Holland America Line is offering a new 18-day itinerary to Alaska and British Columbia onboard the Zaandam in 2026.
According to the company, the itinerary is different from all cruises currently being operated by its ships in the region.
Named “Great Bear Rainforest and Alaskan Explorer,” the voyage will take guests through the nature of Alaska while also giving them an opportunity to see the Spirit Bear,” the company explained.
After departing from Vancouver, the Zaandam will offer two days of scenic cruising through the Seymour Narrows, Bella Bella, Grenville Channel, Great Bear Rainforest and Princess Royal Island.
According to Holland America, the route maximizes time to see whales, wildlife and waterfalls, with a special focus on the Spirit Bear.
The cruise also features visits to eight ports in Alaska, including Anchorage, where the Zaandam is set for an overnight call.
Other highlights include an 11-hour stop in Prince Rupert, from which guests can embark on shore excursions to the Great Bear Rainforest.
In Alaska, the Zaandam will offer scenic cruising of both Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay, as well as the Inside Passage.
“We’ve been sailing in Alaska for over 75 years—longer than any other cruise line—and hundreds of thousands have experienced its magic sailing with us. By building this itinerary, we’re giving our guests a new way to experience the region,” said Paul Grigsby, Holland America Line’s vice president of revenue planning and deployment.
“En route to Alaska, the Zaandam will travel through fjord-like waterways, and the extended length of the voyage gives guests the chance to thoroughly immerse themselves in the culture, nature and wildlife of Alaska and British Columbia,” he added.
Sailing roundtrip from Vancouver, the 18-day cruise sets sail on Sep. 16, 2026, with prices starting at $3,029 per person, inclusive of taxes and fees.
Holland America is also offering two shorter seven-day cruises that take guests to the Great Bear Rainforest, sailing on the Noordam in October of 2025 and April of 2026.
