holland america cruises south pacific

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Holland America: Included Drinks, Tours, Specia...

Holland America South Pacific/Tahiti cruises from $2,129*

Holland America Holiday cruises from $499*

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Holland America Line South Pacific / Tahiti Cruises

All your cares seem to fade away as you sail through the serene beauty of the South Pacific. Here you’ll experience stunning sunsets, beaches with soothing shore lines and welcoming cultures. Your Holland America ship offers the perfect balance to the island. Onboard you’ll experience service that goes above and beyond and find comfort in daily rituals. However, these rituals get thrown out the window when you stop in port because each port has something different to offer. You’ll find yourself going from a day lounging on a beach in Fiji  to an afternoon visiting a sacred temple in Bali or even pearl diving in Bora Bora. 

View Holland America Cruises to South Pacific & Tahiti

Things to Do on a South Pacific Cruise with Holland America Line

Experience the beauty of natural land and water when you explore the islands of the South Pacific with Holland America. Remember those beautiful National Geographic images of tropical destinations? In the South Pacific and Fiji, these images come to life and you can truly experience a more laid-back lifestyle. Featured below are a few of our favorite things to do when cruising to the South Pacific and Tahiti with Holland America:

• Fijian Traditions & Beauty (Lautoka, Fiji) Raise your glass as you drink kava in a traditional kava ceremony, and then watch as locals sing and dance for you. Afterwards you’ll take a tour through an orchid garden to learn about the local flora and then drive through the region while passing through sugar cane plantations.  

• Shark & Ray Encounter & Coral Garden Snorkel (Bora Bora, French Polynesia) Take a lagoon cruiser out to a shallow sandbank where stingrays are known to frequent. Here you’ll get in the water and watch as they swim around you – and you can even touch them! Then travel to the coral gardens to snorkel amidst the colorful fish.  

• Moorea Overnight – Garden Bungalow (Papeete, Tahiti) Take a ferry to Moorea where you’ll spend the night in your own bungalow. This is the perfect excursion for people looking to relieve their stress and spend some time lounging in the beach and wading into the beautiful waters.  

• Anapa Pearl Farm (Raiatea, Polynesia) Get an in-depth view of the local black pearl when you tour the Anapa Pearl Farm. You’ll see how an oyster and some human ingenuity combine to create a rare gem.  

• Royal Temple, Monkey Forest & Tanah Lot Pagoda (Benoa, Bali) Experience some of the history and culture of beautiful Bali when you visit the beautiful Pura Taman Ayung Temple and the Tanah Lot Pagoda. Then you can also get a little cheeky with the mischievous monkeys at the Alas Kedaton forest.  

• Komodo Island Trek (Komodo, Indonesia) Visit the Komodo National Park where you’ll encounter 11-foot-long Komodo dragons, cockatoos and black-napped orioles. You’ll have a great time learning about the local animals and taking pictures.  

Top 10 Holland America Line South Pacific / Tahiti Cruises

• Westerdam 23-day South Pacific Crossing Departing From Seattle, Washington (Oct 2024)
• Westerdam 58-day South Pacific & Australia Circumnavigation Collector Departing From Seattle, Washington (Oct 2024)
• Westerdam 43-day New Zealand & South Pacific Crossing Collector Departing From Auckland, New Zealand (Mar 2025)
• Westerdam 29-day South Pacific Crossing Departing From Sydney, Australia (Mar 2025)
• Noordam 27-day South Pacific Crossing Departing From Seattle, Washington (Oct 2025)
• Noordam 41-day South Pacific Crossing & New Zealand Collector Departing From Seattle, Washington (Oct 2025)
• Noordam 50-day New Zealand & South Pacific Crossing Collector Departing From Auckland, New Zealand (Mar 2026)
• Noordam 36-day South Pacific Crossing Departing From Sydney, Australia (Mar 2026)

Holland America Line South Pacific / Tahiti Departure Ports

Learn more about the different departure ports for a South Pacific and Tahiti cruise with Holland America. Your Holland America South Pacific and Tahiti cruise could depart from any of the following cities:

Auckland, New Zealand

The mild temperatures in Auckland enhance an outdoorsy cruise destination. Tour the many beaches, hike beautiful mountain ranges or just wander Auckland’s city streets.

