Holland America Line has ushered in its 2026 Alaska season with the arrival of Eurodam to the Port of Seattle. With more than 100 voyages across six ships this season departing three homeports, guests who embark on a cruise to the Great Land will find a lineup of extensive onboard programming, elevated culinary offerings and more than two dozen new shore excursions — all designed to connect guests more deeply with Alaska’s awe-inspiring landscapes and local culture.
From April through September, Holland America will operate cruises ranging in length from weeklong getaways to a 28-day Legendary Arctic Circle Solstice. Cruises sail roundtrip from Seattle, Washington; roundtrip from Vancouver, Canada; and between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska.
Robert Morgenstern, senior vice president, Alaska Operations at Holland America Line, said that: “As the leader in Alaska, we are committed to delivering experiences that are as enriching as they are unforgettable, bringing guests closer to the region in meaningful ways.”
Morgenstern continued: “From new shore excursions and enhanced programming to our industry-leading fresh fish offerings, every detail of our 2026 season is designed to help guests connect more deeply with Alaska’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.”
Holland America is introducing 25 new shore excursions on Alaska itineraries in 2026. Among the most anticipated are Adventure to Norris Glacier: Floatplane, Paddle and Hike in Juneau; Exclusive Eland & Friends Moose Discovery in Anchorage; Remote Coastal Rainforest Hike, Gourmet Seafood Picnic & Brewery in Kodiak; and Authentic Alaska: Tongass Rainforest Hike in Sitka.
As for glacier experiences, ‘Glacier Day’ occurs once per cruise, putting a spotlight on the majestic glaciers of the region. Programming includes glacier sighting times, scenic commentary, presentations, informational viewing stations, photo opportunities, Dutch Pea Soup on deck, Glacial Ice cocktails, talks by Glacier Bay National Park Rangers and Huna cultural interpreters, and an open bow for viewing.
And every Alaska cruise includes a visit to one or more of Alaska’s iconic glacier destinations: Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, Dawes Glacier and Endicott Arm. The cruise line offers guests a Glacier Guarantee™, indicating that if a glacier is not visited on an Alaska journey, guests will receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to 15% of the cruise fare. Shore excursions also offer the opportunity to visit additional glaciers, including Mendenhall and Portage.
New for 2026, the Teen Ranger program is moving to all ships in Alaska. Previously only on Koningsdam, cruisers aged 13 to 17 will have special age-appropriate experiences on Glacier Day. The popular Junior Ranger program for guests ages 3 to 12 remains on all Alaska ships.
As well, Holland America offers more ways to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Alaska ships carry a wildlife expert on board, and a Wildlife Spotting Guide points out the native animals found along the cruise route and includes a map with the best places to see each species. Ashore, Holland America offers nearly 180 shore excursions to see species of all kinds, making the cruise line a leader in the industry for Alaska wildlife and wilderness tours.
Sail on over to www.hollandamerica.com for more.
