Holland America Line hosted a week-long immersive tea programming during the Volendam’s Grand World Voyage in Asia from March 24–30.

As part of the cruise line’s Culinary Ambassador program, Master Tea Blender Steve Schwartz, founder of Art of Tea, hosted various tea-themed experiences for guests.

The experiences were designed to deepen guests’ appreciation for tea as an art form and a cultural tradition, Holland America said in a press release.

“Tea has always been a bridge between people, cultures and moments of ritual,” said Schwartz. “To bring that spirit aboard Holland America Line’s Grand World Voyage in Asia and to help shape a custom tea experience for guests was truly meaningful.”

Guests explored the history and rituals behind teas by participating in guided tastings, afternoon tea service, conversations and educational seminars.

Some of the highlights included Schwartz hosting an Exclusive High Tea in the Dining Room and a Tea Tasting Experience, where he guided guests through the evaluation of aroma, flavor and structure.

Furthermore, Schwartz also hosted shore excursions immersing guests in regional tea culture, such as “Journey Through Tea” in Singapore and “Vietnamese Lotus Tea Culture & Vegan Food Experience” in Vietnam.

His time onboard concluded with a “Rituals of Tea” seminar, where he explored the cultural significance of the tea-drinking ritual, and he also created a custom tea blend in cooperation with the cruise line.

The133-night Grand World Voyage set sail from Fort Lauderdale on January 4, 2026, reaching Pitcairn Islands in February.