Known as The Emerald City, Seattle is a beautiful, luscious city with incredible views of the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay. The city is full of activities for both water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The near perfect days, beautiful scenery, pristine beaches and sparkling water offer the perfect backdrop for any dream adventure in Sydney, Australia.

Photo Gallery for Holland America Line South Pacific / Tahiti Cruises

Flip through our photo gallery of South Pacific and Tahiti cruising photos from Holland America. Keep in mind, this is just a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Holland America South Pacific and Tahiti cruise vacation.

Huts over the water in Bora Bora

Peaceful resort in Fiji

Komodo dragons in Indonesia, Komodo Island

Raiatea and Tahaa in French Polynesia

Tanah Lot temple, Bali, Indonesia

Tropical resort

Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora

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Tahiti & South Pacific Islands

The South Pacific offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, with azure waters, majestic peaks and lush valleys. Cruises to this area of the South Pacific -- located halfway between California and Australia -- visit the Society Islands and its popular island of Tahiti, the Cook Islands, Marquesas Islands, Tuamotu, Fiji, Solomon Islands and more.

Many tourists are attracted to these islands’ carefree lifestyle, white sandy beaches and unspoiled terrain. Spend time exploring a lagoon on a glass-bottom boat ride, hike into the mountains for stunning views of the varied landscape or shop for Tahitian black pearls, one of the world's rarest pearls. Water activities abound with opportunities to scuba dive, snorkel, jet ski, parasail and windsurf off the coast of many islands.

• Cruises to Tahiti & South Pacific islands are available year-round.  
• Most cruises to Tahiti & South Pacific islands last from 7 to 14 nights.  
• Papeete is the most common departure port for a Tahiti cruise, but longer cruises that visit more islands are occasionally available from larger cities such as Vancouver, Los Angeles, San Diego, Fort Lauderdale or Sydney. If you must fly a very long distance to reach your port of departure, we suggest that you arrive at the port city at least one or two days in advance of your cruise. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

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• HAL-Holland America unveils 2024-2025 Australia, New Zealand and...

HAL-Holland America unveils 2024-2025 Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific cruises

In 2024-2025, HAL-Holland America Line is deployes 3 ships in the South pacific (Australia, New Zealand, and the islands). MS Westerdam will be stationed in the region, while ms Koningsdam and ms Zaandam will embark on longer Legendary Voyages (RepositionCruises.com) to the South Pacific and Hawaii.

Westerdam will kick off her journey with a westward South Pacific crossing in October 2024, followed by the iconic Australia Circumnavigation. From December 2024 to March 2025, the ship will operate a series of 14-day departures from Sydney, Australia , or between Auckland, New Zealand , and Sydney. Zaandam's "Tales of the South Pacific" voyage in September 2024 will take passengers from Vancouver, Canada , to San Diego, California , or on a roundtrip from San Diego. Koningsdam's "Hawaii, Tahiti, and Marquesas" voyage in February 2025 will be a roundtrip from San Diego.

Holland America Line's Legendary Voyages are extended journeys lasting from 25 to 59 days, combining the elegance of a Grand Voyage with itineraries that feature an extensive selection of ports to enhance the experience in each destination. Most of these Legendary Voyages sail roundtrip or to/from a North American homeport, allowing travelers the convenience of seeing the world from their doorstep with a domestic flight and easy embarkation.

