionally, they will enjoy free prepaid crew appreciation, free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package, and Premium Wi-Fi.
Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus
Mariner Society loyalty members can enjoy up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom when these cruises open for sale. Guests must book by Oct. 29, 2024, to receive this exclusive bonus.
Start Your European Adventure with Holland America Line
Embark on a journey through Europe with Holland America Line's meticulously crafted itineraries for 2026. Whether you're exploring the Mediterranean or Northern Europe, each voyage offers unique experiences and unforgettable memories. At S.W. Black Travel, we are dedicated to helping you plan the perfect European cruise. Book a call with a travel adviser to start organising your adventure, designing an unforgettable European cruise tailored just for you.
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