Holland America Line Launches 2026 Holiday Cruises
Holland America Line has unveiled its 2026 holiday cruise season, featuring festive menus, themed programming, and savings of up to 50% off fares.
Holland America Line announces 2026 holiday cruises with festive programming and special savings for bookings made between October 13-21, 2026. The line is offering up to 50% off cruise fares and up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom, plus a complimentary specialty dining night on select sailings. Kids can also sail free as third and fourth guests in the same stateroom on select departures.
Michael Stendebach, vice president of food, beverage and rooms division, stated that the holidays are a time when traditions and togetherness matter most. He added that traveling doesn’t mean leaving those traditions behind. Onboard, guests can celebrate in ways that feel familiar while also making new memories.
Festive Menus and Traditions
Seasonal menus feature holiday-themed beverages, signature dishes, and special dining experiences across the fleet. The beverage list includes Christmas Cocoamint Coffee, Vanilla Gingerbread Latte, Eggnog Latte, De Lijn Ginger Mojito, Rudolph the Red Margarita, and Minty Elf Martini. A seasonal Magnolia Gingerbread Cake, created in partnership with Magnolia Bakery, will be available in the Dining Room.
Shipboard culinary teams will create elaborate gingerbread village displays unique to each ship. The holiday menu also includes latkes, turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and eggnog. Guests can gather for Thanksgiving dinner, Brunch with Santa, the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve, and a Nutcracker Tea.
Holiday Programming and Itineraries
Special onboard activities and diverse cruise itineraries span Caribbean, Antarctica, and Australia regions. Programming includes seasonal décor, ceremonial tree lightings, carol singing, holiday movies, and crew performances. A New Year’s Eve party with a champagne toast will welcome 2027.
Example 2026 holiday cruises include the following itineraries:
| Ship | Itinerary | Duration | Departure Date | Departure Port |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koningsdam | Baja Peninsula | 7 days | Nov 21, 2026 | San Diego |
| Zaandam | Panama Canal Holiday | 15 days | Dec 19, 2026 | San Diego to Fort Lauderdale |
| Koningsdam | Baja Peninsula Holiday | 7 days | Dec 19, 2026 | Fort Lauderdale |
| Rotterdam | Eastern Caribbean Holiday | 11 days | Dec 22, 2026 | Fort Lauderdale |
| Volendam | Southern Caribbean Holiday | 14 days | Dec 22, 2026 | Fort Lauderdale |
| Eurodam | Western Caribbean Holiday | 7 days | Dec 26, 2026 | Fort Lauderdale |
These holiday itineraries include a call at the line's private island, Half Moon Cay.
New Signature Venues
Bar 1873 debuts as part of Holland America's Evolution fleet transformation, featuring heritage-inspired design and signature cocktails. The two-story atrium venue will first appear aboard Oosterdam on October 16, 2026. It features a soaring three-meter illuminated tulip sculpture, curated heritage displays, and lounges designed for cocktails and conversation.
The bar's theme, May She Be Blessed, honors the maritime tradition of ship christenings. Its design draws inspiration from the 1958 christening of Rotterdam V by Queen Juliana of the Netherlands. The space incorporates over 200 heritage objects, bespoke artwork, and a visual timeline. The signature cocktail, also named May She Be Blessed, can be personalized with a guest's choice of essence.
Bar 1873 is part of the largest fleet update in the company's 153-year history. The Evolution program will revitalize all six Vista Class and Signature Class ships, beginning with Oosterdam and Zuiderdam. The reimagined Crow's Nest on these ships will expand live entertainment offerings. Bookings are now open for cruises aboard Oosterdam and Zuiderdam following their transformations.