The Australia and New Zealand 2024-2025 Season offers several exciting highlights, which include:

• A remarkable 35-day "Australia Circumnavigation" voyage departing on November 17, 2024. This roundtrip journey from Sydney aboard Westerdam takes guests to 16 ports around the continent of Australia, featuring scenic cruising in the Great Barrier Reef , Ribbon Reef, Far North Regions, and a visit to Komodo Island . Overnight stays are enjoyed at Fremantle (Perth), Australia , and Hobart, Tasmania , with a late-night departure from Adelaide.
• From January to March 2025, Westerdam presents 14-day "Australia and New Zealand" cruises between Auckland and Sydney. These sailings encompass six ports in New Zealand and include a call at Hobart. All itineraries offer scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park , while select dates also feature an exploration of Milford Sound.
• An exceptional 14-day "New Zealand Holiday" cruise, departing on December 22, 2024, is available as a roundtrip journey from Sydney. Guests will have the opportunity to spend the holidays exploring 6 ports across New Zealand, including an overnight call at Wellington . The holiday itinerary also includes scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.

The South Pacific 2024-2025 Season offers several exciting highlights, including:

• A remarkable voyage called "Tales of the South Pacific" aboard Zaandam, is available as a 51-day or 56-day itinerary. The 51-day journey departs from San Diego on September 30, 2024, and returns to the same port. Alternatively, the 56-day cruise begins in Vancouver and concludes in San Diego, departing on September 25. This expedition takes passengers on a counterclockwise route around the South Pacific, featuring 20 stops at various destinations such as Hawaii, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Niue, Cook and Society Islands, Marquesas, and Tahiti. Guests will have ample time to explore with overnight stays in Honolulu, Hawaii, and Papeete, Tahiti, as well as late-night departures from Honolulu and Suva, Fiji.
• Westerdam presents a 23-day "South Pacific Crossing" from Seattle, Washington , to Sydney, departing on October 24, 2024. This Pacific Ocean crossing encompasses seven ports in Hawaii, New Caledonia, Fiji, and American Samoa.
• Koningsdam offers a 35-day "Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas" journey departing on February 15, 2025, from San Diego and returning to the same port. This roundtrip expedition makes four stops in Hawaii and 6 additional island visits in the South Pacific. Noteworthy overnight stays include Honolulu , Raiatea , Moorea , and Papeete .
• Westerdam presents another remarkable option with a 29-day "South Pacific Crossing" from Sydney to Vancouver, departing on March 30, 2025. This itinerary showcases 12 ports in Hawaii, American Samoa, Fiji, and New Caledonia. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay in Honolulu and late-night departures from Lahaina and Kona in Hawaii, as well as Suva in Fiji and Noumea in New Caledonia.

The Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific Collectors' Voyages range from 43 to 58 days. These voyages offer a combination of back-to-back itineraries without repeating ports, providing guests with an extensive and varied journey. Additionally, these voyages offer exceptional value per day for guests.

For a limited period, guests who book select 2024-2025 Australia/New Zealand cruises with the Have It All premium package will receive a range of enticing amenities. Along with the standard package inclusions of shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, and Surf Wi-Fi, guests will also enjoy the added benefit of free prepaid Crew Appreciation. Furthermore, they will receive complimentary upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi. Please note that specific terms and conditions apply to this offer.

The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2025 and 2026

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is, in many ways, an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian Islands over seven days, with overnights at Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the Big Island. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (think: a race track, virtual reality gaming and waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's OK because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant and, at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse , Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go : This itinerary is ideal for anyone seeking a convenient way to island hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — as it makes the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: The best time to cruise to Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or Hawaii Island, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai, plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a paina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to all-terrain-vehicle adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Maui's humpback whale season is typically from mid-January to March. If your cruise falls within that time frame, you might catch sight of them while cruising off the coast of Maui. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island via a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast, among other activities.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer, the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or water sports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying about who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go : The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Ditch the polar gear: 7 warm-weather expedition cruises that will wow nature and adventure lovers

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. The itinerary is offered in 2025 and 2026 on 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 2,106-passenger Nieuw Amsterdam.

