Sailing Boldly Into a New Chapter of Purpose and Discovery
In the world of premium cruising, few names evoke the same sense of timeless elegance and thoughtful exploration as Holland America Line. With over 150 years of maritime heritage, the brand continues to chart new waters — not just geographically, but in how travelers experience, dine, and even reflect on the world around them.
This season, Holland America unveils an inspired blend of innovation, sustainability, and celestial wonder. It’s more than a cruise; it’s a voyage of meaning, wonder, and refined experiences.
Let’s take a closer look at the stories redefining the journey.
Eclipses and Exploration: A Front-Row Seat to the Cosmos
August 12, 2026, marks a rare astronomical event: a total solar eclipse. But while many will watch from land, Holland America guests will be sailing through the path of totality, experiencing it from one of the most pristine viewing locations on Earth — the open sea.
Holland America has curated three unique Solar Eclipse Voyages that combine immersive itineraries with scientific enrichment, onboard lectures, and commentary from expert astronomers:
- Legendary Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse aboard Zuiderdam offers 35 days of northern exploration, from Boston to Greenland, Iceland, and beyond — with insight from Boston University physicist Dr. Meers Oppenheim.
- Mediterranean Solar Eclipse aboard Oosterdam blends sun, sea, and science on a 13-day Lisbon-to-Athens itinerary, featuring astrophysicist Professor Adam Burgasser.
- Legendary Solar Eclipse with Greenland & Scotland aboard Nieuw Statendam explores Northern Europe over 28 days, with commentary and stargazing hosted by astronomy author Tom Vassos.
Each sailing includes special programming, eclipse viewing glasses, and expert-led activities that invite guests to look up — and see the world and universe differently.
Koningstafel: A Royal Table at Sea
Holland America’s passion for culinary excellence is well documented. But this season, they’ve taken it one step further with the introduction of Koningstafel — a name that means “King’s Table” in Dutch, and a dining experience worthy of royalty.
This intimate, multi-course chef’s table is now available fleetwide on select 14-day + cruises, following its successful debut on Oosterdam. It begins with a private cocktail reception, featuring the signature gin-based cocktail “You Should See Me In A Crown.” Guests then receive an exclusive galley tour led by the ship’s Executive Chef — a behind-the-scenes look at where the culinary magic happens.
What follows is a six-course journey of taste and elegance:
- Wagyu steak tartare amuse-bouche
- Butter-poached lobster tail
- Truffle malfatti with roasted mushroom espuma
- A citrus-sorbet intermezzo
- Delectable entrées and desserts, paired with premium wines
Koningstafel isn’t just a meal — it’s a celebration of Holland America’s “Made Fresh Daily” philosophy, where regional ingredients, artistry, and storytelling come together to create a moment you’ll savor long after the voyage ends.
Sustainability with Soul: Coasters with a Story
In an era where conscious travel matters more than ever, Holland America is transforming not just where we go — but how we leave a legacy.
This summer, the cruise line announced an inspiring collaboration with Danish textile innovator Dansk Wilton, turning recycled cruise ship carpet into stylish, functional, and sustainable sets of coasters. The result? Over 12,000 coaster sets made from 3,300 pounds of retired carpet from Oosterdam, Eurodam, and Nieuw Amsterdam.
Each set of four coasters features subtle nautical textures and patterns and will be available for onboard purchase beginning October 2025. It’s a small item with a big story — a keepsake that represents Holland America’s commitment to circular design and meaningful sustainability.
Future ideas are already underway, with potential for matching postcards, notebooks, signage, and art created from repurposed materials. Sustainability has never looked — or felt — so sophisticated.
A Brand That Balances Legacy and Vision
For travelers who appreciate heritage with a forward-thinking twist, Holland America Line remains in a class of its own. The recent announcements — from eclipse cruises to elevated dining to purpose-driven souvenirs — are more than news items. They’re reflections of a company that listens to its guests, cares for the planet, and keeps evolving while staying rooted in tradition.
Whether you’re watching the stars align over the Atlantic, savoring truffle pasta under the glow of chandeliered ceilings, or sipping coffee from a coaster made of your ship’s past — the journey with Holland America Line is never ordinary.
Why It Matters Now
In a world where travel is often rushed, transactional, or overly commercialized, Holland America invites us to slow down — to reconnect with what makes voyaging special: the wonder of the sea, the joy of discovery, and the elegance of doing things with care and intention.
This isn’t just a cruise. It’s an invitation to experience the world with depth, dignity, and delight.
So, where will your next story begin?
