
Holland America Line is setting sail for another awe-inspiring Alaska cruise season beginning Saturday, April 26, 2025. Renowned as one of the foremost cruise operators in Alaska, the cruise line is deploying six ships—Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam, and Zaandam—to traverse breathtaking Alaskan waters on itineraries departing from Seattle, Washington; Vancouver, British Columbia; and between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage), Alaska.
With an ever-deepening commitment to Alaska, Holland America Line is elevating both onboard amenities and overland experiences. Guests will be treated to unforgettable adventures—from cruising through the towering glaciers of Glacier Bay to hiking across the pristine landscapes of Mendenhall Glacier National Recreation Area. Travelers may also catch a glimpse of Alaska’s famed “Big Five” wildlife and even venture beyond the Arctic Circle.
A Season Packed with Signature Cruises and Economic Impact
Through September 2025, Holland America’s Alaska itineraries will feature consistent port calls—twice weekly in Seattle and three times weekly in Vancouver—delivering a substantial economic impact. Guest spending, local provisioning, and ship services are projected to inject approximately USD 150 million into both homeport economies this season.
Every journey captures the line’s signature “Savor the Journey” ethos, blending scenic splendor with deep cultural connections. With Destination Dining highlighting regional cuisine, immersive shore excursions, and enriching onboard experiences, the line creates lasting impressions at every turn.
“Glacier Day” Celebrates Alaska’s Icy Wonders
Each voyage includes a specially curated “Glacier Day,” where the spotlight falls on Alaska’s icy giants. Guests can expect live narration from Glacier Bay National Park Rangers, educational talks by Huna cultural interpreters, and local flavors such as Dutch Pea Soup and glacier-inspired cocktails. Glacier destinations on these cruises include Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Dawes Glacier, and the Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm.
Shore excursions further extend glacier access, offering visits to Mendenhall and Portage Glaciers for those wanting to explore on land.
Fresh Fish, Chef Morimoto Specials, and Alaskan Brunches
Alaska sailings will feature the Global Fresh Fish Program, ensuring local fish is served onboard within 48 hours of catch. Culinary icon Chef Masaharu Morimoto has contributed three standout dishes exclusive to Alaska cruises: Fresh Black Cod Yuzu, Lobster 2-Ways, and Fresh Halibut XO.
Live cooking demonstrations, co-hosted by ship chefs and cruise directors, give guests insight into local cooking traditions and techniques. These dishes, along with others from the cooking show, are served in the Dining Room the same evening.
Once per sailing, guests can indulge in an Alaska Brunch featuring iconic regional flavors like Alaskan Blueberry Pancakes, Reindeer Sausage, Wild Mushroom Crepes, and Home-Smoked Gulf of Alaska Cod Eggs Benedict.
Cheers to Alaska: Regionally Inspired Drinks
Acclaimed mixologist Sam Ross returns with exclusive Alaska-inspired cocktails like the Sitka Spritz and Inside Hand. Guests can also enjoy local brews like Killer Whale Pale Ale, Kilt Lifter Ale, Alaska Amber, Icy Bay IPA, and Juneau Juice Hazy IPA.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation Initiatives
With more wildlife-focused excursions than any other cruise line in Alaska, Holland America Line places a strong emphasis on connecting guests with nature. Onboard wildlife experts and detailed spotting guides help travelers identify local species throughout the cruise route.
Proceeds from Alaska Brunch cocktails and plush toys of “Eland the Moose” benefit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC), supporting conservation and animal care efforts. Select itineraries also include visits to the AWCC for an up-close look at Alaska’s native species and alpine landscapes.
Denali and Yukon Cruisetours Deepen the Adventure
For a comprehensive land-and-sea experience, Denali and Yukon Cruisetours (nine to 18 days) pair Alaska cruises with overland journeys to Denali National Park and Canada’s Yukon Territory—a feature exclusive to Holland America Line.
Cruisetour guests enjoy up to three nights at Holland America’s Denali Lodge, where a new $70 million investment brings enhancements such as an upgraded interpretive riverside trail, updated guest rooms, refreshed dining concepts at Canyon Ridge Grill (formerly Canyon Steakhouse), and casual favorites like Dive-In burgers and hand-tossed pizzas at Karsten’s.
Noteworthy 2025 Itineraries
- 28-day Arctic Circle Solstice Cruise: Westerdam departs June 8 for a rare sailing through the Bering Sea and Arctic Circle during the Summer Solstice.
- 14-day Great Alaska Explorer: Roundtrip from Vancouver with calls at eight Alaska ports.
- 7-day Glacier Discovery Cruises: Northbound and southbound between Whittier and Vancouver on Nieuw Amsterdam and Noordam.
- 7-day Alaska Explorer Cruises: Roundtrip from Seattle on Eurodam and Westerdam.
- 7-day Inside Passage Voyages: Sail roundtrip from Vancouver aboard Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Zaandam.
Giving Back to Alaska’s Parks
Holland America Line’s “On Deck for a Cause: Alaska’s Parks” initiative continues for 2025. This 5k onboard walk raises funds for Alaska Geographic, supporting environmental education and conservation. Guests who participate donate $25, helping sustain Alaska’s pristine wilderness for future generations.
The post Holland America Line Launches Spectacular 2025 Alaska Season with Six Cruise Ships and New Immersive Experiences appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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