Cruisers who book these sailings must love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego to Honolulu and back requires 10 days. In between, passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the Big Island. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Both ships also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports will be required.

Travelers with more time can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. In 2025, Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary that combines visits to four Hawaiian Islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati, plus 20 sea days. Nieuw Amsterdam will sail that same itinerary in 2026.

Related: Holland America unveils another epic cruise — this time with a twist

Even longer itineraries are available aboard Zaandam. Choose between 51- and 56-night Tales of the South Pacific sailings that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia, along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock) — and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go : Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and enjoy a more traditional cruise experience will appreciate this itinerary. They should also love sea days as much as (or even more than) port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver, British Columbia, in fall and winter.

The sailings take place aboard 3,080-passenger Ruby Princess (from San Francisco), 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess (from Los Angeles), and 1,970-passenger Coral Princess (from Vancouver).

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours when visiting Hawaii Island (Hilo), Kauai and Maui; they stay for 16 hours during Oahu port calls. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required, plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues , including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up some sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go : These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line only offers two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii Island), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy these ships' chic, grown-up ambience and amenities. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine. Passengers aboard Celebrity Edge can enjoy the international Eden Restaurant and Fine Cut Steakhouse, among its many dining options.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go : The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially those in their 40s and 50s who are part of Generation X and within Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 reasons to choose Celebrity Edge for your Alaska cruise

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If a good time is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach, California) aboard 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other round trips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend four days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii Island. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, such as Guy's Burger Joint , Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express .

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, the Alchemy Bar and the WaterWorks aqua park. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go : Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities will likely enjoy this itinerary.

Related: 10 best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 8-night Hawaii Cruise

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too, on Royal Caribbean 's 4,905-passenger Quantum of the Seas.

The sailing is a one-way cruise from Oahu to Vancouver just before the Alaska cruise season (late April). The itinerary includes a stop in Kona and a scenic cruise along the Napali Coast before the ship crosses the Pacific. Since this itinerary ends in Vancouver, passports are required.

Quantum of the Seas features a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

The ship also offers 20 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland restaurant, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House. Bar options include Schooner Bar for piano tunes by request, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment ranges from live cover bands in the Music Hall to multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go : This itinerary is for cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Also, fares for this sailing start from $826 per person (based on double occupancy) for an inside cabin, making it an affordable cruise option, though you'll want to tack on a few nights in a hotel to see more of Hawaii.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

Looking for a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting? Upscale cruise line Viking will offer round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. You can book additional excursions at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii Island (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and, like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast, include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also sail a 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia voyage round-trip from Los Angeles in early 2025, visiting four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go : Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 on board, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture should consider this itinerary. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Holland America is out with another epic cruise — this time with a special twist

Holland America is out with another epic itinerary from North America to Europe and back — this time with an unusual twist.

The Seattle-based line on Monday said the 35-night round-trip voyage from Boston to some of Northern Europe's most alluring destinations would include a viewing of the solar eclipse that would take place above Northern Europe in August 2026.

Dubbed the Voyage of the Vikings, the sailing will take place on Holland America's 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam and offer North American travelers a chance to visit such hot spots of Viking history as Greenland, Iceland and Norway without getting on a transatlantic flight.

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The voyage will kick off in Boston July 18, 2026, with a sailing up the coast of North America that initially resembles a New England and Canada cruise. The first port calls will be Portland, Maine, and Sydney, Nova Scotia.

But the call at Sydney will mark just the start of an unusually in-depth look at the coast of Eastern Canada, which will include four stops in Newfoundland and Labrador — Corner Brook, Red Bay, St. Anthony and St. John's — as well as Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Some of the Canada stops will take place as the ship heads toward Europe, while others will be on the return voyage.

After its initial visit to the Canadian coast, Zuiderdam will turn east across the North Atlantic for a multiweek visit to Greenland, Iceland, Norway, the Netherlands, Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Calls in Greenland will include Paamiut (Frederikshab), Nanortalik and Qaqortoq (Julianehab).

Iceland calls will include Reykjavik (where the ship will stay overnight), Seydisfjordur, Husavík and Grundarfjordur.

Other stops during the trip will be Eidfjord in Norway; Rotterdam in the Netherlands (for an overnight stay); Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin, Ireland; and Belfast in Northern Ireland.

The solar eclipse will occur when the ship is sailing off the western coast of Iceland near Grundarfjordur.

The trip will end back in Boston on Aug. 22, 2026.

The new Voyage of the Vikings cruise is just one of three Holland America sailings that will include the chance to see the solar eclipse occurring in 2026. The others:

• A 28-night Scandinavian Solar Eclipse sailing on the 2,666-passenger Nieuw Statendam out of Dover, England. It begins July 26, 2026.
• A 13-night Mediterranean Solar Eclipse sailing on the 1,964-passenger Oosterdam out of Lisbon. It begins Aug. 9, 2026.

The longer Voyage of the Vikings sailing is just the latest at Holland America to offer vacationers the opportunity to sail from North America to Europe and back without ever getting on a transatlantic flight — something of a specialty for the brand.

Earlier this year, the line announced plans for a 45-night sailing from North America to the Mediterranean and back that mimics an ambitious voyage the line offered in 1925. That sailing kicks off Oct. 7, 2025.

The lengthy Mediterranean voyage was the second such sailing the line has added to its schedule in the past two years. The line is also planning a 42-night sailing from the U.S. to the Mediterranean in November.

The two Mediterranean sailings are out of New York and Fort Lauderdale, respectively.

The new Northern Europe itinerary announced Monday is the latest addition to a new series of Legendary Voyages that Holland America began unveiling in 2023. The extra-long sailings, scheduled to take place over the next three years, focus on a single region and range from 25 to 59 nights in length. They also feature special programming.

The initial lineup of Legendary Voyages included both previously offered routings and some all-new ones — the latter including an epic itinerary focused on Japan scheduled for later this year that will last more than 50 days.

In general, the voyages focus on far-off destinations — including Australia and New Zealand, the Amazon and South America, the South Pacific and Hawaii, Greenland and Iceland, Asia, and Alaska and the Arctic Circle. But in a twist, most sailings are designed to begin and end in a North American port, meaning that North American passengers can reach distant places without ever getting on an international flight.

Related: The 4 types of Holland America ships, explained

The new lineup of long trips is designed to augment Holland America's celebrated collection of even longer Grand Voyages — far-ranging, often world-circling sailings that are typically 70 nights or longer.

Holland America has long been known for longer sailings from U.S. ports that bring people to far-flung places around the globe. The new Legendary Voyages and an expanded lineup of other long cruises mark a doubling down by the line on such trips.

Fares for the new Voyage of the Vikings sailing announced on Monday start at $7,809 per person. More information is available at Holland America's website .

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Holland America Line Offers Cruisers the Chance to Sample a Grand Voyage, Exploring a Global Region in Grand Style Starting at Just $169/day

Guests can enjoy destinations like Easter Island, Antarctica and cities of the Med while enjoying signature experiences aboard a Grand Voyages

Seattle, Wash., Aug. 26, 2024 — Holland America Line , a leader in destination-rich longer voyages, is inviting cruisers to sample one of its most prolific cruise categories by booking a segment of either the 2025 Grand World Voyage or 2025 Grand Voyage: Pole to Pole, for as little as $169 per day, including all taxes and fees.

Seven segments are available on the Grand Voyage: Pole to Pole aboard Volendam, ranging from 33 to 100 days. On Zuiderdam’s Grand World Voyage, guests can choose from among six segments, ranging from 20 to 55 days. The segments allow guests to choose from a diverse selection of shorter itineraries, tailoring the Grand Voyage experience to their own taste and timeline.

“Our Grand Voyages are something our dedicated guests come back for every year while also attracting new guests who are eager to explore the world, but at over four months we recognize that not everyone has that time,” said Paul Grigsby, vice president of deployment and itinerary planning for Holland America Line. “By booking one of our 2025 Grand Voyage segments, cruisers can get a taste of the special atmosphere and community aboard these sailings at an incredible value.”

Grand Voyage segments sail between two key ports along each voyage, making it a seamless experience joining the ship in various locales around the world. On the Grand World Voyage, guests can sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Singapore or Sydney, Australia; Singapore to Athens, Greece; Cape Town, South Africa, to Fort Lauderdale; Sydney to Cape Town; and Athens to Fort Lauderdale.

The Grand Voyage: Pole to Pole segments cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires, Argentina; Buenos Aires to Barcelona, Spain, or Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), the Netherlands or Fort Lauderdale; Fort Lauderdale to Ijmuiden (Amsterdam); and Ijmuiden (Amsterdam) or Barcelona to Fort Lauderdale.

Highlighted Segments

2025 Grand World Voyage Aboard Zuiderdam, departs Jan. 4, roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale:

    o   55-Day Fort Lauderdale to Singapore , Jan. 4 — March 1, 2025: Those looking for a sampling of a world cruise can embark in the convenient North American homeport of Fort Lauderdale, sailing east to west, before ultimately disembarking in Singapore. On the voyage, Zuiderdam will call ports in 13 countries, and guests will experience multiple bucket list items, including a Panama Canal transit, overnight stay at Easter Island and scenic cruising in the Great Barrier Reef. 

    o   20-Day Athens to Fort Lauderdale , April 19 — May 9, 2025: Guests looking for the shortest taste of a grand can embark in Athens for a Mediterranean adventure, calling ports in Italy, Spain, Portugal and Morocco — including a special overnight celebration in Barcelona — before heading across the Atlantic Ocean, visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a perfect day in paradise before disembarking at Fort Lauderdale.

2025 Grand Voyage: Pole to Pole aboard Volendam, departs Jan. 25, roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale:

    o   47-Day Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires , Jan. 25 — March 13, 2025: Those looking for an extended Antarctic adventure and exploration of South America can sail from Fort Lauderdale, experiencing a Panama Canal Transit before heading south to Central and South America, extensively exploring Peru (including an overnight at Lima) and Chile. A four-day Antarctica experience rounds off the segment before sailing north to Uruguay and Argentina.

    o   33-Day Ijmuiden (Amsterdam) to Fort Lauderdale , May 5 — June 7, 2025: Guests who dream of visiting the North Pole can embark in Ijmuiden, exploring the rugged coast of Norway before crossing the Arctic Circle and calling Honningsvåg (Nordkapp) in the North Cape. Volendam then visits Iceland, Greenland, Canada, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, and ports in Maine and Massachusetts before ending the voyage at Fort Lauderdale.

A Grand Onboard Experience

Guests sailing on any of the full or segmented Grand Voyages will have access to all the on-board offerings that Holland America Line is known for, including a robust entertainment and enrichment program that is exclusive to Grand Voyages. This includes 15 new production shows debuting in 2025 , [V(1] [C(2]  comedians, headline entertainers and performers brought on locally, and resident musicians, including a classical trio and dance band on both ships. 

Cruisers can delve deep into the cuisine of the region of the itinerary, as guest chefs will join select segments to share their culinary talents, including live cooking demonstrations, informative “coffee chats” and signature dishes in both the main Dining Room and Pinnacle Grill.

Grand Voyage Ships to Meet in Barcelona

During the Grand Voyages, Zuiderdam and Volendam will rendezvous April 24 in Barcelona. Guests on select segments will get to experience the historic meetup, which will be commemorated with Catalan-themed gala dinners, and a shipboard party capped off with a special drone show. Guests on both ships who want to meet up will have opportunities to get together as the ships overnight in port.